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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
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
16 January 2028
Returns
8 July 2028
Embarks
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

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
16 January 2028
Returns 8 July 2028
Returns
8 July 2028
Duration
6 nights
From pp twin share
$880 pp
From pp solo cabin
$1,739 pp

Cruise Departing From Brisbane on 16 Jan 2028

  • Interior - from $990 pp twin share* | $1,959 pp sole use*
  • Oceanview - from $1,090 pp twin share* | $2,159 pp sole use*
  • Balcony - from $1,340 pp twin share* | $2,659 pp sole use*
  • Suite - from $1,730 pp twin share* | $3,439 pp sole use*

Cruise Departing From Brisbane on 6 Feb & 19 Mar 2028

  • Interior - from $880 pp twin share* | $1,739 pp sole use*
  • Oceanview - from $1,090 pp twin share* | $2,159 pp sole use*
  • Balcony - from $1,190 pp twin share* | $2,359 pp sole use*
  • Suite - from $1,600 pp twin share* | $3,179 pp sole use*

Cruise Departing From Brisbane on 2 Jul 2028

  • Interior - from $945 pp twin share* | $1,869 pp sole use*
  • Oceanview - from $1,155 pp twin share* | $2,289 pp sole use*
  • Balcony - from $1,295 pp twin share* | $2,569 pp sole use*
  • Suite - from $1,790 pp twin share* | $3,559 pp sole use*

Enquire now to secure your place on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

*Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Brisbane, Australia

    Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, sits along the winding Brisbane River, its skyline mixing modern towers with leafy riverside parklands.

  2. 2

    At Sea

  3. 3

    Willis Island (Onboard Experience)

    Willis Island is a tiny, remote coral outpost in the Coral Sea Islands Territory, home to thousands of seabirds and a small weather monitoring station.

  4. 4

    Cairns, Australia

    Cairns sits where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Wet Tropics of Queensland, one of the few places on earth where two World Heritage sites overlap.

  5. 5

    Airlie Beach, Australia

    Fringed by palm trees and golden sand, Airlie Beach sits on the Queensland coast opposite the Whitsundays, a scatter of island's ringed by the Coral Sea.

  6. 6

    At Sea

  7. 7

    Brisbane, Australia

    Historically a hub for rail and river trade, Brisbane has grown into a lively subtropical city known for its relaxed outdoor lifestyle.

    Please note: cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change at any time by the cruise company.

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.

Enquire about this cruise
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