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Carnival Encounter
Last refurbished
2025
Last refurbished
Passengers
2602
Passengers
Ports Visited
18
Ports visited
Cruises from $123 per day
$123
From Price per day
Total Gross Tonnage of Carnival Encounter
108,865
Gross Tonnage

Carnival Encounter Cruises

3.7
(from 210 verified customers)

Carnival Encounter - bringing the FUN to Brisbane all year round!

Launching in early 2025, this 2,600-passenger vessel has already hosted many happy passengers as P&O’s Pacific Encounter. Designed for the local market, she caters perfectly to Aussie tastes with relaxed style, great dining, and friendly service. Sailing year-round from Brisbane, Carnival Encounter brings the fun, laid-back spirit the line is known for to adventures across the South Pacific and Queensland coast.

On board, guests will find a bright, welcoming atmosphere with spaces created for connection and ease. Days are made for poolside lounging, splashy fun on the waterslides, or simply soaking up the sunshine. Evenings bring live shows, casual bites, and lively bars, along with quieter spots to unwind. Families can make the most of Camp Ocean and Seuss at Sea activities, while couples and friends can retreat to the adults-only Serenity area. With itineraries ranging from short breaks to island getaways, Carnival Encounter offers easy, all-fun cruising designed for Australians.

Ship Specification

Maiden voyage: 2002
Number of decks: 13
Tonnage: 108865
Cabins: 1301
Passengers: 2602
Number of crew: 1200
Image of Carnival Encounter

Current Cruise Deals

  • Carnival's Follow the Fun Sale

    Carnival's Follow the Fun Sale

    • Reduced deposits from $50 per person*
    • 2 Category upgrades within cabin category*
    • Cruise only – including all main meals, entertainment and more*

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Clean Cruising Club Fares

    Carnival Clean Cruising Club Fares

    Clean Cruising Club Fares*
    • Valid on select sailings*
    • Cruise only including meals and entertainment*

    Valid for Club Members only - Not a Club Member? Join today from only $90 per household per year

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Save & Sail

    Carnival Save & Sail

    • Valid on selected sailings
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*
    • Guarantee cabins only - cabin locations & numbers will be advised within 30 days of departure

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Journeys

    Carnival Journeys

    Board a Carnival Journeys cruise and you're on course for enriching experiences abroad, amazing destinations ashore, classic cruising flare and more!

    Features of a Carnival Journeys cruise include:
    • Longer itineraries, 9+ nights in amazing locations such as Alaska, Canada, Hawaii, New Zealand and more!
    • Authentic experiences, including local chefs and celebrations of local culture
    • Throwback Sea Day 80's Party
    • The Academy of Fun, a series of enriching onboard courses

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Family Holiday Getaways for 2026

    Family Holiday Getaways for 2026

    Want to keep the family entertained during school holidays?

    • No (or fewer) screen time battles
    • Be healthy or indulge – or do both!
    • Kids club or family activities - your choice!
    • Choose from 3 nights and longer, depending on how big a break you need

    Escape to the ocean for the School holidays!*
    *Please note each state has different school holiday dates so please check your local government calendar.

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Easter Holiday Cruises

    Easter Holiday Cruises

    Don't miss out on your Easter & School Holidays at Sea….

    • No cooking, no cleaning, no worries at all!
    • Be healthy or indulge – or do both!
    • Hunt for Easter Eggs or relax by the pool!
    • Choose from 3 nights and longer, depending on how big a break you need

    Escape to the ocean for the Easter & School holidays!

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Holiday Cruises

    Holiday Cruises

    Don't miss out on your Summer Holiday at Sea….
    • No cooking, no cleaning, no worries at all!
    • Be healthy or indulge – or do both!
    • Day spas, sports bars, dodgem cars – there’s something for everyone
    • Choose from 3 nights and longer, depending on how big a break you need

    Cruise ships are famous for taking the holiday season to the next level. Book your Summer cruise today and see for yourself why this is the best way to holiday!

