Founded in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line is the first cruise line to sail more than a hundred million cruisers. Moreover, the line is operating on 14 homeports in the US and two in Australia.
Carnival Cruise Line is owned by Carnival Corporation and has Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Cunard Line, among others as its sister companies.
In addition, Carnival Cruise Line Australia is operating two ships that offer cruises from Sydney and Brisbane to New Zealand and the South Pacific.
So, for cruise enthusiasts and travellers considering a Carnival cruise from Australia, this ultimate guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan the perfect vacation. From the cruise line’s fleet and sailing destinations to dining, entertainment, and onboard policies, Cruise Passenger covers everything you need to know to make the most of your Carnival cruise experience.
The Carnival Fleet
Carnival Cruise Line Australia operates a fleet of two ships- Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa. Homeported in Sydney, Carnival Splendor joined the fleet back in 2019 and has been offering cruises year-round. On the other hand, Carnival Luminosa had its maiden voyage in 2022 and is operating out of Brisbane.
Where do Carnival ships sail?
Carnival Cruise Line Australia offers a diverse range of itineraries from Sydney and Brisbane ports. Moreover, the line caters to cruisers of various interests and travel preferences. Some of the destinations you can explore with Carnival include:
- Australia
- Asia
- New Zealand
- Papua New Guinea
- South Pacific
- Transpacific
Carnival Cruise Lines Dining
One of the highlights of any Carnival cruise is the incredible variety of dining options available. From casual buffets to upscale specialty restaurants, Carnival always has something to satisfy every palate and dietary preference. Here are some of the dining options guests could enjoy aboard Carnival ships.
Free Dining
- The Dining Room
- Guy’s Burger Joint
- Pizzeria del Capitano
- Masala Tiger
- Mongolian Wok
- Lido Marketplace
- Seaday Brunch
- Redfrog Pub
- The Deli Artisan Eats
- Swirls
- Bluelguana Cantina
- Big Chicken
- The Captain’s Pasta Bar
- Chibang!
- Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B_Que
- Lucky Bowl
- Pizza Pirate
- Street Eats
- Sweet Spot
Fee Dining
- Fahrenheit 555
- Seafood Shack
- The Chef’s Table
- Bonsai Sushi Express
- JavaBlue Cafe
- Juice & Java
- Bonsai Teppanyaki
- Coffee Bar
- Cucina del Capitano
- Emeril’s Bistros at Sea
- Il Viaggio
- JiJi Asian Kitchen
- Rudi’s Seagrill
- Steakhouse Restaurant
- Carnival Kitchen
Is Carnival Cruise Line all inclusive?
Carnival Cruise Line does not offer a fully all-inclusive voyage. But, the line offers beverage programmes where guests can pay one flat fee in advance.
Here are the different bundles offered by Carnival:
- Bottomless Bubbles (Unlimited Soda Programme)
- AUD $7.50 / Child Per Day
- AUD $9.95 / Adult Per Day
- Premium Cruise the Vineyard 5 Bottle Package
- AUD $260.00
- Deluxe Cruise the Vineyard 5 Bottle Package
- AUD $180.00
- CHEERS!
- AUD $111.00 / Person Per Day
What entertainment and activities can be found onboard Carnival Cruise Line?
One of the defining features of a Carnival cruise is the incredible array of entertainment and worthwhile activities available on board. From high-energy shows and live music to adrenaline-rushing water slides and thrilling game shows, there’s never a dull moment on a Carnival ship.
Some of the highlights include:
- Carnival Waterworks
- Onboard shopping
- Table Games
- Cloud 9 Spa
- SkyRide
- WaterWorks
- Serenity Adult-Only Retreat
- Family Feud Live
- Playlist Productions
- The Punchliner Comedy Bar
- IMAX
- Dive-in Movies
- Deal or No Deal
- Piano Bar
- Live Music
- Skybox Sports Bar
- Pickleball
- Sky Zone
- Mini Golf
Does Carnival have gratuities?
Tipping is not required for Australian based Carnival cruising. However, guests may reward the staff and crew members for their exceptional service. Additionally, for international cruises, guests’ Sign and Sail account is automatically charged gratuities amounting to $16.00 USD per person, per day for standard staterooms and $18.00 USD per person, per day for Suite guests.
Are there dress codes aboard Carnival Cruise Line?
Carnival Cruise Lines maintains a casual and more relaxed atmosphere, but there are some general dress code guidelines to follow:
Daytime Dress Code
During the day, casual and comfortable attire is perfectly acceptable throughout most areas of the ship. This includes shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and swimwear (when appropriate).
Evening Dress Code
In the evenings, the dress code is slightly more elevated, particularly in the main dining rooms and other upscale venues.
Casual Nights
Casual attire like sundresses, polo shirts, jeans, and khakis are acceptable.
Elegant Nights
On these evenings, guests are encouraged to dress up in fancier, more formal attire. For men, this could mean a suit or collared shirt and slacks, while women may choose cocktail dresses, skirts, or dressy tops and pantsuits.
Who sails on a Carnival cruise?
Carnival Cruise Lines is known for its wide appeal l, attracting a diverse range of guests from all walks of life. Additionally, Carnival is incredibly popular with families, thanks to its extensive children’s programs, family-friendly activities, and affordable pricing. Moreover, guests find plenty of multi-generational families, as well as young families with children of all ages.
Carnival is also popular among couples seeking a romantic seacation and a fun-filled voyage together. The line offers an array of adult-oriented spaces, such as lounges, bars, and specialty dining venues, as well as opportunities for couples to enjoy quality time together.
Furthermore, Carnival Cruise Line also attracts a significant number of solo travellers appreciating the line’s impressive social atmosphere.
