Resorts World Cruises has acquired the Pacific Explorer, expanding the fleet with a third vessel. The ship, previously part of P&O Cruises Australia, is set for a $50 million refurbishment and rebranding. In March 2025, it will debut under its new name, Star Scorpio, joining RWC’s growing fleet.

The acquisition of the 77,441-ton vessel, purchased for an undisclosed amount, comes ahead of P&O Cruises Australia’s dissolution, a result of its merger with Carnival Cruise Line in March 2025. The Pacific Explorer is expected to complete its final P&O Australia sailing by February 2025.

The rebranded ship Star Scorpio, with a capacity for 1,800 passengers, will begin its maiden voyage from Singapore on March 26, 2025, marking the start of a series of cruises through Southeast Asia. The vessel will visit popular destinations, including Jakarta and Medan in Indonesia, Melaka and Pulau Redang in Malaysia, Bangkok and Ko Samui in Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, with sailings continuing until July 21, 2025.

The transition also marks the end of P&O Australia’s operations, as its remaining vessels, Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter, will be absorbed by Carnival. These ships will now operate under the Carnival brand, serving the Australian market as Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Splendor.