Carnival Cruise Line has a long history in the cruising industry since its first voyage in March 1972.
Carnival’s inaugural ship, the original Carnival Mardi Gras, was a modest 27,000 gross tons and cost just $5 million to build. While that cruise ship is no longer in service, it set the foundation for what Carnival has become today.
For comparison, the modern Carnival Mardi Gras, launched in 2021 with a gross tonnage of 180,000 and an estimated cost exceeding $950 million.
Over the decades, Carnival has continually evolved, adding innovative attractions and amenities like the Bolt Sea Coaster (the only roller coaster at sea), amazing dining venues, and fun onboard activities and entertainment.
Today, the Carnival fleet consists of 27 ships, with two more set to join in the coming months.
With that said, here is a complete ranking of all Carnival cruise ships currently in service, from the newest to the oldest.
Carnival Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest
Fourth and Fifth Excel-Class Cruise Ships (2027-2028)
In early 2024, Carnival Corporation announced orders for two brand-new cruise ships. These new vessels will join the current Excel class ships (Carnival Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee) and be built by Meyer Werft.
Although these new Carnival cruise ships are yet to be named, they are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2028.
Carnival Jubilee (2023)
Carnival Jubilee first debuted back in December 2023. The third Excel class cruise ship was supposed to set sail in October 2023. However, due to supply chain logistics, Carnival delayed the inaugural voyage.
The Jubilee was built in Papenburg, Germany, at the Meyer Werft shipyard.
Key features onboard Carnival Jubilee include the Bolt roller coaster, WaterWorks aqua park, Shaq’s Big Chicken, and Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access.
Carnival Celebration (2022)
Released in 2022, Carnival Celebration is one of the newest additions to Carnival’s fleet. Like the Carnival Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration can accommodate over 6,600 cruise passengers at full capacity.
Carnival Celebration features different zones, a popular concept seen on Carnival Mardi Gras.
Key features of the Carnival Celebration include the Bolt roller coaster, Blueiguana Cantina, Bonsai Sushi, Family Feud Live, and the Latitudes Bar.
Mardi Gras (2021)
Mardi Gras is the first addition to Carnival Cruise Line’s Excel class. Released in 2021, Mardi Gras was the first cruise line to introduce the first roller coaster at sea, “Bolt.”
Mardi Gras Features six zones (Grand Central, French Quarter, Summer Landing, La Piazza, Lido, and Ultimate Playground.) These distinct zones provide different experiences for cruise passengers to explore and enjoy.
Fun Fact: Mardi Gras is often referred to as the Carnival Mardi Gras. However, Carnival specified that her name does not include the “Carnival” prefix.
Carnival Firenze (2020)
In 2020, Costa Firenze entered service for Costa Cruises. After 4 years of service, Firenze received an extensive refit and began operating for Carnival Cruise Line, becoming Carnival Firenze.
In 2024, this vessel joined the Venice Class, known for its “Fun Italian Style.”
Carnival Panorama (2019)
Launched in 2019, Carnival Panorama was the last Carnival cruise built for Carnival’s Vista Class. This was Carnival Cruise Line’s flagship until 2021 when Carnival Mardi Gras began sailing.
This Vista class cruise ship was built to accommodate 4,008 Carnival passengers and weighs 133,500 gross tons.
Key features onboard Carnival Panorama include a SkyZone trampoline park and the SkyRide. Cruise passengers will also find Carnival favorites like Heroes Tribute Bar, Cucina del Capitano, and Guy’s Pig and Anchor Smokehouse.
Carnival Venezia (2019)
Carnival Venezia began sailing for Carnival on May 29, 2023. However, she originally sailed for Costa Cruises as the Costa Venezia.
Carnival Veneiza is part of the “Costa by Carnival” initiative. Although it’s still technically a Vista-class cruise ship, Venezia is different from the others and has an Italian flair.
To help with confusion, Carnival created the Venice Class to help differentiate the cruise ships.
Unlike previous cruise ships acquired from Costa (Carnival Luminosa), Carnival kept the yellow Costa funnel with the blue “C.”
Yes, that means the iconic Carnival fin is not featured onboard Carnival Venezia!
Key features onboard Carnival Venezia include the Gondola Lounge, Piazza San Marco, Amari Bar, Serenity Retreat sundeck, and Carnival cruiser favorite Guy’s Burger Joint.
