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Carnival Encounter
Last refurbished
2025
Last refurbished
Passengers
2602
Passengers
Ports Visited
Ports visited
Cruises from $ per day
$
From Price per day
Total Gross Tonnage of Carnival Encounter
108,865
Gross Tonnage

Carnival Encounter Cruises

Welcome aboard Carnival Encounter. Launching in early 2025, this 2,600-passenger vessel has already hosted many happy passengers as P&O’s Pacific Encounter. Designed for the local market, she caters perfectly to Aussie tastes. Stay tuned for Funship 2.0 enhancements to be made ahead of joining the Carnival fleet.

From March 2025 P&O Cruises Australia will transition to Carnival.  There will be a transition period that should be completed by April 2025.

Transition dates from P&O Cruises to Carnival:
Sailings from 29 March 2025 are due to be booked & accessible again from 17 Mar 2025.
Sailings from 1 April to 17 May 2025 are due to booked & accessible again from 24 Mar 2025.
Sailings from 19 May 2025 to 10 February 2026 are due to booked & accessible again from 31 Mar 2025.
Sailings from 20 February 2026 to 3 July 2027 are due to booked & accessible again from 7 Apr 2025.

Ship Specification

Maiden voyage: 2002
Number of decks: 13
Tonnage: 108865
Cabins: 1301
Passengers: 2602
Number of crew: 1200
Image of Carnival Encounter

Current Cruise Deals

  • Carnival Flash Sale

    Carnival Flash Sale

    • Reduced $50 per person deposits*
    • Great Guarantee rates
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*
    • Valid on selected Australia sailings

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Grinchmas in July

    Carnival Grinchmas in July

    Enjoy Grinchmas in July with Carnival! These special themed cruises will include:
    • Special appearances by the Grinch
    • Special performances of the Holiday Show featuring singers, dancers & a surprise guest from the North Pole
    • A glittering Christmas tree with snow and a tree lighting ceremony
    • An Ugly Christmas Sweater Competition
    • Grinchmas Who-liday Deck Party with an all-green dress code
    • Grinchmas Family Games & Grinchmas Scavenger Hunt

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Super Saver

    Carnival Super Saver

    • Valid on selected sailings
    • Instant purchase - pay in full within 24 hours
    • Cruise only fare

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival introduces Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure!

    Carnival introduces Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure!

    Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter join the fleet in March 2025
    • Sailings from 29 March 2025 are now able to be booked and accessed.
    • Sailings from 1 April to 17 May 2025 are due to booked & accessible again from 24 March 2025.
    • Sailings from 19 May 2025 to 10 February 2026 are due to booked & accessible again from 31 March 2025.
    • Sailings from 20 February 2026 to 3 July 2027 are due to booked & accessible again from 7 April 2025.

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Carnival Cruises - Fun Select Fare

    Carnival Cruises - Fun Select Fare

    Get the rate of the day with no added extras - a cruise only fare.

    Includes:
    • Two category upgrades are automatically assigned at the time of booking, based on availability within categories only (interior to interior, ocean view to ocean view etc).
    • Two category upgrades does not apply to Suites.
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*
    • Need more flexibility? Other fare options available - speak with a consultant today.

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign

Carnival Encounter Next 5 Departures

Showing Next 5 Departures - View All

Onboard Experience

  • Dining

    • Dining on the Carnival Encounter

    Carnival Encounter will have 18 different dining options, 12 of which is included in your fare. Guests can be as safe or as adventurous as they choose. Whether the sound of garlic snails makes your mouth water or a traditional Guinness pie is more your speed, the incredible chefs onboard have something to tantalise. The Waterfront restaurant is open for breakfast lunch and dinner, offering a rotating menu of Aussie favourites. This restaurant is open dining, no reservation is required.

    Read more

    Other restaurants included in your fare are Angelo's Italian Restaurant and Dragon Lady, these are open for dinner only and do require to book ahead. The Pantry is a food court style experience where guests can get curry at one stand and stir fry in another served to you by the crew. This change has resulted in more responsible travel as well as a more efficient dining experience.  For those special occasions, you don't want to miss the incredible food at one of the many specialty restaurants. Celebrity chef Luke Mangnan will be bringing his delicacies onboard, as well as the famous 400 Gradi Pizza by Johnny Di Francesco. For a culinary experience like no other, the Chef's table will be available. This will have limited numbers on each cruise so be sure to book ahead. If you’re looking for something different, you cannot miss Shell and Bones. Seafood and steak specialty dining restaurant that is open for dinner, carving out a private dining room in the pantry. Room service is available for a minimal fee. 

