Carnival Splendor has set sail from Sydney, restarting Carnival Cruise Lines operations in Australia.
After nearly three years away, Sydney-based Carnival Splendor made a big return home on September 30, 2022. Splendor was the first ship to enter Australian waters with international passengers in nearly three years, completing its 23-day transpacific voyage to its Australian homeport.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy traveled to Sydney to take part in the ship’s homecoming. “Carnival Splendor’s return to Sydney Harbour was a stunning moment to see, and one we’ve been waiting for,” Duffy said. “The return of Carnival Splendor to Sydney is a milestone achievement, not just for us, but for the Australian cruising industry. Her arrival marks the first cruise ship to enter Australian waters with international passengers in nearly three years. Splendor’s return also kick-starts an exciting time for Carnival Cruise Line as it celebrates 10 years in Australia in October, and Brisbane being the first to experience our newest ship, Carnival Luminosa, in November.”
Carnival Splendor’s transpacific journey to Sydney began in Seattle, Washington, on Sept. 6. Guests aboard the special Carnival Journeys voyage enjoyed an unforgettable opportunity exploring the natural beauty of the South Pacific, with visits across Hawaii and the Fiji Islands.
As Carnival Splendor set sail on her first voyage this weekend she marked the ‘return of the fun’ in Australia, officially restarting the cruise line’s guest operations in Australia.
A ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy welcomed guests aboard Carnival Splendor, kicking off a Carnival cruise vacation for the first time in nearly three years.
“Today’s festivities are just a taste of what’s to come for Australia. We have been planning this return for some time, and we are elated now to see guests back on board, ready to have fun and take in the beauty that Australia has to offer,” said Duffy.
Also taking part in the ribbon-cutting were two Sydney locals and avid cruisers, Joe and Van Huddleston. The Huddleston’s were the first guests back on board and are celebrating a milestone of their own: their 80th cruise on a Carnival ship.
Carnival Splendor’s first sailing is a four-day cruise visiting Australia’s pristine Moreton Island. The ship will operate a variety of Australian sailings year-round. Carnival Luminosa will begin operations from Brisbane in November.