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Carnival Cruise Ships by Age – Newest to Oldest

Orlando Martinez

• December 17, 2023

Carnival Cruise Line has 26 ships, including the oldest Carnival Elation from 1998 and the new Carnival Jubilee launched in 2023.

The table below shows the ship’s name, class, the Carnival cruise ship’s age, the gross registered tonnage, and how many guests it carries at double occupancy.

In this article, we’ve compiled an overview of all ships in the Carnival fleet, organized from newest to oldest, along with some key features.

You can also read about the history of Carnival Cruise Line from 1972 through today.

(Note: * denotes the year the ship debuted with the new Carnival name.)

Carnival Jubilee

Key Features: BOLT roller coaster, Shaq’s Big Chicken, WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, adults-only Serenity Retreat sundeck, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Seafood Shack , NASA-inspired Space Cruisers programming for kids, and Alchemy Bar

Carnival Venezia

Key Features: Venice-inspired atrium Piazza San Marco, Guy’s Burger Joint , WaterWorks aqua park, Bonsai Teppanyaki, adults-only Serenity Retreat sundeck, Tomodoro Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant, Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Amari bar, Gondola Lounge, and Terrazza staterooms with exclusive access to outdoor deck Terrazza Carnevale

Carnival Celebration

Key Features: BOLT roller coaster, Family Feud Live, the travel-inspired Latitudes bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Bonsai Sushi, Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, Shaq’s Big Chicken, adults-only Serenity Retreat, and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

Carnival Luminosa

Key Features: RedFrog Rum Bar, Cloud 9 Spa, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Bonsai Sushi Express, JavaBlue Café, Camp Ocean kids’ clubs, Alchemy Bar, Cherry on Top, and Punchliner Comedy Club

Carnival Radiance

Key Features: Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Shaq’s Big Chicken, Cloud 9 Spa, Cucina del Capitano, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, RedFrog Pub, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, SkyCourse (a ropes course), and the Alchemy Bar

Key Features: First Carnival ship powered by Liquified Natural Gas, BOLT roller coaster, Family Feud Live, RedFrog Tiki Bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Chibang! Mexican and Chinese restaurant, revamped Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, Shaq’s Big Chicken, adults-only Serenity Retreat, a casino, and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

RELATED: Mardi Gras Dining Guide

Carnival Panorama 

Key Features: Sky Zone indoor trampoline park, Heroes Tribute Bar, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, WaterWorks aqua park, Bonsai Teppanyaki , SkyRide cycling attraction, Cucina del Capitano, other specialty dining options, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat. This was Carnival’s first brand-new west coast ship debut in almost 20 years.

Carnival Sunrise

RELATED: 31 Carnival Sunrise Cruise Tips

Key Features: Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, Cloud 9 Spa, Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, Cucina del Capitano, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, BlueIguana Cantina

Carnival Horizon 

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, adults-only Serenity Retreat, SkyRide cycling attraction, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, Bons

Carnival Vista

Key Features: SkyRide cycling attraction, RedFrog Pub & Brewery, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, IMAX movie theater, Havana Bar, JiJi Asian Kitchen, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Seafood Shack, Cucina del Capitano, and the WaterWorks aqua park. The is the first ship in Carnival’s three-ship Vista class.

Carnival Sunshine

Key Features: Havana Bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Punchliner Comedy Club, JiJi Asian Kitchen, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cucina del Capitano, Camp Ocean kids’ club, and Guy’s Burger Joint

MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Carnival’s Drink Package

Carnival Breeze

Key Features: BlueIguana Tequila Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Cloud 9 Spa, Alchemy Bar , Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi, WaterWorks aqua park, adults-only Serenity Retreat, and Camp Ocean kids’ club

Carnival Magic

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cloud 9 Spa, Seafood Shack, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que , BlueIguana Cantina, and the Alchemy Bar

Carnival Dream

Key Features:   Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Alchemy Bar, Seafood Shack, Cloud 9 Spa, Bonsai Sushi, Guy’s Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, and Lip Sync Battle: Carnival. This was the first ship in Carnival’s Dream class. 

This was the first Carnival ship to introduce the cove balcony concept . This is like a giant oval porthole type of balcony that is surrounded by steel and can close in case of bad weather. These balcony cabins are located on deck two.

Carnival Splendor

Key Features: Punchliner Comedy Club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cloud 9 Spa, Alchemy Bar, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, RedFrog Pub, Seafood Shack, and BlueIguana Cantina

MORE: Carnival’s Mardi Gras: Is An Aft Excel Suite Worth The Price?

Carnival Freedom

Key Features: Seafood Shack, WaterWorks aqua park, BlueIguana Cantina, Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, Heroes Tribute Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, SkyBox Sports Bar, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, and Bonsai Sushi Express

Carnival Liberty

Key Features: Guy’s Burger Joint, SkyBox Sports Bar, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Alchemy Bar, Punchliner Comedy Club, Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, and Spa Carnival

Carnival Valor

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, Seafood Shack, Guy’s Burger Joint, adults-only Serenity Retreat, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Pub, and Spa Carnival

Carnival Miracle

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, Alchemy Bar, Bonsai Sushi Express, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Guy’s Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, and BlueIguana Cantina

Carnival Glory

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, BlueIguana Cantina, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Alchemy Bar, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Guy’s Burger Joint, Seafood Shack, and Spa Carnival

Carnival Conquest

Key Features: Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Seafood Shack, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Alchemy Bar, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Punchliner Comedy Club, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy’s Burger Joint. This is the first ship in the Carnival Conquest class. 

Carnival Pride

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Pub, Bonsai Sushi, Spa Carnival, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, and Punchliner Comedy Club

Carnival Legend

Key Features: Camp Ocean kids’ club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Bonsai Sushi, WaterWorks aqua park, Punchliner Comedy Club, and BlueIguana Cantina

Carnival Spirit

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, Punchliner Comedy Club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, Spa Carnival, Bonsai Sushi, Guy’s Burger Joint, RedFrog Pub, and BlueIguana Tequila Bar. This was the first of four Spirit-class ships. 

Carnival Paradise

Key Features: Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Spa Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat

Carnival Elation

Key Features:  Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Spa Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat

RELATED: Carnival Cruise Ships by Size: Biggest to Smallest

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List of Carnival Cruise Ships Newest to Oldest

Here is a list of every Carnival cruise ship from newest to oldest that will be updated as new ships enter Carnival’s fleet.  Also listed are the ages of each ship as well as the size. The ships range from the 70,000 gross ton Fantasy class to the 180,000 Excel class LNG powered cruise ships.

The majority of Carnival’s ships offer cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas that range from three days to over a week.  A few vessels are based on the West Coast as well as a couple in Australia.

Carnival Firenze

Carnival Firenze is the second ship in the cruise line’s COSTA by Carnival series. It was transferred over from sister cruise line Costa Cruises and the ship’s homeport is Long Beach, California. It’s a Vista class ship and is themed after the Italian city of Florence. The ship can carry more than 5,000 guests at total capacity.

Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee is the third Excel-class ship with the cruise line and was entered into service in December of 2023. The ship is currently homeporting in Galveston, Texas and is the first brand-new ship to homeport at the Texas port.  Jubilee has a gross tonnage of 183,521 GT and can accommodate 5,374 passengers at double-capacity.

Carnival Venezia

Carnival Venezia was transferred over from sister cruise line Costa Cruises in March 2023.  The Vista class ship entered service in 2019 and sails as COSTA by CARNIVAL.  The cruise ship is themed after the city of Venice and can carry 5,145 guests.

Carnival Celebration

This Excellence-class cruise ship entered service in November of 2022.  With a gross tonnage of 181,808 and double capacity of 5,282, Carnival Celebration is the 2nd vessel of this class, along with Mardi Gras.

Carnival Luminosa

Carnival Luminosa was added the Carnival’s fleet in 2022.  The ship formerly sailed as Costa Luminosa which entered service in 2009 and was refitted for use with Carnival.  The ship has a gross tonnage of 92,600 with a double capacity of 2,260.

Mardi Gras is Carnival Cruise Line’s newest and largest cruise ship at 180,000 gross tons.  The ship is the first in North America to be powered by LNG and is also the world’s first cruise ship with a roller coaster. Mardi Gras homeports at Port Canaveral and entered Carnival’s fleet in 2021.  View Top Cruise Itineraries on Mardi Gras

Carnival Panorama

Carnival Panorama debuted in December 2019 and is the third and final Vista class ship from Carnival. Carnival Panorama comes in at 133,500 gross tons and carries just under 4,000 passengers. Read: Is Carnival Panorama the Most Fun Ship at Sea?

Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon debuted in the spring of 2018 and is the second Vista class ship from Carnival.  At 133,500 gross tons, it’s currently the largest ship in Carnival’s fleet and can carry 3,960 passengers. Take a Video Tour of Carnival Horizon

Carnival Vista

Carnival Vista was the first Vista class ship from Carnival and debuted in 2016. Also at 133,500 gross tons, the ship holds slighter fewer passengers than Carnival Horizon and currently sails cruises to the Caribbean. Read 10 Impressive Features on Carnival Vista

Carnival Breeze

The third and final Dream class ship, Carnival Breeze went into service in 2012 and was the largest ship in Carnival’s fleet until Carnival Vista debuted four years later.  The ship is 128,000 gross tons in size and can carry 3,690 passengers. Carnival Breeze Review and Video Tour

Carnival Magic

Carnival Dream

The first Dream class ship from Carnival Cruise Line, Carnival Dream was the first Carnival ship to be over 120,000 gross tons in size.  The ship debuted in 2009 at 128,000 GT and carries 3,646 passengers.

Carnival Splendor

Carnival Splendor is one of a kind when it comes to the different classes of ships from Carnival.  The vessel was originally designed for sister cruise line Costa Cruises but was transferred to Carnival Cruise Line during construction.  The cruise ship is 113,300 gross tons and carries 3,012 passengers. Carnival Splendor debuted in 2008.

Carnival Freedom

The final Conquest class ship from Carnival, Carnival Freedom debuted in 2007.  The 110,000 gross ton cruise ship carries just under 3,000 passengers.

Carnival Liberty

Another Conquest class ship from Carnival, Carnival Liberty debuted in 2005.  The 110,000 gross ton cruise ship carries just under 3,000 passengers.

Carnival Valor

The third Conquest class ship from Carnival, Carnival Valor debuted in 2004.  The 110,000 gross ton cruise ship carries just under 3,000 passengers.

Carnival Miracle

The last of four Spirit class ships from Carnival, Carnival Miracle debuted in 2004.  The 88,500 gross ton ship carries 2,124 passengers.  The Spirit class offer more space per passenger than any other vessels in Carnival’s fleet.

Carnival Glory

The second Conquest class ship from Carnival, Carnival Glory debuted in 2003.  The 110,000 gross ton cruise ship carries just under 3,000 passengers.

Carnival Conquest

The first Conquest class ship from Carnival, Carnival Conquest debuted in 2002.  The 110,000 gross ton cruise ship carries just under 3,000 passengers.

Carnival Cruise Deals

Looking for the best prices on your next cruise on Carnival Cruise Line? Check out our pricing widget that instantly compares cruise prices across multiple travel websites.

Carnival Legend

One of four Spirit class ships from Carnival, Carnival Legend debuted in 2002.  The 88,500 gross ton ship carries 2,124 passengers.  The Spirit class offer more space per passenger than any other vessels in Carnival’s fleet.

Carnival Pride

One of four Spirit class ships from Carnival, Carnival Pride debuted in 2002.  The 88,500 gross ton ship carries 2,124 passengers.  The Spirit class offer more space per passenger than any other vessels in Carnival’s fleet.

Carnival Spirit

The first Spirit class ship from Carnival, Carnival Spirit debuted in 2001.  The 88,500 gross ton ship carries 2,124 passengers.  The Spirit class offer more space per passenger than any other vessels in Carnival’s fleet.

Carnival Radiance

The final Destiny class ship from Carnival, Carnival Victory was transformed in 2021 and the vessel renamed as Carnival Radiance.  Carnival Radiance is now a Sunshine class vessel. The cruise ship originally went into service in 2000.  The 101,509 gross ton ship can carry 2,754 passengers. Carnival Victory Review

Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise started off as Carnival Triumph. In 2019, Carnival Cruise Line gave the cruise ship a massive $200 million renovation and a name change to Carnival Sunrise. The vessel originally debuted in 1999 and was the second Destiny class ship.

Carnival Paradise

The final of eight Fantasy class ships from Carnival, Carnival Paradise first debuted in 1998.  The 71,909 gross ton cruise ship carries 2,124 passengers.

Carnival Elation

One of the Fantasy class ships from Carnival, Carnival Elation first debuted in 1998.  The 71,909 gross ton cruise ship carries 2,130 passengers.

Carnival Sunshine

Carnival Sunshine originally debuted in 1996 as Carnival Destiny. Carnival Destiny was the first passenger cruise ship ever built over 100,000 gross tons in size.  In 2013, the cruise ship was transformed in Carnival Sunshine.  The 3,002 passenger ship is currently 102,853 gross tons after the remodel.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Future Ships

Carnival Cruise Line currently has two more Excel class cruise ship on order. The ships will be 180,000 gross tons in size, the largest ever built by Carnival.

These two new ships are scheduled to debut in 2027 and 2028 and will be powered by LNG. This will bring the number of Excel class ships in Carnival’s fleet to five.

Learn the cruise secrets most people don't know and cruise like a boss. Check out Intelligent Cruiser here for a better cruise vacation. (Sponsored)

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Carnival Cruise Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest

We list the newest Carnival Cruise Ships, as well as the oldest Carnival Cruise Ships based on built age. Make your booking today.

Explore Carnival Cruises

Carnival cruise line has been in service since 1972, with the first-ever cruise ship, “ Mardi Gras ,” sailing in March 1972. The cruise line has 27 cruises, along with the upcoming cruise “ Carnival Firenze ,” which will be launched in 2024. Carnival has the highest number of cruise ships after the Royal Caribbean cruise line.

The Carnival Cruises line is famous as an “ America’s Cruise Line ” due to most of the cruises sailing from ports of the United States. The Cruises sailed to Alaska, Australia, Hawaii, Mexico, Canada, Bahamas, Europe, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Asia and the South Pacific. It’s hard to find where Carnival does not sail to.

The cruises come with tons of activities like trivia, bingo, dance parties, and night shows. Also, cruises have amenities like ropes courses, water parks, roller coasters, and various delicious food options.

The Complete List of All Carnival Cruise Ships

• Carnival Firenze
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Luminosa
• Carnival Mardi Gras
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Vista
• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Splendor
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Radiance
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Sunshine

If you are planning to sail with Carnival Cruises, the first question that will arise in your head is: Which Carnival cruise is best for your next journey ? For a better understanding of this, we cover all Carnival cruises with detailed information to make it easy to choose your upcoming cruise journey with the best Carnival luxury cruises .

Carnival cruise line is divided into nine different classes, including Venice, Vista, and Excel classes , which recently debuted. Some cruises are a bit classic (old), like sailing from the 90s, but the main point is every ship goes through service from time to time and is refurnished in at least five years. So, if you think of choosing old cruises, just go ahead without any second doubt. Of course, each cruise of the Carnival cruise line is much safer.

Now, move ahead to cover all the information you need to know about Carnival cruises in a row from newest to oldest.

1. Carnival Firenze

In spring 2024, Carnival will debut its upcoming cruise, Carnival Firenze , setting sail from Los Angeles’s Long Beach to Mexico’s Pacific coast. The cruise is named after the amazing city of Florence, Italy, and she can carry approx. 4126 guests. She will be the second cruise ship to showcase the new “ Carnival Fun Italian Style ” experience and will join Carnival Panorama and Radiance.

2. Carnival Jubilee

A Sister cruise ship of Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, Carnival Jubilee,  has started sailing on 23 December 2023. The third Excel class cruise will begin sailing from Galveston, Texas, and explore Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, and Roatan Island, Honduras. She has a capacity of 5400 guests with 20 different cabin categories for special individual experiences for you people.

3. Carnival Venezia

The first Venice-class cruise ship, Carnival Venezia , was launched in mid-2023. She was a part of the Costa Cruise line , but after refurbishment, she transferred to the Carnival Cruise line and refurbished before making her debut. Actually, she made it for the Chinese market, but later Carnival changed the route. The cruise can carry 4090 passengers and is themed after the city of Venice.

4. Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration is the second Excel-class cruise ship and sister cruise to Mardi Gras, which debuted in 2022. She is like her sister's cruise ship in amenities and size. She can accommodate over 6500 passengers. She has multiple options in dining, cabins, and fun activities. She sails from Miami and sails to Cozumel, Roatan, Costa Maya, Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), St. Thomas, San Juan, St. Maarten, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Grand Turk, Nassau and Freeport.

