FROM SCRUBS TO SPA: QUEENSLAND CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL STAFF TREATED TO PAMPERING ABOARD CARNIVAL LUMINOSA

Ten dedicated nurses and healthcare workers from Queensland Children’s Hospital were welcomed aboard Carnival Luminosa for a well-deserved spa experience as a thank you from Carnival Cruise Line, a longtime partner of the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

In a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the invaluable hospital staff caring for Queensland’s most vulnerable children, Carnival Cruise Line welcomed them aboard for a rejuvenating morning. Hosted at the luxurious Cloud9 Spa onboard Carnival Luminosa – one of the largest spas in the global fleet – the experience included access to the indulgent hydrotherapy pool and thermal suites, followed by blissful massage treatments and a relaxing lunch.

As a proud supporter of the Children’s Hospital Foundation in Queensland since 2019, Carnival Cruise Line has donated over $132,000. The funds help provide vital support and care for sick children across Queensland, including access to specialist equipment, research, and wrap-around family services.

“Carnival is proud to support the incredible work of the Children’s Hospital Foundation and the healthcare heroes who make a difference every day,” said Anton Loeb, Assistant Vice President Sales & Marketing, Carnival Cruise Line Australia. “Through activities like our Conga for Kids initiative, our guests have helped raise funds that go directly towards improving the lives of children and families that need it most. Today’s ship spa day was a small way to say thank you to those who give so much.”

Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO Lyndsey Rice added, “Carnival’s continued support means so much to our team and the families we care for. Today’s spa experience was a thoughtful way to recognise a group of our dedicated healthcare workers who work tirelessly to provide compassionate care and support to every family that comes through our doors. Their efforts play a vital role in bringing comfort and smiles to the children we serve.”

Carnival Cruise Line has hosted Conga for Kids events onboard Carnival Luminosa since the ship began sailing from Queensland in November 2022 and onboard Carnival Encounter since joining the fleet in March 2025.

For more information, please visit https://www.carnival.com.au/news/conga-for-kids

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Trick or Trend? Aussies Go Batty for Halloween As New Research Shows It’s Here to Stay

• Carnival Cruise Line study highlights rising popularity as Aussies carve out new Halloween traditions
• 58% of families celebrate Halloween in Australia and another 5% plan to start
• Young people are driving the spike as 75% of Millennials and 70% of Gen Zs celebrate Halloween
• Aussie families taking part in Halloween celebrations expect to spend an average of $970 this year

Halloween is (boo)ming in Australia, with more than half of families (58%) now celebrating the spooky season — a huge leap from just 29% of Australian adults who remember celebrating as kids. Another 5% say they plan to join the fun this year, showing the holiday is a firm fixture on the Aussie calendar.

Once reserved for children, Halloween has become a cross-generational celebration. Three-quarters (74%) of parents now take part, but so too do child-free adults, with over half (53%) marking the occasion. Younger Aussies are leading the charge, with 75% of Millennials and 70% of Gen Zs embracing the holiday.

Two-thirds (66%) of Australians agree that Halloween has become a bigger cultural moment in recent years, driven by a boom in events, decorations and themed experiences. The most popular traditions include indulging in lollies and chocolate (35%), trick-or-treating (32%), decorating homes (27%) and dressing up in costume (27%). Families say they expect to spend an average of $970 on celebrations this year, and almost one-third (30%) plan to spend more than they ever have before.

The spooky spirit is even making waves at sea. One in three Aussies (33%) say the idea of a Halloween cruise appeals to them, while 26% say a Halloween-themed holiday would motivate them to travel — proving October is cementing itself as a holiday season in its own right.

For Aussies keen to get involved without hosting at home, Carnival Cruise Line has long embraced Halloween at sea. Throughout October, every Carnival cruise sailing from Sydney and Brisbane will feature frightfully fun Halloween celebrations — transforming the ships with themed décor, parties, activities and entertainment layered onto the usual line-up of fun.

Guests can look forward to costume competitions, Halloween trivia, trick-or-treating, themed parties for all ages, special guest appearances, and plenty of surprises for the whole family. Carnival’s Halloween cruises are part of its broader commitment to seasonal and themed cruise experiences, giving guests more reasons to cruise, more often.

Halloween-themed sailings start from $444*pp, twin share (based on an interior cabin on a 3-day Getaway departing October 2026, *subject to change).

