Royal Caribbean Cancels Anthem of the Seas Sydney Cruise Due to Technical Issue

Royal Caribbean International has cancelled an upcoming cruise onboard Anthem of the Seas that was planned to sail from Sydney on January 27, 2026. The company shared the update directly with guests who were booked on the voyage. The cruise was part of the ship’s winter season in Australia and was expected to be a 10-night cruise to New Zealand. Due to a technical issue found during the ship’s last sailing, the cruise will no longer take place.

Technical Issue Forces Cancellation of January 2026 Sailing

According to the Royal Caribbean, the Anthem of the Seas experienced a technical problem on its most recent voyage. Because of this issue, the ship needs immediate maintenance work. The cruise line confirmed that the required repairs cannot be completed before the planned departure from Sydney. As a result, the January 27, 2026, sailing has been officially cancelled.

The ship is now expected to arrive in Eden later this week, where it will dock so the repair work can begin. Royal Caribbean stated that returning the ship for maintenance is necessary to ensure guest safety and comfort on future sailings.

Royal Caribbean Apologizes to Affected Guests

In its message to guests, Royal Caribbean acknowledged the disappointment caused by the cancellation. The company said it understands how much time and effort to go into planning a cruise holiday. It also expressed regret for the inconvenience this sudden change may cause to travelers and their families.

The cruise line reassured guests that it is taking responsibility for the situation and is offering a full refund along with extra compensation.

Full Refund and Future Cruise Credit Offered

Royal Caribbean confirmed that all affected guests will receive a full refund of their cruise fare. This refund also includes taxes, fees, prepaid packages, gratuities, onboard amenities, and shore excursions that were booked through the cruise line.

In addition to the refund, guests will receive a 25 percent Future Cruise Credit. This credit can be used on a future Royal Caribbean sailing that departs within one year.

Reimbursement for Travel and Hotel Expenses

The cruise line also announced it will reimburse certain non-refundable travel costs. This includes flight, hotel, train ticket, or rental car expenses that were already purchased for the cancelled cruise.

Guests may claim reimbursement of up to $200 per person for domestic flight changes or up to $400* per person for international flight changes. Royal Caribbean is also offering up to $250 per stateroom for hotel stays of up to two nights. Guests can also claim up to 100 dollars per person per day for incidental expenses.

Details of the Cancelled New Zealand Itinerary

The cancelled Anthem of the Seas cruise was scheduled to visit five ports in New Zealand. These included Picton, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin. The itinerary also featured scenic cruising through Fjordland National Park, which is known for its natural beauty and dramatic landscapes.

The 4202-passenger ship was expected to return to Sydney at the end of the 10-night voyage. With the cancellation, guests will now need to adjust their travel plans while the ship undergoes repairs.

What Guests Should Do Next

Royal Caribbean has advised guests to follow the instructions provided in their official communication regarding refunds and reimbursement claims. Guests should keep all receipts related to travel and hotel expenses to ensure a smooth claim process.

The cruise line stated it looks forward to welcoming affected guests on a future sailing once Anthem of the Seas returns to service.