Carnival Crew Allege $2.75 Pay, 14-Hour Days in ABC Investigation

An ABC News investigation has exposed serious allegations from crew members aboard Carnival cruise ships operating in Australian waters. Workers claim they earned less than A$3 per hour, worked up to 14 hours daily for nine-month contracts without full days off, and faced inadequate food and forced wage deductions. Carnival says its vessels comply with international maritime standards and have passed recent inspections by Australia’s maritime regulator.

What crew members are alleging

Current and former workers told ABC News they worked approximately 12 hours daily, seven days a week, for most of their nine-month contracts. Some shifts lasted around 14 hours. Queen Onuoha, a Nigerian beauty specialist who completed two seasons aboard Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, said she used caffeine tablets to remain awake. Workers reported exhaustion, back pain, knee problems and recurring illnesses after several months at sea, with some earning less than A$3 hourly.

Working conditions and welfare concerns

Crew members alleged they were served repeatedly reheated leftovers, pushed back to work while sick, and forced to spend part of their limited earnings on food, drinking water, uniforms and internet access. The investigation involved workers connected with Carnival’s Australian operations. These remain allegations disputed by the company. Workers described the nine-month contracts as an endurance test rather than standard employment.

Carnival’s response and regulatory status

Carnival says its vessels comply with international maritime standards covering seafarers’ employment agreements, working hours, rest, medical care, accommodation, food, wages and complaint procedures. The company states its ships have recently passed inspections by Australia’s maritime regulator. The allegations raise serious workplace and welfare issues that remain under scrutiny.

Technology investment amid crew concerns

While facing workplace allegations, Carnival has begun testing new technology to improve efficiency. The company is trialling a robotic hull-cleaning system aboard Carnival Pride, developed by marine specialist Jotun. The remotely operated HullSkater robot inspects and cleans hulls while vessels remain in service, reducing fuel consumption and emissions by lowering hydrodynamic resistance.

Final Thoughts

Carnival faces serious allegations over crew pay and conditions on Australian-operated ships, though the company disputes the claims and says it meets maritime standards. With Meyka grading CCL a B+ and four analysts rating it a buy, the stock trades at $29.67 with a 12.47 PE ratio, but workplace controversies could affect brand reputation and operational costs.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.