Carnival Cruise Line has triumphantly ushered in a new era of year-round cruising from Queensland, launching the newly christened Carnival Encounter on her dazzling maiden voyage from Brisbane this week. In a bold move that cements the brand’s deepening roots in Australian waters, the launch marks a pivotal chapter in the cruise giant’s expansion, growing its Australian fleet to four remarkable vessels and reinforcing its commitment to offering unforgettable holidays right from Australians’ doorsteps.
Formerly known as Pacific Encounter under the P&O Cruises Australia banner, the ship has undergone an extensive transformation—inside and out—to emerge as Carnival Encounter, showcasing all the signature style, spirit, and excitement of the world’s most popular cruise line.
🚢 A Milestone Moment for Queensland Cruising
Speaking during celebrations in Brisbane, Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, hailed the moment as a defining step forward for Queensland tourism and the brand’s long-standing investment in Australian cruising.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy onboard Carnival Adventure
“Carnival Cruise Line is proud to strengthen our commitment to the hundreds of thousands of Queenslanders who love to cruise,” Duffy said. “As the world’s most popular cruise line, we’re now offering even more great-value, fun-filled holidays to Queenslanders who want to cruise from their doorstep with family and friends.”
The introduction of Carnival Encounter alongside Carnival Luminosa, both homeported in Brisbane, makes Carnival Cruise Line the only global operator offering year-round cruises from Queensland. This delivers exceptional convenience for holidaymakers while bolstering the Sunshine State’s visitor economy.
🌞 A Boost for Queensland’s Visitor Economy
The impact of Carnival’s expanded Australian footprint is as economic as experiential. In 2025 alone, the company’s four-ship fleet—including the Sydney-based Carnival Splendor and Carnival Adventure—will make 127 calls to Queensland ports, carrying an estimated 250,000 guests and injecting over $800 million into the local economy.
The four ships are scheduled to visit Airlie Beach 47 times, Moreton Island 44 times, and Cairns 25 times, creating a consistent stream of tourism revenue for regional Queensland and supporting countless businesses in hospitality, retail, and transport.
With 81 sailings departing from Brisbane this year alone, Carnival’s presence in the region is not just growing—it’s thriving.
🛳️ Carnival Encounter: A Ship Reimagined for Fun
In the spirit of Carnival’s famed “Fun Ship” reputation, Carnival Encounter has undergone a vibrant transformation, unveiling many new experiences that promise high-seas adventure and family fun for guests of all ages. Notable highlights include:
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The Hub App – A digital companion for guests, offering on-the-go dining reservations, real-time activity updates, and direct messaging with fellow cruisers.
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Carnival’s Iconic Fun Squad – The heartbeat of entertainment on board, hosting trivia, comedy shows, deck parties, and games.
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Seuss at Sea – A whimsical experience bringing Dr. Seuss stories to life through interactive family programming.
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Free Daily Pizza – Freshly baked happiness served daily between 11 am and 4 pm.
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VIFP Club – Carnival’s renowned loyalty program, offering exclusive promotions and benefits across the global fleet.
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Carnival Favorites – Fan-favorite experiences like Build-A-Bear workshops, Conga for Kids parties, and 80s Rock and Glow nights.
Importantly, guests aboard Carnival Encounter will also continue to enjoy beloved features from her P&O heritage, including:
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Byron Beach Club – A premium, adults-only retreat featuring a serene pool deck and elegant service.
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EDGE Adventure Park – A thrilling outdoor experience with zip lines, walk-the-plank challenges, and rock climbing.
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Luke’s Bar & Grill – Celebrity chef Luke Mangan’s signature onboard dining venue, known for its modern Australian menu.
💞 Dancing for a Cause: Expanding Conga for Kids
A sincere commitment to community and compassion is at the heart of Carnival Cruise Line’s mission. Since 2019, the brand has proudly partnered with the Children’s Hospital Foundation, raising over $70,000 through its spirited onboard initiative, Conga for Kids.
This high-energy dance party, held on the ship’s top deck, invites guests to join the conga line and purchase a special $20 Conga for Kids T-shirt—with every dollar going directly toward life-changing programs that support Queensland’s sickest children.
Now, with Carnival Encounter permanently based in Brisbane, the partnership is set to grow more potent than ever.
“Since 2019, Conga for Kids has united Carnival’s guests and crew to raise vital funds for the Foundation—funds that have powered life-changing medical research, placed essential equipment in the hands of doctors and nurses, and delivered moments of joy for families facing their toughest days,” said Lyndsey Rice, CEO of the Children’s Hospital Foundation.
“With Carnival Encounter now homeported in Brisbane, this partnership is set to make an even bigger difference—more cruises, more guests, and more opportunities to change the lives of Queensland’s most critically ill children. We’re incredibly grateful to Carnival Cruise Line for their unwavering commitment to bringing joy and hope where it’s needed most.”
🌏 Sailing into the Future
As the demand for immersive, affordable, and family-friendly holidays continues to rise across Australia, Carnival Cruise Line is delivering on its promise to offer more choice, fun, and convenience—backed by the reliability of a brand that has carried over 100 million guests globally.
Queensland’s cruising future is anchored in optimism, and with Carnival Encounter now sailing proudly under her new flag, the message is clear: The Sunshine State’s golden era of cruising is only just beginning.
To learn more or make a booking, visit carnival.com.au or speak to your professional travel advisor today.
