Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas has arrived in Sydney, marking a momentous occasion for Australian cruising, according to a prepared statement. 

“Ovation of the Seas is an absolute game changer for cruising down under. SuperCruising is a holiday experience unlike anything else you can find in Australia – and it can only be found on Royal Caribbean,” said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Australia & New Zealand. 

“Over the last decade we have committed to bringing the biggest and best cruise ships to our doorstep – and today is the climax of that story. This occasion marks the first time that a cruise line has ever based a brand new ship in this market.”

“At 348m long, 18 decks high, weighing in at 168,666 tons and with capacity for 5,000 guests and 1,500 crew, Ovation of the Seas is the fourth largest cruise ship in the world, making her the largest cruise ship to sail Australian waters, and by far the largest ship ever home-ported here.”

“With that size comes unprecedented variety: more space for relaxation, 18 different dining options, and more of the big unique amenities that Royal Caribbean is famous for, like iFly, North Star and bumper cars. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or looking for some R&R, there is truly something for everyone, all in one magnificent megaliner,” Armstrong added.

Ovation of the Seas becomes Royal Caribbean’s fifth locally-based cruise ship, joining sister ships Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Legend of the Seas, and making Royal Caribbean the single largest cruise line operating in Australia this season, the company said.