Resorts World Cruises has announced the acquisition of Pacific Explorer, formerly part of the P&O Australia fleet, marking a significant expansion of its operations with a 3rd vessel.
The 77,441-GT ton vessel will undergo a comprehensive US$50 million refurbishment and rebranding before joining the Resorts World fleet (under the name "Star Scorpio") in March 2025.
This acquisition coincides with P&O Australia’s scheduled dissolution as part of its merger with CCL-Carnival Cruise Line, set to be finalized in early 2025. Pacific Explorer is slated to complete its final P&O sailing by February 2025, after which she will transition to her new operator.
Star Scorpio is expected to debut with the inaugural voyage on March 26th, 2025, leaving from Singapore.
The ship, with a passenger capacity of 1800, will operate an extensive series of Southeast Asia itineraries, visiting destinations such as Jakarta and Medan in Indonesia, Malacca and Pulau Redang in Malaysia, Bangkok and Koh Samui in Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.
These sailings will continue through July 2025, showcasing the region’s rich cultural and natural attractions.
Meanwhile, the dissolution of P&O Australia will see its remaining vessels, Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter, integrated into CCL-Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet. These ships will assume new identities as Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Splendor, respectively, and will continue to serve the Australian market under the Carnival brand.
This transition underscores the evolving dynamics within the cruise industry and reflects the strategic repositioning of both shipowners - Resorts World (Genting Group) and Carnival Corporation.