7 Reasons A Cruise Holiday Belongs on Your Bucket List
From stress-free planning to exploring multiple destinations in one trip, a cruise vacation has all the hallmarks of a bucket list-worthy adventure.
For Australians, it’s never been easier to set sail, thanks to Carnival’s four-ship fleet. With departures from home ports including Sydney and Brisbane – plus roundtrip cruises from Melbourne and even one from Singapore – a dream cruise vacation is closer than you think. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or booking your first-ever cruise, there are countless benefits of a cruise holiday to look forward to.
So, why should you go on a cruise? We’ve rounded up the top 7 reasons why cruising should be next on your must-do travel list.
1. A cruise holiday is easier than remembering your own passwords
Let’s be honest – planning a getaway can sometimes feel like trying to solve a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces. Flights, hotels, transfers, activities – it all adds up to a logistical juggling act. But a cruise holiday? It’s smooth sailing from the get-go. Once you book your stateroom, everything else – from travel to amazing destinations, dining options and onboard activities to world-class entertainment – is conveniently wrapped up in your cruise fare.
Carnival makes it easy with a range of exciting itineraries departing from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Singapore, onboard their four ships: Carnival Splendor®, Carnival Luminosa®, Carnival Adventure® and Carnival Encounter®. Each ship is designed to whisk you away on a worry-free cruise experience, where your only job is to relax and enjoy.
Better still, you only need to unpack once. That’s right: your cruise ship becomes your floating hotel, transporting you to incredible ports of call without the hassle of repacking at every stop.
Browse Carnival’s cruise itineraries and start dreaming of your next stress-free getaway.
Explore cruise itineraries
2. More bang for your buck than your average holiday
Is a cruise worth it? The short answer: absolutely. Cruise fares combine accommodation, most meals, onboard activities and entertainment into one upfront cost, often making it a more affordable and value-packed option than a land-based holiday. Think of it like staying at an inclusive resort that just happens to float from destination to destination.
Carnival’s cruise ships feature everything from adrenaline-pumping waterslides and relaxing pools to comedy clubs, live music and family-friendly activities. You’ll also find specialty restaurants such as Fahrenheit 555 and Luke’s Bar & Grill, perfect for foodies wanting to elevate their dining experience for a little extra.
Want to splurge on spa treatments at the Cloud 9 Spa or try a wine tasting at Alchemy Bar? Carnival offers these extras too, but the beauty is, much of the fun – including shows, kids’ clubs and access to swimming pools – is already included in your cruise fare.
And if you love a good deal (who doesn’t?), Carnival regularly offers cruise deals to help you save even more on your cruise vacation.
Check out the latest cruise deals.
3. Non-stop fun that even your too-cool teen will love
Carnival’s fleet is designed to keep boredom at bay, with plenty of dedicated spaces and activities tailored for young cruisers. Teens will love the freedom of Club O2 and Circle C, where they can meet new friends, and enjoy movie nights, gaming tournaments and themed parties designed just for them.
Meanwhile, younger kids are spoiled for choice at Camp Ocean, a fully supervised kids’ club featuring marine-themed activities, craft sessions and even interactive Dr Seuss-themed experiences. And for something hands-on, little ones can create cuddly souvenirs at the Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea (for a fee).
For the adventure-hungry, Carnival’s ships offer adrenalin-pumping fun at every turn. Edge Adventure Park challenges guests with rock climbing walls, high ropes courses and thrilling flying fox rides high above the deck. Tickets for Edge Adventure Park are available to purchase onboard. Water lovers won’t be able to resist Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure’s Speedway Splash Waterslides or Carnival Splendor’s Twister Waterslide, a racing waterslide complete with hairpin turns. Families will flock to WaterWorks, Carnival Splendor’s onboard water park, packed with splash zones, tipping buckets and slides that wind their way high above the ship’s decks.
And while the kids are off enjoying their adventures, parents can treat themselves to a little grown-up indulgence. Serenity and Oasis Adult-Only Retreats offer a quiet space with loungers, pools and sea views, perfect for those rare, blissful moments of peace. And if you’re feeling lucky, head to the onboard casino, where you can try your hand at blackjack or the roulette wheel.
4. Quality time with your favourite people, minus the hassles
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a getaway with friends, a cruise makes spending quality time together effortless. Forget stressful logistics and endless group text chains about who’s booking what. On a cruise, everything you need is under one roof – or rather, one deck.
Enjoy group dinners at Guy’s Burger Joint on Carnival Splendor, share laughs at a trivia night or dance under the stars at one of Carnival’s legendary deck parties. Carnival’s four-ship fleet offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories with your crew, without the typical travel hassle.
And when you need a little solo time, there are plenty of quiet spaces onboard, from your own private stateroom to the adults-only retreat or a relaxing nook by the pool.
With Carnival, it’s easy to strike the perfect balance between group fun and personal downtime.
5. Something for everyone, no matter your age or travel style
Every traveller is different and Carnival knows it. That’s why its cruise ships are designed to suit every style, age and vibe.
