Royal Caribbean announced it would be extending the inaugural season of the largest ship in Australia, Ovation of the Seas.

She will also return in the summer of 2017/18 after a big demand from Australian cruisers.

Ovation of the Seas will sail an extra four cruises during her maiden season in Australia and New Zealand and Royal Caribbean will announce the itineraries in the coming weeks.

“The level of interest for Ovation of the Seas has exceeded all of our expectations; we’re currently over 90 per cent sold for next summer’s sailings,” said Adam Armstrong, the managing director of Royal Caribbean Australasia.

“She is a true game-changer and such was the high demand for the ship that we’ve been able to secure four extra cruises from Sydney which will extend the season into February 2017.

“This extension of her maiden season – plus her subsequent return in summer 2017/18 – reaffirms Australia’s position as one of the most significant cruising markets in the world and Royal Caribbean’s position as Sydney’s leading cruise line.

“We are delivering Australians the most modern style of cruising from their doorstep – a style they previously had to travel overseas for.  Australia has asked for more and we will deliver; four more cruises, a return at the end of 2017, and more opportunities to experience a brand new era of cruising on Ovation of the Seas, purpose-built for the Asia Pacific market,” said Mr Armstrong.