Royal Caribbean is turning summer cruising into a fully fledged sing-along once again, announcing the return of its popular partnership with The Wiggles for the 2026 and 2027 season.
Following the success of last year’s collaboration, the cruise line will host three exclusive Wiggly-themed sailings departing from Sydney and Brisbane, bringing Australia’s most loved children’s entertainers back on board Anthem of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas.
In a playful twist, some children will even be able to sail for free.
To celebrate the return of the Ultimate Wiggly Adventure, kids named Dorothy, Henry or Shirley can cruise at no cost, joining their namesake characters Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn for music-filled holidays at sea.
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Why These Names Matter
The offer taps into a growing trend in Australia, the revival of classic children’s names.
Recent research shows more than a third of parents are considering vintage names for their children in 2026, while four in ten already describe their child’s name as classic or old-fashioned. Nearly half of Australians know a child named Dorothy, Henry or Shirley, and almost one third say pop culture influences their baby-naming choices.
With Henry ranking as Australia’s second most popular baby name for 2026, the nostalgia-fuelled comeback is clearly gaining momentum, and Royal Caribbean is leaning into it with a uniquely family-focused promotion.
“With the rise of vintage names like Dorothy, Henry and Shirley, we saw a playful opportunity to celebrate this trend while offering families a unique chance to connect with their favourite Wiggles and Wiggly characters,” said Kathryn Lock, senior marketing director for Royal Caribbean Australia and New Zealand.
“In summer 2026 and 2027, these exclusive sailings will mark the second year of this exciting partnership, bringing more unforgettable adventures for all ages.”
What Families Can Expect Onboard
The Wiggly-themed sailings will feature appearances from The Wiggles and their Wiggly Friends, including Tsehay Hawkins (Yellow Wiggle), Lucia Field (Blue Wiggle), Caterina Mete (Red Wiggle) and the much-loved Tree of Wisdom.
Onboard activities are designed especially for young cruisers and their families and include:
- Sail Away parties featuring DJ Dorothy
- Live Wiggly shows
- Family discos
- Dedicated meet-and-greet and photo opportunities
These experiences are layered into Royal Caribbean’s family-friendly ships, combining large-scale onboard attractions with kid-focused entertainment.
The Three Wiggly Sailings
Families can choose from short getaways or a longer South Pacific adventure.
30 November 2026, 4-night Quantum of the Seas getaway
Brisbane to Airlie Beach
A tropical Queensland escape featuring Tsehay Hawkins (Yellow Wiggle) and the Wiggly Friends, complete with beach days and sunny summer fun.
1 March 2027, 4-night Anthem of the Seas getaway
Sydney to Hobart
A short family cruise to Tasmania with Lucia Field (Blue Wiggle), blending local food, outdoor adventures and daily Wiggly experiences.
19 March 2027, 7-night Quantum of the Seas cruise
Brisbane to the South Pacific
An extended island-hopping adventure featuring Caterina Mete (Red Wiggle), Evie Ferris (Yellow Wiggle) and the full cast of Wiggly Friends, promising a week of music, dancing and family entertainment.
A Personal Connection for The Wiggles
For John Pearce, the Purple Wiggle, the promotion has a personal meaning.
“We can’t wait for all the little Dorothys, Henrys and Shirleys to join our adventure on the high seas to celebrate the second year of this incredible Wiggly collaboration,” he said. “As a dad to my own little Henry, this one’s extra special.
“Get ready to sing, dance and wiggle your way through the Ultimate Wiggly Adventure and make unforgettable memories at sea. It’s an experience the whole family will treasure.”
Bookings for the three Wiggly Sailings are now open, with full details, including how to redeem the kids sail free offer, available via Royal Caribbean’s website.
