7-Day Great Barrier Reef
Itinerary

Brisbane, Queensland
Australia
Day 1Founded in 1824 on the banks of the wide, meandering Brisbane River, the former penal colony of Brisbane was for many years regarded as just a big country town. Many beautiful timber Queenslander homes, built in the 1800s, still dot the riverbanks and inner suburbs, and in spring the city's numerous parks erupt in a riot of colorful jacaranda, poinciana, and bougainvillea blossoms. Today the Queensland capital is one of Australia's most up-and-coming cities: glittering high-rises mark its polished business center, slick fashion boutiques and restaurants abound, and numerous outdoor attractions beckon. In summer, temperatures here are broilingly hot and days are often humid, a reminder that this city is part of a subtropical region. Wear SPF 30-plus sunscreen and a broad-brimmed hat outdoors, even on overcast days.Brisbane's inner suburbs, a 5- to 10-minute drive or 15- to 20-minute walk from the city center, have a mix of intriguing eateries and quiet accommodations. Fortitude Valley combines Chinatown with a cosmopolitan mix of clubs, cafés, and boutiques. Spring Hill has several high-quality hotels, and Paddington, New Farm, Petrie Terrace, West End, and Woolloongabba are full of an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars. Brisbane is also a convenient base for trips to the Sunshine and Gold coasts, the mountainous hinterlands, and the Moreton Bay islands.
About this cruise
Carnival 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.
Water lovers will be spoilt for choice with spas, four pools, and waterslides. Thrill seekers are covered too with Edge Adventure Park, complete with ziplining, rock climbing and abseiling. More of a chill seeker? You’ll love the exclusive Byron Beach Club, the Adult-Only Oasis Retreat, and the day spa and salon.
As the sun goes down, the fun only goes up. Dive into delicious dining options like Angelo’s, Dragon Lady, or celebrity-chef dining at Luke’s Bar & Grill. Be entertained with live comedy and dazzling stage shows. Or dance the night away at a classic Carnival deck party. Yep, Carnival Encounter has got it all!
Available dates
Stateroom Options
- InsideFROM£490 pp
- OceanviewFROM£538 pp
- BalconyFROM£634 pp
- SuiteFROM£779 pp
Fast, Simple, Secure booking
No Booking Fees
No Hidden Fees


dining
kids teens
accommodation
entertainment
health fitness
dining
Waterfront
Waterfront Restaurant is a modern Australian dining venue serving up a selection of home-style, casual dining favourites. With a menu of delicious classics, you’ll find there’s something for the whole family at Waterfront Restaurant. Offering a huge choice of menu options that are both nutritious and sure to please, the kids' specials menu changes daily, so even the fussiest eaters will find something they’ll love.
Tip: For convenience, guests who choose rotational dining will receive automatic bookings in the three complimentary restaurants onboard (including Waterfront). These can be adjusted once onboard if required.
Carnival Encounter
Carnival Cruise Line
FROM
£490 pp
- What's included?