Ahoy, cruise lovers! If you’re tossing up between the two Carnival cruise titans gracing Australian shores, you’ve come to the right place. Both Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa promise plenty of fun, food, and fabulous ocean views—but which one is the best fit for your next high-seas adventure? Let’s dive in!
Ship Stats & Home Ports
Carnival Splendor
Based in: Sydney, Australia (September to April)
Gross Tonnage: 113,300 GT
Passenger Capacity: 3,012 guests
Crew Members: 1,150
Number of Cabins: 1,503
Year Built: 2008
Carnival Luminosa
Based in: Brisbane, Australia (October to April)
Gross Tonnage: 92,720 GT
Passenger Capacity: 2,260 guests
Crew Members: 926
Number of Cabins: 1,130
Year Built: 2009
Carnival Splendor is the larger and louder sibling, packing more space and people onboard, while Luminosa offers a slightly more intimate cruising experience.
Most Common Itineraries
Carnival Splendor: Popular routes include Sydney to the South Pacific, with stops in destinations like Noumea, Mystery Island, and Lifou. Shorter trips to Moreton Island and the Great Barrier Reef are also common.
Carnival Luminosa: Sails from Brisbane to the South Pacific and Great Barrier Reef, with itineraries featuring Port Vila, Mare, and Airlie Beach. Luminosa also offers unique longer cruises to Singapore and transpacific voyages.
Dining: From Buffets to Bistros
If food is your love language, both ships deliver in spades!
Splendor boasts Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Masala Tiger, and the signature Seafood Shack. The main dining rooms are The Gold Pearl Restaurant and The Black Pearl Restaurant.
Luminosa dials up the Italian flair with Bonsai Sushi, Pizzeria del Capitano, and a refined Mediterranean-style dining room. The main dining rooms are the Velo and Archipelago Restaurants. There's always the Lido Marketplace, or for something smaller head to the Deli Cafe or Farenheit 555 Steakhouse.
Verdict? If you’re after variety, Splendor wins. But if you love Mediterranean flavors, Luminosa is a delight.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Splendor is a party powerhouse, featuring the Punchliner Comedy Club, Dive-In Movies, and a thumping nightclub.
Luminosa offers a slightly more relaxed vibe, with live music lounges, a casino, and a dazzling three-deck-high theatre.
Love a dancefloor and late-night antics? Splendor. Prefer live music and cabaret-style shows? Luminosa.
Ship Facilities & Activities
Pools & Spas: Splendor has a giant waterpark, while Luminosa focuses on relaxation with a sophisticated thermal spa.
Bars & Lounges:
Carnival Splendor: Features RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar, The Cool Lounge, The Piano Bar, and The El Morocco Lounge.
Carnival Luminosa: Offers a more intimate experience with The Alchemy Bar, Casino Bar, The Piano Lounge, and The RedFrog Rum Bar.
Public Spaces:
Carnival Splendor: The grand Royal Flush Casino, The Cloud 9 Spa, The Grand Atrium, The Sports Deck, and the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.
Carnival Luminosa: Features The Luminosa Theatre, The Grand Vista Atrium, The Cloud 9 Spa & Thermal Suites, and a Sun Deck with panoramic views.
Kids Clubs: Splendor and Luminosa are both considered a family-friendly paradise with Camp Ocean, Circle C, and Club O2 for different age groups.
Deck Plan & Layout
Splendor’s layout is sprawling and bustling, perfect for those who love a high-energy cruise. Luminosa’s intimate and elegant design suits those who appreciate a refined onboard experience.
The Verdict
Go for Carnival Splendor if: You want non-stop action, a variety of dining, and an epic waterpark for the kids.
Go for Carnival Luminosa if: You prefer a slightly quieter, refined experience with Mediterranean touches and a great spa.
Either way, you're in for an unforgettable cruise. Which ship do you think suits your style? Drop a comment below! 🚢⚓🍹
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