Asian cruises are flying off the shelves – and Aussies are big buyers, says Royal Caribbean boss

Fly-cruisers from Australia have a significant part to play in Royal Caribbean’s growing presence in Asia, according to Chad Grospe, VP & MD, Asia-Pacific, Royal Caribbean International. He told Cruise Passenger that Australia is emerging as one of the leading sources of fly-cruise travellers holidaying from Singapore.

“We’re seeing a strong interest from couples, families and first-time cruisers who want a holiday that’s easy to plan, great value and provides a sense of adventure and discovery,” he said.

For many, a fly-cruise out of Singapore means ticking off multiple dream destinations in one trip, without the hassle of multiple flights.

Grospe has observed that as airlines continue to increase domestic flight prices, Asia is more appealing and accessible than ever before for Australian holidaymakers − especially with Ovation of the Seas’s Singapore homeporting season until March next year.

“Our 4-night Penang & Phuket holiday on Ovation from Singapore is a firm favourite among Australian travellers,” he noted. “The holiday blends Penang’s street food and heritage charm with Phuket’s beaches and island adventures, offering the perfect mix of culture and relaxation in just a few days.”

For those seeking a longer adventure, the 11-night Tokyo to Singapore holiday on Navigator of the Seas is also proving hugely popular among Australian holidaymakers. Guests can explore the gems of Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Vietnam before arriving in Singapore.

“It’s the ultimate way to experience the best of East and Southeast Asia, vibrant cities, ancient temples, spectacular coastlines, and incredible cuisine, while unpacking just once,” summed up Grospe.

Read our latest review on Ovation of the Seas here.

Grospe observes that Ovation is a loved ship and has a particularly strong interest from Australia and Singapore.

“After serving as Sydney’s homeported ship last year, Ovation has become a familiar favourite among our Australian guests. It’s an award-winning holiday experience that both loyal and new-to-cruise guests know they can count on,” he said.

In terms of source markets, he noted that Singapore itself continues to be one of Ovation’s strongest source markets. The cruise line is also seeing momentum from the broader Asia-Pacific region, including China, as awareness of Ovation and the Quantum-Class experience continues to grow.

“The mix of markets reflects exactly what makes Ovation so successful; it appeals equally to seasoned cruisers and first-timers of all types looking for a bold new way to explore Asia,” he said.

What Australians love about fly-cruising to Singapore

“Australian holidaymakers love a holiday to Singapore that gives them two holidays in one,” says Chad. “Flying to Singapore, guests can explore one of the world’s most vibrant cities and then step onto Ovation for an adventure entirely of its own.”

Quantum-Class favourites like Ovation deliver unmatched experiences, from entertainment to adventure activities that can’t be found elsewhere in the region.

“Beyond the innovation on board, it’s our people who set us apart; our crew are known for their warmth and energy, creating a level of service that keeps guests returning year after year,” he said.

He added, “The effortless travel experience and the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, help Australians discover Asia as an exciting, accessible and enriching alternative to traditional holiday destinations.”

For fly-cruise guests, the Royal Caribbean experience begins well before they step on board and continues long after the cruise ends. The line aims to make every part of the journey as seamless, flexible and memorable as possible.

Through the Air2Sea programme, travellers enjoy flexible flight options with major airlines, a lowest-fare guarantee, and the Assured Arrival service. The service ensures that even if flights are delayed or disrupted, RCL’s travel specialists are on hand to make sure guests reach the ship on time.

The line also works closely with travel agents to create bespoke fly-cruise packages, combining flights, hotel stays, transfers, and tailored itineraries to deliver a fully customised vacation experience. These packages are particularly ideal for families and multi-generational groups, ensuring every aspect of the trip suits their preferences.

---

What sets Ovation of the Seas apart

For Grospe, what truly sets Ovation apart is how it brings families together while giving everyone the freedom to enjoy themselves at their own pace.

Multi-generational families can enjoy the SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity playground at sea, with bumper cars, roller skating, and sports tournaments — or come together for family-friendly shows and deck side fun.

Kids and teens get crafty with age-tailored activities at Adventure Ocean or have their own fun at Splashaway Bay, while adults unwind at the Solarium, a serene, adults-only retreat with stunning ocean views. Another talked-about feature is the North Star, which lifts guests over 300 feet above sea level for panoramic ocean views.

Every dining and entertainment experience adds another layer of excitement – from Instagram-worthy meals at Wonderland, to sushi at Izumi and late-night casual bites at Sorrento’s Pizza.

For Grospe, one of his personal favourites is Chops Grille, the brand’s signature American steakhouse. “I usually go for the beef carpaccio to start, followed by the mushroom soup, and of course, the perfectly cooked filet mignon – it’s a classic done right every time,” he shared.

He added, “Beyond the food, it’s the atmosphere that makes Chops Grille special for me. It is an intimate yet elegant setting that’s perfect for celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a great meal at sea.”

On how Royal Caribbean differentiates itself from other cruise lines sailing in Asia, Grospe emphasised that innovation is the key.

“We are constantly pioneering new ways for families to holiday together,” he said. “And we don’t see ourselves merely as a cruise brand, but as a vacation brand that offers unforgettable experiences from ship to shore.

Royal Caribbean is known for “firsts at sea” from simulated skydiving with RipCord by iFly and surfing on the FlowRider surf simulator, to the Perfect Storm waterslides and Broadway-calibre entertainment. Every ship is designed to deliver a “wow” moment on every deck, for every kind of traveller.

---

Royal Caribbean’s future in the Asia-Pacific region

Grospe is excited about the line’s promising prospects in the region. “The Asia-Pacific region is one of the fastest-growing markets for the cruise industry as a whole, which makes this an incredibly exciting time for us,” he noted. “Rising disposable incomes, a growing middle class, improved air connectivity, and a strong appetite for experiential, immersive travel are all fueling demand.”

Friendlier visa policies and automated immigration processes between key countries are further accelerating growth, opening up the region to both short getaways and longer fly-cruise adventures.

“What’s particularly exciting is how fly cruisers allow us to connect more travellers with the unique experiences on board our ships,” he said. “Families and multi-generational groups are increasingly willing to fly long-haul for innovative sailings, including Icon Class ships, because there’s something for every age group.”

Looking ahead, the line is focused on deploying ships and experiences in ways that feel local, authentic, and culturally relevant. From itineraries aligned with school calendars and regional holidays to food, entertainment and activities tailored for multi-generational families, the aim is to provide experiences that go beyond traditional cruising.

“Fly-cruisers are central to this vision, giving travellers flexibility and access while allowing us to deliver memorable, one-of-a-kind vacations that continue to raise the bar in Asia.”

For more, go here.