Royal Caribbean announces world’s first carbon-neutral cruise destination

Royal Caribbean announces world’s first carbon-neutral cruise destination

Vanuatu will be the home of Royal Caribbean’s newest private island destination, ‘Perfect Day at Lelepa’.

The announcement of the new project was made by Vanuatu Prime Minister Charlot Salwai and Royal Caribbean International president and CEO Michael Bayley.

The destination will be created in partnership with the community of Vanuatu to showcase the distinct natural ecological beauty and diverse local culture of the island nation, as well as provide employment and education opportunities.

Perfect Day at Lelepa will also be built with sustainability features designed to safeguard the island’s ecosystems and will be the first carbon-neutral private cruise destination in the world.

Cox Architecture, a sustainable, design-focused contemporary architectural firm based in Australia, will serve as the lead architect on the project.

Snorkelling off Lelepa (image supplied by Royal Caribbean International, ©David Kirkland)

“We believe our destinations should be sustainably designed,” Bayley said.

“That idea goes beyond simply protecting the ecological features of Lelepa and includes showing respect for the people and traditions that make this a special place.

“Anyone who has encountered the tremendous natural beauty of Lelepa can understand why it is the perfect setting for ‘Perfect Day.’ Our guests who travel to the South Pacific are seeking authentic adventures and genuine relaxation, and they will find both here.”

Bayley said Perfect Day at Lelepa will have a different look and feel from Royal Caribbean’s wildly popular Perfect Day at CocoCay “because our guests around the world all have different definitions for their perfect day, and all of them are right”.

“Our designers and nature have created the ideal South Pacific experience and we expect the results will be stunning,” he said.

Salwai said the project marks a major step forward in Vanuatu’s close relationship with Royal Caribbean – “one that will support sustainable growth for future generations”.

“The Ni-Vanuatu people look forward to welcoming Royal Caribbean guests from around the world to enjoy extraordinary adventures and relaxation during their Perfect Day at Lelepa,” he said.

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