Royal Beach ClubSM Lelepa: The First Royal Caribbean® Exclusive Cruise Destination in the South Pacific Australians are About to Fall in Love With
For years, South Pacific cruising has followed a familiar script: Nouméa, Mystery Island, Port Vila, repeat. While the turquoise water and warm hospitality never disappoint, many itineraries have started to feel predictable for Aussies.
But now, South Pacific cruising is ready to make history with one cruise line redefining the private island experience with Australian guests in mind – Royal Beach Club Lelepa by Royal Caribbean.
This is the kind of destination that makes every other holiday play catch-up, where gorgeous waters collide with adventures for all. Bask in spectacular island beauty along two pristine beaches, including an adults-only retreat. Indulge in unlimited island eats, then explore a scenic Nature Trail or dive down to discover tropical fish. All this, included with your cruise fare. Be among the first to experience a paradise you can only find on Royal Caribbean®, with cabins available on sailings departing from October 2027.
What is Royal Beach Club Lelepa?
Royal Beach Club Lelepa is Royal Caribbean’s new private cruise destination in Vanuatu, a first-of-its-kind exclusive cruise destination that takes a familiar holiday paradise and resets it as something entirely new. Located just off Port Vila, Royal Beach Club Lelepa has been conceptualised as a nature-led and culturally connected island escape.
The focus will be on pristine natural beaches and coral reef systems in a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere, inspired by what today’s cruiser wants.
For Australians, this is something genuinely new. It’s not about bigger and bolder. It’s purpose-built to deliver an authentic South Pacific experience that feels immersive, unspoilt and effortlessly relaxed, just the way a tropical island escape should.
When will Royal Beach Club Lelepa open?
Royal Beach Club Lelepa is expected to open in October 2027. Cruises to Lelepa are open for sale from Sydney on Anthem of the Seas and Brisbane on Voyager of the Seas.
Who is Royal Beach Club Lelepa Perfect For?
Royal Beach Club Lelepa isn’t just for cruise enthusiasts. It appeals to a wide range of Australian travellers:
- Families wanting an easy tropical holiday without the complexities of air travel
- Couples seeking relaxed island escapes closer to home
- First-time cruisers looking for a gentle introduction to cruising
- Experienced travellers wanting something new
It bridges the gap between resort travel and cruising, which is exactly where travel demand is heading in Australia.
Is Royal Beach Club Lelepa Free or Paid?
Royal guests rejoice! Your day at Royal Beach Club Lelepa is complimentary, and your cruise fare, so you can step straight off the ship and into island time without reaching for your wallet.
You’ll have full use of two stunning stretches of sand, East Beach and West Beach, plus a scenic Nature Trail and a peaceful adults-only retreat. Unlike other Royal Beach Clubs around the world, there’s no paid day pass required here. At Lelepa, it’s all about easy, included relaxation.
How Big is Lelepa?
Royal is leasing one section of the island, but it will be large enough to comfortably accommodate the needs of a Quantum-sized ship that can carry around 5,000 guests. Ships stopping at Royal Beach Club Lelepa will use a tender to transport guests from the ship to the island and back.
What’s included in my visit to Royal Beach Club Lelepa?
Lelepa promises an idyllic, laid-back experience. Once you arrive, everything you need for a perfect beach day is right there waiting for you.
You’ll enjoy access to both beaches, so can spread out on two pristine stretches of sand; East Beach and West Beach, along with thoughtful extras like loungers, umbrellas, and towels, which are all included. You can also enjoy free-to-play games like volleyball, beach cricket, and cornhole.
Grab delicious island bites at two casual eateries close to the shore, featuring fresh fruit, fish & chips, and flavourful favourites.
Set off for island fun with a scenic island stroll along the Nature Trail – a dedicated walking path through Lelepa’s lush landscape filled with serene sightseeing. Or relax the day away and retreat to Adults Cove, a peaceful escape designed for added tranquillity. At Royal Beach Club Lelepa, it’s all about easy, included relaxation.
For a smooth day, make sure to bring your SeaPass card and a government-issued ID when heading ashore. Pack your usual beach-day essentials too, including sunscreen, comfy footwear, any medications and insect repellent.
If you’re in the mood to level things up, there are optional extras available for purchase, from private day beds to water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkel gear.
Royal’s guests can also book fish tours and explore vibrant coral reefs, swimming alongside tropical fish in crystal-clear waters. It promises to be a snorkeller’s paradise.
