A Playful Partnership Returns
Royal Caribbean is bringing back its much-loved collaboration with The Wiggles for a second year, announcing a fresh season of Wiggles family cruises that promise music-filled fun and memorable moments at sea. Departing from Sydney and Brisbane during summer 2026/27, these special sailings will take place on Anthem of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas. To mark the occasion, the cruise line has introduced a unique promotion allowing children named Dorothy, Henry or Shirley to sail for free, a nod to the iconic Wiggles characters who share those names.
Celebrating Classic Names
The campaign taps into a growing interest in vintage baby names, with recent research showing that more parents are rediscovering traditional choices. Royal Caribbean has highlighted that names like Dorothy, Henry and Shirley are experiencing a resurgence, influenced partly by pop culture and nostalgia. The promotion cleverly connects this trend to The Wiggles’ beloved characters, offering families a playful reason to join the upcoming Wiggles family cruises while celebrating names that are making a comeback across Australia.
Royal Caribbean’s Creative Vision
Kathryn Lock, senior marketing director for Royal Caribbean Australia and New Zealand, explained that the idea emerged from noticing the renewed popularity of these timeless names. She shared that the cruise line saw an opportunity to blend cultural trends with family travel, creating an experience that allows children to meet their favourite Wiggles characters in person. Lock also noted that the upcoming season represents the second year of the partnership and promised even more unforgettable adventures for families of all ages, reinforcing Royal Caribbean’s commitment to creating immersive holiday experiences.
What Families Can Expect Onboard
Guests joining the Wiggles family cruises will find the ships transformed into vibrant hubs of entertainment. The Wiggles and their colourful friends, including Tsehay Hawkins, Lucia Field and Caterina Mete, will appear throughout the sailings. Children and parents alike can look forward to lively sail-away parties hosted by DJ Dorothy, interactive live shows and energetic family discos. Photo sessions and meet-and-greets will give young fans the chance to meet their heroes up close, creating moments that families can treasure long after returning home.
Three Sailings, Three Unique Journeys
The summer 2026/27 program features three distinct itineraries designed to suit different holiday styles. One four-night cruise will depart Brisbane for Airlie Beach, offering a tropical escape filled with sunshine and seaside charm. Another four-night sailing from Sydney will travel to Hobart, where guests can explore Tasmania’s food scene and outdoor attractions. For families seeking a longer adventure, a seven-night South Pacific voyage from Brisbane will combine island hopping with onboard festivities, delivering a week packed with music, dancing and shared experiences. Each itinerary offers a different way to enjoy the magic of Wiggles family cruises, whether on a short getaway or an extended holiday.
The Wiggles Share Their Excitement
John Pearce, known to fans as the Purple Wiggle, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming sailings, especially as a father to a young Henry himself. He said he is thrilled to welcome families and children with those special names to join the adventure at sea. Pearce added that the cruises are designed to be filled with singing, dancing and interactive fun, promising daily experiences that bring families together. His message reflects the heart of the partnership, focusing on shared joy and meaningful moments rather than just entertainment.
A Growing Trend in Family Travel
The popularity of Wiggles family cruises highlights a broader shift in family holidays, where parents are increasingly seeking experiences that blend travel with meaningful activities for children. By combining live entertainment with cruise adventures, Royal Caribbean and The Wiggles are offering a format that appeals to both generations. Parents can relax knowing their children are engaged, while kids enjoy immersive interactions with characters they already love from television and music.
How to Join the Adventure
Families interested in taking part can find full details about the free sailing offer for eligible children on Royal Caribbean’s website. The cruise line has outlined simple requirements, including age limits and cabin availability, to ensure fairness for all participants. These terms help manage demand while keeping the focus on creating magical experiences for young guests.