Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia experienced a record season in Sydney this summer, the cruise line said on Wednesday. For the summer 2008/09 season, Rhapsody of the Seas and sister brand Celebrity Cruises’ Millennium ships carried more than 50,000 guests from late October to April.

“This was our first full season with two ships in Australia” said RCCA commercial manager Adam Armstrong. He added that RCCA had received “amazing feedback” from guests about the range of activities and quality of service, particularly from first-time local cruisers. “We’re already established around the world with a strong reputation for outstanding facilities, great service and innovative entertainment such as rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks – and now our renowned superliners are the newest choice in cruising from Australia."

Currently, Legend of the Seas is cruising in Asia from Singapore and Shanghai; and Mariner of the Seas has moved base to Los Angeles, becoming the largest superliner to ever sail to Mexico. Rhapsody of the Seas will return to Australia in October this year with its schedule consisting of 15 voyages from Sydney.