Carnival drops popular Australia cruise brand after more than 90 years

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calder’s Travel email Get Simon Calder’s Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “P&O Cruises Australia is a storied brand with an amazing team, and we are extremely proud of everything we have accomplished together in Australia and the broader region,” said Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “However, given the strategic reality of the South Pacific’s small population and significantly higher operating and regulatory costs, we’re adjusting our approach to give us the efficiencies we need to continue delivering an incredible cruise experience year-round to our guests in the region.” Ships Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure are set to be rebranded for operation within the Carnival Cruise Line in March next year. Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said: “While we plan to make some technology upgrades and other small changes to the two P&O Cruises Australia ships, they will continue to be geared to the unique Australian market with a familiar feel and much of the same experiences for P&O Cruises Australia guests. “The most notable change will be the availability of our popular HubApp, enabling guests to make online dining and excursion reservations, request food and beverage delivery, and chat with other guests, among other features.” The changes come amid a string of moves to expand the Carnival fleet – three vessels from sister brand Costa Cruises have been transferred since 2021, and two new Excel-class cruise ships will join the line in 2027 and 2028.