Pacific Explorer Completes Final Cruise for P&O; Enters Drydock in Singapore – Cruise Industry News

After departing from Fremantle earlier this month, the Pacific Explorer has completed its final voyage for P&O Cruises Australia on Feb. 18, 2025.

The 11-night cruise included visits to ports of call in Indonesia and Malaysia before arriving at its final destination in Singapore.

Wrapping up an eight-year sailing career for the Australian brand, the 1997-built ship was sold to Resorts World Cruises.

Part of P&O Australia’s merger into Carnival Cruise Line, the sale of the ship was announced by Carnival Corporation in late 2024.

Joining the Resorts World One and the Genting Dream, the vessel is now scheduled to offer cruises in Southeast Asia as the Star Voyager.

With itineraries departing from Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand, the ship kicks off its maiden season for Resorts World on March 26, 2025.

After completing its final cruise, the Pacific Explorer sailed to a drydock in Singapore where it will be prepared to launch service for its new operator.

According to Resorts World, the Star Voyager will undergo a $50 million refurbishment before welcoming guests onboard.

As part of Princess Cruises’ Sun Class, the 2,000-guest ship was built by the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and originally entered service in 1997.

In addition to the Pacific Explorer, P&O Australia also operates the Pacific Encounter and the Pacific Adventure.

The two vessels will continue to sail for the brand through March, when they are set to be integrated into Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet.

Following a minor refit, the ships will be based permanently in Australia for cruises departing from Sydney and Brisbane, respectively.

In addition to the Carnival Splendor, which offers year-round cruises from Sydney, Carnival also operates the Carnival Luminosa from Brisbane on a seasonal basis.

P&O Australia’s shutdown and the ships moving into Carnival Cruise Line was first announced in June 2024 as a strategic move to increase capacity for Carnival Corporation’s highest-returning brand.