Carnival Cruises

Carnival Encounter

Carnival Encounter (formerly P&O's Pacific Encounter) sails year-round from Brisbane and is perfect for families, couples and groups of friends who want to lean into both fun and relaxation on their holiday. Guests can expect the perfect blend between everyone’s interests with kids clubs, teen-friendly hangout spaces, an adult-only retreat, dining that ranges from casual to connoisseur, and entertainment for all ages.
Carnival Encounter (formerly P&O's Pacific Encounter) sails year-round from Brisbane and is perfect for families, couples and groups of friends who want to lean into both fun and relaxation on their holiday. Guests can expect the perfect blend between everyone’s interests with kids clubs, teen-friendly hangout spaces, an adult-only retreat, dining that ranges from casual to connoisseur, and entertainment for all ages.
Cruise Departures
Cruise Departures
Ship Type
Ship Type
Large Cruise Ship
Passengers
Passengers
2,636
No. Of Crew
No. Of Crew
1,100
Launch Date
Launched
2001
Last Refurbished
Refurbished
2026

Carnival Encounter Cruises

Choose from 63 holidays cruising on board Carnival Encounter

9 Days Brisbane to Brisbane

Operator: Carnival

From 999pp

7 Days Brisbane to Brisbane

Operator: Carnival

From 854pp

9 Days Brisbane to Brisbane

Operator: Carnival

From 1,029pp

8 Days Brisbane to Brisbane

Operator: Carnival

From 1,349pp

Carnival Encounter Reviews

4 reviews of Carnival Encounter from past clients of Global Journeys
Carnival Cruises Reviews
Reviews 4 Reviews
Average Rating 3.8 out of 5
5 Star
4 Star
75%
3 Star
25%
2 Star
1 Star
Carnival Encounter 3 - 11 April 2026 0 Pacific Island Hopper Cruise , QLD, Australia, Apr 2026
Thank you for the help in arranging the cruise and answering all my questions. The only feedback I have is that it would have been good to have more information about the cruise app, what to expect on the cruise/itinerary and what to arrange to get the best out of the Carnival App/Experience. eg. The dinner reservations, booking, water, shuttles for read more port stops, things to do on the ship/events and any other tips about port stops. Thank you so much and looking forward to planning more trips with Grace and Global Journeys.
6 nights, just not long enough 2 Barrier Reef Discovery Cruise , New Zealand, Nov 2025
First time cruising with Carnival and it was really enjoyable. Probably the only drawback for us is that you need to pay for loads of extras - $6 bottles of water in the cabin, people walking around with shots, and many different various upsell of food and entertainment, however apart form that things were really good. The bed and pillows were good, read more the options for different drinks and food were fantastic, and staff were friendly. Check out The Bonding Store - the best bar for amazing cocktails!
80's Cruise on Carnival 2 , TAS, Australia, Mar 2025
The trip for my birthday was great fun, and we had good weather. The staff were very friendly and helpful. The cabin had comfy beds, pillows and hot showers. There was a nice selection of food and restaurants. However the new computer system and lack of staff meant long queues to wait for service, which was frustrating. Carnival could have made more read more money if they had a better system. Waiting an hour for soup and 45 minutes for a bottle of wine is not satisfactory. There was very little service at the pool area for drinks. The entertainment was good but not enough of it. It was a 1980's cruise and the DJ was playing rap music, and the competition prizes were very miserable. Embark and disembark was good, speedy and had good information.
Great 1st Cruise 0 , QLD, Australia, Jan 2025
Despite the fact that there was LOTS of rain and our tour of Airlie Beach was cancelled because of it, the cruise was wonderful. Tracey was incredible and went above and beyond to ensure we had the best experience we could possibly have for our 40th anniversary. Looking forward to the next cruise in October, also on the Encounter, also organised by read more Tracey. Thank you Global Journeys, P&O and Carnival.

Life On Board Carnival Encounter

What can you expect when cruising on board Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter

Carnival's second, Grand Class ship blends cherished features with new attractions, including the exclusive Byron Beach Club for suite guests. Read more

Something for Everyone!
Something for Everyone!

