Major Cruise Ship Returns to Revitalise Fremantle Port
The Sapphire Princess cruise ship will make Fremantle its seasonal home during the 2027-28 summer season, marking a significant return of large-scale cruising to Western Australia. Following a gap of more than two and a half years without a homeported ship, this deployment fills a crucial void in Perth's summer cruise market created by Carnival Corporation's recent consolidation of Australian operations.
Extensive Itineraries Showcase WA and Asia
Eight diverse itineraries will operate from Fremantle between October 10, 2027 and February 12, 2028, offering Australian travellers unprecedented access to both domestic and international destinations. The ship's program features comprehensive exploration of Western Australia's spectacular coastline, including the Kimberley coast with Broome, the Coral Coast incorporating Exmouth, and the South West region around Busselton and Margaret River.
International destinations include multiple Southeast Asian ports across Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), Singapore, Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur and Penang), and Thailand (Phuket). According to Princess Cruises, season highlights will include short seacations, extended Kimberley Coast voyages, and overnight stays in Broome, allowing passengers deeper immersion in one of Australia's most remarkable regions.
Economic Boost and Premium Experience
The Sapphire Princess represents a substantial economic opportunity for Western Australia, with expectations it will generate more than $140 million for the state economy. This Grand-class vessel carries up to 3,200 passengers plus 1,100 crew, ensuring significant economic returns across multiple sectors including producers, retailers, hospitality venues, and tourism operators throughout regional WA.
Matthew Rutherford, Princess Cruises Asia-Pacific vice-president, emphasised the company's commitment to Western Australia, noting Princess continues as the only large premium cruise line to return and homeport a ship in the state. The ship itself offers premium amenities including 17 restaurants, five pools, a spa and fitness centre, and The Sanctuary adult retreat. Recent drydock refurbishments added two specialty restaurants: the Crown Grill steakhouse and Makoto Ocean sushi bar by chef Makoto Okuwa.
Jill Abel, Australian Cruise Association chief executive, highlighted the ship's role in spreading visitors to regional areas and showcasing local food and beverage brands to international markets. Bookings for Princess loyalty members open on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, with general sales commencing November 26, 2025.
