How many passengers does Carnival Encounter hold?
Carnival Encounter carries 2,600 guests at double occupancy and up to 3,100 at maximum capacity.
Carnival Cruise Line · Grand Class
Carnival Encounter
It's the newest Carnival ship Down Under, bringing that signature 'Fun Ship' vibe to Brisbane with a hefty dose of adventure park fun.
2002 · Refurbished 2021
Year Built
2,600
Guests
Grand Class
Class
108,977
GT
4
Pools
Grand-class ship formerly Pacific Encounter and Star Princess, joining Carnival in 2025. Homeporting in Brisbane, offering Edge Adventure Park, Byron Beach Club, marquee comedy shows, and relaxed South Pacific resort-style cruising.
Dining & Drinks
Specialty dining (extra charge)
Drinks (extra charge)
Room service included
Dietary Options
Gluten-FreeVegan
Wellness & Relaxation
Fitness Center
Gym included
Pools
4
Hot Tubs
6
Medical Center
✓
Pool Lift
✓
Wheelchair Rentals
✓
GoCruiseTravel.com Ship Data
42/100
mainstream — extras sold separately
2,600
guests
GoCruiseTravel.com tracks 0 upcoming sailings on Carnival Encounter (Carnival Cruise Line). Built 2002 (refurbished 2021), 2,600 guests, 108,977 GT. Amenities: 4 pools, 6 hot tubs, self-laundry, accessible cabins, medical center. Carnival Cruise Line Perk Score: 42/100 (mainstream — extras sold separately) — room service.
Accessible Travel
Traveling with accessibility needs? Carnival Encounter has 28 accessible cabins.
Pool LiftWheelchair RentalsElevators: 14
Ask anything about Carnival Encounter
Policies at a Glance
PetsNot Allowed
Balcony SmokingAllowed
Dress CodeCasual
Formal NightsYes
The Details
Can I do laundry onboard?
Yes — self-service laundry available
What voltage are the cabins?
110V & 220V
Is there a dress code?
Casual
Are there formal nights?
Yes — formal nights onboard
Can I smoke on the balcony?
Yes — balcony smoking allowed
USB in Cabins
✓
Upcoming Voyages on Carnival Encounter
No upcoming sailings for this ship.
Quick answers
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Carnival Encounter built?
Carnival Encounter was built in 2002 and most recently refurbished in 2021.
Which cruise line operates Carnival Encounter?
Carnival Encounter is operated by Carnival Cruise Line.
Does Carnival Encounter have swimming pools?
Carnival Encounter features 4 swimming pool(s) onboard.
Is there self-service laundry on Carnival Encounter?
Yes, Carnival Encounter features self-service passenger laundromats onboard.
Who sails this line
Typical age
35-55
Primary markets
US · CA · AU · UK
Onboard languages
en
Kids onboard
Common — family-friendly programming
Sister Ships · Grand Class
Vessels built to the same architectural blueprint, sharing deck layouts, signature venues, and hull dimensions.
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Carnival Adventure
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