5. Carnival Luminosa

Previously famous as Costa Luminosa, Carnival Luminosa was part of the sister brand Costa Cruise line, and recently, she has been a part of a Spirit-class ship. She has a capacity of 2260 and allows guests to take high-energy routes, including destinations like Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Guests can chill and enjoy fun activities and entertainment with food options for all age groups.

Related: Top things to do onboard Carnival Luminosa

6. Carnival Mardi Gras

The Carnival Mardi Gras was launched in 2021 and took the Carnival Cruise line to a new era by joining Excel-class powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). She is the largest cruise ship with 180,000 gross tons and the world’s first ship with a roller coaster. Also, she was the first modern cruise ship in the line to drop the “Carnival” prefix. With a capacity of 6465 passengers, she sails around the Caribbean and Transatlantic.

Related: Top Things to Experience on the Carnival Mardi Gras Cruise

7. Carnival Panorama

In 2019, Carnival launched the third and final Vista-class cruise ship, “ Carnival Panorama ,” built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. She is the only cruise ship fleet with a Sky Zone, Trampoline Park. She can accommodate 4,008 guests and sail to some of the most thrilling cruise destinations in Mexico, including Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta.

Related: Things to do on Carnival Panorama

8. Carnival Horizon

The second Vista-class cruise ship, Carnival Horizon , was the second ship of the Carnival line to restart services in 2021 following the market pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ship is the same as its sister cruise, Carnival Vista, but She has a Seuss at Sea Waterpark. She can carry 3960 passengers, a bit less than the sister-ship Carnival Panorama.

9. Carnival Vista

Carnival Vista was Carnival Cruises' first Vista-class cruise ship. It debuted in 2016 and was named by godmother Miss USA, Deshauna Barber. She was the first to feature SkyRide, a pedal-powered bike that is paused over the top deck of the ship, at that time. The ship was highly anticipated, marking the end of a four-year-long pause in shipbuilding for the cruise line. Carnival Vista has a capacity of 3934 guests.

Related: Top Things to Do on Carnival Vista

10. Carnival Breeze

Carnival Breeze - the third and final Dream class ship of Carnival Cruises, entered service in 2012. The cruise is three years younger than the sister-cruise Carnival Dream. She is 130,000 gross tons, which means slightly smaller than the newer Vista-class cruise ships. She can accommodate 3,690 passengers and 1,386 crew members and sails to Galveston, Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Progreso.

Related: The Ultimate Guide To Carnival Breeze

11. Carnival Magic

The second cruise ship in the Dream class, Carnival Magic , is the same as the sister cruise, Carnival Dream, and was last refurbished in 2021. She has the new white, blue, and red livery. She is the best Carnival cruise for luxury amenities , always served with a smile. She can carry 3690 passengers and cover the area of the ocean in the Caribbean. You will have a number of choices for dinner and food at Carnival Magic.

12. Carnival Dream

The first Dream-class cruise, Carnival Dream , debuted in 2009 and last refurbished in 2017. She can accommodate around 3,646 passengers at double occupancy. You can find fun onboard, including WaterWorks, RedFrog Rum Bar, Guy's Burger Joint, and more options in food and drink. She sails to the Panama Canal & Central America, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas.

Related: Things to Do onboard Carnival Dream

13. Carnival Splendor

The only cruise in Splendor-class, Carnival Splendor debuted in 2008 and was refurbished in 2019. The ship was originally a Concordia-class ordered by sister line Costa Cruises. The ship was moved to operate for Carnival during her building in 2008 in Genoa, Italy. She has a passenger capacity of 3,012 and 1,150 global crew members and sails globally to Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and Asia.

Related: Things to do on Carnival Splendor

14. Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom is the final cruise ship in the most famous Conquest class, ending an era of cruise ship class and design for the cruise line. She is the perfect cruise ship as a family-friendly, multigenerational cruise ship. The cruise ship's cost was $500, and entered into service in 2007. The ship carries 2980 passengers and travels to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. The exciting thing is that the cruise has dining options and activities for all age groups.

Related: Things to Do on Carnival Freedom

15. Carnival Liberty

Another Conquest-class ship, Carnival Liberty , entered service in 2005. She has been refurbished many times. In 2011, she was the first cruise ship of Carnival Cruises to get FUN 2.0 magnification, and in 2021, she received the new white, blue, and red livery. A lot of activities and a carefree atmosphere make a valuable cruise ship. Destinations she covers include the Bahamas, Panama Canal, Central America, and the Caribbean, and she carries 2974 guests.

Related: Top Things to Do Onboard Carnival Liberty

16. Carnival Miracle

Carnival Miracle is one of the most comfortable, mid-sized cruise ships for all age groups that have upbeat activities and a cheerful environment. With a capacity of 2,124 guests at double occupancy, this Spirit-class cruise ship sails around the Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Panama Canal, Central America, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Europe. She is the most famous and best cruise ship in Alaska due to her design and looks.

Related: Top Things to Do on Carnival Miracle

17. Carnival Valor

One more Conquest-class cruise ship, Carnival Valor , debuted in December 2004. The cruise is always a good choice for cruise trips and vacations with family of this cruise line. She carries 2980 guests with 1180 crew members. She sails to global destinations, including the Caribbean and Europe. She has multiple pools with the mantra “no shoes, no shirt, no problems.”

Related: Top Things to Do on Carnival Valor

18. Carnival Glory

Carnival Glory debuted in 2003, the Conquest-class cruise ship. Services on this cruise ship are similarly friendly and excellent. She carries 2,980 guests and sails to destinations such as the Panama Canal, Central America, Bahamas, Europe, and the Caribbean. The last time she refurbished was in 2021, and she received more improvements, including an expanded casino, a Carnival Adventure Store, a revamped JavaBlue Café, and routine hotel maintenance.

Related: Best Things to Do on the Carnival Glory Cruise

19. Carnival Conquest

The first Carnival Conquest class cruise ship in the Carnival cruise line debuted in 2002, with a capacity of 2980 guests, and cost about $125 million more to build than Carnival Spirit. The cruise sails to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. She took the cruise line to the next level by design and activities. The cruise gives the feelings of the 19th-century era. The cruise is the best option for old-school-minded people.

Related: Top Things to Do on Carnival Conquest

20. Carnival Legend

The Carnival Legend was launched in 2002 and last refurbished in 2019. The Spirit-class cruise ship Carnival Legend has a capacity of 2,124 passengers, which is small in comparison to most modern cruise ships. A lot of fun activities, adventures, water slides, free food options, and an adults-only deck made this cruise more comfortable. Choose one. She sails to global destinations, including England, Spain, Rome, the US, the Caribbean, Europe, the Panama Canal, the Transatlantic, and many more to promote international tourism.

Related: Things to Do onboard Carnival Legend

21. Carnival Pride

One of four Spirit-class, Carnival Pride debuted in August 2002. The ship is old-generation but was last refurbished in 2019. It has more fun activities and a modern design look. She has a great entertainment option, a good variety of cuisine, and multiple pool options. Its capacity to carry passengers is 2134, and it sails to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Central America, and Bermuda.

Related: Favorite things to do on the Carnival Pride

22. Carnival Spirit

The very first Spirit-class cruise ship, Carnival Spirit , is one of the most popular cruise ships on the cruise line; it debuted in 2001 and was last refurbished in 2018. The cruise ship sails to other regions, such as Alaska, Panama, and even Northern Europe, along with sister cruise ships. After refurbishing, she received some major upgrades like Ol' Fashioned BBQ, the Warehouse video arcade, WaterWorks, Guy's Burger Joint, and Bonsai Sushi. She gives more space to passengers and carries 2124 guests.

Related: Best Activities on Carnival Spirit

23. Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance was launched in 2000 and is formally known as Carnival Victory. Still, after a major transformation in Spain in 2021, she became completely new and modern with a huge $200 million bow-to-stern makeover. The new-look cruise is now a part of Sunshine class and sailing from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal in California. She has a capacity for 2984 guests accommodated.

Related: Top Onboard Activities on the Carnival Radiance

24. Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise bustle day and light with constant fun and activities. The cruise originally debuted in 1999 and was the second Destiny-class ship. Later, the line gave a huge $200 million for renovation in 2019 and changed to the Sunshine class. The cruise is 101,509 gross tons with 2,984 guest capacity at double occupancy. She sails to the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Related: Best things to do onboard Carnival Sunrise

25. Carnival Elation

In 1998, Carnival launched Carnival Elation in April month. The ship has similar fun activities in comparison to other Carnival cruises. The Fantasy-class cruise has Fun Ship 2.0 features and other amenities, including RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar, Guy's Burger Joint, JavaBlue Cafe, WaterWorks, the Alchemy Bar, and Bonsai Sushi Express. She can accommodate 2,190 guests.

Related: Top Things to Do on the Carnival Elation

26. Carnival Paradise

Carnival Paradise is seven months older than the sister cruise ship Carnival Elation. She debuted in November 1998 and was last refurbished in 2018. The Fantasy-class cruise ship carries 2124 passengers and has many features similar to a sister cruise ship, including Fun Ship 2.0 amenities, BlueIguana Tequila Ba, WaterWorks, and Guy's Burger Joint.

Related: Amazing Things to Do in Carnival Paradise

27. Carnival Sunshine

Carnival Sunshine was known formally as Carnival Destiny and debuted in 1996. Carnival Sunshine was the first-ever cruise ship in the Carnival cruise. In 2013, the line decided to refurbish with $155 million and entered the Sunshine-class. She carries 3002 guests and sails to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Related: Fun Things to Do on Carnival Sunshine

We look forward to covering the future Carnival cruise ships powered by LNG. The new generation of Carnival cruises will be most awaited, and every cruise lover will be waiting to sail. Old-generation cruises also became modern and get more fun activities. So, what are you waiting for? Just book a cruise before it gets full.

Frequently Asked Questions about Carnival Cruise Ships

1. Which Carnival Cruise Is Newest?

2. How Many Carnival Ships are There?

3. What Is Carnival's Biggest Ship?

4. Which Carnival Ship Is the Most Fun?

5. How Old Is Carnival's Oldest Ship?

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Carnival Ships by Age [Infographic] from Newest to Oldest

Below you'll find all Carnival Ships by Age from newest to oldest . We know that some members of our cruise community like the newest Carnival ship off the line. And we've heard that others prefer some nostalgia. Fortunately, Carnival offers a wide variety of ship ages.

In this age of hyper-sensitivity, we wouldn't dare favor the youngest over the oldest Carnival Cruise ship. Nor vice versa. We love all ships equally . As annoyingly "PC" as that sounds, we truly have a soft spot in our hearts for all Carnival's ships regardless of age.

Our charts below will help you find the perfectly aged ship for your specific preference. We've prepared an infographic laying out Carnival ships by Age from its newest active ship, the Mardi Gras (a beast), to its oldest ship still in operation (spoiler... it's the Ecstasy).

Carnival Oldest and Youngest Ships

Many cruisers will scroll to the very top or the very bottom of the chart. Maybe they want the freshest ship off the line. Or, perhaps they just want to avoid sailing the most ancient of the fleet. Either way, here are the most common two questions ask from potential Carnival cruisers.

What is Carnival’s newest cruise ship? Carnival's newest active ship is the Horizon, launched in 2018. The next ship to be launched will be the Panorama in December 2019 and then the Mardi Gras in 2020. See details on each below.

What is Carnival’s oldest ship? Carnival's oldest cruise ship, which is still active today, is the Carnival Fantasy. It was launched in 1990 and currently offers departures form Mobile, Alabama.

Often we're asked if "age" affects size . The short answer is, "yes." It's not a 1:1 correlation. The newest ship won't always be the most expensive. And the oldest the least. Many more factors will come into play. The cruise length, itinerary, season, etc will all factor in. A new ship will generally cost more. The older ships tend to offer more deals. To get a sense of pricing, use the widget below. Play around with ships and dates to see how price changes with age and more.

You'll see from our Carnival Ship Age Infographic that the cruise line's active ships go back to 1991. If you're on one of these older ships, however, don't think expect a 90's throwback complete with Nirvana music and tamagotchis. Cruise ships are regularly upgraded to provide the newest venues and a fresh coat of paint.

Let's be honest, the Carnival Ecstasy won't have the same "new ship smell" that you'll find on the Panorama. And cruise pricing typically reflects this . Newer ships and ships more recently renovated will command higher prices than those in need of some updates.

If you're looking for the newest cruise ship off the lot, then our graph below should be exactly what you need. If you're cool with a recently upgraded ship, be sure to check out the details below. In addition to the Carnival cruise ship age, you'll also find the most recent renovation date included. The adjoining text will provide detail on the venues added during that retrofit.

Carnival Ships by Age Infographic

Enough ship talking. Below, find the complete list of active Carnival Ships by Age.

Ship age alone won't tell the full story. Most of Carnival's ships have been renovated since first launched. Below, you'll find each of Carnival's ships with birth date, renovation date, and some other helpful info to help you find the perfect ship.

Feel free to use the menu below to jump to your Carnival ship.

• 1) Carnival Celebration
• 2) Carnival Mardi Gras
• 3) Carnival Panorama
• 4) Carnival Horizon
• 5) Carnival Vista
• 6) Carnival Breeze
• 7) Carnival Magic
• 8) Carnival Dream
• 9) Carnival Splendor
• 10) Carnival Conquest
• 11) Carnival Valor
• 12) Carnival Liberty
• 13) Carnival Glory
• 14) Carnival Freedom
• 15) Carnival Sunshine
• 16) Carnival Radiance
• 17) Carnival Sunrise
• 18) Carnival Miracle
• 19) Carnival Pride
• 20) Carnival Legend
• 21) Carnival Spirit
• 22) Carnival Ecstasy
• 23) Carnival Elation
• 24) Carnival Paradise
• 25) Carnival Sensation
• 26) Carnival Fantasy
• 27) Carnival Fascination
• 28) Carnival Imagination
• 29) Carnival Inspiration
• 30) Carnival Celebration Original
• 31) Carnival Jubilee
• 32) Carnival Holiday
• 33) Carnival Tropicale
• 34) Carnival Festivale
• 35) Carnival Carnivale
• 36) Carnival Mardi Gras Original

Without further ado, below is our complete list of Carnival Ships by Age. You'll find them listed from newest to oldest.

1) Carnival Celebration Year Built & Renovated

The Carnival Celebration is scheduled for launch in 2022. It will share the rank of "Carnival’s largest ship" with the Carnival Mardi Gras. Both are in Carnival's "XL" Class.

• Year Built : 2022
• Status : future ship
• Year Renovated : N/A
• Scheduled Renovation : N/A
• Ship Class : XL
• Gross Tonnage : 183,900
• Years Served : Future (2022)
• Capacity : 6,630 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 2,641
• Ship Cost : $1000 Million
• Flagged Country : Panama
• Ship Length : 1,130 feet (344 meters)

2) Carnival Mardi Gras Year Built & Renovated

The Carnival Mardi Gras was built in 2020 and shares the rank of "Carnival’s largest ship" with the Carnival Celebration. Both are in Carnival's "XL" Class.

• Year Built : 2020
• Status : active
• Years Served : 2020–present
• Ship Cost : $950 Million

3) Carnival Panorama Year Built & Renovated

The Carnival Panorama was the cruise line’s only new ship to launch in 2019. It entered service late in the year on December 11, 2019. It should still have that "new ship smell."

• Year Built : 2019
• Ship Class : Vista
• Gross Tonnage : 135,500
• Years Served : 2019–present
• Capacity : 5,146 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,823
• Ship Cost : $780 Million
• Ship Length : 1,055 feet (322 meters)

4) Carnival Horizon Year Built & Renovated

The Carnival Horizon was newly constructed in 2018. It was the largest Carnival ship ever built until the Panorama came along. Her first sailing was on April 2, 2018.

• Year Built : 2018
• Gross Tonnage : 133,500
• Years Served : 2018–present
• Capacity : 4,977 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,967
• Ship Cost : $800 Million

5) Carnival Vista Year Built & Renovated

The Carnival Vista is one of the newest in the fleet, built in 2016. As such, it includes all of the major Carnival Fun Ship features as well as extras like the IMAX theater, SkyRide, Dr Seuss Bookville and much more.

• Year Built : 2016
• Years Served : 2016–present

6) Carnival Breeze Year Built & Renovated

Carnival Breeze was fully renovated in 2017. Carnival added Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ restaurant as well as the Alchemy Bar. Also completed were some general renovations to the rooms and public areas.