Related: 50 Carnival Cruise Line Tips, Tricks & Secrets
Carnival Horizon (2018)
Carnival Horizon is Carnival Cruise Lines’s second Vista Class cruise ship. Coming in at 133,500 tons and with a maximum passenger capacity of 4,977 cruisers, Carnival Horizon is a fan favorite among Carnival cruisers.
Key features onboard Carnival Horizon include Skyride, IMax, and Dr. Suess Bookville.
Carnival Vista (2016)
In 2016, Carnival’s Vista Class cruise ship launched with the Carnival Vista. At the time, this was their newest class of cruise ship and featured an impressive onboard attraction, the SkyRide.
The Skyride is a pedal-powered bike ride where passengers are suspended over the top deck of the cruise ship. This ride combines stunning views with exercises and an adrenaline rush.
Carnival Breeze (2012)
The Carnival Breeze set sail in 2012 and is the third and final cruise ship in Carnival’s Dream Class. Despite being over 10 years old, it is one of the most popular vessels in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet.
Key features onboard Carnival Breeze include the Alchemy Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, Bonsai Sushi, and Camp Ocean Kid’s Club.
Carnival Magic (2011)
Carnival Magic is Carnival’s second Dream class cruise ship that has launched. Although it’s by a tiny margin (4 gross tons), Carnival Magic is the smallest of the Dream class ships.
This vessel has been in service since 2011 and underwent a dry dock in 2016. During the dry dock, many public spaces and older venues were modernized.
Fun Fact: Carnival Magic is the first ship in the Carnival fleet to introduce the SkyCourse (ropes course). Now, ropes courses are a feature on most Carnival cruise ships.
Carnival Dream (2009)
Launched in 2009, Carnival Dream is the first Carnival Dream Class cruise ship.
Carnival Dream is the first Carnival cruise ship to introduce the cove balcony cabin type. Located on deck two, these cabins feature a porthole-style balcony surrounded by steel.
One common Carnival feature that is not onboard Carnival Dream is the SportSquare. However, the sports court is on her sister ships (Breeze & Magic.)
Fun Fact: The 2011 film “Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked” was partially filmed onboard the Carnival Dream. The ship served as the backdrop for several scenes and can be seen throughout the movie.
Carnival Luminosa (2009)
Although Carnival Luminosa only joined the Carnival fleet in 2022, she has been sailing for Costa Cruises since 2009. Once named the Costa Luminosa, this vessel is a hybrid between the Vista and Spirit classes. However, it’s worth noting that Carnival considers her part of the Spirit Class.
When you look at Carnival Luminosa, you’ll notice a key Carnival staple is missing. Carnival Luminosa is one of the only Carnival ships that does not have the iconic Carnival funnel.
Instead, this ship has its old Costa funnel, which has been repainted with Carnival’s red, white, and blue color scheme.
Related: Carnival Cruise Luggage Limits and Restrictions
Carnival Splendor (2008)
Carnival Splendor took her maiden voyage in 2008. Since she was originally intended to be a part of Costa Cruises Concordia Class, Carnival Splendor is the only Splendor class cruise ship.
Fun Fact: In March 2009, Carnival Splendor was the host ship for Mayercraft Carrier 2. This was a four-day cruise from Los Angeles hosted by Grammy award winner John Mayer.
Carnival Freedom (2007)
Carnival Freedom is the fifth and final Conquest Class ship. Originally released in 2007, this vessel weighs 110,000 Gross Tons and can accommodate nearly 3,000 passengers.
Last refurbished in 2023, Carnival Freedom features Heroes Tribute Bar, Seafood Shack, WaterWorks, Punchliner Comedy Club, and Guy’s Burger Joint.
Carnival Liberty (2005)
Carnival Liberty is the fourth Conquest Class cruise ship. It made its maiden voyage in 2005 and has been sailing for nearly twenty years.
After six years in service, Carnival Liberty underwent an extensive refurbishment and received many Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades.
Carnival Valor (2004)
Carnival Valor launched in 2004 and is the third Conquest Class cruise ship. Now, Carnival Valor offers four and five-night Caribbean itineraries.
