Carnival Cruise Line Reveals Fresh New Look for Two Former P&O Ships

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Two former P&O Cruises Australia ships, Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure, will soon join Carnival Cruise Line and sail under their new names: Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure.

Before they officially become part of Carnival’s fleet, both ships will undergo a two-week refurbishment, known as a wet dock, to update their appearance and onboard features.

The new Carnival Encounter cruise ship sailing on the sea

A Fresh Design for Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure

Carnival has recently unveiled images showcasing the fresh designs of these ships. Unlike the traditional blue hulls typically associated with Carnival vessels, Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure will feature unique designs inspired by Carnival Splendor, another ship based in Australia.

Specifically, Carnival Encounter will showcase a white hull with a distinctive red stripe, while Carnival Adventure will sport a white hull with a striking blue or turquoise accent. Both ships will also display an updated Carnival logo prominently on their sides, complete with a stylised swoop and stars representing the iconic Southern Cross constellation—a nod to Australia’s national flag.

Carnival Adventure cruise ship sailing on a blue ocean.

When Will They Start Sailing?

Both ships will resume service under their new identities on 29 March 2025.

  • Carnival Adventure will begin homeporting in Sydney, joining Carnival Splendor, which already sails from the city.
  • Carnival Encounter will return to her previous homeport of Brisbane.

What to Expect Onboard

Guests familiar with Carnival will find plenty of beloved features onboard these newly rebranded ships, including a lively Fun Squad team that hosts popular activities like the Glow Party and White-Hot Night.

However, Carnival is keen to preserve some of the best-loved aspects of the former P&O Cruises Australia experience. Guests can still enjoy favourite dining venues such as Luke’s Bar & Grill, Angelo’s, and Dragon Lady, as well as popular entertainment options like the stunning Blanc de Blanc show and the thrill-seeking Edge Adventure Park with its ziplining attraction.

Zipline on Mardi Gras Carnival
Zipline on Mardi Gras Carnival

Those staying in suites and mini suites will enjoy exclusive access to the Byron Beach Club, which features a private pool, whirlpool spas, and premium seating areas.

Celebrating the Transition

Rather than seeing this as the end of an era for Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure, Carnival invites guests to view it as a stylish new chapter—a “glow up” that blends the vibrant energy of Carnival’s ‘Fun Ship’ concept with the uniquely Australian charm these ships have long been known for.

Kara Glamore, Carnival’s VP of Sales and Marketing, said:

“This transition presents a unique opportunity to combine the best of P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line as the brand expands its footprint in Australia.”

These exciting changes mark a new beginning for Carnival Cruise Line in Australia, ensuring these ships remain firm favourites for many years to come.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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