Magical entertainment, from stage productions to live music performances
Family-friendly activities and youth programmes for children ages 2 to 17 years
Swimming pools and whirlpool spas
Access to a well-equipped Fitness Center, Sports Court, and more
A well-appointed stateroom featuring Carnival Home Bedding Collection
Bespoke Handcrafted Cruise & Stay Mega May Flash Sale - book by 22nd May & Save up to £50pp* & Deposits from £99pp for departures from December 2025 onwards^
Choose to fly from a variety of airports included within the price.
Hotel
A hotel stay is include in this cruise. See the itinerary for details of the hotel. Transfers to and from the hotel are included.
Land Tours
Land tours are included, see itinerary for more details.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Drinks
Some teas, coffees and soft drinks will be included but alcoholic drinks are extra. Drinks packages can be added after booking. The CHEERS! Beverage package is $82 per person per day covers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including spirits, cocktails, beer, wine by the glass (priced at $20 or lower), sodas, specialty coffees, energy drinks, and bottled water.
Wi-fi
Wi-Fi is not included in the base fare of Carnival cruises. To stay connected while at sea, Carnival offers several internet plans that you can purchase for an additional fee. These start at $18 per person per day.
Speciality Dining
Specialty restaurants allow travellers to enhance their dining experience during the cruise. This is a great way to add variety to your holiday or celebrate a special occasion. You can pay for meals in the special dining restaurants onboard.
Tips
Tips are not included in the base fare. Instead, they are automatically added to your onboard account as a daily charge which ranges between $16-$18 per person per day depending on the cabin type. These can be pre-paid or settled at the end of the cruise. If you’re not satisfied with the service, you can adjust the gratuity amount by visiting Guest Services during your cruise.
Excursions
If you would like to do any excursions/tours while docked these will be an additional charge. Excursions/tours can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package. Alternatively these can be bought while on the ship but may be more expensive than pre-booking.
Insurance
Have the peace of mind that you're covered. Contact us after you have made the booking if you would like us to add this to your package.
Parking
Car parking at the port or airport for the duration of your trip is not included within the price of the cruise. Port/airport parking can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add this to your package. An approximate cost for parking is between £12 - £20 per car per day. Alternatively we can arrange transfers from your home to the departure airport/port.
Transfers (home to port)
Transfers from your home to the port or airport aren't included but we can help organise coach transfers, taxis etc to make your life easier. Please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package.
Visa
Visas are not provided by us or the cruise operator. Visas and other travel documents have to be obtained by the individual passengers prior to sailing.
Ship Facilities
Carnival Encounter - By Carnival Cruise Line
Family FriendlyGood For CouplesInformal
Year: 2001
·
Refurbished: 2025
·
12 Decks
·
Max capacity: 3,420 people
*Bespoke Handcrafted Cruise & Stay Mega May Flash sale up to 50pp reduction and reduced deposit is valid for new bookings made between 9th May 2025 - 22nd May 2025 with a minimum spend of £1599pp Reduced deposits only available on bookings outside of full balance due at 17 weeks. ^The 99pp deposit promotion from Iglu is valid on selected sailings departing from 1st December 2025 onwards and is valid for new bookings only made between 9th May 2025 - 22nd May 2025. The remaining deposit amount will be collected 10 weeks after booking date or upon cancellation.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
Talk to a Cruise Expert
Our cruise experts will help you pick the perfect cruise line, ship and destination.
We can tailor any package to suit your holiday needs: Add or extend hotel stays, arrange flights and find the best cabin location for you.
Brisbane's Koala Bears & Southeast Asia to Singapore with Stay , 29 January 2026 (19 nights)
Your itinerary
Singapore Airlines
London Heathrow Brisbane
DAY 1-3
29 Jan 2026
This flight is included in the cost of your cruise with 1 piece of baggage per person
London Heathrow Brisbane
29 Jan 2026 20:35
London Heathrow
Departs
29 Jan 2026 20:35 (local time)
Singapore Airlines
1 stop
Brisbane
Departs
31 Jan 2026 07:15 (local time)
Singapore Airlines
Transfers
Transfers from Airport to Hotel
Included
Brisbane Hotel Stay - 3 Nights
DAY 3-6
Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane
Leichhardt Street (Corner Of Wickham Terrace), 23 0 .
Situated on the highest point in Brisbane's Central Business District, Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane is a convenient address for business and leisure travellers. Discover an engaging blend of contemporary design, modern amenities and gracious hospitality, at a 4.5 star Brisbane hotel dedicated to the perfect guest experience - ideal for a relaxing corporate trip, family holiday or weekend getaway.
