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Cruise · Carnival Cruise Line · 6 nights

Queensland Coastal Explorer – 7-Day Great Barrier Reef Voyage (2028)

  • Main meals and snacks included at selected onboard dining venues
  • Port charges and government fees included in your fare
  • Dedicated stateroom attendant service throughout your voyage
From
$880 pp twin share
$1,739 pp solo share
6 nights
Enquire
When & how much

Choose your departure

4 departures

  1. Sun 16 Jan 2028 → Sun 23 Jan 2028 6 nights · Brisbane Inside $990 Outside $1,090 Balcony $1,340 Suite $1,730 from $990 pp twin share Select
  2. Sun 6 Feb 2028 → Sun 13 Feb 2028 6 nights · Brisbane Inside $880 Outside $1,090 Balcony $1,190 Suite $1,600 from $880 pp twin share Enquire
  3. Sun 19 Mar 2028 → Sun 26 Mar 2028 6 nights · Brisbane Inside $880 Outside $1,090 Balcony $1,190 Suite $1,600 from $880 pp twin share Select
  4. Sun 2 Jul 2028 → Sun 9 Jul 2028 6 nights · Brisbane Inside $945 Outside $1,155 Balcony $1,295 Suite $1,790 from $945 pp twin share Select
Cruise Snapshot
6 Nights

A 7-day round-trip cruise from Brisbane exploring Queensland's tropical coast and the Great Barrier Reef region

  •  Explore Cairns, Airlie Beach & scenic Willis Island on a 7-day reef adventure.
  • Enjoy fun-filled days onboard Carnival Encounter with dining & entertainment.
  • Discover the Great Barrier Reef region with the perfect coastal escape from Brisbane. 

Trip Details

Departs
Sun 6 Feb 2028
Returns
Sun 13 Feb 2028
Embarks
Brisbane
Ship
Carnival Encounter
Operator
Carnival Cruise Line

Embark on a 7-day tropical adventure from Brisbane aboard Carnival Encounter and discover the beauty of Queensland’s coastline and the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a unique scenic cruise past Willis Island, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cairns with its gateway access to the reef and rainforest, and unwind in the picturesque seaside town of Airlie Beach, the heart of the Whitsundays. With stunning coastal scenery, tropical destinations, and plenty of onboard entertainment, dining and relaxation, this cruise offers the perfect Queensland getaway.

Destinations

Brisbane, Australia ► Willis Island (Onboard Experience) ► Cairns, Australia ► Airlie Beach, Australia ► Brisbane, Australia

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Brisbane, Australia

    Embark in Brisbane, Australia's vibrant capital on the east coast, known for its subtropical climate, cultural attractions, and gateway to Queensland's natural wonders.
  2. 2

    Fun Day At Sea

    Enjoy a relaxing day at sea, with time to unwind on deck, take in the ocean views, and enjoy the ship's dining and entertainment offerings.
  3. 3

    Willis Island (Onboard Experience)

    Experience Willis Island, a remote coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef, enjoyed from the comfort of the ship.
  4. 4

    Cairns, Australia

    Visit Cairns, a tropical gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
  5. 5

    Airlie Beach, Australia

    Discover Airlie Beach, a picturesque coastal town and popular base for exploring the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.
  6. 6

    Fun Day At Sea

    Spend another leisurely day at sea, with opportunities to relax, socialise, enjoy meals and refreshments, and take in the ocean scenery.
  7. 7

    Brisbane, Australia

    Return to Brisbane, concluding your Great Barrier Reef voyage.
What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • 6 nights aboard Carnival Encounter
  • Comfortable accommodation in your chosen stateroom
  • Main meals and snacks at selected onboard dining venues
  • Spectacular onboard entertainment, including live shows and performances
  • Access to pools, whirlpools, and fitness facilities
  • Youth and family activities onboard
  • Visits to Cairns and Airlie Beach
  • Scenic cruising past Willis Island
  • Port charges and government fees
  • Dedicated stateroom attendant service

Not included

  • Shore excursions and optional land tours
  • Laundry and dry-cleaning services
  • Travel insurance and visa arrangements
  • Personal expenses such as shopping, photos, and souvenirs
Where you’ll stay

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 views of the ocean 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.

Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

What destinations does this cruise visit?
This cruise departs from Brisbane and visits scenic highlights including Willis Island (scenic cruising), Cairns, and Airlie Beach before returning to Brisbane.
Is Willis Island a stop where guests disembark?
No, Willis Island is a scenic cruising experience only, and guests remain onboard to enjoy the views.
Do I need a passport for this cruise?
For Australian coastal cruises, a valid passport or accepted travel identification may be required depending on your citizenship. Please check with your cruise operator for specific requirements.
What is included in the cruise fare?
Your fare generally includes accommodation, main meals, onboard entertainment, and access to most ship facilities.
Are shore excursions included?
No, shore excursions in Cairns and Airlie Beach are optional and can be purchased onboard or in advance.
What activities are available onboard?
Guests can enjoy live shows, pools, fitness facilities, dining venues, kids and teen programs, and a variety of entertainment options.
Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi packages are available for purchase throughout the cruise.
What should I pack for this cruise?
Light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, casual evening wear, and a light jacket for cooler evenings are recommended.
Are gratuities included in the fare?
Gratuities are typically not included and may be charged separately according to cruise line policy.
Is the cruise suitable for families?
Yes, Carnival Encounter is family-friendly with activities and entertainment for all age groups.
Ready to lock in?

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.

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