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Brand New Carnival 2027 + 2028 Season

    Brand New Carnival 2027 + 2028 Season

    Carnival 2027 + 2028 local season now on sale!
    • Year-round cruising from Brisbane and Sydney
    • First ever cruises from Auckland & Adelaide on Carnival Adventure
    • Carnival Adventure returns to Melbourne!
    • Or cruise from Singapore, Hong Kong or Tokyo
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Choice Plus

    Carnival Choice Plus

    • Reduced deposits*
    • Onboard credit: Sailings 3 to 5 days $200 per cabin; Sailings 6 days or more $400 per cabin*
    • Valid on select sailings*
    • Cruise only including meals and entertainment*

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Super Saver

    Carnival Super Saver

    • Valid on selected sailings
    • Instant purchase - pay in full within 24 hours
    • Cruise only fare

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Cruises - Fun Select Fare

    Carnival Cruises - Fun Select Fare

    Get the rate of the day with no added extras - a cruise only fare.

    Includes:
    • Two category upgrades are automatically assigned at the time of booking, based on availability within categories only (interior to interior, ocean view to ocean view etc).
    • Two category upgrades does not apply to Suites.
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*
    • Need more flexibility? Other fare options available - speak with a consultant today.

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign

Carnival Encounter Next 5 Departures

Showing Next 5 Departures - View All

Onboard Experience

  • Dining

    • Dining on the Carnival Encounter
    • Dining on the Carnival Encounter
    • Dining on the Carnival Encounter
    • Dining on the Carnival Encounter

    Dining on Carnival Encounter is relaxed, flexible and made to suit Australian tastes. Guests can enjoy a variety of included restaurants, from the classic Waterfront Restaurant to Dragon Lady for bold Asian flavours and Angelo’s for homestyle Italian favourites. The Pantry replaces the traditional buffet with fresh, made-to-order options that keep things casual and easy throughout the day.


    Read more

    For something special, Luke’s Bar & Grill by celebrity chef Luke Mangan offers elevated dining with locally sourced produce and a modern Australian flair. The Pizzeria serves hand-crafted slices all day, while café-style venues and poolside spots make quick meals simple between activities.

    Whether you prefer a sit-down dinner, a long lunch with ocean views or a late-night snack, Carnival Encounter’s dining options keep things varied, fresh and full of flavour, perfect for relaxed days at sea and warm nights under the stars.


    As of May the 4th 2026, Carnival Encounter will bid farewell to Luke's Bar & Grill and will officially launch their two new specialty dining restaurants, Fahrenheit 555 Steak Restaurant and Bonsai Sushi Express.

    Read less
  • Bars

    • Bar on the Carnival Encounter
    • Bar on the Carnival Encounter
    • Bar on the Carnival Encounter
    • Bar on the Carnival Encounter
    • Bar on the Carnival Encounter

    Evenings on Carnival Encounter offer the perfect mix of easygoing fun and social energy. The Blue Room sets the mood with live music, good company and a true Aussie pub-style atmosphere, while the Ocean Bar is ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a quiet nightcap with sea views. The Sunset Bar keeps things relaxed outdoors, where guests can enjoy a drink and watch the day fade into evening.

    Read more

    For those looking to keep the night going, the casino bar and lounges around the Atrium come alive with music, trivia and friendly conversation. Whether you prefer a lively crowd or a peaceful spot by the water, Carnival Encounter offers plenty of places to enjoy the moment your own way, with a drink in hand and that unmistakable holiday feeling.

    Read less
  • Entertainment

    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter

    Entertainment on Carnival Encounter is designed to keep every day and night filled with energy and laughter. The Marquee Show Lounge hosts live performances and large-scale productions featuring talented singers, dancers and comedians that capture Carnival’s upbeat spirit.

    Read more

    For something a little more daring, Blanc de Blanc Uncorked takes over the Black Circus venue, combining cabaret, burlesque, and acrobatics in an adults-only performance that’s cheeky, stylish, and unforgettable.

    Music fans can settle into The Blue Room for live bands and late-night dancing, while Piano Bar 88 brings an easygoing atmosphere where guests can sing along and share a laugh. Altitude Nightclub keeps the tempo high into the early hours, and the Bonded Store is perfect for a relaxed drink with friends. From daytime trivia and games to big nights out, Carnival Encounter makes it easy to find your kind of fun, no matter your mood.

    Read less
  • Activities

    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter

    Life on board Carnival Encounter is all about fun, relaxation, and enjoying the journey your way. Days can start poolside with a splash on the waterslides or a game of mini-golf on the top deck, while live music, trivia, and deck games keep the energy flowing throughout the ship. Families can join in Seuss at Sea parades and family challenges, while kids and teens have their own spaces with age-appropriate programs designed for adventure and creativity.

