A List of Carnival Cruise Line Ships to Explore in 2024

Discover the ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line’s 2024 fleet, featuring 27 vibrant ships designed for unforgettable fun and adventure. From the groundbreaking Excel-class giants like Carnival Jubilee to fan-favorite staples like Carnival Breeze, each vessel offers unique thrills, themed zones, and world-class dining. Whether you’re chasing luxury suites or family-friendly activities, this list is your key to choosing the perfect Carnival ship for your next voyage.

Key Takeaways

• Explore 27 ships: Carnival offers diverse fleets for every traveler in 2024.
• Choose by size: From intimate to mega-ships, find your ideal fit.
• Newest ships first: Prioritize Carnival Jubilee and Celebration for cutting-edge features.
• Family-friendly options: Opt for ships with WaterWorks and kids’ zones.
• Themed decks matter: Pick ships with Havana or Serenity decks for relaxation.
• Destinations vary: Match ships to your desired itinerary and ports.
• Book early: Secure top cabins and deals on popular 2024 sailings.

The Magic of Carnival Cruise Line: Your 2024 Escape Awaits

When you think of unforgettable vacations, Cruise Line adventures often top the list. And among the giants of the high seas, Carnival Cruise Line stands out as a leader in fun, affordability, and innovation. With a fleet of 27 modern, vibrant ships sailing to over 70 destinations worldwide, Carnival continues to redefine what it means to vacation at sea. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, the year 2024 promises exciting new itineraries, upgraded onboard experiences, and a fleet that caters to every traveler’s dream—from family-friendly fun to adult-centric relaxation and luxury.

But with so many ships to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you? That’s where this comprehensive guide comes in. We’ll take you on a journey through the entire Carnival Cruise Line fleet, breaking down each class of ships, highlighting their unique features, and helping you match your ideal vacation with the perfect vessel. From the groundbreaking Excel-class ships to the classic Fantasy-class vessels, we’ll explore amenities, itineraries, dining, entertainment, and more—so you can book your 2024 cruise with confidence and excitement.

Understanding the Carnival Cruise Line Fleet: Classes and Categories

To make sense of the Carnival Cruise Line ships, it’s essential to understand how they’re organized. Carnival groups its vessels into distinct classes, each with its own design, size, and onboard experience. These classes reflect the evolution of the brand, from modest beginnings to today’s mega-ships that rival floating resorts. Knowing the class helps you anticipate the size, number of activities, and target audience of each ship.

Excel-Class: The Pinnacle of Innovation

The Excel-class is Carnival’s most advanced and luxurious fleet tier. Currently featuring two ships—Carnival Celebration and Carnival Mardi Gras—this class sets a new standard for cruise vacations. These ships are over 180,000 gross tons and can accommodate more than 5,000 guests, making them among the largest in the world. But size isn’t their only claim to fame.

Both ships feature BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster, the first roller coaster at sea, which launches riders 187 feet above the ocean with speeds up to 40 mph. They also boast Zones—distinct themed areas like the vibrant Lido Deck and the serene Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Dining is elevated with over 20 options, including the Emeril’s Bistro 1396 (a partnership with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse) and Shaun King’s Kitchen, a social impact-driven restaurant.

Pro Tip: If you’re seeking a high-energy, tech-forward experience with endless activities and a modern vibe, the Excel-class is ideal. These ships sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Caribbean, with seasonal transatlantic voyages.

Diamond-Class: Modern Luxury and Expansive Amenities

The Diamond-class includes Carnival Horizon and Carnival Vista, both launched in the mid-2010s. These 133,500-gross-ton ships offer a blend of innovation and comfort, with features like the SkyRide—a suspended cycling track 150 feet above the sea—and the IMAX Theatre for movie lovers.

Onboard, you’ll find Family Harbor, a private stateroom area with kid-friendly amenities and a dedicated lounge. The WaterWorks aqua park features a 455-foot-long water slide and a splash zone for all ages. Dining options include Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, both highly rated for quality and atmosphere.

Why Choose Diamond-Class? These ships are perfect for families and couples who want a mix of adventure and relaxation. They sail from Miami, Port Canaveral, and New York, with itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Bermuda, and Europe.

