-
Cruises
All Cruises
Cruise deals
Cruise Lines
From Australia
International
Don't Miss OutHot Offers
The best-selling holidays right now, at prices that won't last.
Browse Hot Offers -
Tours
All Tours
Tour Companies
By region
Curated lists
Travel With CompanySocial Getaways
Small-group trips designed for over 60s who love good company on the road — new friends, shared adventures, no single supplements.
Browse Over-60 Getaways -
Destinations
All Destinations
Australia & Pacific
America
Antarctica & Artic
Not Sure Where to Start?Book a Call
Speak with one of our friendly travel specialists — no pressure, just honest advice to help you find the right holiday.
Browse Request a consultant with a travel expert - Social Getaways
- Solo Holidays
- Hot Offers
- Wishlist 0
Choose your departure
Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
9 departures
- Sat 8 Jan 2028 → Wed 12 Jan 2028 Interior $800 Ocean View $910 Balcony $1,040 Suite $1,270 from $800 pp twin share Select
- Wed 12 Jan 2028 → Sun 16 Jan 2028 Interior $800 Ocean View $910 Balcony $1,040 Suite $1,270 from $800 pp twin share Select
- Tue 25 Jan 2028 → Sat 29 Jan 2028 Interior $720 Ocean View $815 Balcony $915 Suite $1,135 from $720 pp twin share Select
- Tue 15 Feb 2028 → Sat 19 Feb 2028 Interior $720 Ocean View $815 Balcony $915 Suite $1,135 from $720 pp twin share Select
- Tue 7 Mar 2028 → Sat 11 Mar 2028 Interior $720 Ocean View $815 Balcony $915 Suite $1,135 from $720 pp twin share Enquire
- Escape to Queensland’s tropical north for a refreshing five-day cruise holiday.
- Discover the laid-back atmosphere and coastal beauty of the Whitsundays region.
- Trade busy routines for sunlit sea days and memorable moments aboard Carnival Encounter.
Trip Details
- Departs
- Tue 7 Mar 2028
- Returns
- Sat 11 Mar 2028
- Embarks
- Brisbane
- Ship
- Carnival Encounter
- Operator
- Carnival Cruise Line
Set sail on a short but unforgettable escape from Brisbane to the heart of the Whitsundays on this Airlie Beach Cruise Adventure. Enjoy the ease of unpacking just once as you spend your days at sea indulging in relaxed onboard living, entertainment, and ocean views stretching endlessly across the Coral Sea.
Arriving in Airlie Beach, the vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll have time to explore its tropical charm, turquoise waters, and laid-back coastal atmosphere. Whether you choose to unwind onboard or venture ashore, this cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery in one of Australia’s most iconic island regions.
Your transports Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter joined the Carnival fleet in 2025 after sailing as P&O Cruises Australia's Pacific Encounter, and before that as Princess Cruises' Star Princess. Brisbane-based and carrying around 2,600 guests, she offers resort-style pools, a broad dining line-up and entertainment tailored to Australian cruisers.
- Gross tonnage
- 108,865
- Speed
- 20 Knots
- Beam
- 118 Feet
Itinerary
- 1
Brisbane, Australia
Depart from Brisbane, Australia's vibrant capital city on the east coast. - 2
At Sea
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea, taking in the ocean views and enjoying the ship's amenities. - 3
Airlie Beach, Australia
Visit Airlie Beach, a popular coastal destination known for its beautiful beaches and access to the Whitsunday Islands. - 4
At Sea
Spend another day at sea, relax on deck, enjoy dining and entertainment, or socialise with fellow passengers. - 5
Brisbane, Australia
Return to Brisbane, concluding your Airlie Beach cruise adventure.
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- 4 nights aboard Carnival Encounter
- Comfortable accommodation in your selected stateroom
- Main meals and snacks at selected dining venues
- Live entertainment, comedy shows, and onboard activities
- Access to pools, whirlpools, fitness centre, and recreation facilities
- Visit to Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsundays
- Brisbane return cruise experience
- Port charges and government fees
- Dedicated stateroom attendant service
Not included
- Travel Insurance
Accommodation
Interior Staterooms
A comfortable and budget-friendly choice, Interior Staterooms provide a relaxing retreat with comfortable bedding, a private bathroom, ample storage, climate control, and in-room entertainment.
Ocean View Staterooms
Enjoy natural light and ocean views from your window. These staterooms offer all the comforts of an Interior Stateroom while creating a brighter and more spacious atmosphere.
Balcony Staterooms
Take in fresh sea breezes and stunning ocean vistas from your own private balcony. Perfect for relaxing with a morning coffee or unwinding as the sun sets, these staterooms combine indoor comfort with outdoor living.
Suites
Offering the most spacious accommodation onboard, Suites feature separate living areas, enhanced amenities, priority services, and a private balcony. Ideal for guests seeking extra comfort and a more premium cruising experience.
Common questions about this voyage
What destinations are included?
Is this cruise suitable for first-time cruisers?
What is included onboard?
Do I need shore excursion bookings in advance?
What should I pack?
Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
You might also like
2028 Airlie Beach Reef & Island Cruise
- Visit the gateway to the spectacular Whitsundays.
- Enjoy dining, entertainment, and leisure facilities aboard Carnival Luminosa.
- Start and finish your five-day getaway in Brisbane for convenient travel planning.
Queensland Dream Voyage (January 2027)
- Depart Sydney for an 8-night voyage exploring Queensland’s captivating coastal destinations.
- Take adventure to new heights with the North Star observation capsule and thrilling onboard attractions.
- Enjoy world-class entertainment, diverse dining and relaxing sea days aboard Anthem of the Seas.
Brisbane Reef Adventure Cruise (2028)
- All main meals, snacks and select drinks included onboard
- Unwind in three pools, heated spas, sauna and steam room
- Adult only Serenity Retreat plus over 45 daily activities included