The Sydney Swans and their Official Cruise Partner, Princess Cruises hosted the second Sydney Swans cruise late last week, hosting members and fans on board the Discovery Princess on a three-day trip.
Members and fans enjoyed Swan-themed activities on board and spent time with current and former players, including AFLW co-captain Chloe Molloy, 2005 Premiership player Michael O’Loughlin, 2012 Premiership player Heath Grundy as well as Executive Director - Club Performance, and former senior coach John Longmire.
Sydney stars Chad Warner and Nick Blakey were on hand to welcome Swans fans aboard, before the group set sail on Thursday afternoon. Members and fans were treated to a welcome cocktail function on the first night, having the chance to mingle with the players and executive staff members.
O'Loughlin, who sits on the club's board, said the cruise was a unique way to connect with those most passionate about the red and white.
"What a great chance to get around our supporters who have been there for us through thick and thin," O'Loughlin said.
"Some really familiar faces as well, so I've known a lot of these guys for a number of years, so it's good to hang out in a real casual environment.
"I think the relationship with Princess and obviously the Swans has been a really strong one, so it's been a great couple of days."
Day two included a special screening of the best moments from the 2025 AFL and AFLW seasons, plus a look back at the 2005 and 2012 Premierships. Molloy was on hand to share insights on the AFLW program, while Longmire, O'Loughlin, and Grundy shared stories and memories from their Premiership years. Pickleball was a hit with members and fans in the afternoon, O'Loughlin taking out the win with member Amanda. That night, the Swans hosted a discussion panel to give fans an exclusive insight into the behind-the-scenes moments and the chance have their questions answered.
O'Loughlin said a highlight of the cruise was reminiscing on memories with members and fans.
"The premierships that we've played in and been a part of have been really special for those guys and obviously the players and the staff, so it's just another chance to consolidate that relationship," he said.
"Our fans in South Melbourne, our history runs really, really deep. So again, in a really informal environment, to be able to sit down and have a yarn with them and over a meal, it's been brilliant."
For Molloy, who was on the inaugural member cruise last year, the trip was a way of showing her appreciation for those who show up week in, week out to support her and her teammates.
"It's a really good chance to interact with the lifeline of our footy club, they're the ones that I feel we owe a lot to, with just how loyal they are towards both programs," Molloy said.
"I think it's an opportunity also to grow in the women's space, to come educate members and fans about how the W program is going, but also to catch up with them.
"I really enjoy building a rapport with the people behind the scenes and on the other side of the fence that show up every weekend and I guess it's my way of saying thank you."
The three-night trip was rounded out with a Swans-themed trivia night and team dinner, giving members one last chance to spend time with their sporting heroes.
