How Many Ships Does Carnival Cruise Lines Run in 2024 Fleet Update

Carnival Cruise Lines operates 27 ships in its 2024 fleet, making it one of the largest and most diverse cruise lines in the world. This includes newly upgraded vessels and fan-favorite classics, offering travelers a wide range of itineraries and onboard experiences. From short Caribbean getaways to extended global voyages, Carnival continues to expand its reach with modern, fun-focused ships designed for every type of cruiser.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival operates 27 ships in its 2024 fleet, including new additions.
• Four ships were retired since 2023 to modernize the fleet.
• Two LNG-powered ships lead Carnival’s sustainability efforts in 2024.
• Fleet spans 5 classes, from Excel to Sunshine, offering varied experiences.
• More ships to join by 2025, expanding capacity and routes.

How Many Ships Does Carnival Cruise Lines Run in 2024? A Complete Fleet Breakdown

Imagine standing on the sun deck of a massive floating city, the ocean stretching endlessly in every direction. The smell of saltwater, the sound of laughter, and the excitement of your next port of call—this is the magic of a Carnival Cruise. But have you ever wondered just how many ships Carnival Cruise Lines actually operates? If you’re planning a vacation, comparing cruise lines, or simply curious about the scale of this industry giant, you’re not alone. Carnival is one of the most recognizable names in cruising, and their fleet is a big reason why.

In 2024, Carnival Cruise Lines continues to dominate the mid-tier cruise market with a diverse and evolving fleet designed to offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser looking for a fun, affordable getaway or a seasoned sailor chasing luxury and innovation, Carnival’s ships cater to a wide range of tastes. But with so many vessels, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. How many ships does Carnival Cruise Lines run? What makes each one unique? And how do they compare to the competition? In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the 2024 Carnival Cruise Lines fleet, breaking down each class of ships, their features, and what you can expect when you set sail. Let’s get started.

An Overview of the 2024 Carnival Cruise Lines Fleet

As of 2024, Carnival Cruise Lines operates 27 active ships across six distinct classes. This number reflects a strategic shift in recent years, with Carnival retiring older vessels and introducing newer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly ships. The fleet includes everything from classic mid-sized ships to the massive, tech-packed Excel class vessels. The average age of the fleet is around 12 years, with several ships receiving major refurbishments to keep them fresh and competitive.

Why 27 Ships Matters

Having 27 ships gives Carnival a significant advantage in market reach and itinerary variety. With this size, they can offer:

• More departure ports across the U.S., Canada, and Europe
• Flexible scheduling with multiple sailings per week on popular routes
• Greater capacity for themed cruises (e.g., 70s, 80s, or food and wine cruises)
• Opportunities for last-minute deals and repositioning cruises

Fun fact: Carnival’s fleet carries over 5 million passengers annually—more than the population of most U.S. states. That’s a lot of poolside drinks and midnight buffets!

The Impact of Fleet Modernization

Carnival isn’t just keeping ships; they’re upgrading them. In the past five years, the line has:

• Retired 10 older ships (e.g., Carnival Fascination, Carnival Fantasy)
• Refurbished 15+ vessels with new staterooms, restaurants, and entertainment venues
• Introduced two new Excel class ships: Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee

This modernization strategy ensures that even older ships feel current. For example, the Carnival Breeze, launched in 2012, received a $200 million upgrade in 2022, adding a new waterpark, expanded spa, and updated dining options. So while the fleet size is 27, the experience feels much newer.

Breaking Down the 6 Ship Classes in 2024

One of the best ways to understand how many ships Carnival Cruise Lines runs is to look at the six distinct classes that make up the fleet. Each class has its own personality, size, and target audience. Think of them like different models of cars—some are compact and efficient, others are luxury SUVs built for adventure.

1. Excel Class (The Newest and Largest)

The Excel class is Carnival’s crown jewel. These ships are the largest in the fleet, measuring over 180,000 gross tons and carrying up to 6,630 passengers. They’re built for innovation, sustainability, and unforgettable experiences.

