Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas arrived at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal in November 2022, marking a major milestone for cruising in Queensland.
Read: Portside Wharf IGA to Go Upmarket With Its Planned Expansion
This will see one of Royal Caribbean’s ships homeporting out of Brisbane’s new $158 million facility, offering cruisers an opportunity to travel locally along the Australian coast and the South Pacific, in addition to a special voyage to New Zealand.
The company saw significant growth in Brisbane, especially after the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Sydney was booked out years in advance.
Gavin Smith, vice president and managing director for Royal Caribbean International, said the ship’s arrival in Brisbane is the beginning of a new benchmark for family holidays from Queensland and throughout Australia.
Royal Caribbean’s homeporting in Brisbane can be convenient for many families looking for a high-value winter break, since it can get through key ports faster.
Located on the northern bank at the mouth of Brisbane River in Pinkenba, the new Brisbane International Cruise Terminal is conveniently placed near the Brisbane Airport. Without traffic, driving to the cruise terminal from the airport only takes around 15 minutes.
This means travellers from South East Queensland won’t need to head to Sydney and spend extra going to the airport. They can simply go to the Luggage Point, park their car and head off.
The arrival of Quantum of the Seas to Brisbane earlier in November marks its first Australian season, following a summer program in Alaska. It is set to return for a second season in late 2023.
Read: Plans Unveiled For New Aeromedical Facility At Brisbane Airport
Quantum of the Seas is the lead ship of her class. When it was first put into service in 2014, the Quantum-class cruise ship was the third largest cruise ship in the world by gross tonnage.
One of its cutting-edge features includes the North Star, a capsule surrounded by windows, taking passengers over the edge for a 360-degree view of the open ocean. It also comes equipped with a lounge and entertainment venue, and virtual balconies.
