Royal Caribbean Reveals Exclusive Wine Collaboration

 

Royal Caribbean Reveals Exclusive Wine Collaboration

Royal Caribbean International has forged a strategic partnership with Ponting Wines, co-founded by Ricky Ponting, one of Australia's most renowned cricket legends and the co-founder of Ponting Wines, celebrated for its unwavering commitment to crafting premium wines. This collaboration is a testament to the shared commitment of Ponting Wines and Royal Caribbean in creating unforgettable holiday experiences.

Between October 2023 and April 2024, wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike will have the opportunity to savor handpicked rosé, red, or white wines during 2- to 18-night getaways departing from Brisbane and Sydney this summer.

Ponting Wines, established in 2019, is the brainchild of award-winning Australian winemaker Ben Riggs and the iconic former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting, along with his wife, Rianna. These co-founders are artisans in their craft, dedicating meticulous attention to detail in crafting each wine to ensure the utmost quality, flavor, structure, and complexity.

Passengers aboard the Ovation, Quantum, and Brilliance of the Seas cruise ships will have the privilege of sampling six of Ponting's award-winning wines, including crowd-pleasers like Ponting First Session Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc and Ponting Mowbray Boy Tasmanian Pinot Noir. These wines will be available for purchase by the bottle and by the glass at all dining establishments and bars, from the delectable Jamie's Italian to Royal Caribbean's flagship steakhouse, Chops Grille, and the elegant Vintages wine bar.

Moreover, guests desiring to indulge in these exceptional wines throughout their vacation can include them in the Deluxe Beverage Package.

Ricky Ponting expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, "My wife Rianna and I have always shared an affinity for exploring and tasting wines at vineyards as we travel the world. Ponting Wines embodies our shared enthusiasm for exquisite wines and the dedication and passion that has fueled me throughout my career. Every decision we make is rooted in sustainability, and we source all our fruit ethically from Tasmanian and South Australian producers. We take immense pride in our partnership with Royal Caribbean, as it aligns perfectly with our core principles. We eagerly anticipate travelers creating new memories while sipping on a bottle of Ponting Wines."

Kathryn Lock, Royal Caribbean International's Director of Marketing for Australia and New Zealand, shared her enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to unveil our exclusive partnership with Ponting Wines, raising the bar on our already diverse array of food and beverage experiences. As Royal Caribbean gears up for the Australian summer season, we are committed to providing Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific with the finest holiday experiences. Now, this commitment is elevated by the exceptional wines handpicked by the talented Ricky and Rianna Ponting, in collaboration with Ben Riggs. We are dedicated to selecting partners and products that adhere to sustainable practices and work closely with local Australian suppliers. We eagerly anticipate enhancing our guests' vacations further through our collaboration with one of Australia's most esteemed winemakers. The Royal Caribbean team raises a glass to this fantastic partnership with a taste of Ponting's The Pinnacle McLaren Vale Shiraz!"

The 2023-2024 season for Royal Caribbean will feature three award-winning ships exploring picturesque destinations in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, including Vanuatu and New Caledonia.

The Ovation and Quantum ships will return to Australia on October 28th, embarking from Brisbane and Sydney, respectively, while the Brilliance will make its debut in Australia. The Brilliance will treat guests to exclusive Sydney getaways, visiting destinations such as Port Douglas and Melbourne, Australia; Suva, Fiji; and Luganville, Vanuatu.