Carnival Corp. has recently announced plans to introduce three enormous ships as part of a new ship class in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet, beginning in 2029. These ships are set to redefine the industry’s standards in terms of size and capacity.
Each of the three ships is projected to accommodate nearly 8,000 guests at full capacity, with a gross tonnage of 230,000. This is a significant increase compared to the latest Excel-class ship, the Carnival Jubilee, which is 183,000 gross tons. Carnival has partnered with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for this project, and the ships will run on liquefied natural gas, making them more environmentally friendly.
The first of the new ships is scheduled to set sail in the summer of 2029, followed by launches in 2031 and 2033. However, the completion of this order is dependent on securing financing, which is anticipated to be finalized later this year. Carnival Corp. made this decision amidst an exceptionally high demand for cruises, signaling a positive outlook for the future of the industry.
In addition to the three new ships, Carnival Cruise Line has already introduced five vessels this year. Two more Excel-class ships are expected to join the fleet in 2027 and 2028. Furthermore, the company will incorporate five ships from its sister brands between 2023 and 2025, with the latest acquisitions coming from P&O Cruises Australia. Carnival Corp.’s CEO, Josh Weinstein, emphasized the company’s strategic growth approach, aiming to cater to the most sought-after markets by introducing one to two new ships annually.
With the addition of these new ships, Carnival Cruise Line anticipates an average annual growth rate of 1.5% in capacity between 2025 and 2033. This gradual expansion aligns with the company’s commitment to responsible growth, focusing on meeting customer demand while maintaining operational efficiency.
The unveiling of these three massive ships represents Carnival Cruise Line’s ambitious vision for the future. By investing in cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and innovative guest experiences, the company is positioning itself as a leader in the cruise industry. As Carnival Corp. continues to evolve and expand, passengers can look forward to unparalleled cruise experiences aboard these state-of-the-art vessels.