In April of 2017 the Breeze received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Breeze: Bonsai Sushi; Cucina del Capitano; Fat Jimmy's BBQ; Guy's Pig & Anchor BBQ; SeaDogs Hot Dogs.

• Year Built : 2012
• Year Renovated : 2017
• Ship Class : Dream
• Gross Tonnage : 130,000
• Years Served : 2012–Present
• Capacity : 4,724 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,845
• Ship Cost : $740 Million
• Ship Length : 1,004 feet (306 meters)

7) Carnival Magic Year Built & Renovated

In 2016, new features added during the Carnival Magic renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, The Library Bar, Red Frog Rum Bar, and The Punchliner Comedy Club. The ship will be going into dry-dock again in March, 2021.

In March of 2016 the Magic received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Magic Cucina del Capitano; Guy's Pig & Anchor BBQ; Pizzeria del Capitano; SeaDogs Hot Dogs.

• Year Built : 2011
• Year Renovated : 2016
• Scheduled Renovation : 2021
• Years Served : 2011–Present

8) Carnival Dream Year Built & Renovated

In 2017, new features added during the Carnival Dream renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, The Library Bar, Red Frog Rum Bar, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Bonsai Sushi, Pizzeria del Capitano and Guy’s Pig and Anchor BBQ.

In Feb of 2017 the Dream received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Dream Bonsai Sushi; Guy's Pig & Anchor BBQ; Pizzeria del Capitano.

• Year Built : 2009
• Years Served : 2009–Present
• Capacity : 4,631 passengers

9) Carnival Splendor Year Built & Renovated

In 2019, the Carnival Splendor experienced a FunShip 2.0 renovation complete with Serenity Retreat, Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Pub, Guy's Burger Joint and an overhaul of the waterpark, including a fre-fall water slide. The reno cost Carnival $60 Million.

In Nov of 2019 the Splendor received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Splendor.

• Year Built : 2008
• Year Renovated : 2019
• Ship Class : Splendor
• Gross Tonnage : 113,300
• Years Served : 2008–Present
• Capacity : 3,734 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,506
• Ship Cost : $700 Million
• Flagged Country : Malta
• Ship Length : 952 feet (290 meters)

10) Carnival Conquest Year Built & Renovated

In 2017, the Carnival Conquest experienced all of the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades including: Guy's Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, EA Sports Bar, RedFrog Pub, Blue Iguana, Alchemy, and Library Bars. Additionally, the Conquest added the Seafood Shack.

In October of 2017 the Conquest received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Conquest Seafood Shack; Waterworks Water Park.

• Year Built : 2002
• Scheduled Renovation : 2020
• Ship Class : Conquest
• Gross Tonnage : 110,000
• Years Served : 2002–Present
• Capacity : 3,756 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,487
• Ship Cost : $500 Million
• Ship Length : 953 feet (290 meters)

11) Carnival Valor Year Built & Renovated

New features added in the 2016 renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, Red Frog Rum Bar, Skybox Sports Bar, and Camp Ocean.

In August of 2016 the Valor received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Valor Seafood Shack.

• Year Built : 2004
• Years Served : 2004–Present
• Total Staterooms : 1,490

12) Carnival Liberty Year Built & Renovated

In 2016, the Carnival Liberty experienced all of the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades including: Guy's Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, EA Sports Bar, RedFrog Pub, Blue Iguana, Alchemy, and Library Bars.

In Dec of 2016 the Liberty received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Liberty Seafood Shack.

• Year Built : 2005
• Years Served : 2005–Present

13) Carnival Glory Year Built & Renovated

In 2017, the Carnival Glory experienced all of the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades including: Guy's Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, EA Sports Bar, RedFrog Pub, Blue Iguana, Alchemy, and Library Bars. Additionally, the Glory added the Seafood Shack.

In March of 2017 the Glory received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Glory Seafood Shack; Waterworks Water Park.

• Year Built : 2003
• Years Served : 2003–Present
• Total Staterooms : 1,485

14) Carnival Freedom Year Built & Renovated

In 2019, the Carnival Freedom was fully renovated with FunShip 2.0 upgrades. It now includes Cherry on Top, Bonsai Sushi, mini golf, and a new waterpark featuring, Waterworks.

In March of 2019 the Freedom received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Freedom Bonsai Sushi; Cherry On Top; Seafood Shack; Waterworks Water Park.

• Year Built : 2007
• Years Served : 2007–Present
• Capacity : 3,754 passengers

15) Carnival Sunshine Year Built & Renovated

In 2013, the Carnival Destiny was renovated and its name changed to the Carnival Sunshine. In 2016, new features added during the Carnival Sunshine renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, The Library Bar, Red Frog Rum Bar, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Bonsai Sushi, Pizzeria del Capitano, Havana Bar, Ji Ji Kitchen, JavaBlue Cafe, Shake Spot and SeaDogs. The full renovation cost Carnival $155 Million.

In May of 2016 the Sunshine received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Sunshine Bonsai Sushi; Cucina del Capitano; Havana Bar; JavaBlue Cafe; Ji Ji Kitchen; Pizzeria del Capitano; SeaDogs Hot Dogs; Shake Spot.

• Year Built : 1996
• Ship Class : Sunshine
• Gross Tonnage : 102,853
• Years Served : 2013–Present as Carnival Sunshine 1996-2013 as Carnival Destiny
• Capacity : 3,002 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,321
• Ship Cost : $400 Million
• Flagged Country : Bahamas
• Ship Length : 893 feet (272 meters)

16) Carnival Radiance Year Built & Renovated

In 2020, the Carnival Victory was renovated and its name changed to the Carnival Radiance. The full upgrade cost Carnival $200 million and included all of the latest and greatest Carnival upgrade features.

In Jan of 2018 the Radiance received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Radiance Bonsai Sushi; Cherry On Top; Seafood Shack.

• Year Built : 2000
• Year Renovated : 2018
• Gross Tonnage : 101,509
• Years Served : 2000–2020 as Carnival Victory and 2020 - present as Carnival Radiance
• Capacity : 3,873 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,492
• Ship Cost : $410 Million

17) Carnival Sunrise Year Built & Renovated

In 2019, the Carnival Triumph was renovated and its name changed to the Carnival Sunrise. The ship will be entirely renovated and include new features like Cloud 9 Spa, Serenity Area, Liquid Lounge, Piano Bar 88, Red Frog Rum Bar, Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ, Bonsai Sushi, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Chef’s Table Java Blue Cafe and Cucina Del Capitano.

In March of 2019 the Sunrise received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Sunrise Seafood Shack.

• Year Built : 1999
• Years Served : 1999–2019 as Carnival Triumph (Currently being refitted to be renamed Carnival Sunrise)
• Ship Cost : $420 Million

18) Carnival Miracle Year Built & Renovated

In 2015, new features added during the Carnival Miracle renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, The Library Bar, Red Frog Rum Bar, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Skybox Sports Bar, Cherry on Top and Dr Seuss Bookville

In March of 2020 the Miracle received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Miracle Cherry On Top; Dr Seuss Bookville; Skybox Sports Bar.

• Year Renovated : 2020
• Ship Class : Spirit
• Gross Tonnage : 88,500
• Capacity : 2,680 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,062
• Ship Cost : $375 Million
• Ship Length : 963 feet (294 meters)

19) Carnival Pride Year Built & Renovated

In 2019, new features added during the Carnival Pride renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, The Library Bar, Red Frog Rum Bar, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Cherry on Top, Camp Carnival and Carnival Waterworks.

In Feb of 2019 the Pride received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Pride Bonsai Sushi; Waterworks Water Park.

20) Carnival Legend Year Built & Renovated

In 2018, the Carnival Legend experienced all of the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades including: Guy's Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, EA Sports Bar, RedFrog Pub, Blue Iguana, Alchemy, and Library Bars. Additionally, the Legend added the Bonsai Sushi and Cherry on Top.

In May of 2018 the Legend received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Legend Bonsai Sushi; Cherry On Top; Waterworks Water Park.

• Capacity : 2,610 passengers

21) Carnival Spirit Year Built & Renovated

In 2018, the following was added during the retrofit to the Carnival Spirit: The Warehouse Arcade; Soul Play Studio. Improvements were made to other common areas including the art studio, shops, and photo gallery.

In May of 2018 the Spirit received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Spirit Bonsai Sushi; Cherry On Top; SoulPlay Kids Club; Waterworks Water Park.

• Year Built : 2001
• Years Served : 2001–Present

22) Carnival Ecstasy Year Built & Renovated

In 2017, new features added during the Carnival Ecstasy renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, and Cherry On Top Ice Cream Shop. The ship will be going into dry-dock again in October, 2020.

In October of 2019 the Ecstasy received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Ecstasy Bonsai Sushi; Camp Ocean; Cherry On Top; Dreams Studio; Waterworks Water Park.

• Year Built : 1991
• Ship Class : Fantasy
• Gross Tonnage : 70,367
• Years Served : 1991–Present
• Capacity : 2,606 passengers
• Total Staterooms : 1,026
• Ship Cost : $275 Million
• Ship Length : 855 feet (261 meters)

23) Carnival Elation Year Built & Renovated

In 2017, new features added during the Carnival Elation renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Red Frog Rum Bar, Carnival Waterworks and Camp Ocean. The ship will be going into dry-dock again for three weeks in March, 2020.

In September of 2017 the Elation received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Elation Camp Ocean; Cherry On Top; Waterworks Water Park.

• Year Built : 1998
• Years Served : 1998–Present
• Ship Cost : $300 Million

24) Carnival Paradise Year Built & Renovated

In 2018, new features added during the Carnival Paradise renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Waterworks, and Cherry On Top Ice Cream Shop. Improvements were made to all cruise cabins during this retrofit.

In March of 2018 the Paradise received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Paradise Camp Ocean; Cherry On Top; Waterworks Water Park.

25) Carnival Sensation Year Built & Renovated

In 2017, new features added during the Carnival Sensation renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, and Cherry On Top Ice Cream Shop, and Red Frog Rum Bar. The ship will be going into dry-dock again in January, 2020.

In February of 2017 the Sensation received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Sensation Camp Carnival; Cherry On Top; Waterworks Water Park.

• Year Built : 1993
• Years Served : 1993–Present

26) Carnival Fantasy Year Built & Renovated

In January 2019, the Carnival Fantasy was renovated to now include the Dreams Studio along with other small improvements.

• Year Built : 1990
• Status : retired
• Year Renovated : NA
• Scheduled Renovation : NA
• Years Served : 1990–present
• Capacity : 2,056 passengers
• Ship Cost : $225 Million
• Flagged Country : NA

27) Carnival Fascination Year Built & Renovated

In 2018, new features added during the Carnival Fascination renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Red Frog Rum Bar, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, and The Library Bar, Cherry on Top and Bonsai Sushi.

In February of 2018 the Fascination received a FunShip 2.0 upgrade, complete with the following features: RedFrog Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Cantina, Guy's Burger Joint, Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliner's Comedy Club, Hasbro Game, EA Sports Bar, Library Bar, Taste Bar, & Carnival Steakhouse. Additionally, the following was added to the Fascination Bonsai Sushi; Cherry On Top.

• Year Built : 1994
• Status : laid-up
• Years Served : 1994–Present
• Ship Cost : $315 Million

28) Carnival Imagination Year Built & Renovated

In 2018, new features added during the Carnival Imagination renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Red Frog Rum Bar, Camp Ocean, Cherry on Top, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, and The Library Bar.

• Year Built : 1995
• Years Served : 1995–Present
• Ship Cost : $330 Million

29) Carnival Inspiration Year Built & Renovated

In 2018, new features added during the Carnival Inspiration renovation include Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina, Red Frog Rum Bar, Camp Ocean, Cherry on Top, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, and The Library Bar.

• Years Served : 1996–Present
• Ship Cost : $270 Million

30) Carnival Celebration Original Year Built & Renovated

The original Carnival Celebration was constructed in 1987 and served under the Carnival flag for close to two decades. It then bounced around from owner to owner and currently operates under the name Grand Celebration. It's owned by the cruise line, Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line.

• Year Built : 1987
• Ship Class : Holiday
• Gross Tonnage : 47,262
• Years Served : 1987 - 2008
• Capacity : 1,496 passengers
• Total Staterooms : NA
• Ship Cost : $130 Million
• Ship Length : 733 feet (223 meters)

31) Carnival Jubilee Year Built & Renovated

The Jubilee was built in 1986 and served for close to two decades with Carnival. In 2008 it became the Pacific Sun under the P&O flag. It was then transferred to Costa Cruise Line in late 2014 and was eventually scrapped in 2017.

• Year Built : 1986
• Years Served : 1986 - 2004
• Capacity : 1,486 passengers
• Ship Cost : $134 Million

32) Carnival Holiday Year Built & Renovated

Built in 1985, the Carnival Holiday served with Carnival all the way through 2009. It was then transferred to Iberocruceros under the name, Grand Holiday. Most recently, it sailed as the Magellan with Cruise & Maritime Voyages. In the summer of 2020, it was laid up.

• Year Built : 1985
• Gross Tonnage : 46,051
• Years Served : 1985 - 2009
• Capacity : 1,452 passengers
• Ship Cost : $170 Million
• Ship Length : 728 feet (222 meters)

33) Carnival Tropicale Year Built & Renovated

The Tropicale was built in 1982 and sailed with Carnival through 2001. It has since bounced around and changed names a handful of times. It's been known as the Costa Tropicale, Pacific Star, and Ocean Dream.

• Year Built : 1982
• Gross Tonnage : 36,674
• Years Served : 1982 - 2001
• Capacity : 1,412 passengers
• Ship Cost : $100 Million
• Ship Length : 671 feet (205 meters)

34) Carnival Festivale Year Built & Renovated

The Festivale was built in 1977 and sailed with Carnival through 1996. It then bounced around and changed names a handful of times. It's been known as the Transvaal Castle, SA Vaal, Island Breeze and Big Red Boat III. It was scrapped in 2003.

• Year Built : 1962
• Ship Class : Festivale
• Gross Tonnage : 32,697
• Years Served : 1977 - 1996
• Capacity : 1,432 passengers
• Ship Cost : $78 Million
• Ship Length : 760 feet (232 meters)

35) Carnival Carnivale Year Built & Renovated

The Carnivale was built in 1975 and sailed with Carnival through 1993. It bounced around and changed names a handful of times. It's been known as the Empress of Britain, Queen Anna Maria, Fiesta Marina, Olympic, and The Tropaz. It was scrapped in 2008.

• Year Built : 1956
• Ship Class : Carnivale
• Gross Tonnage : 31,500
• Years Served : 1975 - 1996
• Capacity : 1,054 passengers
• Ship Cost : $NA Million
• Ship Length : 640 feet (195 meters)

36) Carnival Mardi Gras Original Year Built & Renovated

The Original Carnival Mardi Gras was built in 1972 and sailed with Carnival through 1993. It bounced around and changed names a handful of times. It's been known as the Empress of Canada, Olympic, Star of Texas, Lucky Star, Apollo, and Apollon. It was scrapped in 2003. Carnival has planned a new Mardi Gras ship to be launched in 2020.

• Year Built : 1961
• Ship Class : Mardi Gras
• Gross Tonnage : 18,261
• Years Served : 1972 - 1993
• Capacity : 1,048 passengers
• Ship Cost : $6.8 Million
• Ship Length : 650 feet (198 meters)

If you like exploring our Carnival Ships by Age chart, you'll also love our Carnival Ships by Size infographic ! There you'll see the dramatic difference in the cruise line's fleet.

We hope that you've gotten a good sense of Carnival Ships by Size.

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Carnival Ships by Size and Age

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Welcome aboard our voyage through the Carnival Cruise Line’s Fleet. Carnival has long been a favorite for its family-friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly options. Whether you’re planning your first sea adventure or a seasoned sailor of the high seas, understanding the diverse fleet of Carnival’s ships can help tailor your perfect cruise experience.

Carnival ships are famous for their signature red, white, and blue whale tail funnel, a symbol of fun and excitement on the open sea. This iconic design marks the ships’ distinctive profile and encapsulates the essence of Carnival’s brand—a world of fun, sun, and exploration.

In this blog post, we’ll navigate the waves of choices within the Carnival fleet. We’ll compare Carnival ships by size, age, and class to help you select the best one for your next cruise vacation.

Table of Contents

Carnival Ships by Size

Carnival’s fleet offers a variety of sizes catering to different passenger preferences, from those seeking an intimate experience to a thrill-packed city at sea with endless activities.

Larger Carnival cruise ships have more things to do, while smaller vessels offer a more relaxed and laid-back experience.

