The Radiance of the Seas will sail from Sydney starting in October 2011, giving Royal Caribbean International two ships in Australia.

The 2,501-passenger Radiance will join the 2,435-passenger Rhapsody of the Seas, a ship currently in its third Australian summer season.

"The move is a demonstration of the strength of the local cruise market, and is in response to demand from American, European and Asian visitors to experience Australia and our region onboard our cruise ships," said Gavin Smith, managing director of Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia.

Royal Caribbean said it will release 2011-12 itineraries for the two ships in late March.