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BON-E VOYAGE!

10 min read
Royal Albatross now offers Fur-st Class Dining for your pet dogs!

The Royal Albatross Sunset Dinner Cruise (Dog Friendly)

Set sail on a one-of-a-kind experience with the Royal Albatross, Singapore’s iconic luxury tall ship and Asia’s only luxury tall ship. The ship is now a world-first pioneer in Dog Cruises, which are designed for pet lovers who believe their furry companions deserve the very best. These cruises combine the elegance of fine dining with the joy of open-sea adventure — for both humans and dogs alike! To date, Royal Albatross Dog Cruise, the world’s first ever Dog Cruise, has sailed with over 3,000 dogs.

More than just an ordinary jaunt on the water, the Dog Cruise is a bonding journey that celebrates the deep connection between you and your fur kid. You get to enjoy gourmet meals, sea breezes, and stunning views while your doggie enjoys customised meals and first-class comfort.

As part of the growing pet-inclusive lifestyle movement, Royal Albatross proudly offers a space where dogs aren’t just allowed — they’re celebrated! Each voyage is crafted to deliver memorable moments, making it the ultimate luxury experience for both two- and four-legged passengers.

All Aboard: The Making Of A Dog Cruise

Ready to set sail — pets and their humans dressed for a nautical adventure on The Royal Albatross

Transforming the Royal Albatross into a pet-friendly haven at sea began as a heartfelt idea that blossomed into one of Singapore’s most unique experiences.

Back in 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, the team collaborated with VC Productions and Waggies Dog Training School to film a special project featuring five exceptionally trained dogs sailing from 11AM to 11PM. The goal was to showcase the magic of dogs at sea. The video, which can still be viewed on YouTube, turned out beautifully.

Shortly thereafter, the pandemic hit, and with it came a period of uncertainty. In an effort to spread joy during this gloomy period, the Royal Albatross team released the video online — and the response was overwhelming. As people around the world found comfort in their pets, the video struck a chord, receiving an outpouring of love and engagement from dog lovers everywhere.

Encouraged by the response and driven by the passion of the company’s dog-loving CEO, the team made the bold decision to officially launch the Royal Albatross Dog Cruise in 2021. The concept was trialled with care, focusing on safety, cleanliness, and creating a welcoming environment for both pets and their humans.

From luxury fittings to pet-safe zones, custom meals to thoughtful amenities, every detail was refined to ensure comfort and joy. What started as a light-hearted idea has since evolved into a thriving success. The Royal Albatross has sailed with more than 3,000 dogs to date, and continues to redefine what it means to sail in style — paws and all!

Prepping The Deck: Setting The Stage For Pets

  • All smiles as guests and their pets settle in on the Royal Albatross

At the Royal Albatross, the safety and comfort of every guest — both of the human and canine varieties — are top priorities. Before setting sail, the Captain conducts a safety briefing to ensure all guests are familiar with onboard guidelines and pet-friendly zones. Their trained crew are always on hand to supervise and assist throughout the cruise.

Onboard pet amenities

The ship has been designed to be dog-friendly and comfortable. Each sailing expedition features:

  • Fresh ice water bowls and hydration stations around the deck.
  • Comfortable, clean seating options, including deck lounges, sofas, and air-conditioned areas for smaller dogs that prefer a cooler space.
  • Baby chairs for small dogs, pee pads, dog diapers, and even a grass patch area for pet-relief needs.
  • Non-slip surfaces and shaded areas for safety and comfort under the sun.

Pre-boarding requirements

Every booking with a dog includes a Dog Declaration Form, ensuring all pets are suitable for social environments and in good health to sail. Please note that it’s $30 per small dog (up to 10kg), and $60 per large dog (over 10kg). You are also invited to pre-select a main course for your dog — either chicken, beef, or kangaroo — so the team can prepare each meal in advance for a smooth and tasty experience.

From tail wags to sea breezes, every detail of the Dog Cruise is carefully planned and curated to ensure a safe, relaxing, and joyful voyage for you and your fur baby.

An Unforgettable Experience

A sea of fluff — 43 cheerful Bichons sailing on the Royal Albatross

One of the most unforgettable sailings was with the Bichon Club of Singapore Cruise — hosting 43 fluffy Bichons and 70 happy humans was truly magical. It was a heartwarming sight — a sea of white clouds wagging their tails under the sunset, with every corner of the ship filled with laughter, joy and friendship.

This special event came about when the Bichon community approached the company to host a same-breed Dog Cruise. They customised everything — from the deck setup to the dining arrangements — to ensure both dogs and their humans enjoyed an extraordinary experience. The atmosphere was vibrant yet calm, with the crew trained to ensure comfort, safety, and plenty of photo moments.

The event’s adorable energy captured the hearts of many online, trending on TikTok and Instagram, capturing over a million views. It became one of the most talked-about pet experiences in Singapore, showcasing how the Royal Albatross isn’t just for people, but also for their beloved pets.

One guest described it best: “It was the most magical evening — seeing dozens of Bichons sailing together at sunset felt like a dream come true. Truly an experience like no other!”

Tips Before You Sail

When confirming your booking, take note of details such as sail time, pet ticket, and any add-ons you have requested.