Below is a comprehensive guide to Carnival Cruise Line’s ships, categorized by size.

List of Carnival Ships by Age

The ship’s age is an essential factor when planning your cruise vacation. Newer cruise ships, like Carnival Jubilee, offer newer technology, better amenities, more activities, and a broader range of entertainment options. In contrast, older vessels, like Carnival Spirit, are quieter and focus more on traditional cruise activities.

The table below shows Carnival’s cruise ships from newest to oldest.

Although the cruise ships at the bottom of the list are very old, they receive regular refurbishments every three to five years. So, even if you aren’t sailing on the newest vessel, the ship won’t show its age.

Carnival Cruise Ship Classes

Carnival Cruise Line has eight cruise ship classes.

Carnival Cruise Ships on Order

Carnival Cruise Line currently has one unnamed Excel-class ship on order. We’re expecting Carnival’s fourth Excel-class ship to arrive in 2027 and be identical in size to the previous Excel cruise ships.

The 180,000 gross-ton cruise ship will be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) and is under construction at the Meyer-Werft shipyard in Germany.

Which Carnival Cruise Ship is the Biggest?

The biggest Carnival cruise ship is the Carnival Jubilee . The Excel-class cruise ship has a gross tonnage of 183,900 GT, a length of 344 meters, and can accommodate 5,374 passengers.

Which Carnival Cruise Ship is the Smallest?

Carnival’s smallest cruise ship is the Carnival Elation, which has a gross tonnage of 71,909 GT, a length of 260 meters, and a 2,188-passenger capacity.

What is the Newest Carnival Ship?

Carnival’s newest cruise ship is the Carnival Firenze, which entered service for the cruise line in 2024. Firenze was built in 2021 for Carnival’s sister brand, Costa Cruises. Carnival acquired the cruise ship, and it entered service in 2024.

What is the Oldest Carnival Ship?

The oldest Carnival ship is the Carnival Sunshine , which launched in 1996.

How Many Cruise Ships Does Carnival Have?

Carnival operates the largest ocean cruise ship fleet with 27 cruise ships.

What Was the First Carnival Cruise Ship?

The first Carnival Cruise ship was the TSS Mardi Gras .

The vessel (named RMS  Empress of Canada at the time) was built for Canadian Pacific Steamships Ltd. in 1960 before being bought by the newly formed Ted Arison Carnival Cruise Line.

Empress of Canada was a little over 27,000 gross tons, a considerable difference from the 180,000 Excel-class ships.

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Carnival Cruise Ships by Size and Age (2022)

Carnival Cruise Line has an active fleet of twenty-three ships with a further three ships due to join the fleet in the near future ( Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee are both new builds and a currently unnamed ship will transfer from sister brand Costa Cruises in late-2022.

The fleet is primarily based in the United States and sails frequently from the ports of Jacksonville (Florida), New York, Port Canaveral (Florida), San Francisco (California) and others.

Introduction to Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is often mistaken for the parent company Carnival Corporation. The brand is the biggest of the Carnival Corporation brands and is the first cruise line that started the business back in 1972, by founder Ted Arison.

Carnival primarily caters to the North American market with a lot of onboard activities, dining and entertainment geared towards the American clientele.

Back in 1972, Ted Arison founded the cruise line with just one ship – a former transatlantic liner under the name Empress of Canada . It was renamed Mardi Gras and marketed to young fun-loving individuals – a market that was not catered for at this time by cruise lines.

It proved very popular and the business grew quickly to take on a second ship in 1975 (calling it Carnivale ) and the third ship in 1978.

It wasn’t until 1982 that Carnival had its own first purpose-built cruise ship, Tropicale . This is also the first ship where the iconic ‘winged funnel’ first appeared and is now a trademark part of every Carnival cruise ship that people first spot when arriving at a cruise port.

By the 1990s, Carnival had introduced further classes of ships and kept on growing quickly throughout the 2000s too, by 2020 the company had 28 ships in its fleet.

Carnival Cruise Ship Frequently Asked Questions

Has a carnival cruise ship ever sunk.

No. Never. Carnival has had some ships with fires and engine issues over the years, but these are few and far between.

The only ship to sink (partially) was Costa Concordia and is a sister brand to Carnival Cruise Line – both owned by the parent company Carnival Corporation.

How much is a Carnival cruise ship?

$1 Billion USD is the approximate price of a new Carnival cruise ship ( Mardi Gras ) currently – this is due to the size and facilities on the ships. In comparison, Carnival Sunshine cost just $409 million when she was built in 1996.

What is Carnival’s biggest cruise ship?

Mardi Gras is Carnival’s biggest ship at 180,000 GRT and able to carry 5,282 passengers. More than double of their smallest cruise ship.

What is Carnival’s smallest cruise ship?

Carnival Ecstasy is Carnival’s smallest cruise ship at just 70,367 GRT and able to carry 2,056 passengers – less than half of their biggest cruise ship.

What is Carnival’s oldest cruise ship?

Carnival Ecstasy is the oldest Carnival ship. It entered service in 1991. However, it was refurbished in 2017 and is due to return in late 2022.

What is Carnival’s newest cruise ship?

Mardi Gras is Carnival’s latest ship and entered service in 2021.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Carnival Cruise Line has one of the biggest gaps between its youngest and oldest cruise ships. The oldest ship in the fleet ( Carnival Ecstasy ) entered service in 1991 and the latest ship ( Marda Gras ) entered service in 2021 – three entire decades later.

Whilst the recent events in the world stopped the cruise lines in their tracks, Carnival will take the longest to get back on its feet as it was spending the most every month during the global cruise shutdown.

This is because it had the largest fleet at the time and one of the reasons why it sold off some of its older ships ( Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Sensation ) to other cruise lines or for scrap to save money.

Carnival does refurbish its ships and has undergone a large program to modernize its fleet – calling the newly refurbished ships ‘Fun Ship 2.0’ and adding the same bars and restaurants to the ships as found on some of their newer vessels.

Final Thoughts

Carnival is seen as a ‘fun’ cruise line – but it also has a reputation as a party line that attracts more budget-friendly cruisers. In the last few years, the cruise line has found a niche of cruisers who enjoy really fun things on their cruises, but also want a little luxury too.

Carnival Vista , Carnival Horizon , Carnival Panorama and now Mardi Gras all have a new class of cabin called ‘Havana Cabins’ which offer a more upmarket-style cabin in an area of the ship called the Havana Retreat.

This exclusive area offers its own pool, hot tubs and bars and is only accessible to passengers staying in the Havana Cabins. It is often located at the rear of each ship, affording excellent views from the aft out to sea and offering a tranquil area to rest from the rest of the fun onboard the ship.

If you enjoyed this guide, take a read of our other guides which include MSC Cruises , Royal Caribbean , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises .

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26 Carnival Ships by Size And Age – Which Ship To Sail?

Greetings, fellow travel enthusiasts! If you’ve navigated to this page, you’re likely in search of a comprehensive list detailing the Carnival ships by size and age. Perhaps you’re in the exciting stage of planning your next cruise vacation with Carnival, and with their extensive fleet, choosing the right ship can seem like a daunting task.

Indeed, Carnival ships by size and age might not be your ultimate deciding factor, but it can undoubtedly influence your overall cruise experience. Larger vessels often boast a wider array of activities, whereas smaller ships offer a more intimate and cozy ambiance.

As an avid traveler with a particular passion for cruise journeys, I’ve dedicated countless hours to researching various cruise lines. Whether you’re a cruise rookie or a seasoned seafarer, this guide to Carnival ships by size and age aims to assist you in making an informed decision.

I’m well-acquainted with the thrill and sometimes the stress that comes with planning a cruise vacation. I’ve been in your shoes, and that’s why I’m here to help. So, let’s set sail on this informational voyage together, and by the end of this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to select the perfect ship for your upcoming cruise adventure.

Fleet Info For Carnival Ships By Class

Understanding the different classes within the fleet can be incredibly helpful when choosing which Carnival Cruise ship fits your needs. Each class of ships offers a unique set of features, amenities, and experiences catering to a wide range of passenger preferences.

Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet has several distinct classes, each with its own charm and character. From the latest and most innovative Excel Class to the classic and intimate Fantasy Class, Carnival’s diverse fleet ensures there’s a ship for every type of cruiser.

In the following section, we’ll provide an image that visually represents the different Carnival classes, helping you to better understand and choose the perfect ship for your next cruise adventure.

Carnival Class Ships Chart

Features Of Each Class Of The Carnival Cruise Line

Each class of Carnival ships offers unique features and amenities, catering to a wide range of preferences and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a ship with the most modern amenities or one that offers a more intimate cruising experience, Carnival Cruise Line has a ship for you.

Excel Class:

The Excel class ships, including Mardi Gras (2021), Carnival Celebration (2022), and Carnival Jubilee (coming December 2023), are the largest in the Carnival fleet. According to the Carnival ships by size and age chart, these three ships are newer and larger. They offer a plethora of eateries, lounges, bars, and deck-top attractions, including the first-ever roller coaster on a cruise ship. These ships also feature the first Emeril Lagasse restaurant at sea and the first Big Chicken eatery at sea, a chain created by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal.

Vista/Venezia Class:

Ships in this class include Carnival Panorama (2019), Carnival Horizon (2018), Carnival Vista (2016), Carnival Venezia (2023), and Carnival Firenze (coming in 2024). These ships are known for their water parks with waterslides, miniature golf courses, ropes courses, and multiple pool areas. They also feature the pedal-powered, suspended-in-the-air SkyRide attractions.

Dream Class

The Dream class ships, Carnival Breeze (2012), Carnival Magic (2011), and Carnival Dream (2009), are similar in size to the Vista class ships and offer a variety of amenities. They feature water parks with waterslides, miniature golf courses, sports courts for basketball and volleyball, and multiple pools.

Splendor Class

The Splendor class consists of a single ship, Carnival Splendor (2008). It is similar to the Conquest-class ships but features an enlarged and redesigned top deck area and a bigger spa area.

Conquest Class

Ships in this class include Carnival Freedom (2007), Carnival Liberty (2005), Carnival Valor (2004), Carnival Glory (2003), and Carnival Conquest (2002). They offer water play areas with waterslides, miniature golf courses, and adults-only Serenity deck-top retreat areas.

Spirit Class

The Spirit class ships, including Carnival Miracle (2004), Carnival Legend (2002), Carnival Pride (2002), Carnival Spirit (2001), and Carnival Luminosa (2009), are built for “all-weather” cruising. They feature pools that can be covered by retractable domes for colder climates and boast the largest percentage of balcony cabins and oceanview cabins in the Carnival fleet.

Sunshine Class

The Sunshine class ships, Carnival Radiance (2000/2021), Carnival Sunrise (1999/2019), and Carnival Sunshine (1996/2013), have been almost completely gutted and rebuilt, offering a variety of new amenities and venues.

Fantasy Class

The Fantasy class ships, Carnival Paradise (1998) and Carnival Elation (1998) are Carnival’s oldest and smallest ships. According to our Carnival ships by size and age, these two were among the first built and weigh the least. They offer a more intimate cruising experience and have undergone renovations over the years to add more balcony cabins.

Carnival Jubilee

The Carnival Jubilee, set to arrive in late 2023, is part of the Excel class. It will be similar in size and amenities to the Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, offering a wide selection of entertainment options as well as various dining options.

You can compare the features of the classes of ships to the Carnival ships by size and age, listed below, to get a bigger picture of what will be the best fit for you.

Carnival Ships by Size And Age

Carnival ships by size and age, boast a diverse fleet, with ships varying significantly in size. The size of a ship is typically in gross tonnage, which refers to the internal volume of the ship and its length. From the colossal Carnival Celebration, part of the Excel Class and boasting a gross tonnage of 183,900 and a length of 344 meters, to the more compact Carnival Elation, part of the Fantasy Class with a gross tonnage of 71,909 and a length of 260 meters, there’s a ship for every preference.

The Carnival ships by size and age also list the age of a ship. The age of a ship can also be a crucial factor when planning your cruise. While newer ships often come equipped with the latest technology, amenities, and a wide range of entertainment options, older ships have their own charm.

Carnival refurbishes its older ships regularly to maintain a modern and comfortable environment for passengers. Carnival’s fleet ranges from the brand new Carnival Jubilee, set to launch in late 2023, to the Carnival Sunshine, which first set sail in 1996. To help put the carnival ships by size and age into perspective, here is a table of the 26 Carnival cruise ship sizes.

Table Of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size And Carnival Cruise Ships By Age

Carnival Cruise Ships on Order

Carnival Cruise Line continues to innovate and expand its fleet. Currently, the cruise line has one ship on order, the Carnival Jubilee, which will launch in 2023. This Excel-class ship will join its sister ships, the Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, in providing passengers with a state-of-the-art cruising experience.

As of mid-July 2023, Carnival does not have any other new ships on order.

By understanding Carnival Ships by Size and Age, you can easily decide which ship aligns with your cruising preferences. Whether you prefer the grandeur of the newest and largest ships or the charm of the older and smaller vessels, Carnival Cruise Line offers a ship for every type of cruiser.

Remember, the best ship is not necessarily the newest or the biggest but the one that provides the experience you’re looking for. So, which Carnival ship will you choose for your next cruise adventure?

Frequently Asked Questions About Carnival Ships By Size And Age

When planning a cruise vacation, it’s natural to have questions when it comes to choosing the right ship. To assist you further, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about “Carnival ships by size and age.” Here are the answers to some of the most common queries:

What is the largest ship in the Carnival fleet?

The largest ship Carnival has is the Carnival Celebration, part of the Excel Class. Its gross tonnage is 183,900. It offers a plethora of amenities, including the first-ever roller coaster on a cruise ship.

What is the oldest ship in the Carnival fleet?

The Fantasy Class has the Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation, both launched in 1998, which makes them the oldest ships. Despite their age, they offer a classic and intimate cruise experience and have undergone renovations over the years to add more balcony cabins.

What are the main differences between the classes of Carnival ships?

Each class of Carnival ships by size and age offers unique features and amenities. For instance, the Excel Class ships are the newest and largest, boasting a wide array of modern amenities. On the other hand, the Fantasy Class ships are the oldest and smallest, offering a more intimate cruising experience. The specific amenities and experiences offered can vary from class to class, so it’s important to research each class when choosing your ship.

Additional Resources

If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs, and troubleshooting on cruises, here are some additional posts about cruises:

6 Top Tropical Vacation Destinations – Heartwarming Beauty

Navigating The Uncharted Territory Of A Nude Cruise From Booking To Comfort

Icon Of The Seas: Largest Cruise Ship To Set Sail

Conclusion – Carnival Ships By Size And Age

In conclusion, understanding the various “Carnival ships by size and age” is crucial when planning your next cruise vacation. Each class of Carnival ships by size and age, from the Excel class to the Fantasy class, offers unique features and amenities that cater to a wide range of preferences and experiences.

Whether you’re looking for the most modern amenities on the Excel class ships or a more intimate cruising experience on the Fantasy class ships, Carnival Cruise Line has a ship for you.

This comprehensive guide to “Carnival ships by size and age” provides detailed information about each class of ships, their features, and the years they were launched. With this information at your fingertips, you’re now well-equipped to make an informed decision for your next cruise vacation.

Remember, the perfect ship for you depends on your personal preferences, and Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of options to meet every cruiser’s needs.

Happy cruising, my friends.

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A Guide to All 27 Carnival Cruise Ships

With 27 ships and hundreds of itineraries, there’s a Carnival cruise for everyone.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line offers numerous cruise options worldwide with a fleet of 27 ships. Their cruises include all the hits: celebrity chef-driven restaurants, onboard rollercoasters, dedicated kids venues, serene spa moments, adults-exclusive pool decks, and exciting destinations. Carnival has it all — and can be relatively affordable. But which ship is right for you?

After sailing on eight Carnival cruises, including voyages on its oldest ship, Carnival Elation , and the newer Carnival Celebration, I’ve learned that sailing on newer ships is generally more expensive, and older vessels are more budget-friendly. However, I often consider more than the total cost before booking a cruise. I look at the ports of call, the space-to-guest ratio, the amenities and onboard activities, and the launch point.

When I select a sailing, I book through Carnival Cruise Line’s reservation number to see if I can snag an exclusive deal not listed online. Carnival's free-to-join loyalty program, the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club, offers deals like reduced deposits, onboard credit, and room upgrades. The more you book with the cruise line, the better your deals will be. 

Before committing to a cruise, I break down the price per person per night, particularly if I need multiple cabins because I'm traveling with a group. I recommend you take advantage of Carnival's convenient 24-hour reservation hold, which displays the total cost, itinerary, and a countdown timer so you know when to purchase to secure the locked-in price.

