Australian travellers are about to gain a new slice of paradise on the cruising map, as Royal Caribbean prepares to unveil Lelepa – its highly anticipated private island experience in Vanuatu.
Available from October 2027 to April 2028, and bookable now, Lelepa will mark a world first: the cruise line’s inaugural private destination island in the Southern Hemisphere, designed specifically with Australian and New Zealand guests in mind.
Unlike the brand’s adrenaline-fuelled “Perfect Day” islands in the Caribbean, Lelepa promises an experience that’s laid-back, nature-forward, and deeply rooted in local culture. Situated off the northwest coast of Efate, the island will blend pristine natural beauty, eco-conscious design, and genuine cultural interaction – setting a new benchmark for sustainable cruising in the South Pacific.
For Australians who love the ocean but crave something more meaningful than a resort stop, Lelepa may be exactly that: a destination that speaks to the heart of the South Pacific – unspoiled, welcoming, and wonderfully real.
Guests can enjoy two pristine beaches, including a serene adults-only retreat and an activity-packed family beach where friendly competitions invite travellers to become the island’s champion. Whether it’s unwinding on sun-soaked shores, hiking a scenic nature trail or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, Lelepa offers something for every kind of holidaymaker. From 10 bars and unlimited island eats to umbrellas, loungers and towels all included, guests can enjoy the perfect day in untouched paradise.
“As the most trusted holiday partner in Australia, Royal Caribbean continues to raise the bar on the ultimate family holiday with Royal Beach Club Lelepa – a first-of-its-kind destination in the Southern Hemisphere inspired by the natural beauty and spirit of the South Pacific region,” said Gavin Smith, vice president and managing director, Australia and New Zealand, Royal Caribbean.
“We know Australian families love holidaying in the South Pacific, and Lelepa takes that to an entirely new level with an experience they won’t find anywhere else in the world. With an expanded lineup of weekend sailings, short escapes and longer ways to holiday, we’re giving travellers even more reasons to explore fan-favourite destinations across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.”
Born from Aussie tastes, not theme parks
Royal Caribbean’s chief product innovation officer, Jay Schneider, said the entire concept for Lelepa evolved from research into what Australian guests value most.
“Connection to nature for Australians and New Zealanders in the South Pacific is super important,” he explained. “You’ll find a very different look and feel here.”
Instead of towering slides or water parks, Lelepa will offer white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and immersive cultural experiences. Guests can expect a calm, restorative environment that mirrors the South Pacific lifestyle, rather than competing with it.
Senior vice president of Sales and Trade Relations, Vicki Freed, added that Lelepa will feel closer in spirit to Royal Caribbean’s Labadee resort in Haiti – a relaxed, scenic escape – rather than its “high-energy” destinations.
“It’s going to be a beautiful, natural experience with serene beaches, cabanas, nature trails, and water activities,” she said. “Definitely more ecotourism than theme park.”
Vanuatu Tourism Office CEO, Adela Issachar Aru said Royal Caribbean’s decision to develop its private island experience on Lelepa in Vanuatu is a powerful endorsement of the country and what it offers in the Pacific.
“Vanuatu is home to some of the region’s most spectacular beaches and warm, welcoming communities and Lelepa Island embodies these qualities,” Aru said.
“We’re proud to see Vanuatu chosen as the setting for this landmark project and look forward to the opportunity it presents to showcase our 83 islands to an Australian audience.”
Authentic island life meets modern comfort
At the heart of the Lelepa concept is authenticity. Guests will be able to stroll through Mama’s Market, where local artisans will showcase handwoven crafts, souvenirs, and regional delicacies. Restaurants on the island will take cues from Pacific flavours, serving dishes prepared with locally sourced produce, grown and cultivated in partnership with nearby communities.
Other signature touches include a floating lagoon bar offering island-inspired cocktails, curated hiking trails that reveal the island’s lush interior, and guided snorkelling adventures through untouched coral reefs. For those looking to unwind, private cabanas will line the beach, while open-air lounges and palm-fringed picnic areas create space for relaxation without disruption to the island’s natural environment.
Designed for sustainability and community benefit
Royal Caribbean said Lelepa represents more than just another port of call – it’s a long-term partnership between the line and the people of Vanuatu. From the outset, the project has been developed under strict sustainability principles, with only a portion of the 17ha (42-acre) island being used for guest facilities. According to the cruise line, every building and operation will be designed to minimise energy use and environmental impact, including renewable energy infrastructure and waste-reduction systems.
Royal Caribbean has emphasised that the local communities around Efate will directly benefit from the project through jobs, contracts, and tourism-related enterprises. Local crafts, cuisine, and guiding services will be at the forefront, ensuring that revenue generated on the island stays within the region.
An estimated 80,000 visitors per year are expected once Lelepa opens, bringing new economic opportunities to Ni-Vanuatu workers and small businesses while maintaining respect for local traditions.
Cruise itineraries featuring Lelepa will operate primarily from Sydney and Brisbane, with calls included on South Pacific routes aboard the Ovation, Quantum, and Brilliance of the Seas.