Families with kids will love the swimming pools, waterslides, and kids’ clubs that keep little ones and teens entertained for hours. Couples can indulge in spa treatments, cocktails at Alchemy Bar, or live performances at the Piano Bar. Meanwhile, groups of friends can enjoy trivia, karaoke, mini-golf and casual dining options like The Pantry or Lido Marketplace.
Foodies can take their pick of eateries. Savour international flavours at Masala Tiger on Carnival Splendor, sink your teeth into a juicy burger at Luke’s Burgers on Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter (charges apply), or enjoy freshly-made pizza at Pizzeria del Capitano. Carnival’s BBQ offerings and specialty restaurants, like Fahrenheit 555, elevate your culinary journey.
No matter who you’re cruising with – family, partner, friends, or even solo – you’ll find your version of the perfect cruise holiday onboard. From peaceful poolside relaxation to non-stop activities, cruises offer flexibility and freedom. Do as much or as little as you like – that’s the beauty of life at sea.
6. See stunning destinations without having to carry your suitcase
One of the biggest benefits of a cruise holiday? Effortlessly ticking off bucket list travel and cruise destinations without the hassle of lugging your suitcase around.
With Carnival, you could snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons in Vanuatu, discover the charm of Noumea’s French-influenced culture, or explore Australia’s own Great Barrier Reef – all in one cruise vacation.
Longer itineraries, like Carnival’s Transpacific cruises, take you from Seattle to Sydney, with jaw-dropping stops in Hawaii, Singapore, New Zealand and more. Each port of call offers the chance to purchase shore excursions, from guided city tours and cultural experiences to action-packed adventures like kayaking or ziplining.
And remember, no repeated packing and unpacking – just one suitcase, one stateroom and multiple destinations. Simply settle in, unpack once and let the ship do the travelling for you.
Explore all Carnival destinations
7. Being on a cruise ship literally makes you happier
If you’ve ever wondered why so many people rave about cruising, it might be because science is on their side. Studies show that travel boosts mental wellbeing – and a cruise ship takes that feel-good factor to the next level.
There’s something about the combination of fresh sea air, endless ocean views and stress-free days that melts your worries away. As you step onboard and the sail-away party music kicks off, you’ll feel your everyday concerns slip beneath the waves. Add in Carnival’s legendary Fun Squad leading deck parties, games and contests, and you’ll be smiling from the moment you step onto the ship.
Cruises also create an unmatched sense of community. Onboard, you’re surrounded by fellow travellers all seeking fun, relaxation and adventure – and that naturally opens the door to new connections. Whether you’re swapping stories with new friends over cocktails at the RedFrog Pub, bonding during a trivia game, or sharing laughs at the Punchliner Comedy Club, it’s easy to meet a lot of people and form genuine friendships.
And then there are the little moments: watching the sunset over the open sea, sipping a freshly brewed coffee on a quiet balcony, or soaking in a spa while the ship glides smoothly to its next port of call. These simple pleasures, coupled with Carnival’s vibrant onboard atmosphere, turn a cruise into more than just a getaway. It becomes a full-body recharge for your mind and soul. A cruise isn’t just a trip – it’s a mood booster, a memory-maker and an experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.
The best cruise line for worry-free, wallet-friendly fun
When it comes to picking the best cruise line, Carnival stands out for all the right reasons. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned pro, Carnival offers a tailored cruise experience across four incredible ships.
If you’re after thrills and action-packed sea days, Carnival Adventure® and Carnival Encounter® deliver with the adventure activities, waterslides and a jam-packed video arcade. For those looking for a more laid-back vibe, Carnival Luminosa® offers premium dining, spa treatments and serene spaces like the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.
Food lovers are well catered for, with BBQs, The Pantry, Masala Tiger and specialty restaurants like the exclusive Chef’s Table dining experience. Alchemy Bar serves up handcrafted cocktails, while casual haunts like the BlueIguana Tequila Bar keep the fun flowing.
Carnival also makes it easy to tailor your cruise holiday to your style. Book spa treatments, secure shore excursions and stay in the loop with the Carnival Hub app. Plus, travel agents can help you customise your cruise and even bundle it with airfares to create the ultimate worry-free getaway.
Book your cruise and start practising your conga moves
So, why go on a cruise? Because it’s fun, it’s easy, and it’s a bucket list travel experience you’ll never forget.
With Carnival, you can choose from quick getaways or longer journeys to destinations like Asia, New Zealand, or the South Pacific. Whether you’re booking your first-time cruise or planning your next big adventure, Carnival is ready to welcome you aboard.
Booking early means you’ll have the first choice of staterooms, from interior cabins to balcony suites, or even premium options like the Byron Beach Club Suites, with exclusive perks like access to the Byron Beach Club, complete with a private pool.
You’ll also get a head start on reserving shore excursions, spa treatments, specialty dining and wine tastings. Plus, travel agents can help lock in cruise deals and customise your holiday to suit your vibe and budget.
Onboard, you’ll find world-class entertainment, comedy shows, thrilling waterslides and award-winning dining. Carnival’s laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere means every guest, from couples to multi-gen families, will find their perfect escape.
So, picture this: you, lounging poolside on a sea day with a cocktail in hand, the kids off enjoying the kids’ club and new adventures waiting at every port of call.
Carnival’s fleet is standing by to make your dream cruise vacation a reality.