Here, find guidance on every Carnival cruise ship, from the newest to the oldest.

Related: How to Save Money on a Cruise

Carnival Firenze

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Venice Class

Ship Capacity: 4,126 double occupancy; 5,245 total guests

Standout Amenities: Amari bar for a peritivi and digestivi ; Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need time away from kids; and Pizzeria Del Capitano for hand-tossed pizza made with imported Italian ingredients  

Originally debuted in 2021 as part of the Costa Cruises fleet (an Italy-based subsidiary of Carnival), the Firenze will set sail as a Carnival ship — with an Italian twist — in Spring 2024. Across Firenze , you’ll see touches of Italy; think cute cafe set-ups that look like they were picked up from a Florence sidewalk. Terrazza staterooms access a private sun deck with whirlpools and a bar. Carnival’s fan-favorite dining options and amenities, like Guy’s Burger Joint and WaterWorks, will be on board.

Carnival Jubilee

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Excel Class

Ship Capacity: 5,374 double occupancy; 6,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster rollercoaster; relaxing Cloud 9 Spa thermal suites with adjustable humidity and temperature; pickleball courts for challenging family and friends

Carnival Jubilee is the newest Excel-class ship in the fleet, sailing from Galveston, Texas. The massive ship offers Camp Ocean, the onboard kids club. Adults also have their own space at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with swaying hammocks and a bar.

Carnival Venezia

Ship Capacity: 3,934 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: The Gondola Lounge, themed after Venice's beautiful canals; a pool area with a retractable roof

Initially built in 2019 for Costa Cruises, this ship joined the Carnival fleet in 2023. Carnival Venezia is ideal if you’re looking for a ship that celebrates one of Italy’s most iconic cities. Venice is the inspiration behind the indoor and outdoor areas, including the atrium, modeled after Piazza San Marco, and the Carnevale Lounge, inspired by Venetian masquerades. Don't miss the Venetian Toast, where the ship’s captain greets guests and crew don Venetian masks.

Carnival Celebration

Inaugural Year: 2022

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers, a kids camp in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; The Golden Jubilee Bar for vintage cocktails; BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster

Carnival Celebration is all about never-ending good times. During my recent sailing, I found all the Carnival classics, like the Alchemy Bar and Guy’s Burger Joint, a thrilling ropes course, dive-in movies, and plenty of themed deck parties. If you’re looking to relax, it has that, too. Rent cabanas or lounge in the ocean-view whirlpools at Loft 19, where attentive staff take care of everything, like delivering you fruit and chilled towels. My favorite spot to hang out was the aft Patio Pool because it wasn't ever super crowded, and the view of the ocean was unmatched. 

Carnival Luminosa

Ship Class: Spirit Class

Ship Capacity: 2,260 double occupancy; 2,826 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Carnival fan-favorite Alchemy Bar; Circle “C” tween club; Cloud 9 Spa hydrotherapy pool for rejuvenating soaks

Carnival Luminosa (formerly the Costa Luminosa ) is for you if you want to sail to destinations like Alaska and Australia. It also offers occasional itineraries through scenic transpacific spots like Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii, and Japan. The ship has all of the brand’s classic amenities, like the RedFrog Rum Bar and Punchliner Comedy Club, plus an array of dining options, including sushi, pizza, ice cream, and an over-the-top brunch.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Inaugural Year: 2021

Ship Capacity: 5,282 double occupancy; 6,456 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster for adrenaline junkies; Havana Bar for Cuban drinks and live music; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse

Carnival Mardi Gras is a nod to Carnival’s first ship, also named Mardi Gras, which was launched in 1972. The vessel has six onboard zones where families can have fun together, including the Ultimate Playground, where BOLT and the SportsSquare are located. Of course, there’s no Mardi Gras without New Orleans, so the French Quarter zone is where you’ll find Big Easy-inspired amenities like an Emeril Lagasse restaurant.

Carnival Radiance

Inaugural Year: 2021 (formerly Carnival Victory , which set sail in 2000)

Ship Class: Sunshine Class

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,873 total guests 

Standout Amenities: BlueIguana Tequila Bar for great margaritas; ZSPA for teens who want a spa day; an outdoor gym on the ship's top deck

Carnival Radiance has culinary delights and family fun in spades. If you're a foodie, try Guy’s Burger Joint for loaded burgers straight from Flavortown or Shaq’s Big Chicken for the basketball star's incredible fried chicken sandwiches. Kids will love seeing The Cat in the Hat characters during activities like character parades, story time, and character breakfasts.

Carnival Panorama

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Vista Class

Ship Capacity: 4,008 double occupancy; 5,146 total guests

Standout Amenities: Sky Zone trampoline park where families can bounce and play games; Skyride, a suspended bike on the top deck with great ship and ocean views; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse featuring Carnival Cruise Line exclusive craft beers

Carnival Panorama is smaller than today's mega-ships, but it packs a ton of fun into its 15 decks. Rooms are spacious; some come with exclusive perks like access to the Havana Pool area or unlimited use of the spa’s thermal suites. Kids will also love that there’s an onboard waterpark, kids club, and a Build-a-Bear Workshop at Sea.

Carnival Sunrise

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,973 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa cabins with access to the thermal suites; Lucky Bowl restaurant, which is only on Carnival Sunrise and only open for lunch

Carnival Sunrise  (formerly Carnival Triumph ) features an exciting splash zone for kids and a piano bar where adults can sing along to their favorite songs all night. The ship sails on two to five-night and six to nine-night cruises from Miami, Florida, to the Bahamas.

Carnival Horizon

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 3,960 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: IMAX movie theater for a family night out; Dr. Suess Bookville for family story time and character appearances; volleyball court where adults can test their skills or just hit the ball around

Carnival Horizon has all the makings of a fun family vacation. The kids clubs have dedicated counselors who ensure children are always having fun, and parents can slip away to an adults-only bar for a cocktail or the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat to catch some sun. Then, as night falls, you can come back together for a special meal in the main dining room or JiJi Asian Kitchen, which specializes in regional Asian cuisine.

Carnival Vista

Inaugural Year: 2016

Standout Amenities: The thrilling SkyRide suspended bike for great ship and sea views; Thrill Theater for a 3-D show with water, lighting, wind, and chair movement effects; RedFrog Pub & Brewery, the first brewery at sea in North America

Carnival Vista is perfect for new cruisers. Sailings range from two to nine days out of Port Canaveral, so you can get a taste of what a cruise is like without committing to a more traditional weeklong sailing. Expect an onboard brewery, incredible restaurants, and family-friendly fun.

Carnival Sunshine

Inaugural Year: 2013

Ship Capacity: 3,002 double occupancy; 3,758 total guests

Standout Amenities: Carnival WaterWorks with multiple slides and water features; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for poolside libations; an onboard steakhouse with a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its exceptional wine list

Carnival Sunshine (formerly Carnival Destiny ) is 10 years old and a fan favorite. The lower guest capacity, at just over 3,000 for double occupancy, means you won’t have to fight hoards of people to get to and from activities. Families who want even more cabin space should book one of the aft-view extended balcony rooms with great wake views and ample private outdoor space.

Carnival Breeze

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Dream Class

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa for next-level relaxation; Mongolian Wok lunch restaurant; pickleball courts to get competitive with your family; waterslides

Carnival Breeze is ideal for a short cruise out of Galveston, Texas. The ship has plenty of activities throughout the day, including bingo, trivia, and live performances in the comedy club.

Carnival Magic

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa; a thrilling ropes course; Chef’s Table dining experience

Carnival Magic sails for a week or more from Miami, Florida. The ship debuted the restaurant Cucina del Capitano, which is now onboard multiple ships in the fleet. It’s also home to the original Guy’s Pig & Anchor. I sailed the Carnival Magic years ago, but I vividly remember spending an entire day enjoying the amenities at the Cloud 9 Spa and eating at the Mongolian Wok quick-service restaurant almost every afternoon for lunch.

Carnival Dream

Inaugural Year: 2009

Ship Capacity: 3,646 double occupancy; 4,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: Ocean Plaza, a multi-use entertainment venue that’s family-friendly during the day and a nightclub after dark; Guy’s Burger Joint for standout smash burgers; Cloud 9 Spa for adults to relax

Carnival Dream is known for exciting entertainment and food and beverage offerings, including Alchemy Bar, a vintage-themed cocktail "pharmacy." The ship sails from Galveston, Texas, on six to nine-day cruises. I loved playing the onboard mini-golf course.

Carnival Splendor

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Class: Splendor Class

Ship Capacity: 3,012 double occupancy; 3,734 total guests

Standout Amenities: Masala Tiger Indian restaurant, which is only open for lunch and only on this ship; a mini-golf course; a pool with a retractable cover

Carnival Splendor sails the Southern Hemisphere around Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific on cruises that range from two to 10 days. The ship has Carnival’s only quick-service Indian restaurant and boasts a pool with a retractable roof, so you can swim without worrying about the weather.

Carnival Freedom

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Conquest Class

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,754 total guests

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers kids program in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; RedFrog Pub, with Key West-inspired food and drinks; Dr. Seuss Bookville, a kids library that's themed after the famous author’s characters

Carnival Freedom is ideal for first-time cruisers because of the lower guest capacity and the smaller ship size. But don’t let the numbers fool you; this ship is packed with high-energy activities for all ages; from the kid's clubs to the casino, there’s no lack of fun to be had.

Carnival Liberty

Inaugural Year: 2005

Ship Capacity: 2,974 double occupancy; 3,576 total guests

Standout Amenities: Punchliner Comedy Club for family-friendly laughs during the day and adults-only fun at night; SkyBox Sports Bar to keep up with the big games back home; Mongolian Wok, a prime lunch spot with custom bowls

Looking to relax? Prefer a high-energy vacation? Carnival Liberty can do it all. Head to the main theater for enchanting live performances and shows every night, enjoy tacos and burgers on the pool decks, or find a lounge chair around the pool and soak up the sun.

Carnival Valor

Inaugural Year: 2004

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,756 total guests

Standout Amenities: Dive-in movies where you can catch a family-friendly flick under the stars; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for tequila and Mexican beer-based cocktails; Scarlett’s Steakhouse, where perfect steaks and impeccable sides await

Carnival Valor is almost 20 years old and still showing cruisers a good time. The ship's home ports are New Orleans, Louisiana, and Barcelona, Spain, and it offers two to over 10-night sailings. Don’t miss the epic Seaday Brunch, where you'll find all kinds of treats like huevos rancheros, french toast, loaded burgers, and chicken and waffles.

Carnival Miracle

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,680 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat where the 21-plus crowd can enjoy a kid-free space; pickleball courts that have great views of the ocean and ports of call

Fantasy worlds and elements inspired Carnival Miracle . Around the ship, you’ll find spaces like Phantom Lounge and Dr. Frankenstein’s Lab, where you can see shows or dance the night away. When you’re ready to soak up the sun, find a lounge chair at the adults-only pool deck or splash down on one of the slides at WaterWorks.

Carnival Glory

Inaugural Year: 2003

Standout Amenities: Camp Ocean kids club for children ages two to 11; AquaTunnel waterslide; 24-hour pizza delivery to anywhere on the ship

Carnival Glory is a vibrant ship inside and out. Think nightly dance parties in White Heat Dance Club, movies under the stars on the pool deck, and tacos from BlueIguana Cantina. The ship sails around the Bahamas, Caribbean, and more on two to 10-day itineraries.

Carnival Legend

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests 

Standout Amenities: White Hot Night Party; jogging track with panoramic ocean views; Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea where kids can make a new friend to bring home

Carnival Legend, themed around legends and lore around the world, has two pools and plenty of places to grab a bite, including the Golden Fleece Steakhouse for a stunning multi-course dinner. You're sure to return home with tales.

Carnival Conquest

Standout Amenities: Pickleball courts so you can keep up with weekly family matches; '80s Rock-In-Glow Party for an evening of throwback fun; Guy’s Burger Joint for tasty and quick meals between activities

Carnival Conquest takes cruisers to the Bahamas and the Caribbean on two to 10-day sailings. Special programs allow kids to see their favorite Dr. Seuss characters at sea, and adults can enjoy the enticing Alchemy Bar for one-of-a-kind cocktails.

Carnival Pride

Inaugural Year: 2002 

Standout Amenities: Mid-ship pool with a retractable roof; Heroes Tribute Bar, which recognizes each branch of the American military

For an extended cruise from Tampa, Florida, or Baltimore, Maryland, look to Carnival Pride . The ship has something for every type of traveler, including three kids clubs, adult-only spaces, and over a dozen different dining options.

Carnival Spirit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests

Standout Amenities: Domed swimming pool; two-deck fitness center; a pizza window open until 4 a.m.

Carnival Spirit sets sail from home ports around the United States to Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal. The ship offers a wide range of entertainment options, including mini-golf, a jogging track, kids clubs, and adult-centric entertainment.

Carnival Paradise

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Fantasy Class

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need a place without kids; twin racing waterslides for all ages

With two to nine-day cruises from Tampa to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Carnival Paradise literally takes cruisers to paradise islands. The ship brims with fun amenities like the WaterWorks splash zone and the relaxing Cloud 9 Spa.

Carnival Elation

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests 

Standout Amenities: Duke’s Piano Bar for nightly sing-a-longs; Alchemy Bar for custom cocktails; BlueIguana Cantina for breakfast and lunch options with a Mexican twist

Carnival Elation is currently the fleet's oldest ship, debuting in March 1998, and the only cruise ship from any cruise line that sails from Jacksonville, Florida. Even though the ship is small, with a total guest capacity of 2,606, it’s ideal for a quick weekend away if you want a mix of relaxation and high-energy activities. I've sailed the most on Carnival Elation since the ship sails from my hometown of Jacksonville. Even though it's the oldest in the fleet, I love that the sailings are short weekend trips where I can sit outside in the sun enjoying a Guy's Burger Joint smash burger before heading inside to see a show or play bingo. And because the ship is so small, it's easy to navigate, and I always end up making friends with the delightful crew onboard.

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Carnival Cruise Line currently has 24 cruise ships in service. Carnival Cruise Line is the largest cruise company in the world, based on passengers carried, and the flagship brand of Carnival Corporation & plc. Known as “America’s Cruise Line” for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other  cruise line .

The Newest Carnival Ships On Order

Carnival has made things a little confusing for Cruise Addicts by completely renaming and refurbishing some of its older vessels. If that wasn’t confusing enough, they have recently moved and renamed several ships from the Costa brand to Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival also has plans to move more Costa ships to Carnival in the future. In brief, not every new ship is brand new.

This guide will give you some insight into what is actually Carnival’s newest Carnival cruise ships. This also includes also ships that are currently under construction as well as ships that have been refurbished and renamed.

Let’s explore the upcoming additions to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet.

Carnival Jubilee – 2023

Carnival Jubilee  is under construction at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. Her delivery date is expected to be in early December 2023 .

She will be the newest ship in the  Excel class , Carnival Jubilee will share many of the same features guests love on  Mardi Gras  – including the award-winning  BOLT, The Ultimate Sea Coaster . She will also feature unique experiences and signature venues of her own.

Carnival Jubilee will begin sailing from  Galveston  in December of 2023 and will offer seven-day Western Caribbean cruise vacations with stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, as well as Mahogany Bay (Isla Roatan), Honduras.

Carnival Firenze – 2024

The ship will feature the cruise line’s new  Carnival Fun Italian Style  experience, which debuts with the June 2023 arrival of  Carnival Venezia  in  New York . Carnival Fun Italian Style incorporates Carnival’s signature high-energy environment, friendly team members and many familiar venues, plus several new, creative concepts – from Italian-themed restaurants, bars and entertainment .

Carnival Firenze  will join the fleet in spring 2024 after being transferred from sister brand Costa Cruise Lines. She will sail from  Long Beach, Calif.  The ship will offer a variety of cruises year-round, with sailings set for popular destinations in  Baja , California and the  Mexican Riviera . This ship sailed under the name Costa Firenze with Costa and is also a Vista Class ship and sister to the Costa Venezia which has already joined the Carnival fleet.

Previously known as Costa Firenze, this is also a Vista-class ship , and a sister ship to Costa Venezia, which will have joined the Carnival fleet a year prior. Both of these ships are retaining their Costa funnels and a will have modified hull art as a nod to their Italian roots and unique style.

The Newest Carnival Ships Sailing in 2023

Discover the latest and greatest Carnival ships that are currently out at sea. Check out the list below, starting with the newest addition.

