The cruise-line who encompasses the word FUN like no other.

On the show with us today we welcome Mark Richards, National Account Manager of Carnival Cruise Lines Australia, as we speak about Carnival’s brand story, why FUN is behind all of their messaging and is at the core of everything they do, what lies ahead for the future of cruise and highlights some extremely exciting revelations for us here down under.

This episode demonstrates the importance of brand awareness, cruising as a vital piece of the tourism sector and spotlights the incredible efforts undertaken by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) to champion the return of the cruise industry. 

Key takeaways

• ‘Choose FUN’, Carnival’s tagline is instilled into the Carnival Cruise branding and highlights their target market which is fun-loving families and couples.
• Carnival have customised the ships to the Australian market while they’re in our waters. AUD onboard, no gratuities, local beers, food and spirits.
• 50% of the USA can board a Carnival ship within a 5hr drive to their homeports in the US.
• Carnival’s main market is America and Australia.
• Carnival’s brand NEW ship Mardi Gras is the newest ship joining the fleet, cruising out of Port Canaveral. First cruise ship to ever have a rollercoaster onboard and is LNG powered to cruise more sustainably.
• Dancing in the dining room is 100% a normal and daily occurrence onboard Carnival ships.
• TIP:: Next time you’re onboard, head up to Guy’s Burger Joint and order yourself a “Boomerang Burger” – available only on Australian home-port ships.
• Our Australian Ships have been located off the coast of Singapore during the course of the pandemic, however now they are now docked at Carnival’s berth in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
• TIP:: Order Butter Pecan Ice Cream when ordering your next Chocolate Melting Cake!
• Brisbane International Cruise Terminal is a purpose built port facility – which I Mark & I were able to check out first hand recently – and my first impression? YES! I approve! Very exciting for the international cruise port in Brisbane & South East Queensland, Australia.
• CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) is the cruise governing body and have absolutely done an outstanding job tackling the cruise issue and have risen up to rally for the industry among authorities around the world to resume cruise ASAP. Thanks CLIA! Legends!
• Mark shares how he would spend his perfect day onboard a Carnival FUNship! Warning… He makes us so hungry!!
• Check out and follow John Heald on Facebook, ex Cruise Director and Carnival Brand Ambassador – he has great videos and insight into the ships and gets up close and personal.

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Links and Resources

• Follow Carnival Cruise Lines Australia on Facebook & Instagram
• Head over to https://www.carnival.com.au/ to see more.
• Keen to see where the ships are located? Download the free app Marine Traffic to search for your fav Carnival ship.
• Download the Carnival HUB app to share your cruise countdown with friends, then explore and book shore excursions, spa treatments, drink packages and more. When the time comes, you may also check-in and obtain your boarding documents.
• If you would like to book your travels & work with me 1:1, click here to get in touch.
• Check out my travel services online travelbystephanie.com.au

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