Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed changes to several Australia-based itineraries following the sale of a private cruise port in Papua New Guinea. The update affects select sailings scheduled between 2026 and 2028.
The change directly impacts Carnival Encounter, which will no longer be able to visit the Conflict Islands as originally planned. Carnival said the destination is no longer available for cruise ship calls due to new ownership.
In a message sent to booked guests, the cruise line explained it had been informed that the port would no longer accept cruise visits. As a result, all future calls to the Conflict Islands have been removed from the ship’s itineraries.
What’s Changing for Carnival Encounter Sailings
Industry data shows Carnival Encounter had been scheduled to visit the Conflict Islands six times through 2028. Those calls were spread across multiple South Pacific itineraries departing from Brisbane.
In 2026, the ship was set to visit the islands in June and August. These stops were part of ten-night sailings that also included other ports in Papua New Guinea.
While the Conflict Islands have been removed, other destinations remain unchanged for now. Ports such as Alotau, Kiriwina Island and Rabaul are still listed on current voyage plans.
Replacement Ports and Guest Updates
Carnival said it is actively reviewing alternative ports to replace the removed stop. Updated itineraries are expected to be shared with guests in January 2026.
Passengers were advised to wait for official updates before changing flights or accommodations. The cruise line said it will continue communicating directly with guests as plans are finalised.
Similar last-minute boarding adjustments have occurred on other Carnival sailings during busy holiday periods, including a recent New Year’s departure aboard Carnival Jubilee.
Carnival’s Australia Operations Going Forward
Carnival Encounter continues to offer cruises ranging from three to 15 nights from Brisbane. The itineraries cover Australia, the South Pacific Islands and parts of Southeast Asia.
The ship operates alongside Carnival Splendour and Carnival Adventure in the region. Carnival Luminosa also sails in Australian waters on a seasonal basis.
While Carnival Encounter was the only Carnival ship scheduled to visit the Conflict Islands, other brands still have calls planned. Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and Seabourn currently list visits between 2026 and 2028.
Earlier this year, Carnival also adjusted sailings aboard Carnival Adventure due to short-term planning changes. The company said such updates are sometimes necessary when port access or operational conditions change.
Carnival emphasised that guest safety and smooth operations remain its top priorities. Although itinerary changes are uncommon, the cruise line noted they can happen when circumstances shift.
