Carnival Encounter’s refresh: Why families will love her glow-up

Carnival Encounter has just received a multi-million dollar glow-up that’s bound to delight families cruising from Brisbane. The ship returned to Brisbane on March 20 looking fresh in Carnival’s iconic red, white and deep blue livery following a makeover in Singapore.

More fun, more flair, more wow

Think revitalised pools, faster waterslides and a refreshed sports court – all designed to dial up the fun for guests of every age. And when mum or dad need a break from the action? The new Cloud 9 Spa thermal suite offers the ultimate “do not disturb” holiday moment, complete with heated thermal lounges, saunas and steam rooms.

Of course, Carnival Encounter already had plenty going for her – the dry dock simply takes everything guests love and turns the volume up.

So what exactly has changed? Here’s a closer look at the upgrades.

Refreshed pools and new jacuzzis

Carnival Encounter’s outer decks look better than ever. All five pools have been refreshed, and all seven jacuzzis have been replaced with sparkling new ones.

The surrounding deck spaces have also enjoyed a glow-up, making it even lovelier to stretch out on a sun lounger, cool off between activities or soak up the sea views with a cocktail in hand.

Brand new Cloud 9 Spa thermal suite

One of the most exciting updates is the new Cloud 9 Spa thermal suite. Unwind in heated thermal lounges or step into saunas and steam rooms.

And when it’s time for a little extra relaxation, Cloud 9 Spa also offers massages, facials, body wraps and more.

Dazzling new entertainment shows

Drum roll please, there’s an exciting new lineup of entertainment in town! Highlights include Rock Revolution: Summer of ‘69, a high-energy concert-style production celebrating iconic music, and Broadway Beats, which reimagines famous show tunes with a modern twist.

Young families will love Suess-a-Palooza Story Time – Green Eggs & Ham, an interactive experience bringing Dr Suess to life.

Also not-to-be-missed is Dear Future Husband, a thrilling cruise ship wedding adventure supported by a modern soundtrack packed with this century’s megahits.

These entertaining newcomers join Carnival favourites The Voice of the Ocean and Blanc de Blanc Uncorked, which will continue to dazzle and delight.

The Pantry gets a fresh new feel

When hunger strikes, The Pantry is the go-to spot for easy, buffet-style dining – and it’s had a bit of a glow-up, too.

Walls were removed to open up the space, making it feel brighter and easier to move around. There’s also more buffet counter space, and the Pantry is now fully self-serve.

A refreshed sports court

Families who love a little friendly competition will enjoy the newly resurfaced sports court, complete with brand-new hoop, netting and pickleball lines.

It’s the perfect place for kids, teens and parents to shoot some hoops, start an impromptu family tournament or burn off energy between delicious dining experiences.

Faster, smoother waterslides

Carnival Encounter’s popular twin waterslides have also received an upgrade.

Now revitalised for a sleeker ride, the slides deliver faster runs, smoother twists and even more bragging rights for those brave enough to race to the bottom.

Callout: Want to see where everything is located on board? Take a look at the Carnival Encounter deck plans before you sail.

Smarter energy upgrades

Some of the biggest improvements happened behind the scenes. During dry dock, Carnival Encounter received a series of smart energy upgrades designed to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

From upgraded galley equipment, improved air conditioning units, IT enhancements and cold room upgrades, these updates help the ship operate more efficiently while continuing to deliver the same fun-filled holiday experience guests love.

Classic experiences guests love

While plenty of new features have arrived, many classics remain firmly in place – offering just as much fun, relaxation and entertainment as ever.

EDGE adventure activities

For thrill-seekers, EDGE delivers plenty of heart-racing fun. Soar across the top deck on the flying fox, tackle the rock-climbing wall or take on the epic Bridge Roof Walk for spectacular ocean views.

Entertainment for every age

Carnival Encounter offers entertainment galore. Experience the dazzling adults-only show Blanc de Blanc UNCORKED, catch blockbuster films at Dive-In Movies or enjoy stand-up at the Punchliner Comedy Club – which includes both family-friendly and adults-only shows.

Places to relax

When it’s time to slow down, book the kids into the kids club and head to The Oasis, an adults-only retreat at the rear of the ship.

If you’re staying in Byron Beach accommodation, you can also enjoy your own exclusive retreat at Byron Beach Club, complete with its own private bar, pool and whirlpool spas. Kids are welcome here, too – there’s plenty of space for all.

Dining worth cruising for

Food is a highlight of any cruise, and the dining onboard Carnival Encounter does not disappoint.

