While Carnival Luminosa is quite new to the Carnival fleet, previously serving as Costa Luminosa for Costa Cruises. it has proved a big hit after its first Australian season with its homeport in Brisbane.

Shortly after being acquired by Carnival, the ship was refitted, but there is still a distinctively Italian feel to it, thanks to its Costa Cruises roots. Otherwise, it maintains the same feel as Carnival’s other family-fun ships. 

While the ship isn’t new—it was built in 2009—it has been well maintained and shows few signs of wear, along with the refurbishment. 

Overview of Carnival Luminosa

Carnival Luminosa is a mid-sized cruise ship that offers a unique blend of relaxation, entertainment, and adventure. With a capacity for over 2,200 passengers, the ship provides an intimate and personalized experience for all guests. From its spacious staterooms to its vibrant public areas, Carnival Luminosa is designed to make a lasting impression.

Whether you’re looking to unwind in the Serenity Bar, indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, or enjoy a night out at the Piano Bar, Carnival Luminosa has something for everyone. This cruise ship ensures that every moment on board is filled with enjoyment and relaxation, making it a perfect choice for your next vacation.

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At a glance 

Here’s what to expect onboard Carnival Luminosa.

• Although not as modern as the sister ship Carnival Splendor, Carnival Luminosa is a great family ship, offering the classic Carnival Cruise experience. Despite the ship’s slightly older age, it is very well-maintained and clean. The 2260-passenger Carnival Luminosa is also smaller than 3012-passenger Splendor, meaning it offers a slightly less crowded and less chaotic experience. However, it doesn’t quite have the extensive facilities Splendor offers.
• Carnival provides one of the best cruise experiences for those looking to not just relax, but also unwind with a few drinks or some partying. There are many themed party nights and lively bars and clubs onboard.
• The Carnival Luminosa offers all the classic Carnival experiences like Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Redfrog Rum Bar, Piano Bar 88, the Comedy Club, and more. The large room features in the luxury accommodations include unique decor, convenient amenities, walk-in closets, in-room tubs, and spacious balconies that enhance guest relaxation.
• Carnival Luminosa sailing out of Queensland means that if you’re looking to sail a Queensland itinerary, such as a Great Barrier Reef, you can get a few fewer sea days by sailing on Luminosa.

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2025/26 Itineraries and Destinations

Carnival Luminosa offers a diverse range of itineraries and destinations to suit all tastes and preferences. From the stunning beaches of Airlie Beach to the vibrant cities of Australia and New Zealand, the ship’s itineraries are designed to showcase the best of the region.

With a mix of short and long cruises, as well as special-themed voyages, Carnival Luminosa provides the perfect opportunity to explore new destinations and experience the ultimate in relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or an extended journey, Carnival Luminosa’s itineraries are crafted to deliver unforgettable experiences.

3-day Getaway – multiple departures

Whether you’re looking to get your very first taste or just need to get away for a couple of days, starting from just $276 per person you can jump on a quick getaway cruise on Luminosa. The ship won’t visit any ports, giving you plenty of time to explore what’s on offer onboard.

4-day Airlie Beach – multiple departures

For a similar kind of cruise, but adding in a stop at one of Australia’s most revered beaches, you can opt for this cruise to Airlie Beach, starting from $374 per person. 

7-day Vanuatu & New Caledonia – multiple departures

Starting from juts $598 per person, this cruise can take you to three ports across the South Pacific, Lifou, Mystery Island and Noumea. As well as enjoying Luminosa there’ll be a chance to experience the brilliant beaches and rich culture of the South Pacific.

7-day Great Barrier Reef – multiple departures 

For a great way to see Australia’s own greatest natural wonder, you can take this cruise from just $617. You’ll visit Airlie Beach, Cairns, Port Douglas and Willis Island. 

