Carnival Splendor to anchor at Yorkeys Knob during 2026 sailing
Reduced channel depths will prevent the ship from reaching Cairns Cruise Terminal, according to Carnival Cruise Line.
Carnival Cruise Line has notified affected guests of an itinerary change for Carnival Splendor’s nine-day cruise departing September 9, 2026.
In a letter to passengers, Carnival said the Port of Cairns had advised that reduced channel depths were too shallow for Carnival Splendor to travel safely to Cairns Cruise Terminal. The cruise line added that the issue was not expected to be resolved before the ship’s scheduled visit.
Carnival Splendor will instead anchor at Yorkeys Knob, about nine miles from Cairns. Passengers will be taken ashore by water shuttle, allowing them to visit the originally planned destination.
The cruise is also scheduled to call at Airlie Beach and Willis Island. Those two port days will be exchanged because of the additional time required for the Yorkeys Knob arrangements. Carnival said any shore excursions purchased in advance would be adjusted to match the revised schedule.
