Carnival Encounter sails year-round from Brisbane and is perfect for families, couples and groups of friends who want to lean into both fun and relaxation on their holiday.
Guests can expect the perfect blend between everyone’s interests with kids clubs, teen-friendly hangout spaces, an adult-only retreat, dining that ranges from casual to connoisseur, and entertainment for all ages.
Ship Highlights
- Guests can be entertained with live comedy and Games
- Dance the night away under the stars at a classic White Hot Night party
- Relaxation options include the exclusive Byron Beach Club, Adult-Only Oasis Retreat, and day spa and salon
- Evening entertainment includes live comedy, stage shows, and deck parties
- Delicious dining options include Angelo's, Dragon Lady, and Luke's Bar & Grill
Itinerary
Brisbane
Departs at 3:00 PM
Whether you’re departing or arriving in Brisbane, you’ll be surrounded by an offering of adventure and endless amounts of fun. Think sunshine, relaxation and a holiday the whole family will love!
Fun Day at Sea
Airlie Beach
The white sands of world-famous Whitehaven Beach, glass-bottom-boat day tours on the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea, high-speed catamaran joy rides and Hamilton Island region magic await on a cruise to the Whitsundays with Carnival. Travel to the heart of the 74 islands that make up the picture-perfect Whitsunday Islands, one of Australia's most stunning destinations, where you can snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, swim in crystal-clear waters and lose yourself in ancient tropical rainforests. Sail on a 4, 7, 9, or 10-day cruise departing Sydney or Brisbane, and enjoy more than 45 onboard activities for the whole family from the moment you step aboard.
Cairns
Visit the coastal city of Cairns and enjoy a smorgasbord of fun and adventure. A Carnival Cruise Line holiday to Cairns offers the perfect mix of shore excursions the whole family will love - on water and land. Daintree Rainforest tours are the ideal way to experience the ecosystem of the wet tropics of Queensland (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Go snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail, or have a tropical rainforest nature park adventure. A day trip to Cairns itself is always worth it, with amazing shopping on the Esplanade and scenic walks that will blow you away.
Cairns
Willis Island (Onboard Experience)
Established in 1921, the weather monitoring station is home to four weather observers and provides a cyclone early warning service for Queensland. This tiny island, located 450 kilometres east of Cairns, is home to fascinating wildlife, as well as a manned Australian Bureau of Meteorology weather monitoring station. While the cruise does not include a stop at Willis Island, you can catch glimpses of its natural beauty from the comfort of the ship. As you sail by, you'll have the opportunity to witness some amazing wildlife that calls this island home, including wedge-tailed shearwaters and sooty terns.
Fun Day at Sea
Brisbane
Arrives at 7:00 AM
*Prices are cruise only, per traveler, including taxes, and fees and available within last 24 hours. Prices and availability are subject to change and rates are valid for U.S. and Canadian residents only. Subject to applicable law, Cruise lines reserve the right to charge a fuel supplement and any increases in Government taxes incurred between date of booking and sailing. See Rules and Restrictions and cruise line general conditions.
Savings advertised and Expedia Extras (bonus offers) are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings.
Availability & prices can change frequently, please continue with the booking to check latest availability & prices.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