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    For quieter moments, the adults-only Serenity Retreat offers space to unwind with sea views, while the Byron Beach Club provides a private haven for guests booked in select staterooms and suites. From cooking demos and art auctions to friendly competitions and laid-back pool parties, Carnival Encounter makes every sea day feel easy, social and full of possibilities.

    Read less
  • Health & Fitness

    • Fitness on the Carnival Encounter

    Wellbeing on Carnival Encounter is all about balance, giving guests plenty of ways to relax or stay active while at sea. The Cloud 9 Spa and Fitness Centre provide a refreshing escape, with massage therapies, facials, beauty treatments and a well-equipped gym for those who like to keep moving. Group fitness classes, yoga and stretch sessions are also available for guests who prefer a more guided workout.

    Read more

    Out on deck, guests can take in the sea air on the jogging track or enjoy a swim in one of the pools. The adults-only Serenity Retreat offers a quiet haven with comfortable loungers and ocean views, perfect for unwinding with a good book or a cool drink. Whether you are recharging, refreshing or staying fit, Carnival Encounter makes wellbeing feel simple and enjoyable at every turn.

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  • Kids

    • Kids activities on the Carnival Encounter

    Carnival Encounter makes cruising with kids simple, safe, and full of fun. The Turtles Program welcomes little ones under 2 years old for supervised playtime and activities designed to introduce them to life at sea. For children aged 2 to 11, Camp Ocean offers themed games, crafts, and science-inspired fun across three age groups: Penguins (2 to 5 years), Stingrays (6 to 8 years), and Sharks (9 to 11 years).

    Read more

    Each program is led by trained youth staff who create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere for every child.

    For older kids, Circle C is designed for ages 12 to 14, with video games, dance parties, and new friends, while Club O2 gives teens aged 15 to 17 a space of their own to hang out, watch movies, and join social events. With plenty of family activities on offer, Carnival Encounter keeps everyone entertained from morning to night.

    Read less
  • Inclusions

    • Activities - organised & individual
    • All main meals on-board
    • Alternative dining (extra charge)
    • Australia: Tipping is not required
    • Bridge director on select cruises
    • Coffee, tea & milk 24 hrs
    • Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
    • Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
    • Kids clubs & teen programs (2-17 yrs)
    • Open/anytime seating & multi-venue dining
    • Ship-shore-ship transfers
    • Special needs requests & service animals allowed
    • Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor

Customer cruise ship ratings

Carnival Encounter has an average of 3.7 Stars based on 210 Guest Reviews

  • Overall
    3.7
  • Cabin
    4
  • Dining
    3.8
  • Entertainment
    3.7
  • Service
    4.2

Destination & Ports

Visited Ports

Cabins

Accommodation on Carnival Encounter is designed for comfort and choice, reflecting the easy-going style Australians love at sea. Guests can choose from Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, each featuring fresh décor, clever storage, and attentive daily service. Many rooms include private balconies, perfect for catching the sea breeze or watching the sunset after a day in port.

Those seeking something extra special can upgrade to a Byron Beach Club stateroom or suite, offering access to an exclusive retreat area with its own pool, spa, and sundeck, along with priority services and added touches of comfort. Families and groups will find flexible options with interconnecting cabins and quad-share layouts. Whether travelling for a short coastal escape or a longer island adventure, Carnival Encounter provides bright, welcoming accommodation designed with Australian cruisers in mind.)

Read More
  • Inside

    Inside on the Carnival Encounter Inside on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    4H, 4G, 4F, 4E, 4D, 4C, 4B, 4A, PT, IS

    An Interior stateroom is the most affordable way to cruise without leaving out the comfort or convenience! Great for curling up after a long day of fun.Every room includes:- Soft, cozy linens- Plenty of closet and drawer space- In-room safe for valuables- Television- Stateroom climate control

  • Outside

    Outside on the Carnival Encounter Outside on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    6B, 6A, 5A, OV

    Your picture window gives you views of scenery you wonrsquo;t find anywhere on land, all from the comfort of your Ocean View stateroom.Every room includes:- Soft, cozy linens- Plenty of closet and drawer space- In-room safe for valuables- Television- Stateroom climate control

  • Balcony

    Balcony on the Carnival Encounter Balcony on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    8M, 8D, 8C, 8B, 8A, BL

    Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, plus these rooms face backward (most balconies face left or right), so yoursquo;ll get a unique view of your ship's gentle wake.Every room includes:- Soft, cozy linens- Plenty of closet and drawer space- In-room safe for valuables- Television- Stateroom climate control

