P&O Cruises is Joining Forces with Carnival: What You Need to Know About the Exciting Changes Ahead
Are you a fan of P&O Cruises? Big news is coming your way! As part of a major update, Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will officially join the Carnival Cruise Line fleet by March 2025. While this brings about some exciting changes, many of the P&O experiences you know and love will remain. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect with the upcoming transition to Carnival, from new features to familiar favourites.
New Features to Look Forward To
1. A Fresh New Name: Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter
As these ships become part of the Carnival family, they’ll be renamed to Carnival Adventure™ and Carnival Encounter™. This means new branding and a fresh new vibe, but don’t worry—many of the onboard features will stay just as you remember.
2. Fun for the Whole Family with Carnival’s Iconic Fun Squad
One of the biggest additions onboard will be the Carnival Fun Squad, offering tons of activities and entertainment for everyone. Think thrilling games, deck parties, trivia, and comedy shows—perfect for guests of all ages.
3. Free Pizza Every Day!
Who doesn’t love pizza? Carnival will be serving up delicious, free pizza daily from 11 am to 4 pm. This is a great perk for families, friends, and anyone with a craving for a tasty slice.
4. Upgraded Youth Programs for Kids
Carnival’s family-friendly atmosphere means their award-winning youth programs will be onboard. Kids from toddlers to teens can enjoy Carnival’s Camp Ocean, Circle “C”, and Club O2. And, for the youngest cruisers, the Turtles program will allow parents to leave their children under 2 in the care of the crew (for a fee), or simply use the facilities with no charge.
5. Updated Theme Nights
Get ready to party! Carnival’s iconic theme nights will bring even more fun to your cruise. Highlights include the retro 80s Rock ‘n’ Glow, the super cool Silent White-Hot Night, and Elegant Evenings—all set to add an extra splash of excitement to your evenings onboard.
6. More Family Fun Activities
Expect even more Carnival-style entertainment, like Build-A-Bear workshops and the Conga for Kids dance party. These activities will make for unforgettable moments with the family.
7. Enhanced Support for Sensory Needs
Carnival Cruise Line is certified by KultureCity, meaning that both ships will now have enhanced support for guests with sensory needs. Crew members, including Youth Staff, will be trained to assist, and complimentary KultureCity Sensory Bags will be available for those who need them.
P&O Favourites That Are Staying
While the ships will be taking on the Carnival brand, several P&O favourites will remain, so you’ll still get to enjoy the best of both worlds.
1. Byron Beach Club
The Byron Beach Club retreat will remain exclusive to suite and mini-suite guests, offering a relaxing sanctuary onboard. Even though room categories will be renamed to match Carnival’s naming conventions (e.g., Ocean Suites), suites with access to the Byron Beach Club will retain “Byron” in the room name.
2. Dining You Know and Love
The beloved dining options from P&O Cruises will continue onboard, including Waterfront, Luke’s Bar & Grill, Angelo’s, and Dragon Lady. You’ll also still be able to indulge in delicious ice cream, shakes, and sundaes at New Zealand Natural.
3. Heart-Pumping Adventure
The Edge Adventure Park will remain an adrenaline-pumping favourite, offering exciting experiences and incredible views. Plus, you’ll still be able to race down the twin racer waterslides—though they will be getting a fresh new name.
4. Blanc de Blanc Uncorked
If you loved the acrobatic cabaret show Blanc de Blanc Uncorked from Strut & Fret, don’t worry—it’s staying! This award-winning show, packed with humour, elegance, and high-octane performances, will continue to thrill guests.
5. Familiar Crew
While the ship’s name and brand are changing, many of the friendly crew members you know and love will still be onboard, providing the same high level of service and creating the welcoming atmosphere you expect from P&O.
What’s Next?
As we approach the official switch to Carnival Cruise Line, you can expect more updates on what to expect from Carnival Adventure™ and Carnival Encounter™. Whether you’re a long-time P&O fan or new to the brand, these ships will offer a great mix of new Carnival experiences along with all the familiar favourites that make cruising with P&O so special.
For more details, keep an eye out for upcoming announcements, and get ready for an exciting new chapter in cruising!
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