One thing to note is you won’t find a pool here, but with water this clear, you won’t miss it. And while there’s no Wi-Fi on the island, you can always stay connected by purchasing a VOOM® package back on the ship.
Handy tip: strollers are available for complimentary use on the island, and guests are asked not to bring their own due to the tender process.
What Tours Will Be Available at Lelepa?
There will be nature trails in different parts of the island.
You’ll also be able to learn about the island’s rich traditions and history through intimate, guided cultural tours with local villagers. We’re also excited to hear there will be involvement from local communities for a more immersive cultural experience.
History buffs wanting to know more about the region’s heritage can visit the historic cave system used as a hospital during WWII and discover the remnants of a crashed plane.
What Food, Beverage, and Retail Options are Available at Lelepa?
Retail and dining options will be available in a precinct known as Mama’s Market, offering a taste of South Pacific cuisine, along with Aussie favourites.
You won’t need to pay extra to enjoy a great meal here. Dining is included at the island’s two eateries, serving up a range of delicious options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
If you have specific requirements, such as kosher meals, these can be arranged in advance through the ship, making it easy to dine with peace of mind.
When it comes to drinks, you’ll find a full menu available at the island bars, including cocktails, beer, wine, soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea and smoothies.
Details on drink pricing and package inclusions are expected soon, so stay tuned.
What is Royal Caribbean doing in Lelepa?
Royal is really hitting two birds with one stone on Lelepa. They’re developing the land but they’re also helping the local communities by adding important infrastructure like electricity, water treatment, and more. These are critical for a healthy way of life and yet remain underdeveloped on the island. It’s going to be a huge benefit for the 500+ villagers who live there.
What makes this different from other private islands is that Royal is making sure everything is done with nature and local culture in mind. It’s not just another beach club. It’s a space that’s all about connecting with the land and prioritising eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism.
We know this will resonate well with the travel preferences of our Australian guests.
Why Lelepa Matters for Australian Travellers
Vanuatu is one of the easiest South Pacific destinations to reach from Australia, making Lelepa far more accessible than Caribbean or European cruise destinations.
There is no need to worry about long-haul flights, multi-country itineraries and complicated logistics. Travellers will get to experience a pristine tropical island without the complexities of travel; simply hop on board and cruise to your destination.
What Makes Lelepa Different?
Private island destinations allow cruise lines to deliver higher-quality experiences while protecting natural environments and managing visitor numbers.
Lelepa will be the first of its kind in the South Pacific, a tipping point for the Australian cruise industry. This isn’t just a new destination. It will reflect a shift in how cruising in our region will evolve.
Lelepa offers the comfort and convenience of a cruise ship combined with the feel of a private island resort that appeals to both traditional cruisers and people who’ve never cruised before.
Are There Any Age Restrictions?
Lelepa is for everyone to enjoy, no matter your age. Families, couples and groups of friends will all find their own slice of paradise here.
If you’re after a quieter escape, there’s also a dedicated adults-only area for guests aged 18 and over, perfect for a little extra peace and privacy, and it’s included at no extra cost. Alcohol is served to guests 18+ in line with local regulations.
With everything from nature walks to beach games and water activities, there’s plenty to keep every age group entertained all day long.
Why We Love the Idea of Royal Beach Club Lelepa?
We are especially excited about Royal Beach Club Lelepa because it reflects a wider shift in how Australians want to travel, looking for more natural experiences and cultural authenticity rather than scale. It’s not about ticking off destinations. It’s about how a place makes you feel.
And it’s built with Australian cruisers in mind, something our industry has needed for a long time.
How to Find a Lelepa Cruise on Cruise Guru?
Ready to book your next Royal Caribbean holiday? Then check out some exciting upcoming cruises to Lelepa here at Cruise Guru! Our Australia-based customer service team know the Royal ships inside out, so if you want to know anything, just give us a call on 13 13 03 or book online. Several Royal Caribbean cruises depart from Sydney and Brisbane sailing across Australia and beyond, so finding the perfect voyage has never been easier.
If you’re looking beyond Australia, Royal Caribbean also has several international cruises sailing to iconic destinations. From Asia, Europe and even other private island escapes such as Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal has plenty of options that could be right for you.
Royal Beach ClubSM Lelepa reflects current design concepts and may include artistic rendering and/or images of other destinations. All features and experiences are subject to change without notice.
