Unforgettable getaways: Unique holiday ideas for every season

No matter when you’re thinking of travelling, it’s always a good time to go on a cruise.

At Carnival, we’re full of unique holiday ideas for every season. Whether you’re looking to escape the winter chill, unwind in the summer sunshine, or enjoy the vibrant colours of autumn or spring, a cruise makes for an unforgettable getaway at any time of year.

From tropical escapes to cultural adventures, foodie experiences to adrenaline-pumping shore excursions, there’s a cruise destination perfectly suited to your travel style and interests. Picture yourself snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, sipping wine in New Zealand’s rolling vineyards, exploring ancient temples in Bali, or celebrating special occasions like Easter and New Year’s Eve at sea – all whilst enjoying the comfort and convenience of having everything you need right onboard.

Here are some of our best holiday ideas, including fun family holiday ideas, relaxing school holiday ideas, and holiday ideas that help you explore Australia, New Zealand and more incredible holiday destinations.

Summer holiday ideas

Nothing says summer like sun-drenched days and balmy nights. As the temperatures rise, why not set sail on a bucket list trip to Bali, sizzling Singapore, or tropical island shores?

Spice things up with a cruise to Bali

Looking for the perfect family holiday idea? You can’t go past beautiful Bali. With an intoxicating combination of culture, scenery and adventure, Bali has something for everyone.

From thrilling white water rafting adventures to peaceful temple visits where you can connect with Bali’s spiritual heritage, every shore excursion promises something special. The island’s vibrant markets offer the perfect opportunity to pick up handcrafted souvenirs and sample local delicacies, and the natural beauty of volcanic landscapes and emerald rice terraces are the perfect photo opportunities for a holiday to remember.

Back on board, you can enjoy more than 45 onboard activities, from kids clubs, teen-friendly hangout spaces, an adults-only retreat, wining and dining, and everything a water lover could want.

Carnival’s Bali cruises depart from Brisbane, Sydney and Singapore, with dates through summer.

Celebrate the new year at sea

Make this New Year’s Eve the most memorable one yet with a Carnival New Year’s cruise.

From live music and DJs spinning your favourite tunes to special events happening across the ship throughout the evening, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Whether you prefer the intimate atmosphere of the piano bar, dancing under the stars, or joining in themed trivia and special New Year’s bingo, you can ring in the new year in style.

Set sail from Sydney or Brisbane to the tropical paradises of Vanuatu and New Caledonia. With parties, themed nights, and the final countdown to midnight, Carnival has plenty on offer to help you bring in the New Year with a bang.

If you’re travelling with kids for the school holidays, rest assured, there’s plenty for them to enjoy too. Carnival offers dedicated kids’ celebrations and extended youth club hours so your kids and teens can have a New Year to remember as well.

Add some city sparkle with a Singapore cruise

With world-class shopping, show-stopping sites and exciting activities for all ages, Singapore is a city you won’t want to miss.

Whether you want to unwind in Singapore’s tranquil Botanic Gardens, shop up a storm at the famous Orchard Road, or marvel at Marina Bay, Singapore is one of the best holidays you’ll have. Home to theme parks and the renowned Singapore Zoo, Singapore is one of our favourite school holiday ideas.

The city’s incredible hawker centres and street food scene provide a culinary adventure like no other, where you can sample authentic local flavours and dishes that have made Singapore a global food destination. Come and see why Singapore consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and exciting cities to explore.

Autumn holiday ideas

As the weather cools down and the busyness of life heats up, you’ll be ready for an escape. Whether you’re looking for a mini getaway, an extended break from the hustle and bustle, or a fun family holiday idea, a Carnival Autumn cruise will check all the boxes.

Foodie cruise to Tasmania

Give your tastebuds the trip of a lifetime with a Carnival cruise to Tasmania. Foodie heaven, Tasmania offers culinary experiences like no other.

From scenic countryside drives to lavender farms where you can enjoy morning tea among fragrant purple fields, to savouring fresh oysters and wine with stunning bay views at waterfront venues, Tasmania’s diverse landscapes provide the perfect setting for every culinary adventure.

With an autumn cruise to Tasmania, you’ll discover why our island state has become renowned for its exceptional local produce, from artisanal cheeses and cool-climate wines to foraged delicacies, all set against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery and fascinating historical sites just waiting for you to explore.

A short cruise for the Easter long weekend

What better way to celebrate the school holidays than with a short cruise over the long weekend? The first term’s over, the kids are ready for something fun, and you’ve got at least five days off work – it’s the perfect time to pack your bags and get your swimmers out for one more adventure.

Carnival has a basketful of Easter cruise offerings, including four-day cruises departing from Sydney or Brisbane. With special Easter-themed activities on top of all our usual onboard activities and entertainment, plus a visit from you-know-who, a Carnival Easter cruise will have everyone hopping with excitement.

Whether you’re sunbathing on tropical Airlie Beach, sampling fresh Moreton Bay bugs in their home waters, or exploring the spectacular wildlife of Kangaroo Island, there’s something magical about cruising during Australia’s perfect early autumn weather.

From bow to stern, top to bottom, the ship is kitted out to make your holiday a whole heap of fun for the entire family. And when all that excitement becomes a bit much, parents can unwind with a cocktail or two in the Serenity Adults Only Retreat, relax in the Cloud 9 Spa, or simply soak up those panoramic water views – pure bliss!

Wine and wildlife in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a unique natural and cultural experience unmatched anywhere in the world. The ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ is famous for its stunning wildlife, first-class wine and high-octane adventures, and New Zealand in autumn is beautiful to behold.