Dream-Class: Spacious Design and Balanced Entertainment

The Dream-class consists of Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream, and Carnival Magic. These 128,000-gross-ton ships strike a balance between size and intimacy, offering more space per passenger than older classes while maintaining a fun, energetic atmosphere.

Key highlights include the RedFrog Pub & Brewery, where you can sample craft beers brewed onboard, and the Seaside Theatre, an open-air screen for movies and live events. The WaterWorks aqua park features the Twister Waterslide, and the Spa & Fitness Center offers extensive wellness options.

Ideal For: Multi-generational travelers and those who want a mix of onboard entertainment and port-focused itineraries. These ships sail from Galveston, Texas; Port Canaveral; and Baltimore, with routes to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

The Heart of the Fleet: Popular and Proven Ship Classes

Beyond the newest innovations, Carnival’s core fleet includes several classes that have stood the test of time—offering reliable service, proven amenities, and excellent value. These ships may not have roller coasters or IMAX theaters, but they deliver the signature Carnival experience: fun, food, and relaxation.

Splendor-Class: Elegance Meets Fun

The Splendor-class includes Carnival Splendor, a 113,300-gross-ton ship that blends Italian-inspired elegance with Carnival’s signature fun. Originally built for Costa Cruises, the Splendor was transferred to Carnival in 2019 and has since been rebranded with Carnival’s vibrant color schemes and entertainment offerings.

Onboard, you’ll find a spacious lido deck with a retractable roof, making it ideal for all-weather relaxation. The ship features Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, a WaterWorks aqua park, and a Cloud 9 Spa with thermal suites. Dining includes Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and the Main Dining Room with nightly themed menus.

Itinerary Tip: Carnival Splendor sails from Long Beach, California, to Mexico’s Pacific coast, offering 3- to 7-day cruises to destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán. This makes it a favorite for West Coast travelers.

Conquest-Class: Reliable Fun for All Ages

The Conquest-class includes Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Valor, Carnival Liberty, and Carnival Freedom. These 110,000-gross-ton ships are workhorses of the fleet, offering consistent service and a wide range of activities for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Each ship features a WaterWorks aqua park, RedFrog Pub, BlueIguana Tequila Bar, and Guy’s Burger Joint. The Serenity Retreat is a quiet escape for adults, while the Camp Ocean program keeps kids engaged with age-appropriate activities.

Why It’s Popular: These ships are known for their value and reliability. They sail from major U.S. ports like New Orleans, Miami, and Port Canaveral, with itineraries to the Bahamas, Eastern and Western Caribbean, and the Panama Canal.

Insider Tip: Carnival Glory recently underwent a major dry dock in 2023, receiving updated staterooms, new dining concepts, and enhanced public spaces—making it one of the most modern ships in this class.

Spirit-Class: Intimate and Well-Rounded

The Spirit-class includes Carnival Spirit, Carnival Pride, Carnival Legend, and Carnival Miracle. These 88,500-gross-ton ships are smaller than the newer classes but offer a more intimate cruising experience with fewer crowds and a relaxed pace.

Despite their size, Spirit-class ships pack in plenty of fun: Serenity Retreat, WaterWorks, RedFrog Pub, and BlueIguana Cantina. They also feature Circle C (teens) and Club O2 (tweens) programs, making them great for families with older kids.

Unique Itineraries: These ships often sail longer voyages, including transatlantic crossings, repositioning cruises, and Alaska expeditions. For example, Carnival Legend sails from Baltimore to the Caribbean in winter and from Seattle to Alaska in summer.

Best For: Travelers who prefer smaller ships with a more traditional cruise feel but still want modern amenities and entertainment.

Smaller and Specialized: Fantasy and Sunshine Classes

While Carnival is known for its mega-ships, it also operates a few smaller classes that offer unique advantages—especially for shorter itineraries or niche destinations.

Fantasy-Class: The Classic Carnival Experience

The Fantasy-class includes eight ships: Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Elation, Carnival Paradise, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, and Carnival Ecstasy. These ships range from 70,000 to 75,000 gross tons and were built in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Though older, many have undergone significant refurbishments. For example, Carnival Elation received a $150 million dry dock in 2022, adding new dining venues, updated staterooms, and a WaterWorks aqua park. These ships are ideal for 3- to 5-day cruises to the Bahamas and short Caribbean trips.