There's something for every member of the family, with many exciting experiences included in your fare, you can try it all again, and again. Read more

Onboard Activities
Onboard Activities

Try out one of the many adventure activities, launch yourself down a waterslide or perhaps Barefoot Bowls is your cup of tea? Read more

Nightlife
Nightlife

Live music, bars and exciting and exclusive shows been especially designed for P&O Cruises. Read more

Dining
Dining

Three stylish, a la carte restaurants and nine casual eateries are included in your cruise fare. Read more

Byron Beach Club
Byron Beach Club

Looking to kick back while you cruise? The luxurious Byron Beach Club is the place to be. Read more

Carnival Encounter Deck Plan

4A
Interior
6A
Oceanview
6B
Oceanview
Deck 5
Deck 6
Deck 7
4B
Interior
5A
Oceanview (Obstructed View)
8A
Balcony
VB
Byron Beach Vista Suite
OS
Ocean Suite
Deck 8
4C
Interior
4H
Interior
VB
Byron Beach Vista Suite
BY
Byron Beach Ocean Suite
OS
Ocean Suite
OT
Ocean Suite
Deck 9
4D
Interior
4E
Interior
8A
Balcony
8B
Balcony
8M
Balcony (Aft-View Extended Balcony)
EB
Byron Beach Extended Balcony Suite
GB
Byron Beach Grand Suite
Deck 10
4E
Interior
4F
Interior
8B
Balcony
8C
Balcony
EB
Byron Beach Extended Balcony Suite
GB
Byron Beach Grand Suite
SB
Byron Beach Presidential Suite
Deck 11
4F
Interior
4G
Interior
PT
Oceanview (Porthole)
8C
Balcony
8D
Balcony
Deck 12
4G
Interior
8D
Balcony
Deck 14
Deck 15
Deck 16

Carnival Encounter Cabins

Carnival Encounter Interior
Interior
Cabin Type: Inside

Wake up with your loved ones! Equipped with everything you need, it's the perfect sanctuary after a full day of adventure on deck and ashore. Room images are for illustration purposes only. Includes ensuite bathroom, wardrobe read more and dressing area, Flat-screen TV, personally-controlled air con, in-room safe, desk & chair. Room serviced twice daily, room service (costs apply), fresh towels each day (on request) & hairdryer.

Carnival Encounter Oceanview
Oceanview
Cabin Type: Oceanview

Oceanview rooms feature a window so you can let that natural light stream in. Welcome to your cosy sanctuary, equipped with everything you need. The perfect sanctuary after a full day of adventure on deck and ashore. Room read more images are for illustration purposes only. Includes ensuite bathroom, wardrobe and dressing area, Flat-screen TV, personally-controlled air con, in-room safe, desk & chair. Room serviced twice daily, room service (costs apply), fresh towels each day (on request) & hairdryer.

Carnival Encounter Oceanview (Obstructed View)
Oceanview (Obstructed View)
Cabin Type: Oceanview

Oceanview rooms feature a window so you can let that natural light stream in but view is obstructed. The perfect sanctuary after a full day of adventure on deck and ashore. Room images are for illustration purposes only. read more Includes ensuite bathroom, wardrobe and dressing area, Flat-screen TV, personally-controlled air con, in-room safe, desk & chair. Room serviced twice daily, room service (costs apply), fresh towels each day (on request) & hairdryer.

Carnival Encounter Oceanview (Porthole)
Oceanview (Porthole)
Cabin Type: Oceanview

Theses Oceanview rooms feature a porthole so you can let that natural light stream in. Welcome to your cosy sanctuary, equipped with everything you need. The perfect sanctuary after a full day of adventure on deck and ashore. read more Room images are for illustration purposes only. Includes ensuite bathroom, wardrobe and dressing area, Flat-screen TV, personally-controlled air con, in-room safe, desk & chair. Room serviced twice daily, room service (costs apply), fresh towels each day (on request) & hairdryer.

Carnival Encounter Balcony
Balcony
Cabin Type: Balcony

Open your doors and let the outside in! Make the most of your time at sea with your own private Balcony Room and enjoy all the beauty of living on the ocean. Room images are for illustration purposes only. Includes private read more balcony with outdoor furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathroom, wardrobe and dressing area, Flat-screen TV, personally-controlled air con, fridge, in-room safe, desk & chair. Room serviced twice daily, room service (costs apply), fresh towels each day (on request) & hairdryer.

Carnival Encounter Balcony (Aft-View Extended Balcony)
Balcony (Aft-View Extended Balcony)
Cabin Type: Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, plus these rooms face backward (most balconies face left or right), so you’ll get a unique view of your ship's gentle wake. Room images read more are for illustration purposes only. Includes private balcony with outdoor furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathroom, wardrobe and dressing area, Flat-screen TV, personally-controlled air con, fridge, in-room safe, desk & chair. Room serviced twice daily, room service (costs apply), fresh towels each day (on request) & hairdryer.

