Royal Caribbean Announces Brand New Private Island in Vanuatu

Stacey Leasca

On Monday, Royal Caribbean announced its latest plan to build a sustainable private island in the South Pacific, and its name needs no further explanation.

According to the cruise line's press release, the island, aptly called "Perfect Day at Lelepa" in Vanuatu, will be built with sustainability in mind complete with features designed to “safeguard the island's ecosystems.” The company also explained the island will be the first carbon-neutral private cruise destination in the world.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

"We believe our destinations should be sustainably designed,” Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael 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."

Bayley added, the island was 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."

In a ceremony announcing the island plans, Vanuatu’s Prime Minister Charlot Salwai described the island as a "true paradise" and the venture with the cruise line as a "major step forward" in their partnership, according to Travel Pulse.

“Today marks a major step forward in our island nation’s close relationship with Royal Caribbean and one that will support sustainable growth for future generations," he said. "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.”

According to Royal Caribbean, Perfect Day will look and feel distinct from Royal Caribbean's other island experience, 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."

The island is expected to open sometime in 2022.