We recently embarked on an unforgettable trip, celebrating multiple milestone birthdays during the King's Birthday long weekend. With a 60th, 21st, and 18th birthday all converging on one unforgettable voyage, our cruise was filled with the energy of different generations coming together for a special occasion.

Our adventure began at the new Brisbane International Port, where we found hassle-free parking at Wilson Parking (P2). A mere 5-minute walk to the terminal added to the convenience, allowing us to focus on the exciting moments that lay ahead. Efficient check-in processes are always a welcome sight, and within just 30 minutes of arriving at the terminal, we were on board, setting the stage for a smooth start to our cruise experience.

Throughout the cruise, a myriad of activities and amenities awaited our group. From exploring the ship's various corners to enjoying onboard entertainment or simply unwinding by the pool, the cruise proved to be the perfect choice for our special occasion. Opting for an inside cabin for this short cruise was a great decision. The subdued lighting in these cabins provided the perfect setting for a leisurely sleep-in or an afternoon nap. For longer cruises, upgrading to an ocean view or balcony cabin might be worth considering.

Planning our dining experiences in advance allowed us to savour specialty dining options. Here's a breakdown of our culinary journey:

1. The Pantry (Deck 12): Casual dining at its finest, offering a quick and relaxed meal with a variety of options to suit different tastes.

2. The Waterfront: Perfect for a formal breakfast setting, The Waterfront impressed with its varied menu and attentive service.

3. Angelo's (Italian): A delightful Italian dining experience with classic dishes served in an upscale ambiance. Our favourite culinary experience on board.

4. Dragon Lady (Asian Fusion): An exploration of flavours and dishes from diverse Asian cuisines, a must-try for those with a penchant for culinary adventure.

5. Waterfront (Group Celebration Dinner): Ideal for special occasions, bringing our group together with other fellow cruisers on the first night.

With a mix of casual and formal dining options, we tailored our meals to our moods and discovered diverse culinary styles throughout the cruise. The crew's accommodation of my special dietary needs, even without pre-ordering, was truly commendable, with plenty of gluten-free options available.

Our journey began with a toast to our group's arrival with cocktails at the Encounter Bar, where we caught the excitement of the AFL Grand Final, Lions vs. Pies match. The electric atmosphere and flowing drinks made for a memorable afternoon, marking the perfect start to our cruise. These lively moments spent with friends and family are often the cruise's highlights, creating cherished memories.

As for the Pacific Encounter, it seamlessly blended our favorite features with exciting new ones. Splurging on a suite or mini-suite grants access to Byron Beach Club, a private retreat on the top deck, offering expansive views and superior service. Dining options with celebrity chef Luke Mangan at Luke's Bar & Grill add culinary delight to the experience. The Lobby on Deck 5 became our favorite hangout spot, offering a perfect vantage point to observe the ship's activities. For more vibrant nights, the Altitude nightclub on Deck 18 provided endless fun. Familiar favourites like Waterfront, Angelo's, and Dragon Lady continued to impress, while the new P&O Trattoria on Level 7 offered rustic Italian fare and freshly cooked pizza. The child-free Oasis and the chilled-out Ocean Bar provided relaxed alternatives, while the Encounter Hotel offered a classic pub experience. Evenings were enlivened with live entertainment and signature P&O production shows, including Blanc de Blanc. Our 3-night Comedy cruise featured hilarious performances, with the iconic Australian Comedian, Bob Down, delivering side-splitting humour.

Families would adore the dedicated indoor/outdoor family area, complete with a pool, family-focused fun, games, parties, and activities. Plus, the Twin Racer Waterslides were a hit with our younger passengers. Exploring the ship, we enjoyed quality family time playing games and were lucky enough to spot whales and dolphins near Fraser Island. Spectacular sunsets added to the magic of our voyage.

In conclusion, if you're considering a cruise but are unsure, a 3-day cruise is the perfect sampler to experience the magic of cruising. As a family, it was our second cruise, and we're already planning our next cruise holiday. A South Pacific cruise is high on our list, and we can't wait to set sail again.

If you'd like to know more about P&O Cruises contact Kirstyn today on 0458 294 715 or at kirstyn@tcatravel.com.au