In a significant move to meet the growing demand for cruise vacations, Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s largest cruise company, has announced an order for three new ships for its Carnival Cruise Line brand. These new vessels, scheduled for delivery in the summers of 2029, 2031, and 2033, will introduce a new class of ship designed to enhance the guest experience with innovative features and cutting-edge technology. This landmark order, finalised with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, marks a pivotal step in Carnival Corporation's strategic growth and commitment to sustainability.
The new ships for the Carnival Cruise Line brand, each nearly 230,000 gross registered tonnes, will be the largest in Carnival Corporation's global fleet. With over 3,000 guest staterooms, they will be capable of carrying almost 8,000 guests at full capacity, delivering more fun to more guests than any other ship in the world. These vessels will feature innovative guest experiences designed to elevate the Carnival Cruise Line brand into the future. "For this next generation ship, we are focused on creating innovative guest experiences that will take Carnival Cruise Line into the future with new FUN features and excitement that we know our guests will LOVE," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
One of the standout features of these new ships is their use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) power, aligning with Carnival Corporation’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The addition of these LNG-powered ships will bring the total number of such vessels in the Carnival Corporation fleet to 16, nearly 30% of the company's global capacity. LNG is known for its cleaner-burning properties, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional marine fuels. Additionally, the new ships will incorporate advanced energy efficiency, waste management, and emission reduction technologies, further minimising their environmental footprint.
Carnival Corporation's decision to expand its fleet with these new ships is a response to the incredibly strong demand for cruise vacations. "We are doubling down on the growth of Carnival Cruise Line – our highest-returning brand – to keep up with the incredibly strong demand we continue to see for the world's most popular cruise line," said Josh Weinstein, chief executive officer of Carnival Corporation & plc. This strategic move is part of a disciplined growth approach, with the company planning to introduce one to two new ships per year between 2025 and 2033. This measured capacity growth will allow Carnival Corporation to strategically allocate new capacity to the areas of highest demand, ensuring optimal returns.
The collaboration between Carnival Corporation and Fincantieri, a renowned Italian shipbuilder, is a continuation of a successful partnership. "We are excited to join forces with Carnival Cruise Line to debut a new class of ship, which will be the largest cruise ship ever constructed by Fincantieri and the largest ship ever built in Italy," said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri. This partnership underscores the expertise and capabilities of Fincantieri in building state-of-the-art cruise ships that meet the highest standards of innovation and sustainability.
Looking ahead, Carnival Cruise Line is set to receive a total of five new ships announced in 2024, with two more Excel-class ships joining the fleet in 2027 and 2028. These expansions are part of Carnival Corporation's broader strategy to optimise its global brand portfolio and increase guest capacity. As these new ships enter service, they will offer guests unparalleled experiences and contribute to the continued success and growth of Carnival Cruise Line.
The introduction of these new ships marks a significant milestone for Carnival Corporation and the cruise industry. With their innovative features, commitment to sustainability, and strategic growth plans, these vessels promise to enhance the cruising experience for millions of guests in the coming years.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing holiday, an adventurous journey, or a quick getaway, get in touch with a travel adviser now at S.W. Black Travel. Join Carnival Cruise Line and us on an extraordinary journey where innovation meets fun, ensuring every moment of your cruise is truly exceptional.