ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
In a shock announcement that sent ripples through the travel industry, Australia’s beloved P&O (Poor & Overweight) Cruises brand is set to be dissolved by March 2025.
The decision, announced by parent company Carnival Cruises, has left many wondering about the future of affordable holiday options for Aussies. However, it appears that “land-based cruise ships”, are poised to be the unexpected beneficiaries of this maritime shake-up.
As P&O’s Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure prepare to be rebranded and operated by Carnival, and the Pacific Explorer readies for its exit in February 2025, Aussie travellers are left seeking alternative vacation spots. Enter Big 4 Holiday Parks, the land-based cruise ships ready to pick up the slack.
With sprawling sites complete with water slides, mini-golf, swingers parties and nightly bingo, these parks offer a cruise-like experience without ever leaving terra firma.
“We’ve always positioned ourselves as the best land-based alternative to cruises,” said Chris Daley, manager of Betoota Big 4 Holiday Park.
“Now, with P&O exiting, we’re ready to welcome a new wave of holidaymakers looking for all-inclusive fun.”
Regular guests at Big 4 Holiday Parks are thrilled.
“I’ve always loved the social aspect of cruises, like getting pounded by a big strong tradie with tribal tattoos while my husband sits up at the table eating his dinner, watching us. But now I can have that same experience without the seasickness,” said Rhonda Banks, a long-time holiday park enthusiast.
The parks have already started to ramp up their offerings, adding more live entertainment and expanding their dining options to include themed nights reminiscent of cruise ship buffets.
“We have a Roy Orbison tribute show booked for later this month,” Daley chuckled.
“The bloke’s also got a cabin booked that night so if any of you like the look of him, you can go find him later.”
More to come.