Carnival Encounter Byron Beach Vista Suite
Byron Beach Vista Suite
Cabin Type: Suite

A Byron Beach Vista Suite offers more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for lounging with a bit of breeze. Enjoy a sitting area, plus get conveniences like a walk-in closet and a deluxe bathroom with read more a tub. And don't forget, your suite includes access to the Byron Beach Club and more exclusive perks!

Byron Beach suite privileges include immediate access to your suite after boarding, exclusive breakfast at Angelo’s, optional complimentary continental breakfast served in-suite, an in-suite coffee machine, and Byron Beach Club bathrobes and slippers for use during the cruise.

All suite guests benefit from priority check-in and boarding, priority dinner reservations at most specialty restaurants, and priority debarkation at the homeport and qualifying ports of call. Additional amenities include complimentary wash and fold laundry service (one bag per cruise), two large bottles of water, a pillow-top mattress, curated bath products, and plush bathrobes for a premium onboard experience.

Carnival Encounter Byron Beach Grand Suite
Byron Beach Grand Suite
Cabin Type: Suite

A Byron Beach Grand Suite features a large balcony and even more space than a standard suite. There's also a spacious sitting area, walk-in closet and bathroom with a shower and separate tub. And don't forget, your suite read more includes access to the Byron Beach Club and more exclusive perks!

Byron Beach suite privileges include immediate access to your suite after boarding, exclusive breakfast at Angelo’s, optional complimentary continental breakfast served in-suite, an in-suite coffee machine, and Byron Beach Club bathrobes and slippers for use during the cruise.

All suite guests benefit from priority check-in and boarding, priority dinner reservations at most specialty restaurants, and priority debarkation at the homeport and qualifying ports of call. Additional amenities include complimentary wash and fold laundry service (one bag per cruise), two large bottles of water, a pillow-top mattress, curated bath products, and plush bathrobes for a premium onboard experience.

Carnival Encounter Byron Beach Extended Balcony Suite
Byron Beach Extended Balcony Suite
Cabin Type: Suite

A Byron Beach Extended Balcony Suite puts its proudest perk right in the name. (Feel that breeze!) Inside you'll also find a sitting area, walk-in closet and deluxe bathroom with a tub. And don't forget, your suite includes read more access to the Byron Beach Club and more exclusive perks!

Byron Beach suite privileges include immediate access to your suite after boarding, exclusive breakfast at Angelo’s, optional complimentary continental breakfast served in-suite, an in-suite coffee machine, and Byron Beach Club bathrobes and slippers for use during the cruise.

All suite guests benefit from priority check-in and boarding, priority dinner reservations at most specialty restaurants, and priority debarkation at the homeport and qualifying ports of call. Additional amenities include complimentary wash and fold laundry service (one bag per cruise), two large bottles of water, a pillow-top mattress, curated bath products, and plush bathrobes for a premium onboard experience.

Carnival Encounter Ocean Suite
Ocean Suite
Cabin Type: Suite

An Ocean Suite offers more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors. Experience private, spacious relaxation… and a deluxe bathroom with a tub! All suites also include priority check-in read more and boarding, priority dinner reservations at most specialty restaurants, and priority debarkation at the homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30am. Additional amenities include complimentary wash and fold laundry service (one bag per cruise), two large bottles of water, a pillow-top mattress, curated bath products and plush bathrobes.

Carnival Encounter Byron Beach Ocean Suite
Byron Beach Ocean Suite
Cabin Type: Suite

A Byron Beach Ocean Suite features unique décor and offers more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for lounging with a bit of breeze. Experience private, spacious relaxation… and a deluxe bathroom with read more a tub. And don't forget, your suite includes access to the Byron Beach Club and more exclusive perks!

Byron Beach suite privileges include immediate access to your suite after boarding, exclusive breakfast at Angelo’s, optional complimentary continental breakfast served in-suite, an in-suite coffee machine, and Byron Beach Club bathrobes and slippers for use during the cruise.

All suite guests benefit from priority check-in and boarding, priority dinner reservations at most specialty restaurants, and priority debarkation at the homeport and qualifying ports of call. Additional amenities include complimentary wash and fold laundry service (one bag per cruise), two large bottles of water, a pillow-top mattress, curated bath products, and plush bathrobes for a premium onboard experience.

