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Carnival Cruise Line operates a fleet of 27 ships, each offering unique themes, amenities, and itineraries to suit every traveler. From the innovative Excel-class to classic favorites, the diverse lineup ensures unforgettable vacations across global destinations.
Key Takeaways
- Over 25 ships: Carnival operates a diverse fleet across 9 unique classes.
- Newest vessels: Excel-class ships like Carnival Celebration offer cutting-edge amenities.
- Ship classes matter: Choose based on size, features, and itinerary preferences.
- Fleet expansion: Carnival adds 1-2 new ships annually through 2028.
- Iconic options: Fantasy-class ships provide budget-friendly, classic cruising experiences.
- Tech upgrades: Newer ships feature AI concierge and enhanced sustainability features.
📑 Table of Contents
- How Many Different Carnival Cruise Line Ships Are There? A Complete Guide
- The Carnival Fleet: An Overview of Classes and Sizes
- Deep Dive: The Excel Class – Carnival’s Newest and Largest Ships
- Vista and Dream Classes: Modern Mid-Sized Ships with Big Personalities
- The Classics: Fantasy and Spirit Classes – Nostalgia with a Side of Fun
- Fleet Size, Retirements, and the Future of Carnival Ships
- How to Choose the Right Carnival Ship for Your Trip
How Many Different Carnival Cruise Line Ships Are There? A Complete Guide
Have you ever stood on the dock, staring up at a towering Carnival cruise ship, and wondered: How many different Carnival Cruise Line ships are there? It’s a question I asked myself years ago when I first fell in love with cruising. The answer isn’t as simple as counting the fingers on your hand. Carnival Cruise Line, affectionately known as “The Fun Ships,” operates a fleet that’s constantly evolving—new ships joining, older ones retiring, and even some getting a glow-up with major renovations. If you’re planning your first cruise or are a seasoned cruiser like me, understanding the fleet helps you pick the perfect ship for your vacation vibe.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline-pumping water slides, gourmet dining, or a quiet spot to sip a cocktail with an ocean view, Carnival has a ship tailored to your style. But with over 25 active vessels (and more on the way), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the different Carnival ships, break down their classes, highlight unique features, and even share insider tips to help you choose. Think of it like a friendly chat over coffee—except the coffee is a piña colada, and we’re talking about the high seas.
The Carnival Fleet: An Overview of Classes and Sizes
When you ask, “How many different Carnival Cruise Line ships are there?” you’re really asking about diversity. Carnival doesn’t just build ships—they build experiences, and each ship class reflects a different flavor of fun. The fleet is organized into classes, which are like families of ships with similar designs, sizes, and features. Let’s break it down.
Visual guide about how mant different carnival cruise line are there.
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Why Ship Classes Matter
Ship classes are Carnival’s way of grouping vessels that share core designs. For example, all ships in the Dream class have similar layouts, amenities, and passenger capacities. This matters because if you loved your trip on the Carnival Dream, you’ll likely enjoy the Carnival Magic (same class)—but you might want to avoid the smaller Sunshine class if you crave space. Classes also help Carnival streamline operations and maintenance, but for travelers, they’re a shortcut to predicting your vacation experience.
The Main Carnival Ship Classes (Active in 2024)
- Excel Class: The newest and largest (e.g., Carnival Jubilee, Mardi Gras). These are “next-gen” ships with LNG fuel and high-tech features.
- Vista Class: Modern and family-friendly (e.g., Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon). Known for SkyRide, IMAX, and Havana Cabanas.
- Dream Class: Mid-sized with a focus on entertainment (e.g., Carnival Dream, Carnival Magic). Great for first-time cruisers.
- Sunshine Class: Refurbished older ships (e.g., Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Elation). Smaller but packed with charm.
- Fantasy Class: The “classics” (e.g., Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Sensation). Budget-friendly but showing their age.
- Spirit Class: Smaller, premium feel (e.g., Carnival Spirit, Carnival Legend). Ideal for Alaska or Europe.
- Carnival Luminosa: A unique hybrid (ex-Costa ship), blending Carnival fun with European flair.
Fun fact: Carnival’s fleet includes ships originally built for other brands (like Costa Cruises) but rebranded. This means even within a class, no two ships are exactly the same. For example, the Carnival Luminosa (ex-Costa Luminosa) has a more intimate layout than typical Carnival ships.
Deep Dive: The Excel Class – Carnival’s Newest and Largest Ships
If you’re chasing the ultimate Carnival experience, the Excel Class is where it’s at. These are the crown jewels of the fleet, with three ships (and more coming) that redefine “fun.” Let’s meet the crew.
Mardi Gras (2021): The Trailblazer
The Mardi Gras was the first Excel-class ship, and it’s a game-changer. With a passenger capacity of 5,282 (double occupancy), it’s one of the largest cruise ships in the world. But what makes it special?
- Zones: The ship is divided into themed “zones” like Summer Landing (outdoor bar with a pool) and The Ultimate Playground (water slides and ropes course).
- BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster: A roller coaster on a cruise ship? Yes! It reaches speeds of 40 mph.
- Emeril’s Bistro 1396: A first for Carnival—a restaurant by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse.
Tip: If you’re traveling with teens, book a cabin near The Ultimate Playground. They’ll never want to leave.
Carnival Celebration (2022): The Twin
The Carnival Celebration is nearly identical to the Mardi Gras, but with a few tweaks. It’s home to Emeril’s Bistro 1397 (same menu, different address) and features the Golden Jubilee zone—a tribute to Carnival’s 50th anniversary.
Insider insight: The Celebration sails from Miami, while the Mardi Gras sails from Port Canaveral. Both offer 7-night Caribbean itineraries, but the Celebration tends to have more family-focused activities.
Carnival Jubilee (2023): The Texas Twist
The newest Excel-class ship, the Carnival Jubilee, is all about Texas pride. It features:
- Texas Smokehouse: A BBQ restaurant with brisket, ribs, and live country music.
- Emeril’s Bistro 1398: Yes, another Emeril spot—this one with a Southern twist.
- Starlight Lounge: A Texas-sized dance floor with a mechanical bull.
Pro tip: The Jubilee sails from Galveston, Texas. If you’re in the Southwest, skip the flight and drive!
What’s Next for the Excel Class?
Carnival has two more Excel-class ships on order (delivery in 2027 and 2028). These will likely feature even more advanced tech, like AI-powered entertainment and expanded family suites. The future of cruising is here—and it’s big.
Vista and Dream Classes: Modern Mid-Sized Ships with Big Personalities
Not everyone wants a mega-ship. The Vista and Dream classes strike a balance between size and amenities, making them perfect for families, couples, and first-time cruisers.
Vista Class: The Family-Friendly Innovators
Ships like the Carnival Vista (2016) and Carnival Horizon (2018) introduced features that became Carnival staples:
- SkyRide: A pedal-powered ride suspended above the deck.
- IMAX Theatre: Catch the latest blockbusters at sea.
- Havana Cabanas: A adults-only retreat with a Cuban vibe (and no kids allowed).
Real-world example: On the Carnival Vista, I spent an afternoon in the Havana Cabanas. With a mojito in hand and the ocean breeze, I felt like I was in Key West—not on a cruise ship. But heads up: This area sells out fast, so book early.
Dream Class: The Entertainment Kings
The Carnival Dream (2009) and Carnival Magic (2011) are slightly smaller (3,646 passengers) but pack a punch with:
- WaterWorks: A multi-story water park with slides and a tipping bucket.
- RedFrog Pub & Brewery: Carnival’s first onboard brewery.
- Serenity Adult Retreat: A quiet oasis with hammocks and ocean views.
Tip: The Dream-class ships often sail from ports like New Orleans and Galveston. If you’re driving, these itineraries are super convenient.
Sunshine Class: The Refurbished Classics
Ships like the Carnival Sunshine (originally Carnival Destiny) and Carnival Elation got a second life after massive renovations. The Sunshine alone had $300 million spent on upgrades, adding:
- New water slides
- Expanded dining options (like Guy’s Burger Joint)
- Redesigned staterooms
Insider note: These ships are smaller (2,052–2,600 passengers), so they’re ideal for shorter 3-5 night cruises. They’re also budget-friendly—perfect if you’re new to cruising.
The Classics: Fantasy and Spirit Classes – Nostalgia with a Side of Fun
Not all Carnival ships are shiny and new. The Fantasy and Spirit classes are the “classics”—ships that have been sailing for decades but still deliver Carnival’s signature fun.
Fantasy Class: The Budget-Friendly Workhorses
Ships like the Carnival Ecstasy (1991) and Carnival Sensation (1993) are the oldest in the fleet, but they’ve been refreshed over the years. Key features:
- Affordable pricing: Often the cheapest Carnival ships to book.
- Short itineraries: 3-5 night Bahamas cruises.
- Classic Carnival vibes: Think retro decor and lively pool decks.
Real talk: The Ecstasy is showing its age. The staterooms are smaller, and some amenities (like the buffet) feel dated. But if you’re on a tight budget or want a quick getaway, it’s a solid choice.
Spirit Class: The Premium Feel, Smaller Scale
The Carnival Spirit (2001) and Carnival Legend (2002) are smaller (2,124 passengers) but feel more upscale. They’re often used for:
- Alaska cruises (with stunning glacier views)
- European itineraries
- Exotic destinations (like Australia)
Tip: The Spirit-class ships have a “resort-like” vibe. The Legend even has a full-size golf simulator!
Carnival Luminosa: The Wild Card
The Carnival Luminosa (2022) is a unique hybrid—originally built for Costa Cruises but now part of Carnival. It blends:
- European design (think sleek lines and marble accents)
- Carnival’s fun activities (like the Seuss WaterWorks)
Insider insight: The Luminosa sails from Brisbane, Australia. If you’re Down Under, it’s a great way to explore the South Pacific.
