Carnival Cruises brews craft beer to capture ‘spirit of holiday’

GOT a hard-earned thirst for a trip away? A cruise company has come up with a brew that captures the spirit of a holiday at sea.

“Aussified” ship Carnival Spirit in Sydney Harbour. Picture: James Morgan

THIS is no stereotypical booze cruise – rather, it’s a boutique brews cruise.

Sydney based cruise ship Carnival Spirit is about to start serving its own unique craft beer, which captures “the spirit of a holiday at sea”.

So what’s the flavour of a holiday?

Subtle malt flavours and floral citrus aromas are the key characteristics of the new Thirsty Frog Summer Ale.

Created in partnership with Sydney’s Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel and designed to cater specifically to Australian tastes, it will be on tap at Carnival Spirit’s 14 on-board bars from June 1.

It will also be available on sister ship, Carnival Legend, once it is based in Australia from September.

“Aussified” ship Carnival Spirit in Sydney Harbour. Picture: James Morgan

“Carnival Cruise Lines has put a lot of effort into ‘Aussifying’ our ships for the local market, so we are thrilled to create our own authentic craft ale which really acknowledges Australians’ appreciation of a quality beer,” Carnival Cruise Lines’ Australian vice president Jennifer Vandekreeke said.

“As the world’s largest cruise line, it’s been a great adventure to partner with the nation’s oldest pub brewery to create Australia’s first beer for cruising.

“This really is the ideal beer to relax with as you enjoy all the sun and fun of a South Pacific cruise.”

Carnival Legend is heading to Australia in September.

Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel owner Blair Hayden said the brew appropriately combines Australian and American hops.

“Thirsty Frog Summer Ale is a very drinkable beer with subtle malt flavours and floral citrus aromas,” Mr Hayden said. “It’s perfect on its own or with a meal, and the fact that it’s naturally brewed, with no added sugars and preservatives, really adds to its appeal.”

Thirsty Frog Summer Ale takes its name from the Red Frog pubs that feature across Carnival ships.

Lord Nelson was selected for the partnership because of its experience and reputation for craft beers, with the brewery ranking as one of New South Wales’ biggest craft beer sellers.

Carnival Cruise Lines’ Australian vice president Jennifer Vandekreeke and Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel owner Blair Hayden toast the new Thirsty Frog Summer Ale.