Royal Caribbean’s Exclusive Island Retreat: Lelepa Set to Make Waves in 2027

After years of anticipation, Royal Caribbean has officially announced the arrival of its private beach destination in Lelepa, Vanuatu, set to debut in early 2027. As the first exclusive cruise island in the South Pacific, this idyllic retreat will offer authentic, locally inspired experiences for Australian holidaymakers and beyond—complete with pristine beaches, lush nature trails, thrilling water activities, and exquisite dining.

A Long-Awaited South Pacific Escape

Originally planned as one of Royal Caribbean’s famed ‘Perfect Day’ islands, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, eventually evolving into a boutique-style Royal Beach Club concept. Now, with the official launch date confirmed, Lelepa promises to be a serene yet adventurous stop for cruisers, blending relaxation, cultural immersion, and unspoiled beauty.

With Royal Caribbean delivering unforgettable holiday experiences to over 7 million travellers annually, visiting more than 300 destinations worldwide on its fleet of 28 ships, the addition of Lelepa further expands its portfolio of exclusive island retreats, ensuring Australian travellers have more ways to experience paradise.

Lelepa: The Ultimate South Pacific Hideaway

Lelepa is designed for luxury seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike, promising a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere. Guests can look forward to:

• Secluded beaches, perfect for unwinding under the South Pacific sun.
• Scenic nature trails, offering stunning vistas of Vanuatu’s tropical landscape and wildlife.
• Exciting water activities, including snorkelling, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in crystal-clear waters.
• Authentic dining experiences, spotlighting local Vanuatuan cuisine and fresh island flavours.

The Expanding Royal Beach Club Collection

Lelepa joins Royal Caribbean’s growing selection of private island experiences, including the beloved Perfect Day at CocoCay and the upcoming Perfect Day Mexico, alongside its exclusive Royal Beach Clubs, which redefine the ultimate beach escape. Among them:

• Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, Bahamas – Set to open December 2025, this all-inclusive retreat blends Nassau’s breathtaking beaches with Royal Caribbean’s signature experiences. Guests can enjoy unlimited dining and drinks, vibrant Bahamian art installations, and The Floating Flamingo—the world’s largest swim-up bar.
• Royal Beach Club Cozumel, Mexico – Arriving in 2026, this tropical haven combines stunning beaches, swim-up pools, and snorkelling with Mexican-inspired experiences, such as street markets, tequila tastings, and cooking classes.

A Bold Vision for Cruise Experiences

With this expansion, Royal Caribbean continues to push the boundaries of luxury travel, offering uniquely crafted experiences that go beyond the traditional holiday. As one of four new exclusive destinations launching over the next three years, Lelepa represents an exciting new chapter for Australian travellers, bringing the magic of the South Pacific to Royal Caribbean’s global cruise network.

For those seeking sun-drenched days, turquoise waters, and a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration, Lelepa is set to be the crown jewel of South Pacific cruising.