The Carnival Encounter has returned to Brisbane from drydock with refreshed interiors, a new hull livery and expanded entertainment programming.

The ship now features a Cloud 9 Spa Thermal Suite with heated thermal lounges, saunas and steam baths.

All five pool areas have been revitalized, seven jacuzzi tubs replaced and the sports court and Twin Racer water slides upgraded.

“We are excited to be offering Queenslanders a whole new spa experience and fresh fun onboard the only cruise ship sailing year-round from Brisbane,” said Anton Loeb, assistant vice president of sales and marketing at Carnival Cruise Line. “Carnival Encounter provides a great value holiday at sea in autumn, winter, spring or summer.”

The Carnival Encounter also received Carnival’s red, white and deep blue hull livery during the drydock.

Behind the scenes, energy-efficiency upgrades were completed throughout the ship including galleys, laundry and cold rooms.

New shows for Australian-based ships include Rock Revolution: Summer of 69, celebrating 1969 sounds and styles, and Broadway Beats, featuring New York show tunes reimagined with electronic beats.

Additional entertainment includes Dear Future Husband and Seuss-a-Palooza Story Time – Green Eggs & Ham for children.

“Our entertainment program is going to dazzle and delight our guests with a fantastic blend of fresh new shows and established favourites,” said Jeremy Barnes, Australian director of entertainment at Carnival.

Cabaret show Blanc De Blanc Uncorked continues onboard while The Voice of the Ocean will be featured on voyages of seven days or longer.

The Carnival Encounter resumed year-round sailings from Brisbane on March 20 to destinations including Airlie Beach, Great Barrier Reef, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.