Carnival Cruise Lines announced yesterday that it would base the 88,500-tonne 'Carnival Spirit' in Australia. This will be Carnival's first venture into Australian waters, and the largest cruise ship to be based full-time out of Australia.
'Carnival Spirit' will arrive in Sydney in October 2012 to operate a schedule of 8-12 day voyages to the Pacific Islands. and a selection of 13-day sailings to New Zealand beginning October 25.
"The 2012-13 cruise season is now shaping up to be a record year for the Australian cruise market with all major lines placing additional ships in the region," said Jill Abel, General Manager of Australia's national cruise industry body Cruise Down Under.
"The positive affect this will have on tourism and transport operators both in major cities and regional destinations will be welcomed in a currently challenging tourism environment."