Overlooking the picturesque Roma Street Parklands, our 4.5 star Brisbane accommodation affords commanding views of the city skyline, surrounding mountains or Brisbane River, and is only a short walk to the city or 15 minute walk to Suncorp Stadium. Plus enjoy easy access to QPAC, the Convention Centre, and Brisbane Powerhouse conveniently located nearby.
Hotel Photo Gallery
Hotel Features
Total number of rooms
hotel
American Express
JCB
Diners Club
MasterCard
Visa
Wheelchair-accessible
Car park
Electric vehicle charging station
24-hour reception
Mobile phone coverage
Wi-fi
Local and international calls
Car hire
Secure parking
Room service
Laundry service
Launderette
24-hour security
Air conditioning in public areas
Smoke detector
Hotel safe
Currency exchange facilities
Cloakroom
Lift access
Concierge
Sun terrace
Gym
Luggage room
Dining area
Clothes dryer
Private pool
Electric kettle
Towels and bed linen
Café
Bar
Restaurant
Non-smoking area
Smoking area
Highchairs
Air conditioning in Restaurant
Conference room
Meeting room
Audio-visual equipment rental
Sun loungers
Breakfast buffet
À la carte lunch
À la carte dinner
Non-smoking establishment
Credit card is compulsory as a deposit, no deposit in cash is accepted
Fitness
With a hotel stay in this stunning destination, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself even more in the unique culture of the region you’re visiting during your cruise getaway. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to explore the nightlife of the holiday hotspot you’re in, something you don’t always get when you’re sailing from one incredible destination to the next during your cruise.
Transfers
Transfers from Airport to Hotel
Included
River Cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
DAY 4
If you’re looking to spend some ‘koality time’ with some of the most incredible Australian animals, and you’re after the chance to admire Brisbane’s stunning cityscape and surrounding scenery, this is the perfect excursion for you! A definite ‘must do’ experience while you’re visiting Brisbane and Australia’s east coast, the aptly-named Koala and River Cruise will take you along the stunning Brisbane River to the world-famous Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary on a charming excursion you won’t soon forget. The tour starts with a relaxing river cruise along Brisbane’s waterfront with informative commentary from a world-class tour guide offering insight into the hustle and bustle of the city’s skyscrapers, and the waterside mansions in the leafy suburbs surrounding the city. Then, you’ll arrive at the spectacular Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, having three hours to explore everything on offer at your own leisure. Both the oldest and the largest koala sanctuary of its kind in the world, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to over 130 koalas – although, they’re only a part of what this experience offers. Here, you’ll also have the chance to hand-feed kangaroos and emus, admire an authentic Australian sheep dog show, spot a shy platypus swimming in the sunshine, and more. Once you’ve had some time to explore the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, you’ll then embark on a return river cruise right back to where you started. A fantastic introduction to Brisbane as a city and an unforgettable opportunity to admire koalas (and other magnificent Australian animals) in protected environments, this tour promises a fantastic day of adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a greater appreciation for the conservation efforts being made by the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Things to see:
Brisbane Waterfront
As you enjoy a relaxing and informative cruise along the tree-lined Brisbane River, you’ll have the chance to see the city’s skyline alongside the South Brisbane Cemetery, Indooroopilly Golf Club, Sherwood Arboretum, and more.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Established in 1927 with the primary goal of protecting koalas at a time when the species was being culled for its fur, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to well-over 100 koalas alongside 75 species of Australian native animals and birds; it’s also home to an education department, a wildlife hospital, and the Brisbane Koala Science Institute.
Koalas
A vulnerable species of marsupial native to Australia, these incredible creatures are known for their stout bodies, black noses, and fluffy ears; at the Long Pine Koala Sanctuary, you’ll have the chance to spend time in the presence of these incredible animals while observing their natural behaviours in a protected environment designed to fully support their mental, physical, and emotional health.
Red Kangaroos
The largest land-based mammals native to Australia, red kangaroos are something of a symbol of the nation and remarkable animals, with powerful hind legs and a strong tail; with an open field of red kangaroos visitors can observe, pet, and feed, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of the best places to witness these creatures up close.
Platypuses
Unique egg-laying mammals, Platypuses can sense prey in cloudy waters using electrolocation and are one of the few species of venomous mammals, with the males of the species having a spur on their hind foot that can deliver an extremely painful venom.
What’s Included
Included
Entrance fees to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Return tickets for Brisbane River Cruise experience
Not Included
Transfers to and from your accommodation and the tour starting point / ending point
Sightseeing stops and optional experiences not disclosed in the itinerary
Additional personal expenses and gratuities (where applicable)
Food and drink (available at an additional cost)
Koala Moments experiences and photo opportunities (available at an additional cost
Things to know
Tour Starting Point
The Mirimar and the Koala Express depart from in front of the State Library of Queensland at the Cultural Centre Pontoon on the South Bank Boardwalk, South Brisbane, Australia, QLD 4104.
