Sapphire Princess will return to Fremantle as its home port in late 2027, marking Princess Cruises’ comeback to Western Australia after several years away.
The cruise line confirmed the deployment this week, saying details of Sapphire Princess’ season to regional Western Australian ports would be announced later in the year.
Princess Cruises Vice President for Asia Pacific, Matthew Rutherford, said the company has a long history in the state.
“Princess Cruises has long held a deep affection for Western Australia,” he said.
“For many years we have welcomed guests from across the globe to experience the extraordinary landscapes and vibrant culture this remarkable region has to offer.”
“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to Western Australia, showcasing its breathtaking beauty, from Kimberley to the Great Southern, to travellers from around the world.”
Over the past 15 years, four Princess ships have been homeported in Fremantle, starting with Sun Princess in 2008. The most recent season was the 2019–20 summer programme, which included a sold-out 46-night Indian Ocean voyage.
The cruise line estimates the Sapphire Princess deployment will generate more than $140 million for the state’s economy through tourism, jobs, and business opportunities in both Fremantle and regional ports.
Western Australian Tourism Minister Reece Whitby described the return as a boost for the local industry.
“Having the Sapphire Princess in Fremantle not only benefits WA’s economy, but it will also bring large cruise ships back to regional ports stimulating the tourism sector with a series of calls scheduled over the summer school holidays,” he said.
“We’re thrilled to announce this great news on day two of the 27th Australian Cruise Association Conference as it shows the value of hosting these business events and demonstrates the WA Government’s commitment to supporting and growing WA’s important cruise sector.”
Rutherford said the full programme of Sapphire Princess voyages will be part of Princess Cruises’ 2027–28 Australian summer schedule, expected to be announced and go on sale in mid-November.
“I’d like to thank the Western Australian Government and Tourism WA for going above and beyond in embracing Princess Cruises and supporting us in the key ports we plan to visit and take our guests to,” he said.
“We can’t wait to help make Western Australia ‘the’ place to visit with Sapphire Princess’ new deployment.”
