Everything You Need to Know About the P&O Carnival Merger

Hold onto your lanyards, folks! The big news in the cruise world is the P&O and Carnival merger. P&O Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line are joining forces in what’s going to be a game changer for all sea lovers. But what does this mean for you?

As of 29 March 2025, P&O Cruises has ceased sailing in Australia. P&O's Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter ships joined the Carnival Cruise Line fleet and have been rebranded as the Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter. Meanwhile, the Pacific Explorer (formerly known as the Dawn Princess) has been retired.

It is an end of an era in the Australian cruising industry, bringing over 90 years in Aussie waters to a close for the popular brand. Let's dive into what this means for you, the passengers and the future of cruising.

The P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival merge sent shockwaves through the industry in 2024 when it was announced that P&O Cruises Australia would be merging into the Carnival Cruise Line brand. But the first thing to know is... it's not reeaallyy a merger!

The P&O Cruises Australia brand has been sunset and is being folded into Carnival Cruise Line, who is its parent company. The region's largest cruise operator just got even bigger! Onboard, guests can expect an incredible cruise experience with a blend of Carnival's signature brand of fun, with same onboard experiences that made P&O Cruises Australia so well loved. So, you really get the best of both worlds!

Over the next few years, you’ll start to see little changes happening – smoother booking processes, updated itineraries and cooler onboard amenities. If you were P&O regular get ready for more cruise options and possibly even better deals! And for future cruisers it means even more exciting travel experiences.

Be sure to keep an eye on the Flight Centre website for the latest updates or subscribe to get the best deals fast tracked to your inbox as soon as they arrive in port.

If you are looking to set sail, the merge brings some pretty cool perks! Booking your dream cruise will be easier, with streamlined processes and more itineraries to choose from. Booking you next cruise with Carnival Cruise Line through Flight Centre, will be as easy as ordering a pizza; easy, filled with fun and will leave you wanting more.

Onboard, things are looking pretty ship-shape - bringing the best of two world-class cruise lines together. Fan favourite restaurants and dining options from P&O Cruises Australia will still be available on the Carnival Encounter & Carnival Adventure including Luke's Bar & Grill, the Waterfront restaurant, New Zealand Natural ice cream and MORE!

If you're travelling with a family, you'll never hear the dreaded phrase, "I'm bored!" With endless entertainment onboard, there's something for every traveller! The kids are sure to love the Edge Adventure Park, twin racer waterslides, kids club, there's even a Build-A-Bear onboard. Plus, with amazing nightly shows, Byron Beach Club and more - there's something for Mum & Dad too.

If you’re part of the P&O or Carnival loyalty programs good news! The new carnival ships - Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure will now earn Carnival Very Important Fun Person Club (VIFP) points. Carnival VIFP Club perks allow you to make the most of your cruising experience with plenty of great rewards and benefits. Think of it as levelling up in a video game – more points, better offers and greater recognition for your loyalty. Who doesn’t love getting a little extra love for being a regular?

Any past cruises you have taken with P&O Cruises Australia (prior to March 25) onboard the Pacific Adventure, Pacific Encounter or Pacific Explorer, will not count towards Carnival VIFP Club point but will instead count towards the Princess Captain Circle program which can be used when sailing with Princess Cruises.

The future's looking bright for the world's largest cruise company, Carnival Cruise Line! With the Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter joining the family - there will be four Carnival ships sailing Down Under in 2025: the Carnival Adventure, Carnival Encounter, Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Splendor. From short weekend getaways to island hopping in the South Pacific, more ships mean more options for cruise guests.

Long term the vision for the combined brand is all about delivering exceptional value and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s expanding the fleet or upping the game in customer service, Carnival Cruise Line is sure to make waves in the cruise industry. So, pack your bags and your sense of adventure – the future of Carnival Cruise Line and cruising just got a whole lot more exciting!

Ready to set sail on the Carnival Adventure Carnival Encounter? Your Centre For Travel has it all. Chat with an Expert to find out more.