For more information on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit https://www.carnival.com.au/.   

For more travel inspiration read the daily online The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/ 

Trick or Trend? Aussies Go Batty for Halloween As New Research Shows It’s Here to Stay

Carnival Cruise Line study highlights rising popularity as Aussies carve out new Halloween traditions

• 58% of households celebrate Halloween in Australia and another 5% plan to start
• Young people are driving the spike as 75% of Millennials and 71% of Gen Zs celebrate Halloween
• Aussie households taking part in Halloween celebrations expect to spend an average of $970 this year

2025 Halloween is (boo)ming in Australia, with more than half of Australian households (58%) now celebrating the spooky season — a huge leap from just 29% of Australian adults who remember celebrating as kids. Another 5% say they plan to join the fun this year, showing the holiday is a firm fixture on the Aussie calendar.

Once reserved for children, Halloween has become a cross-generational celebration. Three-quarters (74%) of parents now take part, but so too do child-free adults, with over half (53%) without children marking the occasion. Younger Aussies are leading the charge, with 75% of Millennials and 71% of Gen Zs embracing the holiday.

Two-thirds (66%) of Australians agree that Halloween has become a bigger cultural moment in recent years, driven by a boom in events, decorations and themed experiences. The most popular traditions include indulging in lollies and chocolate (35%), trick-or-treating (32%), decorating homes (27%) and dressing up in costume (27%). Households say they expect to spend an average of $970 on celebrations this year, and almost one-third (30%) plan to spend more than they ever have before.

The spooky spirit is even making waves at sea. One in three Aussies (33%) agree the idea of a Halloween cruise appeals to them, while 26% say a Halloween-themed holiday would motivate them to travel — proving October is cementing itself as a holiday season in its own right.

For Aussies keen to get involved without hosting at home, Carnival Cruise Line has long embraced Halloween at sea. Throughout October, every Carnival cruise sailing from Sydney and Brisbane will feature frightfully fun Halloween celebrations — transforming the ships with themed décor, parties, activities and entertainment layered onto the usual line-up of fun.

Guests can look forward to costume competitions, Halloween trivia, trick-or-treating, themed parties for all ages, special guest appearances, and plenty of surprises for the whole family. Carnival’s Halloween cruises are part of its broader commitment to seasonal and themed cruise experiences, giving guests more reasons to cruise, more often.

Halloween-themed sailings start from $444*pp, twin share (based on an interior cabin on a 3-day Getaway departing October 2026, *subject to change).

For more information on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit https://www.carnival.com.au/.

To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line, visit carnival.com.au

For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 13 31 94. Carnival can also be found on:
Facebook: @CarnivalcruiselineAU
Instagram: @CarnivalcruiselineAU
TikTok: @CarnivalcruiselineAU
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/CarnivalOz

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE UNVEILS $600M CELEBRATION KEY A STUNNING NEW PRIVATE DESTINATION IN THE BAHAMAS

Celebration Key Suncastle

Carnival Cruise Line officially unlocked paradise as it opened Celebration Key – the cruise line’s beautiful new exclusive destination on Grand Bahama. Carnival Vista made the first official visit to the world’s newest premier cruise port, and nearly 5,000 guests experienced all the fun of Celebration Key: from the unique Suncastle, the world’s tallest sandcastle, the world’s largest swing and swim-up bar and the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons.

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, Carnival Corporation CEO Josh Weinstein, Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal and Carnival Vista Captain Paolo Severini turned the key that “unlocked” the gates to the iconic 10-story Suncastle, home to two thrilling racing waterslides. They also cut the ribbon to open Lokono Cove, the shopping village; and O’Neal made the first shot at the basketball court; followed by a champagne toast at Pearl Cove Beach Club, an adults-only retreat.

"Today marks an extraordinary milestone for Carnival as we open the first phase of our initial $600M investment (approx. AUD $890 million) with more to come. Celebration Key is more than just a beautiful place; it's a celebration of the Bahamian paradise our guests love, complemented by an impressive variety of incredible new experiences and offerings,” said Duffy. “We’ve built the ultimate beach day for our guests whether they crave fun in the sun or relaxation under a palm tree.”