Onboard Highlights: RedFrog Pub, BlueIguana Cantina, Guy’s Burger Joint, and Serenity Retreat (on refurbished ships). The Lido Deck features a pool, whirlpools, and a stage for live music.

Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, first-time cruisers, and those who want a quick getaway. These ships sail from Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, and New Orleans.

Pro Tip: Look for “Fun Ship 2.0” upgrades—Carnival’s initiative to modernize older ships with new dining, entertainment, and tech features.

Sunshine-Class: A Bridge Between Old and New

The Sunshine-class is a transitional class, featuring Carnival Sunshine (formerly Carnival Destiny). After a $200 million transformation in 2013, it was rebranded and upgraded with features from newer classes, including WaterWorks, RedFrog Pub, and Guy’s Burger Joint.

With 101,000 gross tons, it’s larger than the Fantasy-class but smaller than Dream-class ships. It offers a mix of classic Carnival fun and modern amenities, making it a great middle-ground option.

Itineraries: Carnival Sunshine sails from Norfolk, Virginia, and Port Canaveral, with 6- to 8-day cruises to the Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, and the Panama Canal.

Why Choose It? It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of size, value, and updated features without the crowds of mega-ships.

2024 Itineraries and Where to Find Your Perfect Cruise

Choosing the right ship is only half the battle—selecting the perfect itinerary is just as important. In 2024, Carnival Cruise Line offers a wide range of routes, from quick weekend getaways to extended transoceanic adventures. Here’s how to match your interests with the right ship and destination.

Caribbean and Bahamas: The Classic Carnival Experience

The Caribbean and Bahamas remain the most popular destinations for Carnival cruisers. Ships like Carnival Breeze, Carnival Conquest, and Carnival Horizon sail 3- to 7-day itineraries from Miami, Port Canaveral, and Galveston.

• Eastern Caribbean: Stops include St. Thomas, San Juan, and Nassau. Ideal for snorkeling and beach relaxation.
• Western Caribbean: Features Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Montego Bay. Great for adventure and cultural experiences.
• Bahamas: Short 3- to 5-day trips to Nassau, Freeport, and Carnival’s private island, Half Moon Cay.

Tip: Book early for 2024 holiday sailings (Christmas, New Year’s, Spring Break)—they sell out fast!

Alaska: Nature and Adventure Awaits

In summer 2024, Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit sail from Seattle to Alaska, offering 7-day cruises to Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. These itineraries include glacier viewing, wildlife spotting, and port excursions like dog sledding and gold panning.

Why It’s Unique: Smaller ships like the Spirit-class are better suited for Alaska’s narrow fjords and ports. You’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and more personalized service.

Europe and Transatlantic: Longer, More Luxurious Voyages

For travelers seeking a longer adventure, Carnival offers repositioning cruises and European itineraries. Carnival Horizon and Carnival Vista sail from Barcelona, Rome, and Athens in summer, with stops in the Greek Islands, French Riviera, and Scandinavia.

Transatlantic crossings (e.g., from Miami to Barcelona) are also available in spring and fall, often on Carnival Legend or Carnival Sunshine. These 14- to 18-day voyages offer sea days for relaxation, themed events, and onboard enrichment programs.

Mexico’s Pacific Coast: A West Coast Favorite

Carnival Splendor sails from Long Beach, California, to Baja California and the Mexican Riviera. Destinations include Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta. These 5- to 7-day cruises are perfect for West Coast residents looking for a sunny escape.

Onboard Experiences: What to Expect in 2024

Beyond the ship and itinerary, the onboard experience is what truly defines a Carnival cruise. In 2024, Carnival continues to innovate with new dining, entertainment, and wellness offerings.

Dining: From Burgers to Bistros

Carnival offers over 20 dining options across its fleet. While the main dining room provides nightly multi-course meals, specialty venues like Fahrenheit 555 (steakhouse), BlueIguana Cantina (Mexican), and Emeril’s Bistro 1396 (Creole) offer elevated experiences (for an additional fee).

Free options: Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Tequila Bar, and the pizzeria are guest favorites. The Seaview Bar & Grill offers fresh seafood and salads.

Pro Tip: Reserve specialty dining early—especially on longer voyages. Some restaurants, like Shaun King’s Kitchen, have limited capacity.

Entertainment: Nightly Shows and Live Music

Carnival’s Playlist Productions shows feature high-energy performances with live bands and stunning visuals. The Limelight Lounge hosts comedy shows, while the RedFrog Pub features live music and karaoke.