    Read less
  • Bars

    • Bar on the Carnival Encounter

    Whether you are looking for a fine wine or a delicious cocktail, Carnival Encounter offers several bars and lounges to suit your mood. With 6 different venues, including a venue exclusive to Encounter, guests have ample choice. Sit back and relax on the deck chairs by the pool and be served by the attentive wait staff or enjoy a pre-dinner drink while watching the sunset.

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    For the real party-goers, the nightclub will be the place to finish your night, but not before boogying on the open deck with the DJ at the themed parties. Along with Carnival Adventure, Carnival Encounter welcomes the Byron Beach Club into the family. This exclusive space is for suite guests only, providing a getaway on the top deck with uninterrupted views of the ocean, music playing from the bar and an extensive cocktail menu. For the parents who just need 20 minutes of peace to enjoy a glass of wine, the Oasis Bar is the strictly adults-only area of the ship with spas and a pool.    Drinks packages are available on sailings 7 nights or longer. There are several options for guests to choose from ranging from basic soda’s by the glass to alcoholic packages that include cocktails, spirits, beers and barista-made coffees and teas. Chat to your consultant today about options in booking this with your cruise fare.

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  • Entertainment

    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter
    • Entertainment on the Carnival Encounter

    On board, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Main Lounge is where you can find high-energy production shows and cabaret acts assisted by a live show band, these are suited for all ages but it is best to check your daily cruise planner for which show is on each day. Dive-in Movies under the stars offer another family-friendly experience. For more adult-centric fun, head to the R-Rated Punchliner Comedy Club. The lineup offers familiar Aussie comedians and side-splitting laughs.

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    If singing your heart out is more your thing, The Piano Bar and karaoke cater to all wannabe pop stars and talent levels. For those keen to kick on, Carnival Luminosa's dedicated nightclub will let you dance the night away. Days and nights are dotted with various quizzes and games so keep an eye on your daily planner for the happenings of the day.

    Your Carnival Cruise will also feature a variety of different theme nights that vary depending on the length of your voyage:

    • 3 and 4-day cruises, you can expect to enjoy both an Elegant Evening and an 80s Rock ‘n’ Glow Deck Party.
    • 5-day cruises will feature an Elegant Evening, 80s Rock ‘n’ Glow Deck Party, and a Superhero night.
    • 6 and 7-day cruises will have 2 Elegant Evenings, 80s Rock ‘n’ Glow Deck Party, Silent White Hot Party and a Superhero night.
    • 8+ day cruises will feature 2 Elegant Evenings, 80s Rock ‘n’ Glow Deck Party, Silent White Hot Party, Superhero night, Island night and a Backyard Bash.

    Read less
  • Activities

    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter
    • Activities on the Carnival Encounter

    Whether you are the type of cruiser that enjoys spending your sea days by the pool, finding your own space to curl up with a good book or challenge your skills at trivia or ping pong tournaments, you can choose how you want to holiday. Carnival Encounter has over 60 different activities that you can either join in on the fun or relax and enjoy some respite. With adventure parks, family-friendly fun, sports, trivia, classes and more, the most challenging choice will be what to pick.

    Read more

    For those that prefer to expand our minds, there are various classes on offer throughout your cruise. Learn how to make coffee like a professional, shake yourself a perfect martini, dance a tango or get the heart rate pumping with one of the many fitness classes on offer. Hone a new skill to take home and show off to your friends and family. For those that prefer an adrenaline boost, Carnival Encounter has one of the largest adventure parks at sea. Fly the length of the ship on a zip line, climb to the top of the funnel and abseil down, try out the titanic experience or walk the plank. Push yourself to your limits. Some activities will attract a surcharge, see your daily cruise planner onboard for details. 

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  • Health & Fitness

    • Fitness on the Carnival Encounter

    Evolve Health and fitness studio on Carnival Encounter provides a space for guests to maintain their exercise at sea. Featuring, state-of-the-art equipment and workout programs that are designed to suit all levels of fitness. For those that prefer the fresh air outdoors, an open-air running track is available on the top decks. Personal trainers are available, or if you prefer there is also a range of classes such as low impact yoga, pilates or even a long booty boot camp.

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    Elemis Spa is the answer to the question everyone asks when they need a holiday, how can I just relax. Escape into another world and rediscover your mind, body and soul. Leave your stresses at the door and let Encounter’s professionally trained massage and beauty therapists take you into a level of relaxation that you didn’t know was possible. Get plucked and buffed until you’re feeling rejuvenated or even try acupuncture, reflexology and aromatherapy. Whether it’s the sleepy mornings, a brisk run or a rejuvenating facial, guests can find their perfect centre aboard Carnival Encounter.