There are five areas to explore, including:

1. Paradise Plaza – The central location where guests are welcomed inside Celebration Key with live music.
2. Starfish Lagoon – A fun-filled area for families that features one of the two largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean, with 275,000 square feet. Families will also enjoy a splash pad with a shallow pool, sports courts and the Suncastle’s body slides that wind through 350 feet of turns and sudden drops. The beach in this area is lined with loungers and cabanas for those looking to relax, and guests can also enjoy casual dining at Captain’s Galley Food Hall, Gill’s Grill Seafood, Snack Shacks, and drinks at the Parrotfish Swim-Up Bar.
3. Calypso Lagoon – This adult-friendly area features an equally large, 275,000-square-foot lagoon as well as a dedicated area for adults only, a DJ Island, where guests can enjoy music and drinks at the world’s largest swim-up bar with 166 in-water seats. Nearby is the Sunshine Swings Bar with nearly 50 swings offering a fun spot to enjoy cocktails while staying cool. Other dining and drink options include Surf N’ Sauce BBQ & Brew, Calypso Food Trucks and Snack Shacks.
4. Pearl Cove Beach Club – The largest adults-only retreat at any cruise destination, this private club features an 11,000-square-foot infinity pool overlooking a white sand beach, alongside loungers, cabanas and supervillas. Guests will also find elevated dining and beverage options at Pearl Cove Restaurant and the Pearl Cove Bar as well as a separate swim-up bar.
5. Lokono Cove – The island’s retail village offers unique shopping and showcases authentic Bahamian culture through vibrant murals and local art, as well as handmade goods.

Celebration Key

Guests will find more than 30 food and beverage venues across the destination, offering something for everyone, and will be treated to a variety of live entertainment that includes Junkanoo parades, roaming rake-and-scrape musicians, DJs and all-day beach games. For private relaxation, a wide variety of cabanas, daybeds and villas are available and sports courts, water activities and shore excursions are available to those seeking action and adventure. Guests simply looking for a perfect beach day will enjoy over one mile of pristine, white sand beach overlooking the beautiful Bahamian waters.

Celebration Key will initially bring more than two million guests a year to Grand Bahama. By 2028, this number is expected to grow to four million. The economic impact for Grand Bahama is substantial, with hundreds of long-term jobs created by daily operations. The destination features an adjacent cruise pier capable of accommodating two of Carnival's largest ships simultaneously. Already, construction on an extension to the pier is underway to accommodate two additional ships.

For more information on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit carnival.com.au.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

CARNIVAL AND THE GRINCH SPREAD CHRISTMAS IN JULY CHEER FOR SCHF PATIENTS

Grinchmas in July!

Buoy oh buoy, it’s Grinchmas in July! Today, Carnival Cruise Line decked the hulls and brought mid-year holiday cheer to families supported by Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF). The day of festive FUN in Sydney Harbour featured highlights from Carnival’s much–loved Grinchmas in July cruise experience – complete with games, activities, and a visit from The Grinch himself.

Onboard Carnival Splendor, guests gathered for the magical lighting of the towering Christmas tree, complete with a flurry of festive ‘snow’. The air was filled with joyful carols as families took part in Grinchmas games and crafts, enjoyed a special storytime reading of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and met beloved Dr. Seuss characters – including The Grinch, Thing 1 & Thing 2, and The Cat in the Hat. The celebration was topped off with a delicious spread of Grinchmas-inspired food and drinks, leaving spirits merry and bright.

Carnival Cruise Line is thrilled to announce the return of Grinchmas in July in 2026, with four sailings per ship aboard Carnival Splendor, Carnival Adventure, and Carnival Encounter. These celebrations bring together Carnival’s long-standing partnerships with Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises.

With 107 voyages and 350,000 guests sailing from Sydney in 2025, it will be the biggest year yet for Carnival’s partnership with SCHF. Two ships now sail from Sydney year-round – Carnival Splendor and, since April, Carnival Adventure – and the Conga for Kids deck party now takes place on every voyage, including weekend getaways, offering more opportunities for guests to give back. Since 2016, Carnival guests have raised nearly half a million dollars to help provide world-class healthcare to 167,000 kids each year across the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network.

“It’s a privilege to welcome families supported by Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation onboard for this special Grinchmas celebration,” said Anton Loeb, Senior Director Sales and Marketing Carnival Cruise Line. “With two ships now sailing from Sydney year-round, we’re able to double the impact for the deserving families of SCHF and double the fun for our guests. We look forward to continuing this joyful tradition in July 2026.”