On Excel-class ships, Family Feud Live and Lip Sync Battle are popular interactive events.

Wellness and Relaxation

The Cloud 9 Spa offers massages, facials, and thermal suites. The Serenity Adult-Only Retreat provides hammocks, loungers, and a peaceful atmosphere. Fitness centers include modern cardio and strength equipment, plus fitness classes like yoga and spin.

Fleet Comparison and Quick Reference Table

Ship Class	Ships (Examples)	Gross Tonnage	Passenger Capacity	Key Features	Best For
Excel-Class	Carnival Celebration, Carnival Mardi Gras	180,000+	5,200+	BOLT roller coaster, Emeril’s Bistro, Zones	Tech lovers, thrill-seekers, families
Diamond-Class	Carnival Horizon, Carnival Vista	133,500	3,900	SkyRide, IMAX, Family Harbor	Families, couples, movie lovers
Dream-Class	Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream	128,000	3,600	Twister Waterslide, RedFrog Brewery	Multi-gen travelers, Caribbean cruisers
Splendor-Class	Carnival Splendor	113,300	3,000	Retractable roof, Mexican Riviera sailings	West Coast travelers, Pacific cruisers
Conquest-Class	Carnival Glory, Carnival Valor	110,000	2,900	WaterWorks, RedFrog Pub, dry dock upgrades	Value seekers, repeat cruisers
Spirit-Class	Carnival Legend, Carnival Miracle	88,500	2,100	Alaska, transatlantic, smaller crowds	Adventure travelers, longer voyages
Fantasy-Class	Carnival Elation, Carnival Paradise	70,000–75,000	2,050	3- to 5-day cruises, Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades	Budget travelers, first-time cruisers

Final Thoughts: Your 2024 Carnival Cruise Awaits

From the groundbreaking Excel-class to the charming Fantasy-class, the Carnival Cruise Line ships offer something for every type of traveler in 2024. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline on a roller coaster at sea, relaxing in a tropical paradise, or exploring glaciers in Alaska, there’s a Carnival ship perfectly suited to your dream vacation. The key is understanding the differences between classes, matching your travel style to the right vessel, and planning your itinerary with both destination and onboard experience in mind.

As Carnival continues to innovate—adding new dining concepts, upgrading older ships, and expanding its global reach—the future of cruising looks brighter than ever. So why wait? Start exploring the Carnival Cruise Line fleet today, compare your options, and book that unforgettable 2024 voyage. With so many ships, so many destinations, and so much fun to be had, your next adventure is just a click away. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the newest ships in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet in 2024?

The newest additions to the Carnival Cruise Line ships list include the Carnival Jubilee (2023) and the upcoming Carnival Firenze (2024), both featuring cutting-edge amenities and expanded family-friendly spaces. These vessels highlight Carnival’s focus on modern design and sustainability.

How many ships are in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet?

As of 2024, Carnival Cruise Line operates 27 ships across 10 unique classes, from the massive Excel-class to the classic Fantasy-class. This diverse fleet serves a wide range of destinations and itineraries.

Which Carnival Cruise Line ships offer the best family-friendly amenities?

Top family-friendly options on the A List of Carnival Cruise Line Ships include the Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Celebration, all featuring water parks, kid zones, and family suites. The Excel-class ships also boast the largest onboard attractions like roller coasters.

What is the largest Carnival Cruise Line ship?

The largest ship in the fleet is Carnival Jubilee (Excel-class), measuring 180,000+ gross tons with a capacity of over 6,000 guests. It features the first roller coaster at sea, expanded dining options, and the vibrant “Emeril’s Bistro” by Emeril Lagasse.

Which Carnival ships sail to the Caribbean and Mexico?

Popular choices for Caribbean and Mexico itineraries include Carnival Breeze, Carnival Freedom, and Carnival Magic, which offer 4–7 night voyages to destinations like Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Nassau. The Excel-class ships also frequent these routes with longer sailings.

Are there any Carnival Cruise Line ships with adults-only areas?

Yes, all Carnival ships feature the “Serenity Retreat,” an adults-only outdoor zone with premium lounging, bar service, and tranquil vibes. Larger ships like Carnival Venezia and Carnival Radiance also offer expanded spa and relaxation options.