It was a holiday I didn’t really want to go on. I’ve heard mixed reviews about cruises—some love them, while others find them confining or worry about catching germs. Hello, I’m one of those who tends to lean towards the latter.
But then I heard about Carnival Splendour’s annual “Grinchmas” cruise. My daughter loves The Grinch, Christmas, and spending quality time together, so before I knew it, I was standing on the fourth floor looking down on the lobby deck, watching a woman dance the Nutbush with no shoes on. What a vibe!
After spending five days cruising up Australia’s east coast from Sydney to Moreton Island, I discovered why themed cruises are so beloved by families.
Non-Stop Fun Aboard
When people hear “cruise,” they often think of boredom or feeling trapped. However, from the moment you step on board, Carnival’s motto of “non-stop FUN” rings true. The first step is to download the Carnival Hub app, which allows you to book dinners, check dining room wait times, and chat with fellow travelers.
After settling into our stateroom (I’d recommend a balcony room if you can get one!), we scrolled through the five-day itinerary, bookmarked activities, and received timely reminders. The planning made our trip a breeze.
What to Do Onboard
Our Grinchmas-themed cruise was packed with festive activities, including carol-singing, Christmas crafts, Dr. Seuss character encounters, and holiday shows. Highlights included:
The Cloud 9 Spa: A perfect retreat with a range of treatments, a hydrotherapy pool, and a quiet meditation area.
Entertainment: We enjoyed an 80s tribute show, a holiday performance, and a family-friendly comedy routine. There was also live music and cocktails for those who wanted to relax.
Kids’ Activities: The Warehouse Arcade, waterslides, mini-golf, and basketball kept the younger passengers entertained. Our personal favorite was Bingo, with some lucky players winning over $2000!
Food, Glorious Food
Carnival’s food offerings are abundant and varied. From free pizza at Pizzeria del Capitano to delicious burgers at Guy’s Burger Joint, you’ll never go hungry. A standout was Fahrenheit 555, a steakhouse with a special menu. Though there’s an extra charge, it’s worth it for a fancy meal.
For drinks, you can charge alcohol to your onboard account or opt for the Bottomless Bubbles package, which includes unlimited soft drinks and juice for a daily fee.
Offshore Adventures
Many itineraries include offshore excursions, adding variety to your cruise experience. Our trip to Moreton Island, QLD, offered activities like snorkeling and whale-watching. Tangalooma Island Resort, known for its shipwrecks and crystal-clear waters, was a highlight.
Cost and Value
A four-day cruise on Carnival Splendour costs around $619 per person for an interior room, $789 for an oceanview room, or $979 for a balcony room. Considering the included activities and meals, it’s great value for money.
Sea Sickness Tips
If you’re prone to seasickness, take your tablets about half an hour before setting sail. Even with good weather, the rocking of the boat can catch up with you. I had “sea legs” for a week after returning!
Is It Really a Good Holiday?
Combining sailing, activities, food, and entertainment, the cruise proved to be fantastic value. My daughter and I had uninterrupted quality time, away from daily distractions.
Despite my initial reluctance, this cruise turned out to be one of the best holidays we’ve had. It’s a fun, affordable option for families seeking adventure and quality time together.