Carnival Cruise Line Charts Bold Course for the Future with ‘Innovation Itinerary’
Carnival Cruise Line is setting its sights on an exciting five-year expansion and transformation with the unveiling of its “Innovation Itinerary.” The strategic plan is centered around three main pillars: maintaining the most fun fleet at sea, delivering compelling experiences and destinations, and growing its base of loyal cruisers.
Leading the Cruise Industry Forward
At a media briefing aboard the Carnival Celebration in PortMiami, Carnival President Christine Duffy outlined the ambitious plans. “Since our inception in 1972, we have defined and led the modern cruise industry,” said Duffy. “With 29 ships—our largest global fleet ever—and new destinations and ships on the horizon, Carnival continues to lead as America’s Cruise Line and the World’s Most Popular Cruise Line.”
New Ships on the Horizon
Carnival is expanding its award-winning Excel class with the introduction of two new ships:
Carnival Festivale – Debuting in Spring 2027 from Port Canaveral, Florida. The ship will feature three new themed zones centered around music, 1,000 interconnecting rooms (70% more than previous Excel ships), enhanced youth programs, and a brand-new outdoor family zone called Sunsation Point, complete with the largest water park at sea.
Carnival Tropicale – Set for delivery in Spring 2028, this ship will incorporate features from Festivale and introduce new concepts of its own.
Looking further ahead, Carnival is developing a new platform, Project Ace, with three ships of 230,000 gross tons each scheduled for delivery in 2029, 2031, and 2033. These vessels will be the largest in Carnival Corporation’s history and capable of accommodating nearly 8,000 guests.
Fleet Deployment and Market Expansion
As Carnival Festivale joins the fleet, Mardi Gras will shift to short cruise itineraries from Port Canaveral. This strategic move aims to offer the Excel-class experience to guests with limited vacation time. Carnival is also returning to year-round operations in Mobile, Alabama in 2027 and is exploring deploying a larger Conquest-class ship to Baltimore.
Guest Experience Enhancements
Carnival is planning upgrades to its existing fleet, inspired by new features introduced on upcoming ships. These enhancements will include updated décor, new dining venues, innovative entertainment options, and more.
Exclusive Destination Developments
The Innovation Itinerary includes a strong focus on destination experiences:
Celebration Key (Bahamas) – Opening July 2024, this new destination is designed exclusively for Carnival guests. Over 1,400 sailings from 10 U.S. homeports are scheduled through 2027.
RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay – Expansion begins in 2026, with a new pier allowing access for larger Excel and Project Ace ships.
Isla Tropicale (formerly Mahogany Bay, Roatan) – Rebranding and expansion in 2026 will include a swim-up bar, pool, cabanas, and a beach club.
These destinations will form Carnival’s new Paradise Collection, showcasing the line’s commitment to enriching guests’ travel experiences.
Loyalty Program Revamp
Carnival will unveil a revamped loyalty program in summer 2025, with enhancements effective in 2026. Duffy noted the new program will deliver greater value and engagement, recognizing Carnival’s growing base of passionate guests.
Conclusion
With cutting-edge ships, revitalized guest experiences, expanded homeport deployment, and new exclusive destinations, Carnival Cruise Line’s Innovation Itinerary sets a bold and exciting course. For more information or to book a cruise, visit Carnival.com, contact your travel advisor, or call 1-800-CARNIVAL.