“We’re incredibly grateful for Carnival Cruise Line’s unwavering support and the joy they bring to our SCHF families,” said Rhiahne Ralph, Director of Corporate Giving & Signature Events at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation.

“Grinchmas in July isn’t just a day of festive fun - it’s a reminder of the powerful impact generosity can have on sick kids and their families. Every dollar raised through our partnership helps us fund ground-breaking research, vital equipment and world-class care across the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network - changing lives and changing the future for children in hospital.”

Carnival’s Grinchmas in July sailings depart from Sydney and Brisbane starting from 2 July 2026 and are available to book now.

The full list of sailings includes:

 

From Sydney return: 

• Sunday 19 July 2026 | 10-night South Pacific on Carnival Adventure
• Sunday 19 July 2026 | 12-night South Pacific on Carnival Splendor

 

From Brisbane return:  

• Saturday 11 July 2026 | 3-night Getaway on Carnival Encounter 
• Tuesday 14 July 2026 | 4-night Airlie Beach on Carnival Encounter 
• Saturday 18 July 2026 | 8-night South Pacific on Carnival Encounter

 

Fares for Carnival Cruise Line’s Grinchmas in July 2026 sailings start from $489* per person twin share interior. For more information on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit carnival.com.au.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

CARNIVAL’S ‘GRINCHMAS IN JULY’ RETURNS BIGGER, BETTER AND GREENER THAN EVER IN 2025

Grinchmas in July

Carnival’s beloved Grinchmas in July sailings are making a grand return to Australia this winter, bringing more festive fun than ever before. For the first time, the halls will be decked onboard the new Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, while Carnival Splendor celebrates its third consecutive year of Grinchy holiday FUN.

In a first for Queensland, Carnival Encounter—now homeported year-round in Brisbane—will host four special Grinchmas in July sailings. Meanwhile, Christmas-loving cruisers in New South Wales will have even more opportunities to get in on the fun, with Carnival Splendor and Carnival Adventure offering six festive departures from Sydney this July.

Bringing the best of Christmas in July traditions to sea, these Grinch-themed cruises let Aussie guests experience the joy of a wintery Christmas—Carnival style.

Across ten themed sailings from two Australian ports, the ships will be transformed into magical winter wonderlands, complete with towering Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and shimmering baubles. Guests can sip on Christmas-themed beverages, indulge in special festive dining, and even experience a dusting of winter “snow” in the atrium.

Adding to the holiday spirit, guests will have the chance to meet the Grinch himself—along with a few surprise visitors. Onboard festivities include the much-loved Ugly Christmas Sweater Competition, a dazzling Holiday Show, carolling, a Grinchmas deck party with an all-green dress code, themed games and scavenger hunts, and plenty of festive treats any Who would love.

The sailings are part of Carnival’s long-standing partnership with Dr. Seuss, featuring ‘Seuss at Sea’ favourites such as the Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast, Seussapalooza™ Parade and Story Time. The Grinchmas in July celebrations come on top of the 45+ activities guests already enjoy on a Carnival cruise, ensuring non-stop FUN for the whole family.

“Due to overwhelming demand over the past two winters, we’re thrilled to bring back our Grinchmas in July sailings in 2025—this time spreading even more holiday cheer across all three ships,” said Carnival Cruise Line VP Kara Glamore.

“As part of our incredible decade-long partnership with Dr Seuss, we love bringing the wintery Christmas fun to our Aussie guests. Carnival Splendor, Adventure, and Encounter are the only ships in the world to offer this FUN festive experience for the whole family at sea.”

“We are delighted to continue our valued partnership with Carnival Cruise Line as Grinchmas in July returns to Australia,” Susan Brandt, CEO of Dr. Seuss Enterprises added. “These themed sailings offer families an extraordinary opportunity to experience the world of Dr. Seuss in an immersive, festive environment—combining cherished holiday traditions with the wonder of storytelling at sea.”

