Carnival Cruise Line Welcomes Two New Ships
Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure, formerly of P&O Cruises Australia, are undergoing a transformation to join the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. The two-week wet dock will revamp both ships, bringing them into the Carnival family with a fresh look and exciting features.
The new paint job is particularly noteworthy:
- Carnival Encounter: White hull with a red stripe
- Carnival Adventure: White hull with a blue or turquoise accent
These designs depart from Carnival's usual blue hull, taking inspiration from Carnival Splendor's Australian look. The ships' sides will display an updated Carnival logo with stylized swoops and stars referencing the Southern Cross constellation, a nod to Australia's flag.
In March 2025, the renamed ships will officially launch:
- Carnival Adventure: Based in Sydney, joining Carnival Splendor
- Carnival Encounter: Operating from Brisbane
Carnival's signature 'Fun Ship' atmosphere will be prominent, with the Fun Squad leading parties like Glow and White-Hot Nights. The best of the P&O Cruises Australia experience will be preserved, including dining options at Luke's Bar & Grill, Angelo's, and Dragon Lady. The Blanc de Blanc show and Edge Adventure Park will continue to entertain guests.
Mini suite and suite guests will have access to the exclusive Byron Beach Club, featuring a private pool, whirlpool spas, and comfortable seating.
"This transition offers a unique opportunity to combine the best of P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line as the brand expands in Australia." – Kara Glamore, Carnival
Australian Homeports for Carnival's New Ships
Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure will begin their voyages from their respective Australian ports on March 29, 2025. This strategic timing aligns with Carnival's commitment to offering seamless yet exciting adventures at sea.
The carefully selected homeports capitalize on existing cruise popularity and provide easy access for both local and international guests:
- Carnival Adventure: Based in Sydney, joining Carnival Splendor
- Carnival Encounter: Resuming operations from Brisbane
A Blend of Fun and Tradition
The transformed Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure will offer a unique combination of Carnival's lively 'Fun Ship' energy and the relaxed charm of Australian cruising. Guests can expect:
- Engaging entertainment from the Fun Squad
- Themed parties like the Glow Party and White-Hot Night
- Diverse dining options, including Luke's Bar & Grill, Angelo's, and Dragon Lady
- The continuation of the Blanc de Blanc show
- Thrilling experiences at the Edge Adventure Park, including ziplining over the ocean
Suite and mini-suite guests can enjoy the exclusive Byron Beach Club, featuring a private pool, whirlpool spas, and comfortable seating for relaxation.
The focus on blending tradition with modern flair offers guests a cruise experience that's both familiar and innovative, inviting a new generation to discover the joys of cruising while integrating iconic features from both Carnival and P&O Cruises.
- Carnival Cruise Line. Exciting New Features for Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure. 2025.
- P&O Cruises Australia. P&O Favourites Continuing on Carnival Ships. 2025.
- Cruise Passenger. Investigation: Pricing Comparison Between Carnival and P&O Cruises. 2024.
- Resorts World Cruises. Acquisition of Pacific Explorer. 2025.
- Carnival Corporation. Announcement of P&O Cruises Australia Integration into Carnival Cruise Line. June 2024.