Carnival Venezia – 2023

Carnival Venezia  was initially launched in 2019 for Costa Cruises and is 133,500 GRTs and carries 4,977 passengers. She is considered part of the  Venice Class  and was the former  Costa Venezia .

Carnival Celebration – 2022

Carnival Celebration is the second ship in the popular  Excel Class  and sister to  Mardi Gra s. She carries 5,282 passengers (based on two per cabin). The Godmother of the ship is Cassidy Gifford.

The ship takes her name from a former Carnival cruise ship,  Celebration , that was part of the  Holiday class . The name also pays homage to the companies long history as the ship was delivered during  Carnival Cruise  Line’s 50th birthday year.

Carnival Luminosa – 2022

Carnival Luminosa  was originally launched in 2008 for Costa Cruises and is 92,600 GRT’s and carries 2,826 passengers. She is considered part of the  Spirit Class  and was the former  Costa Luminosa .

Mardi Gras – 2021

The Mardi Gras is a ship belonging to Carnival’s Excellence Class, also known as Excel Class, and is the sister ship of Carnival Celebration. With a capacity of 5,282 passengers based on double occupancy, it is named after a former Carnival cruise ship that sailed for two decades. The Miss Dominican Republic , Kimberly Jiménez, is the ship’s godmother.

Mardi Gras made history by being the first ship in North America to run on Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). Additionally, it features BOLT, the Ultimate Speed Coaster, which is the first-ever roller coaster on a ship.

Mardi Gras is also the only ship name in the current Carnival Cruise Line fleet without including the word Carnival. This honors Carnival’s original  Mardi Gras  that first sailed for the brand on March 11, 1972.

Carnival Panorama – 2019

Carnival Panorama is the third ship in the  Vista Class . She carries 4,008 passengers (based on two per cabin). She was christened by  Godmother Vanna White . The ship debuted  Carnival  Kitchen, a first-in-fleet culinary center that offers more than 15 different interactive cooking, baking and decorating demonstrations.

Carnival Horizon – 2018

The Vista Class features the Carnival Horizon as its second ship, capable of accommodating 3,960 passengers in two-person cabins. The ship’s Godmother is the versatile Queen Latifah, who is renowned for her skills in rapping, acting, and singing.

Carnival Horizon stands out for its groundbreaking features, such as the Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse|Brewhouse, and the first-ever Dr. Seuss-themed water park .

Renamed Carnival Ships

Carnival Cruise Line has changed the names of three of its ships over the years. In order to enhance the ships, they have undergone a thorough dry dock renovation process where they are stripped down and updated with new features and décor.

Although the renovated ships are as good as new, they are not as large or have some of the newest features available on the Excel Class ships like Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration.

Carnival Sunshine

Carnival Sunshine is the first ship in the Sunshine Class and is a sister ship to Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Radiance. It has a passenger capacity of 2,984 based on double occupancy.

This vessel was first put into service in 1996 under the name Carnival Destiny, and was the inaugural ship of the Destiny Class. In 2013, the Carnival Destiny underwent a remarkable 49-day, $155-million dollar refurbishment and was renamed and reclassified as the first Sunshine Class ship. The ship’s Godmother is Lin Arison.

Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise is the second ship of the Sunshine Class, and it is a sister ship to Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Radiance. The ship has a capacity of 2,984 passengers based on two per cabin, and its Godmother is Kelly Arison.

This ship originally entered service in 1999 as the former  Destiny Class  ship named the  Carnival Triumph . In 2019 the  Carnival Triumph  received an incredible $200 million transformation that resulted in it being renamed and also reclassified as a  Sunshine Class  ship.

Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance is the third ship in the Sunshine Class, along with sister ships Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Sunrise. It has a capacity of 2,984 passengers based on double occupancy.

This ship entered service in 2000 as the former  Destiny Class  ship named the  Carnival Victory . In 2021, the  Carnival Victory  received a massive transformation that resulted in it being renamed and reclassified as a  Sunshine Class  ship. The Godmother of the ship is Dr. Lucille O’Neal.

Plan Your Trip?

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Final Thoughts

Carnival Cruise Line has had a lot of dynamic changes. They scrapped many of their older ships in order to save money and focus on newer and more profitable ships after the Covid-19 pandemic shutdown.

As you can see Carnival Cruise Line builds new ships regularly with a new ship coming out almost one per year. However, Some of the newer ships are also moved from a sister brands or could even be a refurbished older vessel like we’ve seen with the Sunshine Class ships.

I hope you have enjoyed some of the history and tidbits about the Carnival Cruise Line fleet as we explored the newest carnival ships in the fleet.

Take a look at our full list of Carnival ships, listed from  Newest to Oldest .

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The 8 classes of Carnival Cruise Line ships, explained

Thinking about a cruise on a Carnival Cruise Line ship? You have a lot of options.

By the summer of 2024, Carnival will have 27 vessels in service — all currently available to book. That's more ships than any other major cruise line except Royal Caribbean , which will have 28 vessels in service by the summer of 2024.

In general, Carnival ships are large but, aside from two exceptions, they're not giants by today's standards. Over the past two years, Carnival has begun operating its first two truly giant ships in years — the 181,808-ton, 5,282-passenger Mardi Gras and the 183,521-ton Carnival Celebration .

Other than these two ships, Carnival's biggest vessel is the 4,090-passenger Carnival Venezia , which measures just 135,225 tons. That's about 40% smaller than the biggest ships operated by Royal Caribbean .

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Six of the 27 vessels Carnival will operate by the summer of 2024 measure less than 100,000 tons, which makes them almost mid-size by today's cruise ship standards.

This is a notable change for the brand from just a couple of decades ago. There was a time when Carnival operated some of the biggest cruise ships in the world. However, for many years, it has held back from following rivals such as Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises in building ever-bigger ships. Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration are now the only Carnival ships on the list of the world's 50 biggest cruise vessels.

The arrival of Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration has marked a major turning point for the line. The two vessels rank 15th and 13th, respectively, on the list of the world's largest cruise ships — the first Carnival ships to crack the Top 20 in quite a few years. They are 35% bigger than the line's next-biggest ship. One more ship in the series — Carnival Jubilee — will arrive in late 2023.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

The good news for those of you trying to get a handle on all the options within the Carnival fleet is that the line's ships can easily be bunched into just eight groups of vessels that have similar amenities. If you know one member of the group, you know them all.

Each of these groups — known as "classes" in cruise industry lingo — is made up of ships that were constructed around the same time with the same basic design.

An introduction to Carnival Cruise Line ships

As mentioned above, Carnival's ships can be broken down into eight distinct groups or classes. A key detail about Carnival ships is that there are a lot of similarities from class to class within the Carnival fleet.

Unlike Royal Caribbean and some other cruise lines, Carnival doesn't always drastically change the design of its ships from class to class.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line

Instead, Carnival usually takes an incremental approach to design changes for its new classes of ships. You'll find a lot in common between the Vista class and Dream class, for instance. These two classes aren't all that different in feel from the earlier Splendor and Conquest classes of ships, though they are a bit bigger.

That said, Carnival is in the midst of a major change in its philosophy on ship design. Its new Excel-class vessels — which first debuted in 2021 with the arrival of Mardi Gras — are far bigger than its earlier ships. These ships also have a lot of new features and amenities (including the first-ever roller coaster on a cruise ship — and, no, we're not making that up).

Related: The 4 new giants of the cruise world — and how to book them

For many years, Carnival steered clear of the big ship trends in the industry. Executives thought the ever-bigger vessels being deployed by such lines as Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises were too big to make for an enjoyable cruise experience.

Now, Carnival is switching gears — no doubt because the giant ships unveiled by some other lines have been enormously popular with cruisers.

At Carnival, as at other lines, the biggest ships in the fleet have the most amenities, eateries, lounges, bars and deck-top attractions than the smaller ships. This can be a huge plus for travelers who like to have a lot of options when vacationing.

However, Carnival's biggest ships also sail with more passengers, which can be a turnoff if you're the kind of traveler who likes a more intimate experience.

In general, Carnival's biggest and most amenity-packed ships are its newest ships. If you're looking for a cruise experience with the most possible onboard activities and venues, you'll want to steer toward the vessels in Carnival's new Excel class and its relatively young Vista and Dream classes.

If cruising in a more intimate environment is your preference, you'll want to look at some of Carnival's older classes of ships including the Spirit and Fantasy classes.

The Carnival fleet is scheduled to grow over the next year with two more new vessels. As noted above, the line has ordered a third Excel-class ship (Carnival Jubilee) that will be ready to sail in December 2023.

In addition, the line will begin operating a ship currently in the fleet of its sister line Costa Cruises — Costa Firenze — in May 2024. It'll be renamed Carnival Firenze and sail from Los Angeles.

Excel class

Ships in class: Mardi Gras (2021), Carnival Celebration (2022) and Carnival Jubilee (coming December 2023).

Size: 181,808 to 183,521 tons.

If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to cruise ships, this is the Carnival class for you.

At a bit over 180,000 tons, Carnival's three new Excel-class vessels — one of which, Carnival Jubilee, is still under construction — are 35% bigger than the line's next-biggest ships and offer more eateries, lounges, bars and deck-top attractions than any other ships in the Carnival fleet by far.

Designed to take Carnival's "fun ship" shtick to a new level, the ships are so big that, as noted above, they have room for roller coasters on their top decks — a cruise industry first. They also have a far broader array of suites than earlier Carnival vessels.

Among the new dining venues on the ships are the first Emeril Lagasse restaurant at sea, as well as the first Big Chicken eatery at sea. (Big Chicken is a chain created by basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal, who also serves as a Carnival spokesperson.)

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Carnival cruise

In addition to featuring a roller coaster, Mardi Gras was the first ship from a North America-based line designed to operate on liquefied natural gas. The fuel is touted as being cleaner than traditional ship fuel.

One caveat to keep in mind if you're thinking of booking an Excel-class ship: They sail with a very large number of people. If being around crowds bothers you, these may not be the ships for you. The vessels are designed to hold a whopping 5,282 passengers at double occupancy. With every pullout sofa and pull-down bunk filled, they can hold up to 6,630 passengers.

Vista/Venezia class

Ships in class: Carnival Panorama (2019), Carnival Horizon (2018), Carnival Vista (2016), Carnival Venezia (2023) and Carnival Firenze (coming in 2024).

Size: 133,596 to 135,225 tons.

With the arrival of Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, the Vista-class and Venezia-class ships (so similar that we have combined them into one entry) are no longer the biggest and most amenity-packed ships in the Carnival fleet. Still, they offer a lot of options when it comes to eateries, bars, lounges and deck-top attractions — more than you'll find on most other Carnival vessels.

All four vessels in the Vista and Venezia classes have water parks with waterslides on their top decks, as well as miniature golf courses, ropes courses and multiple pool areas. They're also known for their pedal-powered, suspended-in-the-air SkyRide attractions.

Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon, which officially are Vista-class ships, also have Imax theaters — the first in the cruise industry. Carnival Panorama, also a Vista-class ship, instead has the first trampoline park ever put on a cruise ship , in a partnership with Sky Zone.

There's also a smorgasbord of restaurants, bars and lounges on all of the vessels. Among the many offerings on these ships are Carnival's first breweries at sea (on all the vessels except Carnival Venezia, which is officially known as a Venezia-class ship and has a few notable differences).

On Carnival Panorama and Carnival Horizon, Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse offers beer brewed on-site along with barbecue dishes designed by the Food Network's Guy Fieri. On Carnival Vista, there's a stand-alone brewery and a separate barbecue venue.

Other eateries on the ships include casual, Guy Fieri-designed Guy's Burger Joint, Chipotle-like burrito spot BlueIguana Cantina (on Carnival Venezia, this is called Tomodoro and also serves a few Italian items), sushi outlets and steakhouses. Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon and Carnival Panorama also feature Italian eatery Cucina Del Capitano, as well as JiJi Asian Kitchen, while Carnival Venezia has an Italian restaurant called Il Viaggio.

Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Venezia also have teppanyaki restaurants, and all four ships have dedicated chef's tables located within their galleys.

Related: Everything to know about Carnival cabins and suites

Both the Vista-class and Venezia-class ships were built on the same basic design platform and are roughly the same size with similar layouts. But Carnival Venezia originally was built for Carnival's Italy-based sister brand, Costa Cruises. As a result, it has a much stronger Italy theme and a few design differences. Still, enough is the same that for all practical purposes, it is a Vista-class ship in all but name. Hence our combining the two classes into one listing.

Related: Our thoughts after sailing on Carnival Venezia

The Vista-class ships were, notably, the first ships in the Carnival fleet to boast exclusive, keycard-restricted cabin areas — a trend that has been growing at many mass-market lines. There are two such areas on the three Vista-class ships: Havana Cabanas and Family Harbor, the latter of which is specifically geared toward families. Carnival Venezia has a keycard-restricted area called Terrazza Carnevale.

The water park area on Carnival Horizon is particularly alluring if you're a Dr. Seuss fan. Unique among the water parks in the Carnival fleet, it has a Dr. Seuss theme. The water park area on Carnival Venezia also is notable as it has one more water slide than the water parks on the Vista-class ships.

All of these ships hold about 4,000 passengers each, based on double occupancy.

Note that one more Costa Cruises ship that is similar to Carnival Venezia (Costa Firenze) will be joining the Carnival fleet in 2024. It'll be renamed Carnival Firenze.

Dream class

Ships in class: Carnival Breeze (2012), Carnival Magic (2011) and Carnival Dream (2009).

Size: 130,000 tons.

Carnival's Dream-class ships are roughly the same size as its Vista-class ships, and the two classes have a lot in common. Still, there are a few key differences.

For starters, the Dream-class ships don't have Imax theaters or trampoline parks. Both were innovations that debuted with the Vista-class ships. They also lack exclusive, keycard-restricted cabin areas and some of the eateries found on Vista-class ships.

Still, for the most part, if you've been on a Vista-class ship, you'll immediately feel at home on a Dream-class ship.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival's VIFP Club loyalty program

Dream-class ships share some of the same amenities as Vista-class ships. For instance, Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic both feature ropes courses on their top decks while Carnival Breeze has a 4D "thrill theater." These innovations first debuted on Dream-class ships.

Dream-class ships also offer water parks with waterslides on their top decks, miniature golf courses, sports courts for basketball and volleyball, and multiple pools.

Interior venues on Dream-class ships include Punchliner comedy clubs, piano bars, casinos and showrooms for big production shows. The dining options are similar to what you'll find on Vista-class ships; Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, steakhouses and the Italian eatery Cucina Del Capitano are included on all three vessels.

Two of the three ships — Carnival Breeze and Carnival Dream — also have sushi eateries, while Carnival Breeze and Carnival Magic have Carnival's Caribbean-inspired watering hole, RedFrog Pub.

The ships in this class hold 3,646 to 3,690 passengers, based on double occupancy.

Splendor class

Ships in class: Carnival Splendor (2008).

Size: 113,300 tons.

Carnival Splendor is an outlier in the Carnival fleet — a ship that makes up a class all its own. That said, it has a lot in common with the ships of Carnival's Conquest-class ships (see below).

Originally designed and ordered for Italy-based Costa Cruises — a sister brand to Carnival — the ship is actually a sister vessel to Costa's four Concordia-class ships. It will be familiar to anyone who knows Carnival ships because the design of Costa's Concordia class was based upon the design of Carnival's Conquest class, and the two classes are very similar.

The main difference between Carnival Splendor and its Conquest-class cousins is that the former has an enlarged and redesigned top deck area. The structure around the main pool of the ship is noticeably different, with a retractable, sliding glass roof that you won't find on the Conquest-class ships, as well as a water play area for kids. The ship also has a bigger spa area.

Other than that, though, Carnival Splendor is basically a variation of the Conquest-class ships. Size-wise, it's just a few thousand tons bigger. It holds 3,012 passengers, based on double occupancy.

Conquest class

Ships in class: Carnival Freedom (2007), Carnival Liberty (2005), Carnival Valor (2004), Carnival Glory (2003) and Carnival Conquest (2002).

Size: 110,000 tons.

At 111,000 tons, the Conquest-class ships (and Carnival Splendor, noted above) are about 20% smaller than the newer Vista-class and Dream-class ships. As a result, they have somewhat fewer amenities.

Still, you'll find a lot of the classic Carnival "fun ship" attractions on these vessels including water play areas with waterslides, miniature golf courses and adults-only Serenity deck-top retreat areas.

You'll also find a solid array of eateries on each of the ships including a Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina burrito outlets and steakhouses.

In addition to being smaller than Vista-class and Dream-class ships, Conquest-class ships also sail with fewer passengers. All of the Conquest-class vessels hold just shy of 3,000 passengers at double occupancy — about 1,000 fewer passengers than the Vista-class ships.

