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Royal Caribbean has been forced to cancel an upcoming sailing aboard Anthem of the Seas after a significant mechanical problem slowed the ship and disrupted its schedule in Australia.
The issue not only delayed the ship’s return to Sydney but also made it impossible for the next cruise to operate as planned.
While the situation has caused frustration for guests, the cruise line has outlined compensation, refunds, and repair plans to address the disruption.
Delayed Return to Sydney Raises Immediate Concerns
Anthem of the Seas was originally scheduled to arrive back in Sydney early on Tuesday, January 27, following a South Pacific cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu.
Instead, guests were informed that the ship would not dock until late afternoon.
Royal Caribbean explained that a technical issue had affected the ship’s cruising speed, forcing it to travel significantly slower than normal.
Key details shared with guests included:
- Arrival delayed until approximately 4:00 p.m.
- Ship speed reduced to around 14 knots, well below normal operating speed.
- No safety or navigation systems affected.
Because of the delay, many guests faced complications with flights, transfers, and onward travel plans.
Guest Support Measures While Onboard
To help guests manage the unexpected delay, Royal Caribbean implemented several temporary accommodations before debarkation.
These included:
- Free phone calls through Guest Services.
- Complimentary 120 minutes of internet per stateroom for guests without Wi-Fi packages.
- Automatic extension of beverage and internet packages until debarkation.
- Clear instructions for staggered disembarkation once the ship arrived in Sydney.
Guests were also advised to keep travel documents accessible to ensure a smooth exit for the more than 4,000 passengers onboard.
Reimbursement for Travel Disruptions
Royal Caribbean confirmed it would assist guests whose travel plans were affected by the delayed arrival.
For those who booked flights through the cruise line, changes were handled automatically.
Guests with independent travel arrangements were asked not to rebook flights before 8:00 p.m. on January 27.
Reimbursement limits include:
- Up to $200 USD per person for domestic flight changes.
- Up to $400 USD per person for international flight changes.
- Up to $250 USD per stateroom for one night of hotel accommodation.
Receipts must be submitted to Royal Caribbean’s Guest Relations team for review.
Next Sailing Officially Cancelled
After assessing the severity of the technical problem, Royal Caribbean made the decision to cancel the ship’s next scheduled voyage — a 10-night cruise around New Zealand departing January 27.
The cruise line stated that required repairs could not be completed in time for the sailing to proceed safely.
Guests booked on the cancelled cruise will receive:
- 100% refund of cruise fare, taxes, fees, gratuities, excursions, and pre-paid packages.
- Refunds issued to the original payment method within 14 business days.
- A 25% future cruise credit (FCC) valid for sailings departing within 12 months.
- Additional reimbursement for travel disruption:
- Up to $200 USD for domestic flight changes
- Up to $400 USD for international flight changes
- Up to $250 USD for up to two hotel nights
- $100 per person, per day for incidental expenses
Future cruise credits are expected to be available by February 9, 2026.
What Caused the Problem?
Royal Caribbean has not disclosed the exact nature of the mechanical issue, but industry experts suggest it may involve the ship’s propulsion system.
Anthem of the Seas relies on diesel-electric azipod engines, and even a partial malfunction can significantly limit speed.
With New Zealand located more than 1,300 miles from Sydney, operating at reduced speed would make the itinerary unworkable.
Importantly:
- The issue does not impact guest safety.
- Navigational systems remain fully functional.
- Repairs require the ship to be stationary.
There is currently no confirmation whether a dry dock will be necessary to complete the repairs.
Not the First Mechanical Challenge for Anthem of the Seas
This is not the first time Anthem of the Seas has faced propulsion-related challenges.
In 2023, a separate mechanical limitation led to itinerary changes, though no sailings were cancelled at that time.
Royal Caribbean is expected to use the downtime from the cancelled voyage to complete repairs and prepare the ship for its next scheduled sailing on February 6.
Guests booked on that cruise are encouraged to monitor official updates in case additional changes are announced.