Carnival’s Grinchmas in July sailings depart from Sydney and Brisbane starting from 1 July 2025 and are available to book now. The full list of sailings includes:

 

From Sydney return:

• Tuesday 1 July & Monday 14 July | 4-night Moreton Island on Carnival Adventure
• Thursday 3 July & Wednesday 16 July | 4-night Moreton Island on Carnival Splendor
• Saturday 5 July | 9-night South Pacific on Carnival Adventure
• Monday 7 July | 9-night South Pacific on Carnival Splendor

 

From Brisbane return:

• Saturday 5 July | 7-night Great Barrier Reef on Carnival Encounter
• Saturday 12 July | 3-night Comedy Cruise on Carnival Encounter
• Tuesday 15 July | 4-night Airlie Beach on Carnival Encounter
• Saturday 19 July | 7-night Great Barrier Reef on Carnival Encounter

 

Fares for Carnival Cruise Line’s Grinchmas in July 2025 sailings start from $560* per person twin share interior.

For more information on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit carnival.com.au.

*Fare based on 3-night sailing, departing Brisbane on 12 July 2025 and subject to change.

Carnival Cruise Line Launches Expanded Fleet, Ushering in a New Era of Fun in Australia

Carnival

A Bold New Beginning in Sydney Harbour

On 28th March 2025, Carnival Cruise Line officially unveiled its expanded Australian fleet, marking an exciting new era for cruising in the region. The launch of Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter set the stage for an unforgettable cruising experience, offering Australians more opportunities for fun-filled holidays at sea.

As part of the celebration, Carnival Adventure made a stunning arrival into Sydney Harbour, greeted by two water-spraying tugboats and a giant floating Cruise Captain. This grand welcome signaled the start of a fresh chapter for Carnival Cruise Line in Australia, with the ships ready to offer holidaymakers the thrill of a lifetime.

Carnival's Expanded Fleet and What It Means for Australian Cruisers

Carnival Cruise Line has significantly strengthened its presence in Australia, now boasting four ships cruising year-round from Sydney and Brisbane. With Carnival Adventure and Carnival Splendor departing from Sydney, and Carnival Encounter and Carnival Luminosa from Brisbane, Carnival is set to offer Australians the ultimate cruising experience without ever having to leave their shores.

Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the milestone, stating that today is a pivotal moment for the Australian cruise industry. She emphasized that Carnival is committed to delivering memorable holidays packed with FUN for families and friends, reinforcing the brand's reputation as the world’s most popular cruise line. With more than 500,000 passengers expected to cruise with Carnival in Australia in 2025, the company is ready to provide non-stop entertainment and adventure for everyone onboard.

Exciting New Features on Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter

Guests aboard the newly rebranded Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter will discover an array of fun-filled activities, state-of-the-art amenities, and signature Carnival experiences. These ships have been reimagined to embody the brand’s trademark excitement while still preserving some of P&O’s favourite features. Here are some highlights:

• Hub App: This innovative app allows guests to make dining reservations, book excursions, chat with fellow cruisers, and explore onboard dining options with ease.
• VIFP Club: Carnival’s exclusive loyalty program offering special promotions for members across the global fleet.
• Carnival’s Iconic Fun Squad: The Fun Squad brings the lively Carnival spirit to life, offering comedy shows, trivia, deck parties, and games throughout the journey.
• Free Daily Pizza: Guests can indulge in unlimited pizza served daily between 11am and 4pm, ensuring a delicious treat for all.
• Seuss at Sea: A magical experience for kids (and the young at heart) with Dr. Seuss-themed activities, character appearances, and interactive experiences.
• Carnival Favourites: The beloved Build-A-Bear workshop, the Conga for Kids dance party, and the electrifying 80s Rock and Glow Nights continue to be a hit with families.

Keeping the Best of P&O with New Carnival Touches

While Carnival introduces fresh onboard experiences, guests can still enjoy some of the best-loved features from the former P&O ships. Highlights include:

• Byron Beach Club: An exclusive, resort-style retreat offering a premium, relaxed experience.
• EDGE: A thrilling challenge for adrenaline junkies, complete with a zipline, walk the plank, and rock-climbing walls.
• Luke’s Bar & Grill: Celebrity chef Luke Mangan’s highly popular onboard dining experience, offering exquisite cuisine with a personal touch.

Looking to the Future: More Fun and Bigger Adventures Ahead

With four ships sailing year-round from Australia, Carnival Cruise Line is more equipped than ever to offer unforgettable experiences for Aussie cruisers. Whether it's sailing from Sydney or Brisbane, guests are guaranteed a cruise holiday filled with fun, laughter, and excitement.

To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line or to make a booking, visit carnival.com.au.