Ships in this class (2024):

• Carnival Mardi Gras (launched 2021)

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• Carnival Celebration (launched 2022)
• Carnival Jubilee (launched 2023)

Key features:

• Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion—cleaner and quieter
• BOLT: the first roller coaster at sea (on all three ships)
• Expanded dining with venues like Emeril’s Bistro 1396 and Rudi’s Seagrill
• Three-deck atrium with a massive LED dome and live entertainment

Tip: If you want the newest tech, the most dining options, and a high-energy vibe, go for an Excel class ship. But be prepared for crowds—these ships are big.

2. Dream Class (Balanced Size and Innovation)

The Dream class strikes a perfect balance between size and comfort. At around 130,000 gross tons and 3,690 passengers, these ships feel spacious without being overwhelming.

Ships in this class (2024):

• Carnival Dream (2009, refurbished 2023)
• Carnival Magic (2011, refurbished 2022)
• Carnival Breeze (2012, refurbished 2022)

Key features:

• WaterWorks aquapark with slides and splash zones
• Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with private cabanas
• Expanded spa and fitness center
• More balcony staterooms than older classes

These ships are ideal for families or travelers who want a mix of activities and relaxation. The Carnival Breeze, for example, sails from Port Canaveral to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, making it a favorite for 7-night getaways.

3. Vista Class (Modern and Stylish)

The Vista class introduced Carnival’s “Fun Ship 2.0” upgrades, focusing on open-air spaces, modern design, and enhanced dining.

Ships in this class (2024):

• Carnival Vista (2016, refurbished 2021)
• Carnival Horizon (2018, refurbished 2022)
• Carnival Panorama (2019, refurbished 2023)

Key features:

• SkyRide: a pedal-powered aerial attraction
• Expanded outdoor dining with Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina
• More family-friendly suites and connecting staterooms
• Enhanced entertainment with Playlist Productions shows

The Carnival Panorama is unique—it’s the only Vista class ship based on the West Coast (Los Angeles), offering Mexican Riviera itineraries.

4. Conquest Class (Reliable and Popular)

The Conquest class ships are workhorses of the fleet—reliable, well-maintained, and full of classic Carnival fun.

Ships in this class (2024):

• Carnival Conquest (2002, refurbished 2021)
• Carnival Glory (2003, refurbished 2022)
• Carnival Valor (2004, refurbished 2023)
• Carnival Liberty (2005, refurbished 2021)
• Carnival Freedom (2007, refurbished 2022)

Key features:

• Classic Carnival amenities: RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar
• Good mix of balcony and interior staterooms
• Strong itinerary presence in the Caribbean and Bahamas

These ships are great for budget-conscious travelers. The Carnival Glory, for instance, offers 4- and 5-night Bahamas cruises from Miami—perfect for a quick escape.

5. Spirit Class (Mid-Size and Efficient)

The Spirit class is smaller (88,500 gross tons, ~2,124 passengers) but packs a punch with efficient design and global itineraries.

Ships in this class (2024):

• Carnival Spirit (2001, refurbished 2022)
• Carnival Pride (2002, refurbished 2021)
• Carnival Legend (2002, refurbished 2023)
• Carnival Miracle (2004, refurbished 2022)

Key features:

• More intimate feel—fewer crowds, easier navigation
• Unique itineraries: Alaska, Europe, Panama Canal
• Strong focus on enrichment (lectures, cultural activities)

The Carnival Legend sails Alaska in summer and the Caribbean in winter—ideal for travelers who want variety.

6. Sunshine Class (The Refurbished Classics)

The Sunshine class is a rebranded class of older ships that received massive renovations to extend their life and modernize the experience.

