Carnival has released the star-studded line up for its Melbourne Cup Carnival Cruise 2023. The line blends together sports and fashion stars, with from Melbourne Cup Hall of Famer Jim ‘Pumper’ Cassidy to TV personality Shelly Horton.

Fares for the six-day cruise start from $978 per person for a twin share.

Featuring on the Melbourne Cup Cruise will be the Fashions on the Splendor parade. Hosted by Shelly Horton, a range of models, creators and body-positivity influencers like Kiri Cooper, Caitlin Robertson, Britt Munt and more will take part. The models will exhibit a range of racewear fashions from Australian brands, including womenswear brand birdsnest and menswear brand Mainstreet Clothing.

Another featured event will be the Style Masterclass at Sea, hosted by personal stylist Naomi Bell. Using her more than two decades in the industry, Bell will show guests how they can shape their own dream wardrobes and pick clothes to best suit themselves.

Racing fans will also have plenty happening to excite them. Two-time Melbourne cup winner Jim ‘Pumper’ Cassidy and former champion jockey Gary Willetts will host a range of Q&A sessions, photo opportunities and other activities. Renowned Melbourne Cup commentator Greg Miles will host the Q&A’s and share his exclusive betting tips.

All of the events are included in the base cruise fare

“Our Melbourne Cup Carnival Cruise is always a favourite, taking guests from Sydney Harbour straight to the home of Australian racing,” said Kara Glamore, Carnival Cruise Line Vice President. “We can’t wait to welcome fashion and racing fans to celebrate onboard Carnival Splendor again this year. From our popular Fashions on the Splendor parade and a styling masterclass to exclusive experiences with Aussie racing legends, this unforgettable cruise really has something fun for everyone.”

Shelly Horton said, “I’m so excited for my first time cruising my way to Melbourne with Carnival Cruise Line! I’m looking forward to having fun with my fellow cruisers and helping them find their most confident self.” 

Melbourne Cup Cruise info

• Departs and returns: Sydney to Sydney
• Date: Sunday, November 5, 2023 – Saturday, November 11, 2023
• Destination: Melbourne
  • Lexus Melbourne Cup Day, Tuesday, November 7 (general admission ticket and transport included)
  • Kennedy Oaks Day, Thursday, November 9 (general admission ticket and transport included)
• Ship: Carnival Splendor 

For more information on the Melbourne Cup Cruise, click here