29-day Alaska & Japan Transpacific -departs April 3, 2025

An option for the explorers, starting from $3189 per person, this 29-day repositioning cruise will visit all sorts of ports such as Okinawa, Tokyo, Juneau and more, as it weaves through Japan and Alaska. You’ll end up in Seattle where you can continue your travels or get a flight back home.

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Things to do at Carnival Luminosa 

General Activities

Just as you’d expect from a Carnival cruise, Carnival Luminosa is packed full of activities. Guests can sink into a lounge chair and watch a film at dive-in movies, try their luck at bingo, visit an art gallery, take portraits at dreams studio, browse at the library, shop for clothes and jewellery, take the kids to the video arcade and plenty more. 

Dance Parties

Guests can dance the night away enjoy the ’80s night, sail away party, white-hot night party, and Mega Deck party, as well as find karaoke and live music all over the ship. 

Spa and wellness

There are also plenty of opportunities to keep fit and active with a jogging track, fitness centre, fitness classes, and multiple sports courts. There is also an extensive spa for health, beauty and wellness. 

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Fun for kids on Carnival Luminosa

A Carnival cruise is great for kids and life on Luminosa is no exception. 

Camp Ocean

Camp Ocean runs activities and childcare for those aged from two to 11. That then splits into Penguin Colony for kids aged 2-5, The Stingrays for those 6-8 years, and The Sharks for those aged 9-11. 

The Penguins

The Penguins partake in activities such as Musical Icebergs and Ocean Bingo. The Stingrays take on tasks like making sea salt art, designing their own aquarium, and enjoying a Pirate Game Night. Children aged 9-11 test their knowledge with Marine Life Trivia, or activities including sea-themed volleyball, a soccer game, or making ocean murals, and more. 

Circle C

Those aged 12 to 14 can hang out at Circle “C”, where activities range from dance parties and outdoor movies to all kinds of games and icebreakers. 

CLUB 02

CLUB 02 is a teens-only lounge for those aged 15 to 17, where kids can play sports, and video games, do karaoke, have parties, and more. 

What you need to know

Most kid’s clubs are included in the price, but if you want your younger kids to be taken care of in the later hours, you’ll have to send them to ‘Night Owls’, where additional costs will be incurred. There are plenty of other activities onboard like the video arcade, build-a-bear workshop, Dr Seuss story time, arts and crafts stations, pools, sports courts, and more that are great for kids. 

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Dining including the main dining room

Included Dining

Carnival cruises offer a variety of cuisines in their main dining room, all included with your fare, from breakfast to dessert. The menu in the main dining room on Carnival Luminosa is rotating but expect to see the classics like steak, seafood, and prime rib.

Lido Marketplace

Also included in your dining is the Lido Marketplace, which has a range of buffet-style options from a salad bar to Carnival Deli to Sweet Spot and more. Other options include the late-morning or early-afternoon eats at Seaday Brunch, fresh slices at Pizzeria del Capitano and Deli, and Artisan Eats.

Fahrenheit 555

Fahrenheit 555 is the line’s specialty restaurant. Guests can go get their steak fix, with a range of beef options. Seafood Shack is the specialty go-to for a seafood option, Bonsai Sushi Express offers a Japanese option and the Steakhouse restaurant offers another gourmet option.

Chef’s Table Experience

Those with cash to splash can opt for the Chef’s Table Experience. The Carnival Luminosa Chef’s Table costs $140 per adult or child, with a chef-curated culinary journey including cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a behind-the-scenes tour of the galley, and a full-service dinner included.

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Bars and lounges 

RedFrog Rum Bar

A Carnival favourite, and especially on Carnival Luminosa is RedFrog Rum Bar, which offers the perfect option for a tropical cocktail by the pool, with plenty of Caribbean rum options by the glass or pitcher.

Alchemy Bar

To try out different cocktails you can get the cocktail specialists at Alchemy Bar to whip you something up.

Piano Bar

Song and dance go late into the night at the Piano Bar, where song recommendations and sing-alongs dictate the set list.

The Casino Bar

The Casino Bar offers an easy option for a drink before or after the Casino. 

