'Subtle' detail as new Carnival ship sails into Sydney Harbour after revamp
Carnival Cruise Line bosses might have folded beloved 90 plus year-old brand, P&O Australia into the Carnival brand.
But they have kept a nostalgic touch on the ships they hope will be appreciated by cruise fans.
Carnival Adventure, formerly P&O Australia's Pacific Adventure, which sailed into Sydney Harbour this morning for the first time, is adorned with a freshly painted Southern Cross.
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The new Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter sailing side by side. Supplied
It's identical to the one seen on the ship when it was part of P&O Australia, and has been added as part of revamp of both vessels.
"Hopefully people will appreciate as we come into Sydney to see the Southern Cross that's been painted on the side of the ship," Carnival Cruise Line president, Christine Duffy tells 9Travel.
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"We've added the name Carnival, but with the Southern Cross. That is subtly something we are keeping."
The symbol has also been added to Carnival's other Australia-based ships, Splendor and Luminosa.
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9Travel was onboard the new Carnival Adventure in Sydney. Nine
Christine maintains that amid a spate of cruise lines puling out of having ships based Australia because of high costs it demonstrates their commitment to the market.
"We'll have four ships dedicated to the Australian market and that is more than any by far than any other cruise line," she says.
"I hope people see that as a commitment to this market in a way that is sustainable."
Nine/Graphic: Polly Hanning
Regarding criticisms from some passengers that Carnival cruises are more expensive than P&O Australia's were, she says Carnival generally has more included as part of the fare than P&O did.
She says prices also vary depending on dates and itinerary.
"We're comfortable and confident people will still see this brand as accessible and affordable," she says.
9Travel was onboard for a special open day held today, with the ship docked at Sydney's Circular Quay before heading to its White Bay base.
Carnival Cruise Line president, Christine Duffy cuts the ribbon on the new Carnival Adventure. Supplied
"I'm excited for people to not only see the ship but also experience some of what we're adding," Christine says.
"Things like our Hub App, the option for P&O guests to be part of the VIFP loyalty program, we've added a Fun Squad to both of the ships, we're bringing Dr Seuss over, which I think it's going to be a fun thing for families."
However, P&O Australia staples like the Byron Bay Club area, Luke's Bar & Grill and The EDGE adventure park remain.
Almost all of the P&O Australia crew have opted to stay in their jobs, Christine says.
More than 500,000 people are expected to cruise with Carnival in Australia in 2025. Nine
The former P&O Australia ships sailed for the last time earlier this month.
More than 500,000 people are expected to cruise with Carnival in Australia in 2025, departing from Sydney and Brisbane.
Carnival Adventure and Carnival Splendor sail from Sydney, while Carnival Encounter and Carnival Luminosa sail from Brisbane.
The cruise industry contributes more than $8 billion annually to the national economy, with Carnival Cruise Line alone delivering $2 billion, Carnival said.