Carnival Encounter Byron Beach Presidential Suite
Byron Beach Presidential Suite
Cabin Type: Suite

The Byron Beach Presidential Suite is the most luxurious accommodation on the ship, with only one available—making early booking essential. This apartment-style suite features an aft-facing balcony, a separate living room read more and dining area, and enhanced bathroom amenities, including a large shower and a separate toilet room with a second sink. Guests enjoy exclusive perks such as a welcome treat with wine, complimentary room service (beverages at regular bar prices), a complimentary minibar stocked with water and soft drinks, and complimentary wash and fold laundry service.

In addition to these, all Byron Beach Suites include access to the Byron Beach Club, immediate suite access after boarding, exclusive breakfast at Angelo’s, the option of complimentary continental breakfast served in-suite, an in-suite coffee machine, and Byron Beach Club bathrobes and slippers for use during the cruise.

Suite guests also benefit from priority check-in, boarding, and dinner reservations at most specialty restaurants, as well as priority debarkation at the homeport and qualifying ports of call. Other suite inclusions are complimentary laundry (one bag per cruise), two large bottles of water, a pillow-top mattress, curated bath products, and plush bathrobes for a truly premium experience.

Carnival Encounter Cruise Schedule

All 63 sailings by departure date on board Carnival Encounter
Starts
Days
Name
From - To
From
Starts
Monday
18 May 2026
Days
13
Cruise Name
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,859pp
Starts
Tuesday
09 Jun 2026
Days
11
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,484pp
Starts
Friday
26 Jun 2026
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,254pp
Starts
Saturday
04 Jul 2026
Days
8
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,349pp
Starts
Saturday
18 Jul 2026
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,289pp
Starts
Sunday
26 Jul 2026
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,004pp
Starts
Saturday
01 Aug 2026
Days
15
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
4,899pp
Starts
Wednesday
19 Aug 2026
Days
11
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
3,184pp
Starts
Saturday
05 Sep 2026
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
924pp
Starts
Friday
18 Sep 2026
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,324pp
Starts
Saturday
03 Oct 2026
Days
8
Cruise Name
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,144pp
Starts
Saturday
17 Oct 2026
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,104pp
Starts
Saturday
07 Nov 2026
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,054pp
Starts
Saturday
28 Nov 2026
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,089pp
Starts
Sunday
13 Dec 2026
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
969pp
Starts
Saturday
19 Dec 2026
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,864pp
Starts
Wednesday
30 Dec 2026
Days
11
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
2,654pp
Starts
Saturday
09 Jan 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,159pp
Starts
Sunday
17 Jan 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
954pp
Starts
Sunday
31 Jan 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
804pp
Starts
Saturday
13 Feb 2027
Days
8
Cruise Name
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
914pp
Starts
Saturday
27 Feb 2027
Days
8
Cruise Name
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
909pp
Starts
Saturday
13 Mar 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
969pp
Starts
Monday
29 Mar 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,119pp
Starts
Tuesday
06 Apr 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
924pp
Starts
Monday
19 Apr 2027
Days
11
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,374pp
Starts
Monday
10 May 2027
Days
13
Cruise Name
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,774pp
Starts
Saturday
22 May 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,044pp
Starts
Sunday
30 May 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
854pp
Starts
Tuesday
08 Jun 2027
Days
11
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,254pp
Starts
Friday
25 Jun 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,189pp
Starts
Saturday
17 Jul 2027
Days
15
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
2,134pp
Starts
Saturday
31 Jul 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,034pp
Starts
Sunday
08 Aug 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
929pp
Starts
Wednesday
18 Aug 2027
Days
11
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,409pp
Starts
Saturday
04 Sep 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
859pp
Starts
Friday
17 Sep 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,274pp
Starts
Saturday
25 Sep 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
949pp
Starts
Friday
01 Oct 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,219pp
Starts
Saturday
16 Oct 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,029pp
Starts
Sunday
24 Oct 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
859pp
Starts
Saturday
06 Nov 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,029pp
Starts
Sunday
21 Nov 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
859pp
Starts
Saturday
27 Nov 2027
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,029pp
Starts
Sunday
12 Dec 2027
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
989pp
Starts
Saturday
18 Dec 2027
Days
10
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,684pp
Starts
Thursday
30 Dec 2027
Days
10
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,699pp
Starts
Sunday
16 Jan 2028
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
989pp
Starts
Saturday
29 Jan 2028
Days
9
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
1,039pp
Starts
Sunday
06 Feb 2028
Days
7
From - To
Brisbane to Brisbane
From
869pp
Cruise Content
Cabin images are sourced from Carnival Cruises. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on sailing dates.