  • Suite

    Suite on the Carnival Encounter Suite on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    EB, GB, SB, OS, OT, VB, BY, ST

    A Byron Beach Extended Balcony Suite puts its proudest perk right in the name. (Feel that breeze!) Inside you'll also find a sitting area, walk-in closet and deluxe bathroom with a tub. And don't forget, your suite includes access to the Byron Beach Club and more exclusive perks!Amenities exclusive to Byron Beach suites:- Complimentary access to Byron Beach Club- Immediate access to your suite after boarding- Exclusive breakfast at Angelorsquo;s- Optional complimentary continental breakfast including coffee and tea served in suite- In-suite coffee machine- Byron Beach Club bathrobes and slippers to use during the cruise

Carnival Encounter Deck Plans

Legend

  • Rooms are smaller than the average for room grade
  • Third or Fourth berth available
  • Third berth available
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Room with Porthole
  • Fixed queen-bed, cannot be converted to twin beds
  • Interconnecting rooms
  • Obstructed View
  • Public toilet
  • Room does not have a bathtub
  • Two berth (OZ grade: One lower, one Upper berth)
  • Two fixed lower beds. Cannot be converted to a queen-size bed

Carnival Encounter Cruise Calendar

Date Title Departs Prices From
19 May 2025 12-NIGHT FIJI & SOUTH PACIFIC Brisbane $1949
27 Mar 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane Sold Out
30 Mar 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $1535
18 Apr 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $567
21 Apr 2026 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $2277
01 May 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $577
04 May 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $784
08 May 2026 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1214
15 May 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $534
18 May 2026 12-NIGHT FIJI & SOUTH PACIFIC Brisbane $1789
30 May 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $974
05 Jun 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $689
09 Jun 2026 JOURNEYS - 10-NIGHT PAPUA NEW GUINEA Brisbane $3174
19 Jun 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $509
22 Jun 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $742
26 Jun 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1189
04 Jul 2026 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane Sold Out
11 Jul 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $602
14 Jul 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $776
18 Jul 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1179
26 Jul 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $945
15 Aug 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $774
19 Aug 2026 JOURNEYS - 10-NIGHT PAPUA NEW GUINEA Brisbane $3474
29 Aug 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $534
01 Sep 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $619
05 Sep 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $929
11 Sep 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $554
14 Sep 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $676
18 Sep 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1340
26 Sep 2026 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1227
03 Oct 2026 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $2349
10 Oct 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $514
13 Oct 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $679
17 Oct 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1124
25 Oct 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $934
31 Oct 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $509
03 Nov 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $619
07 Nov 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1084
15 Nov 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $609
19 Nov 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $504
22 Nov 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $889
28 Nov 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1069
06 Dec 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $664
10 Dec 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $504
13 Dec 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $999
19 Dec 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1685
27 Dec 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $679
30 Dec 2026 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1773
09 Jan 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1219
17 Jan 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $984
23 Jan 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $684
27 Jan 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $594
31 Jan 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $829
06 Feb 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $469
09 Feb 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $594
13 Feb 2027 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $939
20 Feb 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $479
23 Feb 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $594
27 Feb 2027 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $924
06 Mar 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $489
09 Mar 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $599
13 Mar 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $999
21 Mar 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $609
25 Mar 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $644
29 Mar 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1144
06 Apr 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $884
12 Apr 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $604
16 Apr 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $504
19 Apr 2027 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1399
29 Apr 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $604
03 May 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $604
07 May 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $494
10 May 2027 12-NIGHT FIJI & SOUTH PACIFIC Brisbane $1760
22 May 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1044
30 May 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $864
05 Jun 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $504
08 Jun 2027 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1244
18 Jun 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $494
21 Jun 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $604
25 Jun 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1189
03 Jul 2027 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1104
10 Jul 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $499
13 Jul 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $609
17 Jul 2027 JOURNEYS - 14-NIGHT MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY & Brisbane $2128
31 Jul 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1034
08 Aug 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $924
14 Aug 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $609
18 Aug 2027 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1409
28 Aug 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $499
31 Aug 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $609
04 Sep 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $854
10 Sep 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $499
13 Sep 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $609
17 Sep 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1274
25 Sep 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $944
01 Oct 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1219
09 Oct 2027 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $499
12 Oct 2027 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $609
16 Oct 2027 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1029
24 Oct 2027 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $854

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