The iconic Sydney Harbour witnessed a historic moment as the Crown Princess set sail on Princess Cruises’ inaugural AFL Member Cruise, an unprecedented event blending sports, community, and travel. Hundreds of Sydney Swans members and supporters boarded the luxurious cruise ship for a round-trip to Hobart, marking the second year of a thriving partnership between Princess Cruises and the Sydney Swans.
A Star-Studded Line-Up
Leading this unique adventure is Sydney Swans Chief Executive Officer Tom Harley, who is joined by an impressive roster of AFL personalities, including Executive General Manager of AFL Leon Cameron, AFLW Coach Scott Gowans, AFLW Captain Chloe Molloy, 2022 AFLW Club Champion Cynthia Hamilton, and legendary Swans Premiership players Josh Kennedy and Ted Richards. This extraordinary assembly of talent offers fans the rare opportunity to connect with their sporting heroes in an immersive and intimate setting.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Princess Cruises to bring this once-in-a-lifetime experience to our members,” said Harley. “From exclusive events to family-friendly activities, this journey is a celebration of our community and an unforgettable Sydney Swans adventure. It’s an exciting way to reflect on our 2024 season and set our sights on 2025.”
Activities to Remember
The Crown Princess is buzzing with energy as fans enjoy various events tailored to deepen their connection to the club. Onboard highlights include meet-and-greet sessions with players, exclusive Q&A panels with AFL executives, and interactive workshops led by Swans greats. Fans also have access to unique memorabilia signings, team trivia contests, and family-friendly entertainment to ensure every moment onboard is engaging.
Swans AFLW Captain Chloe Molloy expressed her excitement: “It’s incredible to see so many fans come together to celebrate our shared love for the game. Being part of this journey is truly special.”
Strengthening Community Ties
Princess Cruises’ Senior Director of Marketing and Sales, Nick Ferguson, emphasized the importance of the cruise line’s partnership with the Sydney Swans. “The AFL is about more than just sport—it’s about community, connection, and camaraderie. Moving into our second year as the official cruise line of the Sydney Swans demonstrates our commitment to fostering those values. This unique voyage is a testament to what we can achieve together.”
Ferguson also praised the Crown Princess, noting, “Cruising aboard this magnificent ship is an experience in itself, but combining it with the Swans’ passion and spirit makes it extraordinary. We’re thrilled to bring fans closer to their team while exploring the beauty of Tasmania.”
A Growing Presence in Australian Waters
The Crown Princess is one of three Princess Cruises ships homeported in Australia for the summer 2024-25 season. Joining her are the Royal Princess, also based in Sydney, and the Diamond Princess, stationed in Brisbane. Together, they offer a variety of itineraries to New Zealand, the South Pacific, and scenic “seacation” voyages, solidifying Princess Cruises as a leader in the Australian cruise market.
With a robust focus on creating unforgettable travel experiences, Princess Cruises is dedicated to collaborating with local organizations, such as the Sydney Swans, to deliver unique events that resonate with Australian audiences.
The Voyage Ahead
As the Crown Princess sails toward Hobart, anticipation builds for what’s to come. Onboard, fans are revelling in the joy of connecting with fellow supporters and their sporting idols. At the same time, offboard excursions in Tasmania promise to add another layer of adventure to this already remarkable journey.
For more information about Princess Cruises, including itineraries and partnerships, visit princess.com or consult a professional travel advisor.
This groundbreaking AFL Member Cruise has set a new standard for sports travel experiences and reaffirmed the power of community and connection. As the Crown Princess continues its voyage, the legacy of this partnership between Princess Cruises and the Sydney Swans is bound to inspire more innovative collaborations in the future.
Written by: My Thanh Pham