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  • Kids

    • Kids activities on the Carnival Encounter

    Camp Ocean (2–11 years), Circle “C” (12–14 years), and Club O² (15–17 years) are kids clubs equipped with accredited staff and endless entertainment such as ocean-themed activities, trivia, games, karaoke, movies, and much more. Infants must be at least 6 months of age to travel on domestic itineraries and 12 months for all other itineraries due to the limited capacity for neonatal facilities onboard.

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    Seuss-a-palooza Parade is a bright, colourful, fun-filled display of all your favourite Dr. Seuss characters, something not to miss, and then watch them come to life at the Seuss-a-palooza storytime session as you listen to all your Dr. Seuss favourites. If your little one is ages 2–5, get them moving at Zumbini’s, a specialised Zumba class for kids.

    Carnival also offers their Night Owls programme for children from 6 months to 11 years old (additional charges apply). This allows parents and guardians to enjoy the nightlife without having to worry about their little ones. Night Owls is available each evening from 10:00pm through to 1a.m. During the day parents/guardians can advise the Youth Staff if their child will be participating in the Night Owls programme.

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  • Inclusions

    • Activities - organised & individual
    • All main meals on-board
    • Alternative dining (extra charge)
    • Australia: Tipping is not required
    • Bridge director on select cruises
    • Coffee, tea & milk 24 hrs
    • Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
    • Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
    • Kids clubs & teen programs (2-17 yrs)
    • Open/anytime seating & multi-venue dining
    • Ship-shore-ship transfers
    • Special needs requests & service animals allowed
    • Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor

Destination & Ports

Visited Ports

Cabins

There are six types of cabin onboard and 35 price categories: insides, outsides (some obstructed), balcony cabins, outside mini-suites (with and without balconies) and balcony suites. Cabins will be roomy and nicely appointed, with satellite TV access to major channels. Standard cabins are practical and attractive, many have additional upper berths for children, and some have inter-connecting doors. The larger the stateroom, the more additional facilities. All cabins are spacious with wardrobes, en-suites, and twin beds mostly convertible to queen size.

Facilities include a flat-screen TV, fridge, personal safe, and an interactive video system. Outside cabins have a large window or porthole in the case of a few. Interconnecting cabins for families and groups allow quad-quad, twin-quad, triple-triple, and twin-twin bedding. There are 560 balcony rooms and 230 suites and mini-suites. Four types of suites are available, including two family suites, each of which can sleep up to 10 people if four are children otherwise eight adults. Mid-priced suites compare more than favourably with motel accommodation, amenities and service. Most balconies give privacy, and some can be joined with other balconies when travelling in a group. Suites have a bathtub and second TV. Twenty-six cabins are wheelchair accessible. Cots are available for children under three years. Smoking is only permitted in designated smoking areas, and excludes staterooms and balconies.)

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  • Inside

    Inside on the Carnival Encounter Inside on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    4H, 4G, 4F, 4E, 4D, 4C, 4B, 4A, PT, IS

    An Interior stateroom is the most affordable way to cruise without leaving out the comfort or convenience! Great for curling up after a long day of fun.Every room includes:- Soft, cozy linens- Plenty of closet and drawer space- In-room safe for valuables- Television- Stateroom climate control

  • Outside

    Outside on the Carnival Encounter Outside on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    6B, 6A, 5A, OV

    Your picture window gives you views of scenery you wonrsquo;t find anywhere on land, all from the comfort of your Ocean View stateroom.Every room includes:- Soft, cozy linens- Plenty of closet and drawer space- In-room safe for valuables- Television- Stateroom climate control

  • Balcony

    Balcony on the Carnival Encounter Balcony on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    8M, 8D, 8C, 8B, 8A, BL

    Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, plus these rooms face backward (most balconies face left or right), so yoursquo;ll get a unique view of your ship's gentle wake.Every room includes:- Soft, cozy linens- Plenty of closet and drawer space- In-room safe for valuables- Television- Stateroom climate control

  • Suite

    Suite on the Carnival Encounter Suite on the Carnival Encounter

    Cabin Types

    SB, EB, GB, OS, OT, VB, BY, ST

    There's only one Byron Beach Presidential Suite on the ship, so book early if you're looking for the ultimate in luxury! This apartment-style suite features premium perks and an aft-facing balcony, plus the comfort and convenience of a separate living room, dining area... and then there's bathroom upgrades like a large shower and separate toilet room with a second sink. And don't forget, your suite includes access to the Byron Beach Club and more exclusive perks!Amenities exclusive to Byron Beach Presidential Suite:- Wine and welcome treat upon arrival- Complimentary room service (regular bar prices apply for beverages)- Complimentary minibar selection (water and soft drinks)- Complimentary wash amp; fold laundry service

