There’s one question that usually follows a first-time cruiser: Did you like it?
After all, you’re either a cruise person or you’re not, so they say.
So my response to this question ever since getting off the Carnival Adventure?
“I’m going to book one with my friend next year!”.
I was recently invited to spend a week on board Carnival Cruise Adventure to see how the ship stacked up after they took on the P&O fleet earlier this year. All I can say is it is all the bells and whistles P&O ships were known for mixed with the classic Carnival experience.
Before I went on the cruise, I was very sceptical about being stuck on a ship for five days with no way to get off, but I had no idea what was in store for me. There is simply no way you can get bored on the Carnival Adventure, from trivia and bingo to cabaret shows and ziplining – there is always something to do.
I’m going to go back to the beginning so you know exactly why I can’t stop raving about cruising.
I was so nervous before the cruise that I just about bought out my local chemist for every kind of seasick medicine I could get my hands on. As a motion sick girl, this was a necessity but for the whole five days (including a rough sea day) I fared quite well.
When I arrived at Circular Quay for boarding, I was taken aback by just how big the ship was. I know it’s silly given the ship has 13 decks and has a capacity for over 2,500 quests, but you can’t imagine how big it is until you are standing next to it.
Side note: for all my fellow first-time cruisers make sure you always call it a ship and not a boat. You will get a stern look and be told off!
Boarding was a breeze! You check your suitcase in, and it will later magically appear outside your stateroom – perfect service!
Speaking of staterooms, let me tell you about the room that I stayed in. I was fortunate enough to stay in an ocean view balcony room, and it was so good I almost wanted to spend most of my time inside! Sitting on my balcony watching the waves, or having a nap with the sound of the ocean – it doesn’t get much better than that!
Once on board it is go time, before I had even seen my room people were already in the pool and others had drinks in their hands. The moment you take your first step on board; your holiday has officially begun.
I spent a little bit of time standing dumbstruck in the lobby, gawking at the grandeur thinking to myself, “I’m going to get lost on this ship” before joining my fellow passengers on the pool deck for the sail away party.
The food
On my first night I tried Angelo’s (included cost) for some of the best Italian food I’ve had in a while. If it was up to me, I probably would have spent every night at a table inside Angelo’s!
My tip: try the infamous Carnival Melting Chocolate Cake, it’s on all the Carnival ships for a reason.
Next was Dragon Lady (included cost) to try their delicious Asian fusion dishes. It had all the classic Asian flavours you have come to expect.
My tip: the Kung Pao Chicken.
On the third day was Trattoria (additional cost) for another Italian fix. The warm and inviting atmosphere inside is worth the additional cost alongside the world class food.
My tip: the Limoncello Spritz.
On my last night, I tried the famous Luke’s Bar & Grill, a classic P&O favourite. I opted for the burrata for a starter and the mouth-watering eye fillet steak for my main. I was just blown away by the quality of the food from all the restaurants on the ship.
My tip: the eye fillet steak.
The entertainment
The highlight of all the entertainment on the Carnival Adventure was the risqué cabaret show, ‘Blanc De Blanc Uncorked’. This is a must-see for all cruisers over 18.
While the show is definitely racy it provides audiences with a lot of laughs and entertainment for the night. I won’t tell you too much about the show because I think it is best to go in not knowing too much.
I was supposed to go on shore to visit Moreton Island, but rough seas meant it was safer to stay on board. No problem! I headed straight up to the on board spa for a facial, strategically pretending like I didn’t see the gym on board. Make sure you visit the spa, cancelled shore day or not.
One afternoon I was determined to try out some of the Edge Adventure Park offerings which include abseiling, ziplining and watersliding. My fear of heights had me chickening out but the smiles on the faces of those ziplining past me told me enough.
One night, I made my way up to the pool deck to join the ‘80s rock n glow party where a DJ played classic ‘80s tunes. Everyone had a drink in their hand, a smile on their face and danced the night away.
The final word
For families, couples or groups of friends, Carnival Adventure is perfect. The entertainment, dining options and bars will ensure everyone has something they like.
Despite not being able to get off at Moreton Island, I had the best five days cruising the high seas.
I’ll be back next year!
The writer travelled as a guest of Carnival Cruises.
Emily Chate
Emily Chate joined The Western Weekender in 2024, and covers local news - primarily courts and politics. A graduate of the University of Wollongong, Emily has contributed to The Daily Telegraph and worked as a freelance journalist.