Please ensure that you arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes prior to the tour start time.
Tour End Point
The tour will end at the same point as the starting point (outlined above).
Tour Timeline
Though subject to change, the expected timeline for this experience is as follows:
08:30 am to 09:00 am – Boarding Brisbane River Cruise from Cultural Centre Pontoon (starting point outlined above)
09:00 am – Departure from Cultural Centre Pontoon on Brisbane River Cruise
10:15 am – Arrival at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
13:30 pm – Departure from Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary on return Brisbane River Cruise
14:45 pm – Arrival at Cultural Centre Pontoon and end of experience
Koala Experiences at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
You will be able to book photo opportunities and koala experiences for your visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary at your own expense via the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary website. These include Koala Moments experiences from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm.
Koala holding experiences are no longer available at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, having stopped from July 1, 2024. This decision has been made in response to strong visitor feedback and to address increasing public demand – allowing visitors to spend more time with the sanctuary’s koalas without necessarily holding them.
Transfers
Transfers from LandTour to Port
Included
Brisbane
DAY 6
03 Feb 2026
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 3 PM
The capital of Queensalnd, Brisbane is a laid back city with an abundance of attractions, including the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, botanical gardens and the Gallery of Modern Art. Beloved for its warm climate, it’s also full of al fresco restaurants, wildlife and modern skyscrapers.
Transfers
Transfers from LandTour to Port
Included
Things to do in Brisbane:
Koala Sanctuary
Spanning 18 hectares, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was founded in 1927. The largest and oldest of its kind, there are over 80 different species that call it their home. A tranquil attraction within easy reach of the city centre, it makes for a fun day out.
Botanic Gardens
Situated at the heart of the city, the Brisbane Botanical Gardens are surrounded by skyscrapers and provide a welcome break from the hustle and bustle. Top highlights within the gardens include the ornamental ponds and bamboo grove.
Gallery of Modern Art
Located in the Queensland Cultural Centre on Kurilpa Point next to the popular Queensland Art Gallery, the modern art gallery is the largest of its kind in Australia. Within it, amongst an array of exhibits and collections, there is a cinematheque.
At Sea
DAY 7
04 Feb 2026
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Airlie Beach
DAY 8
05 Feb 2026
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
Known fondly as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is a stunning destination in Queensland. A popular holiday hotspot, it is surrounded by breathtaking turquoise waters with palm tree-lined beaches, vibrant markets and tropical rainforests. Top things to do in the area include renting jet skis, relaxing in Boathaven Beach and venturing to the awe-inspiring Conway National Park.
Things to do in Airlie Beach:
Jet Skis
Take to the water for a thrilling ride on a jet ski across Airlie Beach. A popular activity to do whilst visiting the destination, it’s fun regardless of your age!
Boathaven Beach
Relax and unwind at the beautiful Boathaven Beach. A stretch of white sand with lots of swimming zones, the beach is popular with both tourists and locals alike that are looking for a tranquil activity to enjoy during their time in Airlie Beach.
Conway National Park
Within easy reach of Airlie Beach, Conway National Park is situated less than 950 km from Brisbane. Boasting tropical rainforest and plenty of different flora and fauna, the national park makes for a wonderful day out.
At Sea
DAY 9-11
06 Feb 2026
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Darwin
DAY 12
09 Feb 2026
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 8 PM
Situated in the Northern Territory, Darwin is an enchanting city with a variety of breathtaking flora and fauna, a rich Aboriginal culture and strong Asian influences. Across the city you’ll find an array of museums, galleries and other popular attractions that are waiting to be explored. Top highlights in the city include the picturesque Darwin Wave Pool, George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens and Crocosaurus Cove.
Things to do in Darwin:
Darwin Wave Pool
Open daily, this breathtaking attraction is popular with both tourists and locals alike. A wave pool on the waterfront, it’s a fun activity no matter what your age!
Botanic Gardens
Alternatively you could head to the beautiful George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Located two kilometres from the centre of Darwin, it spans an impressive 42 hectares and is home to an array of tropical species. It also boasts an event space, retail gift shop and a mini amphitheatre.
Crocosaurus Cove
Get up close to some of the most incredible creatures on this planet - saltwater crocodiles. At Crocosaurus Cove which is situated in the centre of the city, you can swim with the crocodiles, hold baby crocodiles and enjoy other fun activities at this unique attraction. And with the largest display of saltwater crocodiles in Australia, there’s no better place to do it!
At Sea
DAY 13-14
10 Feb 2026
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Benoa, Bali
DAY 15
12 Feb 2026
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
Known for its beautiful scenery, Benoa in Bali, also known as Tanjung Benoa is beloved for its relaxed vibe, watersports and exclusive resorts. Tourists visiting the area love to take to the water and enjoy fishing tours, parasailing and jet skis. And on land, there’s plenty of cultural attractions to explore, including the Caow Eng Bio Temple and Pasar Desa Pakraman market.