The Nightclub

When you’re ready to dance you can head to the nightclub, which is also the location for themed parties. 

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Entertainment 

The Theatre

The Theatre offers a range of entertainment, featuring Broadway-style shows, which are all included in your fare. A Carnival special is Playlist Productions, which takes popular songs and puts them into a musical theatre context, encouraging the audience to sing and dance along. 

The Punchliner Comedy Club

The Punchliner Comedy Club has a range of family-friendly and adult-only shows, for those looking to catch a laugh at sea. 

Karaoke

Karaoke is a classic cruise activity and the Carnival Luminosa karaoke list should have plenty of options, from newer songs to the classics.

Live Music

Live music is commonplace around the ship, with Redfrog Pub, the Piano Bar, and other venues onboard often hosting live gigs.

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Safety and Security

At Carnival Luminosa, the safety and security of our guests is our top priority. The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, including advanced navigation systems, emergency response plans, and a team of highly trained crew members.

Additionally, Carnival Luminosa adheres to strict safety protocols and regulations, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their cruise with peace of mind. From the moment you step on board, you can rest assured that your well-being is in expert hands, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy your cruise experience.

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Accessibility and Special Needs

Carnival Luminosa is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all guests, including those with special needs. The ship features a range of accessible staterooms, including premium balcony staterooms with walk-in closets and spa-style accommodations.

Additionally, Carnival Luminosa offers a range of services and amenities for guests with special needs, including wheelchair-accessible facilities, sign language interpretation, and Braille signage. Our Guest Services team is also available to assist with any special requests or requirements, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience.

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Carnival Luminosa accommodations, including the premium balcony stateroom

Carnival Luminosa has 1130 cabins and suites. Interior staterooms on an inside cabin start at around 13- 14 square metres, with Grand Vista Suites going up to 68 square metres. One seriously spacious stateroom is part of the Premium Balcony stateroom offering, highlighting its generous size and balcony.

Every room has a dedicated attendant, a television, in-room safety, temperature control, bathrobes on request, and closet and drawer space, with an in-room tub as a key feature of upscale accommodations, emphasizing its spa-like experience.

The ship offers flexible staterooms, including configurations where a stateroom can sleep up to five people, including children. Guests can also opt for connecting rooms, rooms with extra bathrooms and special accessibility cabins, with a walk-in closet as a key feature, emphasizing the spaciousness and convenience it offers.

Carnival Luminosa offers seven categories of accommodation, interior, ocean view, balcony, suite, Family Harbour, Cloud 9 Spa and Havana. The offerings extend beyond just the room itself, highlighting the spaciousness and additional amenities.

Interior Cabins

Options for an interior room are basic interiors, interiors with an obstructed view window, interiors with a picture window, and Cloud 9 Spa interiors. Obstructed view interiors still have floor-to-ceiling windows, but do not offer a full view out to the ocean.

Cloud 9 Spa Room

Cloud 9 Spa interiors take the ‘warm essence’ of Cloud 9 Spa and put it into the stateroom. There are also a range of perks that come with a Cloud 9 Spa room, including unlimited use of some spa facilities like thermal suites and the hydrotherapy pool, two complimentary fitness classes, upgraded in-room toiletries, special bathrobes and slippers, priority spa reservations and more. See the full list of perks here.

Balcony Cabins

There are four kinds of Balcony rooms, Balcony, Extended Balcony, Premium Balcony, and Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. The higher categories offer larger balconies and the Cloud 9 Spa Balcony includes all the extra amenities.

Suites

Carnival Luminosa has six suite categories. The Junior Suite is the most modest yet still luxurious option, ranging up to the decked-out Grand Vista Suite. Those booked in suites also receive priority check-in and boarding, priority main-room dining time assignment, priority debarkation at homeport and more, with the premium balcony stateroom as a spacious and comfortable accommodation option, highlighting its generous size and inviting balcony.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Carnival Luminosa