Carnival cruise ship Carnival Luminosa officially set sail on its first Australian passenger journey on Sunday, following a ‘Here Comes the Fun’ send-off event at Brisbane International Cruise Terminal.
As part of the festivities, visitors to the terminal were treated to live music and entertainment that featured a magician and appearance by Dr Seuss characters including The Cat in the Hat.
Adding to the fun, Port of Brisbane CEO Neil Stephens presented Carnival Luminosa with a “Citizen-ship” certificate to acknowledge Carnival’s commitment to Queensland.
Carnival Cruise Line Executive Vice President and CCO Ken Tate and Carnival Cruise Line Australia Vice President Kara Glamor were both on hand for the special presentation.
“Luminosa is, without a doubt, a multicultural ship with Italian roots and a history of sailing around the globe,” Stephens said.
“But with her abundance of natural light and unique fun offerings, she feels right at home in the Sunshine State.
“Bringing a Carnival ship to Queensland has been a long-term goal of ours, so this cruise is a very special occasion.”
Queensland locals and VIFPs (Very Important Fun People) Bruce and Susan Ambrose had the honour of cutting the ceremonial ribbon with the Carnival team at the event.
On her inaugural Queensland sailing, Luminosa will visit the Great Barrier Reef stopping at Airlie Beach, Cairns, Port Douglas and Willis Island across seven nights.
Qld tourism boost
“To have Luminosa sailing out of Brisbane is not only a win for us but a big win for Queensland tourism,” Glamor said.
“With 28 sailings from November 2022 to April 2023, Luminosa will support Carnival Australia’s anticipated $165 million contribution to the Queensland economy this year and make it easier than ever for Queenslanders to experience the fun of a Carnival cruise.
“Our dedication to Queensland is stronger than ever and we can’t thank our guests enough all of their love and support whilst for waiting for our arrival.”
With a passenger capacity of 2,200 guests, Carnival Luminosa joined CCL from sister brand Costa Cruises and features a two-deck-high sliding sky dome over the large pool, one of Carnival’s largest spas and a three-storey theatre.
Visit carnival.com.au for more information.