Things to do in Benoa, Bali:
Harbour
The bustling harbour in Benoa is a fantastic place to visit, due to the amount of watersports and food stalls surrounding it. Offering the perfect photo opportunities, the harbour is at the heart of the area.
Pasar Desa Pakraman
A vibrant market with pretty surroundings, one of the most popular attractions in Benoa is the Pasar Desa Pakraman market. Local fishermen and other vendors sell their produce here from the early evening until midnight.
Caow Eng Bio Temple
Another nearby cultural attraction is the Caow Eng Bio Temple. One of the oldest Chinese temples in the area, it boasts prominent red arches, shrines, sculptures and other extraordinary features.
Lembar, Lombok
DAY 16
13 Feb 2026
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
If you’re looking to indulge in a slice of paradise during your cruise, this is where you’ll find it. Lembar is a primary port on Lombok, a lesser-known sister island to Bali in Indonesia. Home to stunning sandy beaches largely unimpacted by excessive tourism, colourful Indonesian cuisine full of flavour, and a laid-back atmosphere, spending time in Lombok is always rewarding. Here, you’ll find yourself with the chance to do everything from water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving to volcanic hiking routes and even the chance to visit an indigenous village – the best place to learn more about the local culture and history. You’re in for an unforgettable day when you stop in Lembar, Lombok, however you end up spending it.
Things to do in Lembar, Lombok:
Mount Rinjani
An active volcano dominating the stunning natural landscape of Lombok, Mount Rinjani is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia and provides a sensational backdrop for some of the incredible hiking routes on this island. Climbing to the summit of Rinjani itself can take a couple of days, and it’s far from easy, but you’ll be able to appreciate the majesty of this mountainous formation from wherever you are on the island – whether you’re exploring the incredible terrain by foot, or lounging on a sunny beach with refreshments in-hand.
Snorkelling
Lembar, Lombok is the perfect launching point for some of the most unique snorkelling experiences in the world. Heading out to the Gili Islands, you’ll have the chance to see sunken scooters, a vibrant coral reef, huge sea turtles, and Nest – an unusual underwater sculpture by Jason deCaires Taylor, which depicts 48 life-size human figures in a circle. A hauntingly beautiful sight, it really has to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.
Beleq Village
An impressive indigenous village on Lombok, Beleq is a great place to learn more about the Sasak Culture. Dating all the way back to the 14th century, with surprisingly few changes throughout the years, you’ll be able to immerse yourself fully in local life here; from traditional housing to artwork and cuisine, spending some time here will elevate your experience in Indonesia.
At Sea
DAY 17-18
14 Feb 2026
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Singapore
DAY 19
16 Feb 2026
Time at Port: from 4 AM to 11 PM
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an exotic yet easy-to-navigate cruise destination. Singapore has long been Asia's crown jewel, with a plethora of glitzy shopping malls, rooftop cocktail bars and fine dining opportunities. It's modern, classy and blessed with lots of sun for a day of exploring.
Transfers
Transfers from Port to Airport
Included
Things to do in Singapore:
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a haven for nature lovers, located near the Marina Bay Waterfront in the heart of Singapore. Gardens by the Bay has hidden gems such as unique plantlife, calm gardens and unique spots to relax in, as well as its expansive conservatories.
Merlion Park
Merlion Park, named after the water-spouting Merlion statue, is an essential Singaporean landmark. The Merlion is Singapore's national symbol, with a lion's head and fish's body. The park is popular with tourists and locals alike, who come to take photos of the outstanding scenery, the famous statue and relax by the water.
Mint Museum of Toys
The Mint museum houses a collection of the best toys from across many ages. Learn about its history and the significance of the museum to academics, artists and students on a guided tour. With so many toys to see, you'll be reliving your childhood in a wave of nostalgia.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Agri-Horticultural Society, in 1859, transformed plantation property into a massive botanical garden for recreational use. It has become a major element of Singapore throughout the years, to the point where it has been designated as the country's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Orchid Garden is a highlight, as is the ample room for jogging dining or simply relaxing.
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Changi Intl London Heathrow
DAY 19-20
16 Feb 2026
This flight is included in the cost of your cruise with 1 piece of baggage per person
Singapore Changi Intl London Heathrow
16 Feb 2026 12:45
Singapore Changi Intl
Departs
16 Feb 2026 12:45 (local time)
Singapore Airlines
London Heathrow
Departs
16 Feb 2026 19:10 (local time)
Singapore Airlines
Transfers
Transfers from Port to Airport
Included
Select your departure airport
If you are looking for an airport not available in the list below or want to make changes to your flights, please give us a call: 0203 095 5343