Great Barrier Reef Encounter

Pricing based on departure date 06 September 2025.

An itinerary dedicated to our incredible Great Barrier Reef – one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Sailing from Brisbane for the ultimate Queensland getaway. 

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is the tourism mainland hub for the Whitsundays, where you can take on activities either on the beautiful water or the verdant greens of the rainforest. You'll instantly feel the holiday as you enjoy the tropical atmosphere when you stroll through cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and souvenir stores.

Cairns

While it is usually a jump-off port for the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns can also become a destination for destination for trekking, discovering secret islands along the reef, exploring the Daintree Rainforest and even gliding through the rainforest canopy. Cairns also is home to the Esplanade, which is a swimming lagoon where you can freely bask under the sun as you enjoy the panoramic views of the Trinity Inlet.

Willis Island

Willis Island is the only permanently inhabited island in the Coral Sea Islands Territory. Located beyond the Great Barrier Reef, this island stands 280 miles from Cairns. The only residents on the 7.7-hectare sandy island are a handful of Australian Bureau of Meteorology staff members working at the weather monitoring station.The main attractions are the sights youll see as you cruise through the Coral Sea. Spot tropical birds like black noodies, sooty terns and wedge-tailed shearwaters. Cruise to Willis Island to see the Great Barrier Reef stretch beneath the turquoise waters and the exotic fish that swim here, including angel fish, clown fish and hammerhead sharks.

Your Ship: Pacific Encounter!

Carnival Encounter sails year-round from Brisbane and is perfect for families, couples and groups of friends who want to lean into both fun and relaxation on their holiday.

Guests can expect the perfect blend between everyone’s interests with kids clubs, teen-friendly hangout spaces, an adult-only retreat, dining that ranges from casual to connoisseur, and entertainment for all ages.

Water lovers will be spoilt for choice with spas, four pools, and waterslides. Thrill seekers are covered too with Edge Adventure Park, complete with ziplining, rock climbing and abseiling. More of a chill seeker? You’ll love the exclusive Byron Beach Club, the Adult-Only Oasis Retreat, and the day spa and salon.

As the sun goes down, the fun only goes up. Dive into delicious dining options like Angelo’s, Dragon Lady, or celebrity-chef dining at Luke’s Bar & Grill. Be entertained with live comedy and dazzling stage shows. Or dance the night away at a classic Carnival deck party. Yep, Carnival Encounter has got it all!

Brisbane, At Sea, Airlie Beach, Cairns (overnight), Willis Island, At Sea, Brisbane

All fares are displayed in AUD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.