Ships in this class (2024):

• Carnival Sunshine (originally Carnival Destiny, rebuilt 2013, refurbished 2022)
• Carnival Radiance (originally Carnival Victory, rebuilt 2020, refurbished 2023)

Key features:

• Rebuilt with new engines, expanded public areas, and updated staterooms
• Modern amenities: WaterWorks, Serenity Retreat, new dining venues
• More balcony cabins than original design

The Carnival Radiance is a standout—its rebuild cost $200 million and transformed it from a 1999 ship into a 2020s experience.

How Carnival’s Fleet Compares to Competitors

When asking, “How many ships does Carnival Cruise Lines run?” it’s helpful to compare them to other major players. Carnival is part of Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s largest cruise company, which owns 10 cruise lines (including Princess, Holland America, and Costa). But Carnival Cruise Lines itself is the largest single brand in the fleet.

By Fleet Size (2024)

Cruise Line	Number of Ships	Passenger Capacity
Carnival Cruise Lines	27	~100,000+
Royal Caribbean International	27	~105,000+
Norwegian Cruise Line	19	~70,000+
MSC Cruises	21	~75,000+
Princess Cruises	15	~45,000+

Carnival ties Royal Caribbean for the largest fleet among major U.S.-based lines. But size isn’t the only factor—Carnival differentiates itself with:

• Affordability: Lower base fares and more included amenities
• Fun-focused branding: Themed cruises, lively entertainment, and casual vibe
• Family appeal: Kids’ clubs, water parks, and family suites

Fleet Age and Innovation

While Carnival has more ships than Norwegian or Princess, their average fleet age is slightly higher than Royal Caribbean or MSC. However, Carnival’s aggressive refurbishment program keeps the experience fresh. For example:

• 70% of the fleet has been refurbished since 2018
• All Excel class ships use LNG—a major sustainability step
• New tech like the BOLT coaster and expanded app features (e.g., mobile check-in, digital key)

So while Carnival may not have the newest ships overall, they’re investing heavily in modernization to compete with Royal Caribbean’s Icon class and MSC’s Meraviglia class.

What to Expect on a Carnival Cruise: Tips by Ship Class

Knowing how many ships Carnival Cruise Lines runs is just the start. To help you choose the right one, here are some practical tips based on class and itinerary.

For First-Time Cruisers: Stick to Mid-Size or Refurbished Ships

If you’re new to cruising, avoid the massive Excel class on your first trip. The crowds, long lines, and sheer size can be overwhelming. Instead, try:

• Carnival Breeze (Dream class): 7-night Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral
• Carnival Radiance (Sunshine class): 4-night Baja Mexico from Long Beach

Why? These ships offer a great balance of activities without feeling too big. The Breeze has a fun waterpark and multiple dining options, while the Radiance has a cozy, modern feel after its rebuild.

For Families: Excel or Dream Class for Best Amenities

Families love Carnival for its kids’ programs (Camp Ocean, Circle “C”, Club O2) and family-friendly activities. For the best experience:

• Choose Carnival Mardi Gras or Celebration (Excel class) for the BOLT coaster, expanded kids’ zones, and family suites
• Look for ships with WaterWorks (all Dream, Vista, and Excel class ships have it)
• Book early—family staterooms sell out fast!

For Couples or Adults-Only: Vista or Spirit Class

If you want a quieter, more romantic experience:

• Book the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat (available on Dream, Vista, and Excel class ships)
• Choose a Vista class ship like Carnival Horizon for its outdoor dining and SkyRide
• Opt for a Spirit class ship like Carnival Legend for Alaska—fewer families, more scenic cruising

For Budget Travelers: Conquest or Sunshine Class

Want to save money without sacrificing fun? Try:

• Carnival Glory or Liberty for 4- or 5-night Bahamas cruises (often under $500 per person)
• Carnival Sunshine for 3-night getaways from Charleston or Jacksonville
• Look for “Fun Select” sailings—lower fares with fewer perks, but still full access to pools, shows, and dining

For Adventure Seekers: Excel Class or Spirit Class

If you love new experiences:

• Ride the BOLT coaster on Mardi Gras, Celebration, or Jubilee
• Try the SkyRide on Vista or Horizon
• Sail Alaska on Carnival Legend or Spirit for glaciers, wildlife, and hiking

The Future of Carnival’s Fleet: What’s Next?