A Carnival New Zealand cruise will take you to some of the most iconic destinations on both the North and South islands, from the cosmopolitan charm of Auckland and the pristine waters of the Bay of Islands to the dramatic fjords of Fiordland National Park and the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound.

Whether you’re immersing yourself in rich Māori culture, exploring the art deco elegance of Napier, or discovering the Scottish heritage of Port Chalmers (Dunedin), each port offers its own distinctive character and unforgettable experiences.

Sample world-renowned wines and exceptional cuisine, feel the adrenaline rush of bungee jumping over Auckland Harbour, and witness some of the most picturesque places in the world – all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of your floating hotel as it carries you between these remarkable destinations on a 10, 11, or 12-night adventure you’ll never forget.

Winter holiday ideas

Don’t let the winter blues get you down. Escape the cold this winter with a Carnival cruise to the tropical paradises on Australia’s doorstep. Carnival has holiday packages for every adventure, including family holiday ideas to suit all ages.

Chase the sun to tropical North Queensland

Warm all year round, tropical North Queensland is the perfect place to escape the winter chill.

Relax beside one of Carnival’s sun-drenched pools or adventure on shore to a white sandy beach or some of North Queensland’s stunning scenery. Take a walk through UNESCO World Heritage site, the Daintree Forest or snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef. There are plenty of other experiences you won’t want to miss, like the Kuranda Scenic Railway, crocodile adventures, and river tube or jet boat rides.

Beyond the natural wonders, Cairns offers a delightful blend of culture and relaxation, with numerous art galleries showcasing local talent, fantastic restaurants serving fresh tropical cuisine, and fascinating historical sites that tell the story of this vibrant region. For history buffs, a visit to nearby Cooktown and its James Cook Museum provides a captivating glimpse into Australia’s colonial past, making your North Queensland adventure as enriching as it is exciting.

Island hopping through the South Pacific

Chase the sun even further with a Carnival South Pacific cruise.

Our South Pacific cruises sail to the beautiful island nations of Tonga, New Caledonia, Fiji and Vanuatu, where you can warm up while relaxing, exploring the scenery or embracing the local culture. From pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling among incredible marine life to spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant colours, each tropical paradise offers unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever.

Sample the freshest seafood straight from the ocean, meet welcoming locals who’ll share their island stories, and discover the unique charm of each destination as you traipse through these stunning tropical landscapes. History buffs will be pleased to know that our South Pacific cruises can also take you to the historic Norfolk Island or the small islands and islets made famous by the Mutiny of the Bounty in 1789, adding fascinating historical context to your tropical adventure.

Snorkel coral reefs in the Whitsundays

Explore Australia’s most-loved paradise with Carnival. A Carnival Airlie Beach cruise will take you straight to the heart of the 74 islands that comprise the picture-perfect Whitsunday Islands, an unforgettable destination.

Walk barefoot along the white sands of world-renowned Whitehaven Beach, take a glass-bottom boat day tour or a high-speed jet boat joy ride on the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea, or snorkel from the Great Barrier Reef pontoon.

For those seeking less adventure, simply soak up the sunshine and savour local flavours. With picture perfect views in every direction, and warm temperatures year-round, a Carnival Airlie Beach cruise will make you forget all about winter.

Spring holiday ideas

Stop spring cleaning and treat yourself to the trip of a lifetime instead. As the weather warms up, Carnival will take you to some fun and fascinating locations in Australia and beyond.

Sail straight from Sydney to the Melbourne Cup

Glitz, glamour and non-stop fun are what you can expect from a Carnival Melbourne Cup cruise. We’ll turn one of the most famous dates on the Aussie calendar into a memorable getaway you’ll want to relive every year.

Journey from Sydney straight to Station Pier where you’ll disembark and soak up the excitement of the race that stops a nation. Along the way, enjoy everything your Carnival cruise ship has to offer, from sun-drenched pools and luxurious spa treatments to waterslides, live music, sports and gaming, and delicious dining. A Carnival Melbourne Cup cruise will put a spring in your step for months to come.

Head north from Brisbane to Papua New Guinea

Home to some of the world’s friendliest people and most beautiful beaches, Papua New Guinea is a paradise well worth visiting, especially in spring.

Enjoy life on board your Carnival cruise ship as you journey across the Coral Sea and then immerse yourself in the natural beauty and history of Rabaul, Conflict Islands, Kiriwina Island and Alotau. Take a volcano tour, explore World War II relics, get to know the laidback locals, or take in the spectacular scenery both under and above the water. Papua New Guinea showcases Mother Nature at her best.

Why cruises work in every season

Carnival cruises take advantage of each destination and offer fun, affordable, and flexible onboard experiences. Our budget-friendly pricing and short itineraries (like 3–5 day cruises) make it easy for families, couples and groups to take a break during any season – including school holidays, Christmas, Easter, and even winter.

With onboard waterparks, shows, dining, spas, and kids’ clubs, Carnival has unforgettable getaways for every season.

Plan your seasonal holiday with Carnival

Planning your seasonal holiday with Carnival is easy and stress-free. Simply decide when you want to travel, what you want to see, and the type of adventures you want to enjoy. Then, search the Carnival website by destination, month or length of cruise and select the cruise that suits you best.

Carnival’s website is updated regularly with the latest information on ships, itineraries, cruise destinations, and cruise deals, so jump in now to make the most of the season.