P&O Cruises Australia will be discontinued in March 2025 and its operations will be absorbed into Carnival Cruise Line
Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure ships will be rebranded and operated by Carnival Cruise Line while Pacific Explorer will exit the fleet
The move is part of strategic efforts to increase guest capacity for Carnival Cruise Line, with eight new ships added since 2021
The realignment will strengthen the company’s performance in the South Pacific and enhance operational efficiencies in the region.
A written statement said: “P&O Cruises Australia is a storied brand with an amazing team, and we are extremely proud of everything we have accomplished together in Australia and the broader region,” said Weinstein. “However, given the strategic reality of the South Pacific’s small population and significantly higher operating and regulatory costs, we’re adjusting our approach to give us the efficiencies we need to continue delivering an incredible cruise experience year-round to our guests in the region. Carnival Corporation & plc remains committed to Australia and we will continue to be the largest cruise operator in the region with 19 ships calling on 78 destinations and representing almost 60% of the market.”
