In a grandiose display of affection and commitment, the Carnival Cruise Line’s magnificent vessel, the Carnival Luminosa, has officially unveiled its ‘Flag of Fun’, a vibrant homage to the spirit of Queensland. This exquisite symbol was presented in an elaborate ceremony at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal, signifying the start of a memorable Australian cruising season.
The inaugural event was hosted by the esteemed Captain Adriano Binacchi and the Vice President of Carnival Cruise Line, Kara Glamore, with the ship’s dignitaries, Officers Maria Avendano and Pietro Battilana, leading the ceremonial flag raising at the ship’s prow.
The ‘Flag of Fun’ is a potent symbol of the enduring bond between Carnival and the state of Queensland. It proudly displays photos contributed by Queensland residents, capturing their unique ways of embracing fun in their home state. The design is infused with elements symbolic of Queensland; the maroon triangle reflects the state’s official colour, the Carnival blue waves mimic the contours of Queensland’s renowned shoreline, and the yellow circle embodies the sun, paying tribute to the state’s moniker as the Sunshine State, and the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises visible from a Carnival cruise.
The ceremony was graced by diverse attendees, including local travel agents, media professionals, and representatives from Carnival Cruise Line’s esteemed partners, such as the Queensland Children’s Hospital Foundation, Brisbane Bullets, and Tangalooma Island Resort. Additional attendees included members from the Brisbane Airport, Tourism and Events Queensland, and Brisbane Economic Development Agency. Post-ceremony, guests were treated to a lavish 3-course ‘Carnival Favourites’ luncheon at the Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, with surprise performances from Carnival’s iconic dancing waiters and singing Maître D’.
Guests also had the opportunity to explore the Carnival Luminosa, taking in its impressive features such as the 10-deck high atrium adorned with a bronze Fernando Botero sculpture, the Sunset Bar, pools, and one of the largest spa and thermal areas in the global fleet. Various dining and bar options were on display, including unique Luminosa-exclusive offerings.
VP Kara Glamore eloquently expressed, “The Flag of Fun is a tangible testament to Carnival Cruise Line’s devotion to Queensland. As Luminosa sails through her season, our cruisers will gaze upon this flag, seeing a reflection of themselves and the vibrant spirit of Queensland. We are grateful for the love we receive from Queenslanders, and we sail with pride, carrying this beautiful emblem of the state and its people.”
Carnival Luminosa is poised to host over 70,000 guests across 31 cruises, with Brisbane as her homeport until April 2024. Her journey will cover both iconic domestic and international destinations, weaving through the Great Barrier Reef Airlie Beach and reaching out to the South Pacific treasures of New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea.
Carnival’s commitment to Queensland is further underscored through strategic local partnerships. As the Premier Partner of the Brisbane Bullets for the next two years, Carnival fortifies its support for a sports organization that has been a pillar in the Queensland community for over four decades. This partnership includes creating a ‘Fun Zone’ for children at the Bullets’ home games and supporting regional community clinics throughout the state.
Since 2019, Carnival has proudly supported the Queensland Children’s Hospital Foundation, raising over $35,000 during Luminosa’s inaugural Australian season through the ‘Conga for Kids’ events held on every sailing from Brisbane.
Carnival Luminosa’s season in Brisbane is set to significantly bolster the local economy, with projections indicating an injection of approximately $30 million.
For further information on Carnival Cruise Line and to make a booking, please consult your travel advisor.
Written by: Anne Keam