That's a noticeable difference if you're the kind of vacationer who doesn't like to be around giant crowds. For some Carnival fans, the smaller size of the Conquest class and Splendor class makes these ships appealing. Others prefer the added amenities that come with the bigger ships.

Spirit class

Ships in class: Carnival Miracle (2004), Carnival Legend (2002), Carnival Pride (2002), Carnival Spirit (2001) and Carnival Luminosa (2009).

Size: 88,500 tons.

Carnival Spirit-class ships are the adventurers of the Carnival fleet.

The vessels are built for "all-weather" cruising, with pools that can be covered by retractable domes when it's cold and stormy. These are the ships that sail in places such as Alaska, where even in the summer it can be too chilly for sunning on an open pool deck.

These are also the ships that Carnival uses for winter sailings to the Caribbean from Baltimore, which can involve a day or two of cold and stormy sailing in the Atlantic.

In some recent years, Carnival has also deployed one of its Spirit-class ships across the Pacific to Australia — the most far-flung destination that it offers on its schedule.

In addition to having a weather-proof main pool area, the Spirit-class ships are great for far-flung destinations because of their relatively small size, which allows them to access smaller ports. At just 88,500 tons, they're among the smallest ships in the Carnival fleet — less than half the size of Carnival's new Excel-class vessels.

The Spirit-class ships are notably lower and sleeker than most other vessels in the Carnival fleet. Passing under relatively small bridges is not a problem for them. Unlike a lot of recently built cruise vessels, they also are thin enough in the middle that they can squeeze through the old locks of the Panama Canal.

The Spirit-class vessels also boast the largest percentage of balcony cabins and oceanview cabins in the Carnival fleet, which makes them perfect for a destination such as Alaska where being able to watch the scenery from your cabin is a big plus.

They're also relatively intimate ships, holding just 2,124 passengers at double occupancy. By modern-day cruise ship standards, that makes them "mid-size" vessels.

Still, you can expect to find many of the same fun-focused features on Spirit-class ships that you'll find on the line's bigger vessels, including water parks with waterslides and miniature golf courses.

Spirit-class ships also have one of the most unique features in all of the cruising industry — special date-night restaurants that are incorporated into their funnels and feature translucent glass-dome ceilings.

Note that one of the Spirit-class ships, Carnival Luminosa, was originally built for Costa Cruises, a sister line to Carnival (it originally sailed under the name Costa Luminosa). The vessel was built to the same basic specifications as the four Spirit-class vessels built for Carnival in this class, although it is a tad bigger and can hold a few more passengers. It dates to 2009.

Sunshine class

Ships in class: Carnival Radiance (2000/2021), Carnival Sunrise (1999/2019) and Carnival Sunshine (1996/2013).

Size: 102,000 tons.

The Sunshine class (once known as the Destiny class) may be the most unusual class of ships in the Carnival fleet. On paper, the ships in this class are among the oldest vessels that Carnival operates. However, you also can make an argument that they are among the newest vessels in the line.

This is because each of the ships in this series has been almost completely gutted and rebuilt from the waterline up.

The makeovers of the ships, which began in 2013, were so thorough that Carnival has given each of the vessels a new name. Carnival Sunshine is what old-time Carnival fans will remember as Carnival Destiny. Carnival Sunrise is the former Carnival Triumph. Carnival Radiance is the ship that began life as Carnival Victory.

Carnival spent $200 million alone in 2019 overhauling Carnival Sunrise. In addition to sprucing up just about every space on the ship, the money was used to add classic Carnival attractions that the ship lacked. This included a full-blown water park, which replaced a single waterslide on one of its top decks.

Carnival Sunrise also received a SportSquare area on its top deck like the ones found on newer Carnival vessels. It has a ropes course, basketball court, miniature golf course, outdoor pool and ping-pong tables. Carnival didn't end the deck-top changes there. It also found space for another signature Carnival offering that had been lacking: an adults-only Serenity outdoor lounge area with padded loungers, daybeds, a hot tub and a full bar.

In addition, Carnival Sunrise now has half a dozen new food and beverage venues including a version of Carnival's signature steakhouse, Fahrenheit 555; Carnival's signature Italian eatery, Cucina Del Capitano; and a Bonsai Express sushi outlet.

Related: Our take on Carnival's revamped Carnival Sunrise

The overhaul of Carnival Sunshine, which took place in 2013, brought similar changes, as well as a complete renovation of the ship's pool area that incorporated a multideck waterfall.

Carnival Radiance, for its part, just emerged from its long-scheduled overhaul, which was delayed in late 2021 by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Note that even after the makeovers, the ships still don't have all the bells and whistles of Carnival's truly new ships, such as Carnival Panorama. As noted above, Carnival's newest ships are bigger than its older ships, allowing for more attractions, restaurants and lounges.

At around 102,000 tons, the Sunshine-class ships are more than 20% smaller than Carnival Panorama and more than 40% smaller than Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration.

The ships hold from 2,984 to 3,002 passengers, based on double occupancy.

Interestingly, these weren't always considered smaller vessels. In fact, when the line first unveiled Carnival Sunshine in 1996 (back when it was called Carnival Destiny), it was the biggest cruise ship in the world. It also was the first cruise ship to surpass 100,000 tons.

Now, it doesn't even crack the list of the 50 biggest cruise vessels.

Fantasy class

Ships in class: Carnival Paradise (1998) and Carnival Elation (1998).

Size: 70,000 tons.

Built in the 1990s, the Fantasy-class ships are Carnival's oldest and smallest ships, and the line is in the process of phasing them out. Going into 2020, the line had eight of these vessels. It removed four of them from its fleet soon after the COVID-19 pandemic began, and this year it removed two more — Carnival Sensation and Carnival Ecstasy.

The two Fantasy-class ships that are left are mostly used in secondary ports — such as Jacksonville, Florida, and Mobile, Alabama — that might not be able to support bigger vessels.

Related: Why I'm sad to see Carnival retiree its smallest ship

While still much-beloved by Carnival fans, in part for their intimate size, these ships notably lack a large number of balcony cabins — the cabin type that everyone wants these days. Most of the cabins on these ships are ocean-view cabins that only offer a window or a porthole, or windowless inside cabins.

That said, the two remaining Fantasy-class ships have undergone renovations over the years to add more balcony cabins. Depending on the ship, there were between 98 and 150 new balconies added, including new suites.

The ships have relatively fewer amenities and venues than the newer and bigger Carnival ships. You won't find giant water parks on these vessels as you would on newer Carnival ships. You will find multiple slides and a spray park for the kids, though. The dining options are also limited.

Still, for a lot of Carnival fans, these are fun ships.

Two vessels each hold around 2,100 passengers, based on double occupancy.

Bottom line

Carnival has quite a few different classes of ships, but the differences between many of them aren't as big as the differences between classes at other lines.

You'll find a lot of consistency from ship to ship in the Carnival fleet in the type of venues that you find on board. In recent years, Carnival has spent $2 billion overhauling many of its ships to create that consistency in onboard venues and amenities.

Vacationers looking for a big resort experience with a lot of options should choose one of Carnival's newest ships, which are bigger and have more amenities. If you're looking for more intimacy on a cruise ship, some of the older classes of ships, such as those in the Spirit class, might be just right.

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• Carnival Firenze

Carnival Firenze ™

• Dining & Activities
• Sails From:

Long Beach is fun, but it isn't known as a hotspot of Italian culture… yet! In spring 2024, Carnival Firenze will debut, setting sail from this homeport towards south-of-the-border fun along Mexico's Pacific coast! So, Long Beach, you're wondering what to expect from Fun Italian Style ™ ? Grab your movie star sunglasses and throw on a scarf — just for style — as you make your entrance at Piazza Duomo , named for Florence's iconic domed cathedral. To get a taste for onboard flavor and flair, check out spots like the elegant three-course Michelangelo and Medici Restaurants , traditional Italian foods, cocktails and more at Il Viaggio , plus Italian street food spot La Strada Grill ™ . You're even going to find an Italian market, Il Mercato , featuring faves like sauced-up meatballs, sandwiches with inspiration from Italy and beyond, plus sausages and salads. And since we're always authentic… most of the time, you can enjoy the fusion-y goodness of Mexican-Italian Tomodoro ™ plus Guy's Burger Joint , which now features classics and burgers with Italian twists. For refreshment served up in a glass, look to cocktail bar Amari ™ , frozen drinks with a bit of attitude at Rococó ™ , Frizzante ™ with its three specialties (bubbly drinks, snacks and coffee!), plus classic Italian cocktails and martinis with surprising and fashionable twists (and live music too!) at Moda Bar and Lounge ™ . Even more spots for entertainment include the classic-theater vibe of Teatro Rosso featuring Playlist Productions shows, and Tuscan Lounge paying tribute to Florence's iconic home region. Let's not forget Terrazza staterooms — we could never! — which give you a stylish, comfy place to unwind from all the fun… near a private deck featuring exclusive amenities like all-day lounging at Terrazza Moda home to great views, drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more. While we're excited about the Italian side of this ship, it's not the whole story. Carnival has some true fan-favorites we knew folks would be asking for. ( ) That's why Carnival Firenze also includes familiar flavors like Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ™ . Places to celebrate absolutely anything (or just nothing!) include Piano Bar 88 and Serenity Bar , while you can seriously kick back at Cloud 9 Spa ™ and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ . Kids are going to love Camp Ocean ™ , Circle “C” ® and Club O2 ® — each one is perfectly designed for a different age group. And if active/splashy fun is your thing, that's honestly a great thing and we can tell you're going to be spending time at WaterWorks ™ and SportSquare ™ , home to a ropes course, jogging track, mini golf course and outdoor fitness center. Long Beach! Carnival Firenze is sailing now from your sweet shores. Andiamo!

• 135,156 Gross Tonnage
• 4,126 Guest Capacity
• 1,061 Length In Feet
• 1,425 Onboard Crew

INSIDE THIS SHIP

Just like a delicious cake, your ship is made of layers. Find out which fun ingredients — staterooms, dining, activities — go into each deck.

YOUR STATEROOM

Terrazza interior.

A cozy, classic stateroom decked out with Italian flair… plus amenities like exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Amenities exclusive to Terrazza staterooms:

• Access to private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools, and more
• Daily continental breakfast at the nearby lounge
• Sailaway event featuring live music
• Comfy Terrazza-branded robes and towels for your use

Plus, every room includes:

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• In-room safe for valuables
• Stateroom climate control

Interior with Picture Window (Walkway View)

Every room includes:

Interior with Portholes

Interior upper/lower with portholes, interior upper/lower, deluxe ocean view.

Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are a great choice for families who want to let the sun shine in as they sail. Rooms of this type feature great views, a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom.

Deluxe Ocean View (Obstructed View)

Terrazza premium vista balcony.

If you’re all about living the Terrazza life while you cruise… we like your style, and have just the room for you. There’s tons of Italian flair on the inside, but what’s outside counts too! And in this case it’s an incredible wraparound balcony for luxurious private lounging with a sea breeze. But don’t spend all your time here: you also have exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

• Access to private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more

Terrazza Premium Balcony

When you want the most sea breeze and the amazing views — but you also want Italian style to match — a Terrazza Premium Balcony might be just the thing. An extra-wide balcony is just one of the perks… but don’t forget exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Terrazza Aft-View Extended Balcony

A balcony made for watching the ship’s calm wake as we sail along, plus an interior with Italian style on the inside. That’s your Terrazza Aft-View Extended Balcony! Well, that and exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Terrazza Cabana

A Terrazza Cabana stateroom gets you real estate on one of the most desirable addresses on the ship: your very own lounging patio complete with deck chairs. Plus, you'll have easy access to the exclusive private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Premium Balcony

We designed balcony staterooms for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, and this stateroom features a balcony that's even wider than our standard balcony for extra outdoor space.

Aft-View Extended Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space... not to even mention some of the best views. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon the ship's gentle wake from your spacious balcony.

Cove Balcony

Cove Balcony staterooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location, for one amazing up-close view of the wake and sea foam as the ship cruises along.

Ocean Suite

An Ocean Suite lets you experience a private, spacious relaxation... more space for stretching out indoors, including a walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool tub, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors.

Amenities exclusive to suites:

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority Main Dining Room time assignment
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 AM
• Access to private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more (guests 12 or older only)
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattress

Ocean Suite (Obstructed View)

Onboard activities, onboard dining, which way to mexico.

Carnival Firenze gives you options for exploring Mexico’s beautiful Pacific coast, sailing from Long Beach.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

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Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance (previously Carnival Victory) set sail in December 2021 after a full transformation. The ship, which holds 2,984 guests and 1,108 crew members, boasts plenty of fun indoors and outdoors for cruisers of all ages.

Carnival Radiance features a ropes course, waterslides, a mini-golf course, dive-in movies in the evening and a sports area for activities like soccer, basketball, volleyball and boxing. The ship also offers a kids club for youths ages 2 to 17. The pool is surrounded by lounge chairs – perfect for relaxing – and those seeking additional quiet space can spend some time at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Inside, the spa, the piano bar, the comedy club and the performance event venue, which features musicals, concerts and more, round out some of Carnival Radiance's most popular offerings. Dining options (14 eateries in total, including a Chef's Table experience) abound on this ship as well: Cruisers can enjoy casual fare at Big Chicken or Guy's Burger Joint, or sit down for a more upscale meal at Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi or the Steakhouse.

Staterooms aboard the ship include Interior (porthole and picture window choices are available), Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category options. Carnival Radiance sets sail from Los Angeles to destinations in Hawaii and Mexico .

Carnival Panorama

A member of Carnival Cruise Line's Vista class, the Carnival Panorama debuted in December 2019 as the first new Carnival ship homeported on the West Coast in 20 years. With a capacity of 4,008 guests and 1,450 crew, Panorama is one of Carnival's largest ships.

Among the ship's standout amenities is the Sky Zone – a trampoline park that offers dodgeball and basketball games, toddler bounce sessions and more. Other unique Carnival amenities found on the ship include a suspended bicycle in the air called SkyRide, a sprawling water park, the Cloud 9 Spa and an open-air recreation area and ropes course.

Dining options on board are just as diverse. In fact, there are more than a dozen dining venues aboard Carnival Panorama, including multiple Guy Fieri eateries, a sushi restaurant, a steakhouse, a seafood eatery and more.

Carnival Panorama offers the line's typical range of accommodation classes (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) along with Family Harbor and Havana staterooms and suites. Havana Cabana Suites feature rain showers and patios equipped with hammock chairs, along with exclusive access to the Havana Bar & Pool. Meanwhile, Family Harbor accommodations are located next to the ship's Family Harbor Lounge and afford guests special perks, such as a free evening of babysitting and complimentary kids meals in the onboard specialty restaurants.

Sailing from Los Angeles , the ship cruises to destinations in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas . It also departs from Singapore for transpacific voyages. 

Carnival Mardi Gras

There's a good reason why Carnival named one of its newest ships Mardi Gras. The ship – which launched in July 2021 – is not only named after the first Carnival ship that entered service in 1972, but also features amenities and activities that keep guests entertained and the atmosphere energized. Carnival designed the ship with six different zones, each with a unique flair. Kids can play all day in the Ultimate Playground, which features WaterWorks (the onboard water park), SkyCourse (a ropes course) and Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster, an onboard roller coaster that travels up to 40 mph. Meanwhile, adults can take advantage of Lido, where the RedFrog Tiki Bar flanks one of the ship's pools. Additional activities include a comedy club, a casino, Family Feud Live (yes – it looks like the famous show's set) and a spa.

As you might expect from its large-scale amenities, Mardi Gras is sizeable: It accommodates up to 6,465 passengers and 1,745 crew members. To keep up with demand, the ship offers close to 20 different dining venues serving everything from sushi to burgers to fried chicken. When travelers need refreshments or a nightcap, they can visit one of seven bars and lounges.

Following a full day of fun, cruisers will need a quiet retreat to rest their heads. Staterooms feature Carnival Comfort Collection linens, TVs and a dedicated room steward. Upgraded rooms may include perks like exclusive access to ship amenities, bottles of water, in-room coffee makers and priority check-in and disembarkation. Rooms range in size from 158 square feet for interior staterooms to the massive 1,120-square-foot Carnival Excel Presidential Suite.

Catch Mardi Gras in Caribbean locales like San Juan, Puerto Rico ; Cozumel and Grand Turk .

