Carnival Encounter in dry dock makeover
SYDNEY, 19 February 2026: Carnival Encounter, Carnival Cruise Line’s year-round Brisbane-based ship, has sailed into dry dock in Singapore for a wave of upgrades designed to offer more holiday fun for cruisers.
Queenslanders are sure to be delighted by the ship’s makeover, starting with the new look of Carnival’s iconic red, white and deep blue livery, plus multiple updated features that will dial up the fun for families and provide an all-new spa experience for maximum relaxation.
It’s safe to say that when Carnival Encounter returns to Brisbane on 20 March, she’ll be as refreshed as guests feel after a sunny Queensland cruise, with updates including:
All-New Cloud 9 Spa™ Thermal Suites
Step inside a brand-new world of bliss, featuring saunas, steam baths and heated thermal lounges crafted by master climate artists. These new relaxation zones promise the ultimate “do not disturb” holiday moment.
A Splashier Outer Deck Experience
All five pools will be revitalised and all seven Jacuzzi tubs replaced, complete with newly refreshed surrounds for an elevated experience in the ship’s most-loved holiday hangout spots.
More Fun for Families
The newly resurfaced onboard basketball court will sport all-new hoops and netting to level up the family fun.
Twin Racer Waterslides: Now Smoother and Speedier
The ship’s popular Twin Racer slides will be polished up for a sleeker, faster ride – perfect for siblings (and parents) keen to win bragging rights.
“We’re excited to be providing our guests with a whole new spa experience and transformed spaces onboard Carnival Encounter. Queenslanders are going to love the luxury of lying on a heated lounge while at sea, whether they choose to sail in summer, autumn, winter or spring,” said Anton Loeb, Carnival Cruise Line Assistant Vice President Sales & Marketing.
Guests will be able to book access to the new thermal suites online ahead of time or onboard through the Cloud 9 Spa, with options for a day pass or a full‑cruise experience.
The dry dock program also includes a range of behind‑the‑scenes energy‑saving upgrades designed to improve onboard efficiency. Upgrades are also underway in crew areas, ensuring the team who delivers the fun has a refreshed, comfortable home away from home.
Carnival Encounter will depart Singapore on 5 March, calling into Lombok and Bali enroute home to Brisbane. After returning to the Sunshine State on 20 March, the ship will resume year-round sailings to idyllic Aussie favourites and dreamy South Pacific destinations, including Airlie Beach, Great Barrier Reef, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea.
For more information on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au.
Media Contact
Lynne Scrivens
0438777460