The Pantry, Trattoria, Angelo’s, Dragon Lady and Waterfront continue to serve up plenty of crowd-pleasing favourites, and some newer additions to the dining line-up are also worth getting excited about. Fahrenheit 555 will replace Luke’s Bar & Grill from 4 May, bringing Carnival’s signature steakhouse experience onboard. Think perfectly cooked premium cuts, fresh seafood and an impressive wine list.

Another exciting new arrival is Bonsai Sushi Express, serving made-to-order sushi, sashimi, rolls, salads, poke bowls and desserts. Bonsai is already a huge hit on Carnival Luminosa.

Fun for the whole family

For families planning cruises from Brisbane, Carnival Encounter’s refresh offers something for everyone. The upgrades build on everything families already love about cruising – more fun for kids, more ways for parents to relax and more opportunities to spend quality time together.

From splashing in revitalised pools to racing down waterslides or unwinding in the spa, Carnival Encounter makes it easy for every member of the family to find their happy place.

Little cruisers: Big fun for younger kids

When you’re raising little kids, holidays can sometimes feel more like “parenting in a different location” than relaxation. That’s where cruises really come into their own.

Cruising on Carnival Encounter makes travelling with kids refreshingly relaxing. Rather than moving between hotels or constantly figuring out where to eat and what to do next, everything is right on board. Kids wake up in the same cabin each morning, parents discover their favourite dining spots, and before long the whole family settles into an easy holiday rhythm.

Days often begin on the pool deck, where little cruisers can splash between the ship’s pools before heading off to explore even more onboard adventures. The resurfaced sports court is perfect for energetic kids, while Carnival’s supervised kids clubs keep younger guests busy with games, crafts and themed activities while mum and dad relax.

Teen-approved adventures

Teens love having their own space – but family time matters too. Carnival Encounter strikes a perfect balance.

Thrill-seekers can head straight to EDGE to take on the flying fox, scale the rock-climbing wall or attempt the Bridge Roof Walk. Then it’s time to test their competitive streak on the Speedway Splash waterslides.

Teens looking for more laid-back fun will find plenty to enjoy, too, from the pools to the 24-hour arcade where friendly rivalries can last long into the evening.

And when it’s time for the whole family to reconnect, Carnival Encounter’s nightly entertainment – from movies under the stars to comedy shows and live performances – offers something everyone can enjoy together.

Multi-generational memories

Carnival Encounter also shines when it comes to multi-generational travel. Whether it’s grandparents joining the trip, cousins travelling together or extended family celebrating a special occasion, it’s easy for everyone to holiday at their own pace.

Everyone can dip in and out of activities as they please, while still coming together for meals, evening shows or a relaxed stroll around the decks. The result is a holiday where everyone feels included – and everyone leaves with a story to tell.

Cruising solo or as a couple? Carnival Encounter still shines

Travelling without kids? Family-friendly doesn’t mean you’ll be surrounded by kids at every turn. Carnival Encounter still offers plenty of child-free places to relax.

Think spa afternoons, sunset drinks on deck and leisurely dinners followed by live entertainment. Whether you’re catching a comedy set, enjoying a theatre show or simply taking in the ocean views, it’s easy to settle into the slower rhythm of cruise life.

The beauty of cruising from Brisbane

Brisbane is an ideal starting point for a cruise holiday, sitting within easy reach of some of the South Pacific’s most beautiful destinations.

Carnival Encounter operates year-round sailings to idyllic Aussie favourites and dreamy island escapes, including Airlie Beach, Great Barrier Reef, Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Fiji.

Brisbane also offers a wonderfully relaxed start to any cruise. There’s something special about beginning a holiday in a subtropical city. Warm weather, a laid-back atmosphere and an easy journey to the cruise terminal without the usual airport stress? Yes, please!

If Brisbane is your home base, embarking couldn’t be easier – simply head to the cruise terminal and step straight into holiday mode. Travellers arriving from elsewhere in Queensland or across Australia might like to spend a little extra time exploring the city before or after their cruise, with Brisbane’s riverside dining, leafy parks and cultural precincts all well worth a visit.

Ready for your next family adventure?

Carnival Encounter is back and better than ever – and families are in for a treat. From poolside fun and waterslide races to kids club adventures and relaxing spa time for parents, there’s something for every member of the family on board.

All that’s left is to choose your dream destination and get ready for an unforgettable family holiday at sea.

Explore Carnival Encounter itineraries today.