Fleet Size, Retirements, and the Future of Carnival Ships
So, how many different Carnival Cruise Line ships are there right now? As of 2024, Carnival operates **27 active ships**. But the number isn’t static—ships retire, new ones launch, and the fleet evolves.
Current Fleet Size and Trends
- Active ships: 27 (as of July 2024)
- Retired in the past 5 years: 5 ships (e.g., Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Imagination)
- On order: 2 Excel-class ships (2027, 2028)
Why retire ships? Older vessels like the Fantasy class have high operating costs and outdated tech. Carnival’s strategy is to replace them with newer, more efficient ships (like the Excel class).
Upcoming Changes and What to Expect
Carnival is investing heavily in sustainability. The Excel-class ships run on LNG (liquefied natural gas), reducing emissions by 20–30%. Future ships will likely have:
- Advanced waste management systems
- More solar panels
- AI-powered guest services
Tip: If you’re concerned about the environment, book an Excel-class ship. They’re Carnival’s greenest yet.
Data Table: Carnival Cruise Line Fleet (2024)
| Ship Class | Ships in Class | Passenger Capacity | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excel Class | 3 | 5,282–5,374 | BOLT roller coaster, LNG fuel | Families, thrill-seekers |
| Vista Class | 4 | 3,934–3,960 | SkyRide, IMAX Theatre | First-time cruisers |
| Dream Class | 3 | 3,646–3,690 | WaterWorks, RedFrog Brewery | Entertainment lovers |
| Sunshine Class | 3 | 2,052–3,006 | Renovated staterooms | Budget travelers |
| Fantasy Class | 4 | 2,052–2,606 | Retro decor, low fares | Quick getaways |
| Spirit Class | 5 | 2,124 | Alaska cruises, golf simulator | Experienced cruisers |
| Other (Luminosa) | 1 | 2,260 | European design | South Pacific trips |
Note: Capacities are for double occupancy. Total passengers (including third/fourth in a room) can be higher.
How to Choose the Right Carnival Ship for Your Trip
With 27 ships to choose from, how do you pick the right one? It’s not just about size—it’s about your vacation goals.
Ask Yourself These Questions
- Who’s traveling? Families with kids? Couples? Solo travelers? The Excel and Vista classes are great for families, while the Spirit class is quieter.
- What’s your budget? Fantasy-class ships offer the lowest fares, but you might sacrifice space and amenities.
- Where do you want to go? Alaska? The Caribbean? Europe? Some ships (like the Spirit class) specialize in certain regions.
- What’s your ideal vibe? High-energy party? Relaxing retreat? The Excel class has nonstop action, while the Sunshine class is more laid-back.
Insider Tips for Booking
- Check the refurbishment date: Older ships like the Carnival Elation got a glow-up in 2017. A recent refit means modern amenities.
- Read reviews from real cruisers: Sites like Cruise Critic have thousands of ship reviews. Look for comments about dining, cleanliness, and noise levels.
- Book early for popular ships: Excel-class ships sell out fast, especially during holidays.
Remember: There’s no “best” Carnival ship—only the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re chasing roller coasters or quiet sunsets, Carnival’s fleet has something for every kind of traveler.
The answer to “How many different Carnival Cruise Line ships are there?” is 27—but it’s really about the experiences they offer. From the high-tech thrills of the Excel class to the nostalgic charm of the Fantasy class, each ship is a world of its own. So next time you’re staring at a Carnival brochure, don’t just count the ships—ask what kind of fun you’re craving. Because in the end, the best cruise isn’t about the ship’s size or age. It’s about the memories you make. And with Carnival, those memories are always fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many different Carnival Cruise Line ships are there in 2024?
As of 2024, Carnival Cruise Line operates a fleet of 27 distinct ships, ranging from large mega-ships to smaller, more intimate vessels. The fleet includes several new additions from the Excel and Dream classes, reflecting ongoing growth.
What is the largest Carnival Cruise Line ship?
The largest Carnival Cruise Line ship is the Carnival Celebration, part of the Excel class, which debuted in 2022. It spans 180,000 gross tons and can accommodate over 6,600 guests, offering cutting-edge amenities and attractions.
Are all Carnival Cruise Line ships the same size and class?
No, Carnival Cruise Line ships vary significantly in size, age, and class, with nine distinct classes—from the smaller Fantasy class to the massive Excel class. Each class offers unique features, dining options, and onboard experiences.
How many Carnival Cruise Line ships are in the Excel class?
There are currently 4 ships in the Excel class, including Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, and the upcoming Carnival Firenze. These LNG-powered ships represent Carnival’s newest and most innovative vessels.
Does Carnival Cruise Line retire older ships?
Yes, Carnival regularly retires older ships to modernize its fleet, with several Fantasy-class ships sold or scrapped in recent years. This strategy allows the line to focus on newer, more efficient ships with updated guest experiences.
How can I find a list of all Carnival Cruise Line ships?
You can find a complete list of all Carnival Cruise Line ships on Carnival’s official website or through cruise databases like CruiseMapper. These resources include details on class, capacity, itineraries, and onboard features for each vessel.