Carnival Cruise Line is undergoing an exciting phase of expansion, with plans to introduce seven new vessels into its fleet by 2033. These additions will come from a mix of new builds and transfers from sister brands. As one of the world’s largest and most popular cruise lines, Carnival’s continued investment in innovative ships aims to enhance the guest experience and meet the growing demand for unforgettable cruise vacations.
In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of each ship scheduled to join the Carnival fleet, including details on their capacity, debut dates, and what passengers can expect onboard.
Carnival Adventure: Launching in March 2025
- Debut Date: March 2025
- Capacity: 2,600 guests
- Tonnage: 109,000
- Shipyard: Fincantieri
- Current Status: In service for P&O Australia
The Carnival Adventure will join Carnival Cruise Line in March 2025, after being transferred from P&O Australia. This ship, originally built in 2001 for Princess Cruises, can accommodate 2,600 guests and weighs in at 109,000 tons. Before it officially joins Carnival’s fleet, it will undergo a minor refurbishment to update its branding and onboard technology.
Once these updates are completed, Carnival Adventure will offer year-round cruises from Australian ports, continuing to cater to vacationers seeking to explore the beauty of Down Under.
Carnival Encounter: Joining the Fleet in March 2025
- Debut Date: March 2025
- Capacity: 2,600 guests
- Tonnage: 109,000
- Shipyard: Fincantieri
- Current Status: In service for P&O Australia
Following a similar timeline, Carnival Encounter will also make its debut under the Carnival brand in March 2025. Like its sister ship, Carnival Adventure, this vessel has a rich history with Princess Cruises, where it first set sail in 2002. Currently in service for P&O Australia, Carnival Encounter will undergo a series of updates, including rebranding and a minor technology upgrade.
Once these changes are made, the 109,000-ton vessel will embark on exciting itineraries from Australia, giving guests more cruise options within the region.
Excel Class IV: Debuting in 2027
- Debut Date: 2027
- Capacity: 5,400 guests
- Tonnage: 183,900
- Shipyard: Meyer Werft
- Current Status: Ordered
Carnival’s popular Excel-class ships have been a significant part of the cruise line’s success in recent years. Following the launch of Mardi Gras (2020), Carnival Celebration (2022), and Carnival Jubilee (2023), a fourth Excel-class ship is currently under construction. Set to launch in 2027, this yet-unnamed vessel will be built by the renowned Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany.
Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), this 183,900-ton ship will carry up to 5,400 guests, offering all the thrills and innovative features that passengers have come to expect from the Excel class. With an emphasis on sustainability, this ship will be one of the greenest in Carnival’s fleet.
Excel Class V: Arriving in 2028
- Debut Date: 2028
- Capacity: 5,400 guests
- Tonnage: 183,900
- Shipyard: Meyer Werft
- Current Status: Ordered
The Excel class continues to grow with the announcement of a fifth ship in this series, set to debut in 2028. Like its predecessors, this vessel will be built at Meyer Werft and will have a guest capacity of 5,400.
This ship will follow in the footsteps of the Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee, featuring exciting attractions like roller coasters, expanded water parks, and more dining and entertainment options than ever before. As Carnival continues to push the boundaries of cruise ship design, the Excel-class ships will provide guests with even more reasons to sail.
A New Ship Class: The Future of Carnival Cruise Line (2029-2033)
- Debut Dates: 2029, 2031, 2033
- Capacity: 6,200 guests
- Tonnage: 230,000
- Shipyard: Fincantieri
- Current Status: Ordered
In addition to the Excel class, Carnival has its sights set on introducing an entirely new class of ships between 2029 and 2033. These massive 230,000-ton vessels will be the largest in Carnival’s history, with a guest capacity of over 6,200. These groundbreaking ships will be constructed by Fincantieri, an Italian shipbuilding giant known for delivering some of the world’s most impressive vessels.
This new class of ships promises to raise the bar in terms of size, onboard experiences, and cutting-edge technology. While specific details about their features have yet to be revealed, passengers can expect them to offer the very latest in cruising luxury, entertainment, and sustainability.
Carnival’s Commitment to Expansion
By 2033, Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet will expand to 34 ships, solidifying its position as one of the world’s largest cruise operators. The new ships entering service over the next decade highlight the company’s commitment to innovation, guest satisfaction, and sustainable cruising.
With a focus on bringing new experiences to both seasoned cruisers and first-time travelers, Carnival’s expanding fleet will cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking to explore the shores of Australia, experience the high-tech thrills of an Excel-class ship, or be among the first to sail on the largest Carnival vessels ever built, the future of Carnival Cruise Line looks bright.
Carnival’s Future is Sailing Strong
Carnival Cruise Line’s upcoming fleet additions showcase the brand’s dedication to providing an extraordinary cruise experience for its passengers. From the upgraded Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter to the groundbreaking new ship class set to debut by 2033, Carnival continues to innovate in every way.
With ships powered by LNG, larger capacities, and exciting onboard features, Carnival is set to meet the needs of modern travelers while maintaining its signature “Fun Ship” atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or an adventurous getaway, the future of Carnival Cruise Line promises something for everyone.
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