U.S. News Insider Tip: To dine at Bonsai Teppanyaki (available on Celebration , Horizon , Panorama , Venezia and Mardi Gras), make your reservation as soon as possible. The restaurant only seats 16 people at a time, so reservations go fast. –  Karon Warren , Contributor  

Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration debuted in early November 2022 and boasts a Las Vegas -style theater, a casino, an arcade, a saltwater pool and a top-of-the-line rooftop rollercoaster – the first one of its kind at sea. Complete with six separate zones to explore, including a summer-themed zone and a playground-themed zone, the 1,130-foot-long cruise ship has something for everyone. Celebration can hold up to 5,374 passengers and 1,735 crew members, and it features more than 20 dining venues, including a barbecue smokehouse and a full-service sushi restaurant.

Staterooms are comfortable with plush bedding, vanity mirrors and built-in reading lights, but for additional perks, guests can opt for a room with a balcony or ocean views. If you don't mind splurging a little, the Carnival Excel Suite offers upgrades like concierge service and complimentary admission to Loft 19, the ship's exclusive lounge fitted with infinity whirlpools and shaded cabanas.

Carnival Celebration explores an array of picturesque destinations, including Cozumel, Mexico ; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Maarten and more. It sails out of Miami . 

Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon – which set sail in April 2018 – accommodates 3,960 passengers and 1,450 crew members. The ship offers a plethora of amenities for travelers of all ages. Children can ride the SkyRide suspended bike, play at the Dr. Seuss-themed water park and climb the ropes course, while parents can lounge on an adults-only deck and pamper themselves at the Cloud 9 Spa. At night, the whole family can enjoy live performances.

Onboard dining options are also plentiful, with 11 eateries that serve everything from steaks to Italian classics to burgers. Carnival Horizon was the first in Carnival's fleet to offer a teppanyaki-style restaurant and Guy Fieri's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse. 

The ship has a variety of cabins for passengers to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly Interior staterooms to specialty suites with spa, nautical and Havana themes. Each comes with modern conveniences like a minibar, a flat-screen TV and a Carnival Comfort bed.

Carnival Horizon departs from  Miami  for voyages throughout the Caribbean. 

Carnival Miracle

Like other Carnival ships, the 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle boasts activities and entertainment geared toward travelers of all ages. Thanks to a renovation in 2020, the ship features upgrades like Guy's Burger Joint, WaterWorks, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and more. The ship also received a minor refresh to interior and exterior spaces in 2022. 

Even with the added venues, a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures service is a priority. And compared to other Carnival ships, Miracle offers a higher percentage of cabins with ocean views. While Interior staterooms provide more wallet-friendly digs, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category cabins offer more space and scenery. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service.

During days at sea, grown-ups can enjoy poolside lounging or the adults-only Serenity Retreat, while kids ages 2 to 17 can play at age-specific programs.  There are also entertainment options like the Punchliner Comedy Club, the SkyBox Sports Bar and the Seuss at Sea program. Once the family works up an appetite, they'll have their pick of the main dining room, the Lido buffet, a specialty steakhouse (for an extra fee) and more.

Carnival Miracle departs from Galveston, Texas ;  Los Angeles  and  San Francisco  to destinations in the Caribbean, the Panama Canal,  Hawaii , Mexico , and Alaska . 

Carnival Luminosa

Formerly a Costa Cruises  ship, Luminosa joined the Carnival fleet in November 2022. This 2,260-passenger, 926-crew member cruise ship includes highlights such as a casino, a spa, an adults-only retreat and a comedy club.

There are plenty of ways to occupy your time on board, from deck parties and art seminars to karaoke and martini tastings. Plus, Luminosa offers a slew of amenities geared toward kids, including story time, supervised camps, a video arcade and a teens-only hangout space. When hunger strikes, this Carnival cruise ship offers around 10 eateries serving staples like sushi, steak and pizza.

Interior staterooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV, climate control, an in-room safe and a dedicated stateroom attendant. If you'd prefer accommodations with windows, consider upgrading to an ocean-view room or a cabin with a balcony. Guests seeking even more luxury can opt for a suite, which features exclusive perks like priority check-in; boarding and dining assignments; bathrobes and a pillow-top mattress. Cruisers looking for extra relaxation should consider a Cloud 9 Spa stateroom or suite, which includes a welcome ritual, two complimentary fitness classes, unlimited use of the thermal suites and hydrotherapy pool, priority spa reservations and more.

Carnival Luminosa departs from Seattle, Washington , and the Australian cities of Brisbane and Sydney . It sails to destinations in Alaska and the South Pacific, among others.

Carnival Breeze

The 3,690-passenger Carnival Breeze was introduced in 2012 and last updated in 2017. On board, cruisers will find outdoor activities like a water park and a SportsSquare with games like mini-golf, as well as supervised (and free) age-appropriate programs for kids and teens. While the younger passengers play, adults can relax at the adults-only Serenity retreat, get treatments at the Cloud 9 Spa and sip cocktails at one of the ship's bars. 

As far as dining goes, cruisers can choose between several food options, including sushi, Indian, 24/7 pizza and more. Guy's Burger Joint and Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, in partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, are passenger favorites. Nighttime entertainment ranges from karaoke to shows at the Punchliner Comedy Club.

Carnival Breeze offers a variety of cabin categories, all of which include flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. The ship maintains a nearly 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. While some recent cruisers appreciated the family atmosphere, others were disappointed by long lines and wait times during dinner service. 

Carnival Breeze cruises to the Caribbean from Galveston, Texas . 

Carnival Conquest

Last revamped in 2022, Carnival Conquest features cosmetic enhancements to select staterooms, as well as upgrades like new carpeting and lighting in public areas. Still, some felt Conquest showed its age despite these upgrades and could use a more major refurbishment. The ship appeals to a wide range of travelers and budgets, with amenities like Seuss at Sea, The Punchliner Comedy Club and the Alchemy Bar. It also includes "Fun Ship 2.0" features like Guy's Burger Joint and an outdoor movie theater, as well as signature bars BlueIguana Tequila Bar and RedFrog Rum Bar.

The ship carries 2,980 passengers and 1,150 crew members. Accommodations, ranging from Interior staterooms to Grand Suites, offer standard amenities such as flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. Those looking for more space should consider splurging on a Suite category room, which includes a large balcony, a walk-in closet and a whirlpool tub. 

Along with signature line amenities, including a full-service spa, a casino and an expansive pool deck, the ship provides supervised programs and entertainment for cruisers ages 2 to 17, with various activities geared toward specific age groups. 

Conquest departs from Miami  for sailings in the Bahamas , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal.

Carnival Vista

Introduced in mid-2016, Carnival Vista welcomes up to 3,934 passengers and 1,450 crew members. The ship offers unique dining, entertainment and cabin options not found on other ships in the fleet. In addition to staples like kids clubs, an adults-only retreat and a waterpark, new activities include the SkyRide suspended bike course, the first IMAX theater at sea and a Dr. Seuss-inspired library. The ship's next refurbishment is scheduled for early 2024. 

Recent passengers were most impressed with the accommodations. Typical cabin categories (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) are available, but cruisers recommend splurging on the Family Harbor or Havana staterooms and suites. Those who select Family Harbor cabins receive exclusive 24-hour lounge access with free breakfast and kid-friendly movies and games. Plus, children staying in these rooms enjoy free meals at most specialty restaurants and a free night of babysitting. Havana category rooms cater to adults, with access to a private bar and pool, as well as extra-large outdoor spaces and rainfall showers in suites. 

Dining options are just as diverse. While the Lido buffet offers everything from pasta to stir-fry to salad, other complimentary venues include BlueIguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint. A number of specialty restaurants are also available for an extra fee, such as JiJi Asian Kitchen and Cucina del Capitano.  

Carnival Vista departs from Galveston  and Orlando for sailings in the Bahamas and the Caribbean. 

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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I stayed in Carnival's cheapest, $90-a-day cabin on its new ship. It was ugly and windowless but shockingly spacious.

• I booked the cheapest interior cabin for my four-night cruise on Carnival's new Carnival Firenze .
• It was ugly, dated, and lacked decor, but shockingly spacious. 
• Interior staterooms in Carnival's newest ship start at $90 per person per day in 2024.

One of the best parts about cruising is feeling the open ocean's cool breeze rush around your skin.

So imagine how grumpy I was when I had to book a windowless interior cabin for my most recent sailing — on my first Carnival cruise , no less.

As a travel reporter, I go on several of these vacations at sea every year. I'm usually put up in balcony staterooms, the most popular cabin category .

Yes, I've been spoiled. And yes, that means I've always feared inside cabins.

Cruises can be overstimulating and overwhelming. Private balconies are the only place I've gotten peace, quiet, and fresh air on some ships.

So, unsurprisingly, I was dreading the interior cabin I had booked for my four-night Carnival Firenze cruise in mid-May.

No fresh air? No cool ocean breeze? The horror!

I expected a small, dark, moldy dungeon deprived of life, happiness, and light.

Turns out, I was being a bit too dramatic. Who would've guessed?

I'll admit was pleasantly surprised.

But before I get to the positives (spoiler alert: it's size), I have to address the negatives.

It might've been the ugliest cabin I've ever stayed in. And that's coming from someone who's sailed on a Margaritaville cruise .

To understand the stateroom, you must understand the ship's relatively short history.

Firenze joined Italy-based Costa Cruises' fleet in 2020. The company, owned by Carnival Corp , had planned to launch the ship in China but couldn't because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Firenze's stint with Costa was then shortlived. In 2022, Carnival announced it would acquire Firenze and its sister ship, Venezia, to grow its US footprint amid "strong interest in people wanting to sail with us," a Carnival spokesperson told Business Insider.

The spokesperson said Firenze underwent a two-month refresh to 'install the Carnival Fun Italian Style Concept.'

That would explain the otherwise unnecessary photo of Florence, Italy behind my bed.

The print was both the only decor and the only reference to Italy in my dingy cabin. Unfortunately, it looked both tacky and misplaced.

It did, however, disguise the ominous "pull the cord for assistance" feature.

It's 2024. Why weren't there any bedside outlets?

The ship is less than four years old. The cabin looked quadruple its age, no thanks to the dated furniture that all came pushed against the wall.

The chaise's greyish pattern clashed with the yellow and red eyesore of a rug. And the small wood and faux-marble side table looked cheap and misplaced.

Gripes about aesthetics aside, everything in the joint living room and bedroom was perfectly functional.

On the bright side, the mattress was comfortable. And the large desk and closet could have provided enough storage for more than two travelers.

The room also had motion-sensing lights mounted by the floor, a necessary amenity for a space devoid of natural light.

Plus, the unappealing decor encouraged me to spend more time around the ship's common spaces.

But if you think the bedroom looks old, wait until you see the bathroom.

It was about as glamorous as a gas station restroom.

Most of my cruise cabin bathrooms have had modern, cool-toned decor, like the one pictured on the left. Carnival seems to have avoided the industry trend as much as possible.

The yellow and red tiles were giving vintage McDonald's.

Unbeknownst to me, the cruise line had put me in one of the ship's accessible, wheelchair-friendly accommodations. This meant the shower (as in, a curtain and a few drains on the floor) was one of the most spacious I've had at sea.

However, it only came with a two-in-one body wash and shampoo. Apparently, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival seem to have a BYOHC (bring your own hair conditioner) policy.

Some storage would've been nice, too.

An unnecessary number of stacked tissue boxes and toilet paper rolls occupied the only shelves in the bathroom.

There was no need for these excess paper products. My cabin attendant already cleaned and restocked my stateroom once a day, as is typical with Carnival.

I'm a girlie with an extensive skincare routine and a compulsive need to organize my products. With almost no storage in the bathroom, I needed these shelves.

With all these complaints, you may wonder why I said I was pleasantly surprised by my stateroom.

It's all because of one major feature: Its size. I never felt claustrophobic despite being stuck in a windowless 150-square-foot box.

The bathroom, one of the most spacious I've seen on a cruise ship, was so big that it could comfortably fit a family of four.

Back in the living room, I could've rolled out a yoga mat and worked out without moving anything around.

Heck, I could've comfortably starfished on the floor without hitting any furniture. I don't know if I can say the same for most of my previous cruise accommodations.

Would I have preferred a balcony or window? Yes.

Did it feel more like a hospital room than a floating hotel room? Yes.

However, for the spaciousness, the cost is hard to beat. As a solo traveler, I paid $735 for my cabin, including $64 in optional gratuities.

In 2024, the cheapest interior cabin for two guests on Carnival Firenze starts at about $360 per person, including taxes and fees, for the same four-night itinerary as the one I went on.

That's $90 a night for a cabin, food, onboard amenities, and stops at Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico.

Plus, it's much cheaper than the newest ships of other cruise lines (I'm looking at you, Royal Caribbean ).

So, if you are desperate for a dirty and cheap getaway, and Carnival Firenze has been catching your eye, don't be afraid of the interior cabin.

Yes, it isn't lovely. But at least it's completely functional and large.

If I — spoiled — can do it, so can you.

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Travel plans in disarray as P&O Cruises retires iconic Pacific Explorer

For Jane Newson, taking a cruise every year has been her chance to see the world when other options were too expensive. 

For months, she's been saving for a much-anticipated trip next year from Auckland to Tonga aboard the P&O Pacific Explorer.

She would be joined by her partner and some of her closest friends, including two who are nearing their 80th birthdays.

"It is lovely to be away for a week and not to have to do any of the things you do at home," she said.

"[These trips] offer a fantastic opportunity for people to cruise that don't have high incomes."

But on Tuesday, Ms Newson received an email advising her cruise had been cancelled, hours after P&O announced it was retiring the Explorer and folding operations into its parent company Carnival Cruises .

"It's a shame, such a shame, and we are all so disappointed, especially because there was six of us going," she said.

Social media has also been flooded with comments from disillusioned cruise ship passengers who had planned to take trips onboard the Pacific Explorer next year, while others have lamented the loss of the brand after 90 years on the water.

For Caitlin Dennis, the iconic cruise company shaped her life.

She took her first cruise onboard a P&O ship when she was 16 and would later go on to work on several cruise ship companies as a dancer and singer.

"It's a really sad loss to the industry and to the wider public," Ms Dennis said.

"That first cruise inspired me to go and seek out a career on a ship and I know a lot of other entertainers that work on that ship are going to be devastated about it."

A sign of things to come

The Pacific Explorer, which travels through Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific and is known affectionately as "Dora" among the cruise community, will be retired on March 2 next year.

P&O's larger cruise ships, the Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure will be rebranded and transferred to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, along with their workforces.

P&O Cruises Australia issued its surprise notice to customers on Tuesday.

"As a result, all itineraries on Pacific Explorer scheduled to sail after 2nd March 2025 are being cancelled," it said.

"If you are booked on one of these itineraries you will be contacted by guest services in the coming days with refund details.

"We are all immensely proud of P&O Cruises Australia's 90-year heritage of dedicated operations in the region, and Carnival Cruise Line are honoured to carry forward its storied legacy and continue to deliver the same onboard experiences and itineraries."

Carnival CEO Josh Weinstein said in a statement that the decision to retire the Explorer was made due to the South Pacific's "small population" as well as "significantly higher operating and regulatory costs".

The senior lecturer in tourism management at the University of South Australia, Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, said the cruise ship industry appeared to be moving away from the smaller cruise liners of 2,000 passengers.

This year the world's biggest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, was launched by Royal Caribbean International. It can take 7,600 passengers, almost four times the capacity of the Pacific Explorer.

"The major cruise companies are all moving towards 'mega-ships' so this could be the end of cruise companies like P&O that have a national character and serve a particular market," Professor Higgins-Desbiolles said.

"They are decommissioning and part of the reasoning is the environmental consciousness of passengers. They want to be more environmentally responsive to changing technology."

She said the cruise industry was also still recovering from the global pandemic, with high operating costs and port fees impacting on their bottom line.

The Explorer brought in tens of thousands of tourists to several Australian towns, including Airlie Beach and Cairns, on day trips.

Professor Higgins-Desbiolles said there will be fears about the effect on local economies.

"Some of the regional destinations will be wondering how the change in itinerary will impact on them and we won't know that straight away," she said.

"Places like Cairns, Airlie Beach and Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln could all be affected."

Queensland Tourism Minister Michael Healy said he was "surprised" by Tuesday's announcement and there may be "some impact" on coastal communities, where the Pacific Explorer docks.

"I have had correspondence from the company talking about strategic alignment and I look forward to investigating that," Mr Healy said.

A spokeswoman for Carnival Australia told the ABC no-one from the company was available for an interview but did say "thousands" of passengers would receive refunds for cancelled Pacific Explorer trips.

Customers who had cruises booked on the Explorer after March 2 2025 have the option of a refund or credit for Carnival with extra onboard spending money.

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