Carnival Encounter Deck Plans

Legend

  • Rooms are smaller than the average for room grade
  • Third or Fourth berth available
  • Third berth available
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Room with Porthole
  • Fixed queen-bed, cannot be converted to twin beds
  • Interconnecting rooms
  • Obstructed View
  • Public toilet
  • Room does not have a bathtub
  • Two berth (OZ grade: One lower, one Upper berth)
  • Two fixed lower beds. Cannot be converted to a queen-size bed

Carnival Encounter Cruise Calendar

Date Title Departs Prices From
05 Apr 2025 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1364
29 Apr 2025 JOURNEYS - 10-NIGHT PAPUA NEW GUINEA Brisbane $1634
09 May 2025 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane Sold Out
16 May 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane Sold Out
19 May 2025 12-NIGHT FIJI & SOUTH PACIFIC Brisbane $3809
31 May 2025 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1244
11 Jun 2025 JOURNEYS - 10-NIGHT PAPUA NEW GUINEA Brisbane $1914
21 Jun 2025 3-NIGHT 90S GETAWAY Brisbane $669
24 Jun 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane Sold Out
28 Jun 2025 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1624
05 Jul 2025 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane Sold Out
12 Jul 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $634
15 Jul 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $831
19 Jul 2025 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1244
26 Jul 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $600
29 Jul 2025 4-NIGHT COUNTRY GETAWAY & AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane Sold Out
02 Aug 2025 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1117
08 Aug 2025 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1320
16 Aug 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $824
20 Aug 2025 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1334
30 Aug 2025 3-NIGHT 80S GETAWAY Brisbane $759
02 Sep 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $770
06 Sep 2025 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1207
13 Sep 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $574
16 Sep 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $781
20 Sep 2025 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane Sold Out
27 Sep 2025 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1370
04 Oct 2025 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1322
11 Oct 2025 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1098
17 Oct 2025 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1121
25 Oct 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $611
28 Oct 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $691
01 Nov 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $611
04 Nov 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $691
08 Nov 2025 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1054
14 Nov 2025 JOURNEYS - 8-NIGHT PAPUA NEW GUINEA Brisbane $1757
22 Nov 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $611
25 Nov 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $689
29 Nov 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $611
02 Dec 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $675
06 Dec 2025 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1004
12 Dec 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $613
15 Dec 2025 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $728
19 Dec 2025 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $2222
27 Dec 2025 3-NIGHT COMEDY GETAWAY Brisbane $663
30 Dec 2025 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1992
09 Jan 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1322
17 Jan 2026 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1022
24 Jan 2026 3-NIGHT AUSSIE GETAWAY Brisbane $670
27 Jan 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $663
31 Jan 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
03 Feb 2026 JOURNEYS - 13-NIGHT SOUTHEAST ASIA Brisbane $1514
05 Mar 2026 JOURNEYS - 15-NIGHT SOUTHEAST ASIA Singapore $1828
20 Mar 2026 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1114
27 Mar 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
30 Mar 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
03 Apr 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1054
11 Apr 2026 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1164
18 Apr 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
21 Apr 2026 10-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1364
01 May 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $659
04 May 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
08 May 2026 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1089
15 May 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
18 May 2026 12-NIGHT FIJI & SOUTH PACIFIC Brisbane $1809
30 May 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $939
05 Jun 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
09 Jun 2026 JOURNEYS - 10-NIGHT PAPUA NEW GUINEA Brisbane $1414
19 Jun 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
22 Jun 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
26 Jun 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1214
04 Jul 2026 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1169
11 Jul 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
14 Jul 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
18 Jul 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1164
26 Jul 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $939
01 Aug 2026 JOURNEYS - 14-NIGHT MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY & Brisbane $3880
15 Aug 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
19 Aug 2026 JOURNEYS - 10-NIGHT PAPUA NEW GUINEA Brisbane $1364
29 Aug 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
01 Sep 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
05 Sep 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $939
11 Sep 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
14 Sep 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
18 Sep 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1314
26 Sep 2026 7-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $1169
03 Oct 2026 7-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1079
10 Oct 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
13 Oct 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
17 Oct 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1164
25 Oct 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $939
31 Oct 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
03 Nov 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
07 Nov 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1164
15 Nov 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
19 Nov 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609
22 Nov 2026 6-NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF Brisbane $939
28 Nov 2026 8-NIGHT VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA Brisbane $1214
06 Dec 2026 4-NIGHT AIRLIE BEACH Brisbane $659
10 Dec 2026 3-NIGHT GETAWAY Brisbane $609

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