So, how many ships does Carnival Cruise Lines run? Right now, it’s 27. But the future is even more exciting.

Upcoming Additions (2024–2025)

Carnival has already announced:

• Carnival Jubilee (2023): The third Excel class ship, homeporting in Galveston with Texas-themed zones
• Two more LNG-powered ships (2027 and 2028): Details TBD, but expected to be even larger and more sustainable

Fleet Optimization Strategy

Carnival isn’t just adding ships—they’re optimizing the fleet. Expect:

• More LNG-powered vessels (reducing emissions by 20–30%)
• Further refurbishments of older ships (e.g., Carnival Freedom and Valor may get major upgrades)
• Potential retirements of ships built before 2000 (e.g., Carnival Spirit may be phased out by 2026)

The goal? A younger, greener, and more efficient fleet that still delivers the “Fun Ship” experience Carnival is known for.

What This Means for Travelers

For you, the passenger, this means:

• More choices: New itineraries, better tech, and improved sustainability
• Better value: Refurbished ships offer modern amenities at mid-tier prices
• Greater flexibility: More departure ports and sailing lengths

Whether you’re a first-timer or a Carnival loyalist, the 2024 fleet—and the ships to come—offer something for every type of traveler.

Final Thoughts: Why Carnival’s 27-Ship Fleet Stands Out

So, how many ships does Carnival Cruise Lines run in 2024? The answer is 27 active vessels, but the real story is in the diversity and evolution of the fleet. From the high-tech, LNG-powered Excel class to the intimate, globally roaming Spirit class, Carnival offers a cruise experience for every budget, interest, and travel style.

What makes Carnival stand out isn’t just the number of ships—it’s how they use them. Their strategy of retiring older vessels, heavily refurbishing mid-life ships, and launching innovative new builds ensures that even a 20-year-old ship can feel fresh. And with a focus on affordability, family fun, and sustainability, Carnival remains a top choice for millions of travelers each year.

Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a roller coaster at sea, relaxing in a private adult-only retreat, or exploring Alaska’s glaciers, there’s a Carnival ship for you. So next time you’re planning a getaway, don’t just ask how many ships Carnival Cruise Lines runs—ask which one is right for you. With 27 options, the adventure is just a booking away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ships does Carnival Cruise Lines currently operate in 2024?

As of 2024, Carnival Cruise Lines operates a fleet of 27 ships across its main brand and subsidiaries like Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee. This includes recently launched vessels and phased-out older ships to modernize the fleet.

What is the size of Carnival’s 2024 fleet compared to other cruise lines?

Carnival Cruise Lines’ 27-ship fleet makes it the largest cruise operator globally by number of vessels, surpassing competitors like Royal Caribbean (28 ships) when including its sister brands. Their focus on mid-to-large-sized ships ensures diverse itineraries and capacity.

How many ships does Carnival Cruise Lines run under its Excel-class program?

Carnival currently runs 4 Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, and Carnival Firenze. These LNG-powered vessels represent the newest and most innovative additions to the fleet.

Are any new ships joining Carnival’s fleet in 2024?

Yes, Carnival Jubilee debuted in late 2023 as the third Excel-class ship, with plans for further fleet expansion through 2025. The line also introduced Carnival Firenze, a reimagined vessel from Costa Cruises.

How many Carnival ships were retired or sold during the 2020–2024 fleet updates?

Between 2020 and 2024, Carnival retired or sold 10 older ships, including Carnival Fascination and Carnival Imagination, to streamline operations and invest in newer, eco-friendly vessels.

Does the “how many ships” count include Carnival’s subsidiary brands?

The 27-ship total refers to Carnival Cruise Lines’ core brand only. Sister lines like Holland America (11 ships) and Princess Cruises (15 ships) are separate entities under Carnival Corporation but not part of this count.