Carnival Cruise Line announced it would delay the Carnival Spirit and Carnival Splendor from returning to Australia.

The two ships were due in this year for extensive upgrades and the line has decided to delay the launch of the refurbished ships until later next year.

Carnival Spirit cruises from Brisbane have been cancelled until June 2021. Additionally, Carnival has announced the cancellation of Carnival Splendor sailings departing from Sydney between 19 December 2020 through to 7 January 2021.

Carnival has said, given the limited international air service available, it is likely it may need Carnival Splendor to help support crew movements related to refurbishment activities that were suspended as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the return to operation plans for the Carnival fleet.

Carnival will resume cruising in Australia when the time is right and will do so with enhanced health measures developed in conjunction with government authorities, public health experts, and the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Carnival Cruise Line appreciates the understanding and support of its guests and travel agent partners and looks forward to warmly welcoming guests back on board as soon as possible.