Vanuatu & New Caledonia Cruise - New Year's 2026
Ring in the New Year in unforgettable style aboard the Carnival Encounter, departing from Brisbane on a spectacular 10-night South Pacific cruise. As fireworks light up the horizon and celebrations unfold at sea, you'll be surrounded by lively entertainment, gourmet dining, and world-class service. Whether you're sipping champagne on the deck under the stars or dancing into the night at one of the ship’s vibrant parties, this is a New Year's Eve you’ll never forget.
Your journey takes you to some of the South Pacific’s most breathtaking destinations, starting with the serene shores of Santo, followed by the cultural richness of Port Vila. Enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Mystery Island, the charming French influence of Noumea, and the warm island hospitality of Lifou. With a mix of adventure, relaxation, and festive spirit, this cruise is the perfect way to welcome the New Year
Destinations
Brisbane ► Santo, Vanuatu ► Port Vila, Vanuatu ► Mystery Island, Vanuatu ► Lifou, New Caledonia ► Brisbane
- Accommodation
- All main meals onboard in main à la carte restaurants and the lido buffet
- Free pizza at Trattoria between 11am & 4pm daily.
- Entertainment (including production shows, guest entertainers, trivia, karaoke, dance classes & dive-in movies)
- Use of the ship’s many complimentary facilities such as swimming pools, gym, waterpark, waterslides, mini-golf, spas, table tennis, and library
Your fare excludes:
- Travel Insurance
- Day 1 - Brisbane, Australia
- Day 2 - At Sea
- Day 3 - At Sea
- Day 4 - Santo (Luganville), Vanuatu
- Day 5 - Port Vila, Vanuatu
- Day 6 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu
- Day 7 - At Sea
- Day 8 - Lifou, New Caledonia
- Day 9 - At Sea
- Day 10 - At Sea
- Day 11 - Brisbane, Australia
Please note: cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change at any time by the cruise company.
Departs 30 Dec 2026 from Brisbane
- Interior from $1,819 pp twin share / $3,563 pp sole use*
- Ocean View from $1,924 pp twin share / $3,773 pp sole use*
- Balcony from $2,489 pp twin share / $4,903 pp sole use*
- Suite from $3,005 pp sole use / $5,935 pp sole use*
Call Us Now to get up-to-date pricing and secure your preferred stateroom.
*Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice. Deposit is non-refundable.
For those seeking a blend of relaxation, comfort, and curated entertainment, Carnival Encounter offers the ideal getaway. Sailing year-round from Brisbane, this voyage is perfect for couples, solo travellers, and friends looking to explore at their own pace, without compromising on quality or enjoyment.
Enjoy a well-balanced experience, with adult-focused amenities such as the tranquil Oasis Retreat, the exclusive Byron Beach Club, and a full-service day spa and salon. Indulge in everything from casual bites to fine dining, including standout venues like Angelo’s, Dragon Lady, and Luke’s Bar & Grill by renowned chef Luke Mangan.
Adventurous spirits can try ziplining, rock climbing or abseiling at Edge Adventure Park—or simply enjoy the scenery with a morning walk along the open deck. When in port, choose from a curated selection of shore excursions, from cultural tours to scenic coastal drives, designed to match a wide range of interests and comfort levels. Prefer a peaceful day onboard? Unwind by one of the four pools or in a bubbling spa, or simply take in the ocean views with a good book and a cool drink.
As night falls, the ship comes alive with sophisticated entertainment, from live music and comedy shows to elegant cocktail lounges and classic deck parties. Whether you're rekindling romance, celebrating friendship, or simply treating yourself to a well-earned escape, Carnival Encounter promises a cruise experience tailored to your rhythm.
Interior Stateroom - offers the best value for your cruise, combining comfort and convenience in a cozy retreat, perfect for unwinding after a full day of adventure. Each room features soft linens, ample storage, a television, climate control, an in-room safe, and attentive service from a dedicated stateroom attendant.
Oceanview Stateroom - Enjoy ever-changing ocean views right from your picture window offering a unique perspective you won’t find on land. Each room includes soft, cozy linens, generous storage, a television, climate control, an in-room safe, and the attentive care of a dedicated stateroom attendant
Balcony Stateroom - designed to bring the sea closer, offering fresh ocean breezes and breathtaking views from your own private outdoor space. Inside, you'll enjoy soft linens, ample storage, a television, climate control, an in-room safe, and the dedicated service of your personal stateroom attendant.
Suite - offers extra room to relax indoors and a spacious balcony for unwinding outdoors, plus the luxury of a deluxe bathroom - some with a tub. Enjoy exclusive perks like priority check-in, boarding, and dining reservations, complimentary laundry service, curated bath products, and added touches like pillow-top mattresses, bathrobes, and bottled water. Every suite also includes soft linens, ample storage, a television, climate control, an in-room safe, and attentive service from your dedicated stateroom attendant.