A few must-dos on your end:

  • Your dog must stay leashed while on board
  • Your dog must be in a carrier while getting on and off the ship
  • Water is provided, but you’ll need to pack your pet’s bowl and clean-up essentials (e.g. wet wipes)
  • Bring some dog diapers, especially for indoor areas or if you have a young pup

Of course, you should have on hand some treats and a toy or two to keep your dog calm and happy. And if your dog is comfortable with it, bring along an outfit for the photos that you’ll surely be taking. Speaking of phones, make sure yours is fully charged as you’ll want to capture every moment!

Finally, know your pet — if they’re anxious or unwell, consider postponing the cruise.

Welcome Aboard: The Royal Experience For Pets

A couple sharing a sunny cruise moment onboard with their fur baby

Whether you prefer a sunset dinner or breakfast buffet, please be punctual as the Royal Albatross will stick strictly to schedule. Pets must be in a carrier during boarding, where they’ll get welcome treats and their very own photo-worthy backdrops.

You and your dog can choose to be in the open-air upper deck, or in the air-conditioned luxury grand salon. You may then, at your own risk, allow your pet out of the carrier, but they must at all times be wearing a harness with a lead attached.

Depending on the sail time you’ve chosen, you’ll feast on either a gourmet four course dinner or breakfast buffet, while your fur baby will dine on a delicious and dog-friendly three course menu, plus special treats and pup cakes for celebrations such as birthdays or ‘gotcha’ days.

Make your outing even more memorable by ordering add-ons, such as Happy Bark Day packages, VIP sunset dinner upgrades, welcome drinks, complimentary cakes, and soft drinks.

Meet The Crew: Humans Behind The Tails

Paw-rents enjoying a relaxing moment onboard with their fur kid

Every memorable Dog Cruise experience on board the Royal Albatross is powered by passion — and led by one very special person: Sylvia, the heart and driving force behind the world’s first luxury pet cruise.

From concept to creation, Sylvia personally developed and refined the Dog Cruise experience, ensuring every detail — from safety to comfort — meets the highest standard. She provides personalised, hands-on customer service from the moment a booking is made, reaching out directly to every guest to ensure both humans and pets are well-prepared for their voyage.

As a certified dog first-aid handler, Sylvia is always ready to respond calmly and confidently to any situation, offering both reassurance and expert care during the trip. Her deep love for animals and her understanding of pet behaviour make every guest — furry or not — feel right at home.

When asked about the favourite part of her job, Sylvia smiles and says, “It’s the little moments — when a dog curls up at its owner’s feet as the sun sets, and you can see pure happiness on both their faces. That’s when I know we’ve created something really special.”

A Course Of The Specially Curated Three-Course Meal For Pets

Each cruise is supported by a dedicated crew trained in safety, hospitality, and pet interaction, ensuring smooth sailing even with the most energetic of passengers. They also coordinate closely with F&B partners to deliver exceptional dining experiences for everyone onboard.

A Happy Pup Enjoying Its Gourmet Meal

Thanks to the Royal Albatross’ proud partnership with PetCubes, every dog enjoys a specially curated three-course gourmet meal that’s freshly prepared and nutritionally balanced, while their humans savour a premium dining menu of their own — truly a fur-st class experience for both.

Meet Captain Willie: Royal Albatross’ Resident Cat

Meet Captain Willie, the cat who rules the Royal Albatross 

Every ship needs a captain; on the Royal Albatross, he just happens to have whiskers!

Captain Willie joined the Royal Albatross family in September 2023, after being rescued from the SPCA. At around five years old, neutered, and full of personality, he quickly made the ship his kingdom — ruling the decks with quiet confidence and a regal paw.

Curious yet calm, friendly yet independent, Willie loves exploring every corner of the vessel. You’ll often find him lounging in the air-conditioned grand salon, napping in his favourite corner, his golden eyes keeping a close watch on ‘his’ ship.

Spotting Willie has become a favoured activity among animal-loving guests — a reminder that the Royal Albatross is as much a home for furry friends as it is for humans.

More than just the resident cat, Captain Willie has become a beloved mascot — a symbol of calm seas, second chances, and the warm welcome that defines the Royal Albatross experience.

Capturing Moments, Making Memories

A couple celebrating their anniversary with their beloved furry companion

The Royal Albatross is filled with Instagram-worthy corners for both you and your pet. Capture your best moments on the open deck against the iconic Sentosa skyline, or pose by the ship’s majestic sails and polished wood railings for a nautical vibe. The bow of the ship offers stunning panoramic views — perfect for sunset shots — while the upper deck lounges and airconditioned salon provide elegant backdrops for cosy portraits. Every corner tells a story, making it the ideal setting for unforgettable memories with your furry first mate.

You are encouraged to dress up your pet for the ultimate sailing adventure. From sailor bandanas to sun hats, every outfit adds to the fun and charm of the cruise. The friendly crew are always happy to assist with photo-taking, helping you capture those candid, tail-wagging moments against the stunning marina backdrop.

For themed cruises, a professional photographer will be engaged to ensure every special moment — from the first step on deck to golden-hour snuggles — is beautifully preserved. These photos often become treasured keepsakes, reminding guests of the unforgettable day they shared with their beloved pets at sea.

Testimonials From Satisfied Customers