Fun Fact: In 2020, Carnival Valor was home to ShipRocked, a rock-music-themed cruise. Performers included Beartooth, Halestorm, and Alter Bridge.
Carnival Miracle (2004)
Carnival Miracle, the final purpose-built Spirit Class ship for Carnival Cruise Line, began sailing for Carnival in 2004. Constructed at Kværner Masa-Yards, it marked the end of an era as every subsequent ship built for Carnival has surpassed 100,000 gross registered tons.
In March 2023, Carnival announced that the ship would reposition to Galveston in October 2024, becoming the fourth Carnival vessel based in this homeport. From Galveston, Carnival Miracle will offer longer itineraries (9-12 days) sailing to the Western and Eastern Caribbean.
Carnival Glory (2003)
Carnival Glory, the second vessel in Carnival’s Conquest class, debuted in 2003. Built by Fincantieri at its Monfalcone shipyard in Italy, the ship accommodates 2,980 passengers (double occupancy) and over 1,150 crew members.
Over the years, Carnival Glory has undergone periodic upgrades, including a significant refurbishment in 2021 that enhanced public spaces, introduced fresh designs, and added the Carnival WaterWorks aqua park.
Related: Celebrity Cruises Vs Carnival? Everything You Need to Know
Carnival Conquest (2002)
Carnival Conquest is the first of five nearly identical Conquest Class Cruise ships. Nearly 60% of the staterooms onboard Carnival Conquest have ocean views, and 37% (of the 60%) have balconies.
She has been in service for over twenty years and underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2022. Carnival Conquest received a new hull design, an expanded casino, hotel maintenance, and cosmetic improvements during the refurbishment period.
Fun Fact: Carnival Conquest cost nearly 125 million dollars more to build than Carnival Spirit.
Carnival Legend (2002)
Carnival Legend was the second cruise ship launched in 2002 and the third Spirit Class ship to set sail. She was the first Carnival cruise ship to offer an onboard wedding chapel and alternative dining options.
In 2024, Carnival Legend was refurbished, and she received an expanded casino, a renamed steakhouse (Fahrenheit 555), a rebranded Fitness Center, and a Cloud 9 Spa. She also received a refreshed shops and an updated Circle C and Camp Ocean Spaces. Finally, a mini golf course was added to the top deck.
Fun Fact: During the christening ceremony for Carnival Legend, Judi Dench had to make three attempts to smash the bottle against the cruise ship’s hull. On the third attempt, the bottle broke and ended up spraying Dench.
Carnival Pride (2002)
Carnival Pride made her maiden voyage on January 12, 2002. She was the first of three new cruise ships launched by Carnival in 2002 (Pride, Legend & Conquest.)
Although she is over 20 years old, she was refurbished in 2019 and 2023.
Carnival Encounter (2002)
Similarly to Carnival Adventure, Carnival Encounter began sailing for a different cruise line. It was originally named Star Princess and sailed for Princess cruises between 2002 and 2021.
In 2021, she was transferred to P&O Cruises Australia and named Pacific Encounter. After P&O Cruises Australia shut down, Pacific Encounter was transferred over to Carnival Cruises.
Now, Pacific Encounter is being rebranded as Carnival Encounter, and she is set to debut in 2025.
Fun Fact: The Star Princess name is being used for Princess Cruises’ second Sphere Class cruise ship, which is set to release in 2025.
Carnival Adventure (2001)
Carnival Adventure has one of the most interesting histories of all Carnival cruise ships. The story of how she became a Carnival cruise ship is truly an adventure.
In 2001, Carnival Adventure began sailing as Golden Princess for Princess Cruises. After sailing with Princess for 20 years, she was transferred over to P&O Cruises Australia.
Once P&O acquired her, she was given the name Pacific Adventure. After sailing with P&O between 2021 and 2025, she was transferred over to Carnival Cruise Line due to the closure of P&O Australia.
Once she entered service for Carnival Cruise Line, she was named Carnival Adventure. The ship will continue to sail around Australia and is receiving technology upgrades to support the CarnivalHub app.
Carnival Spirit (2001)
Carnival Spirit is the first Spirit Class cruise ship ever made. The Spirit Class is smaller than the Sunshine Class, with the Carnival Spirit coming in at 88,500 GT.
With a max capacity of 2,124 passengers, Carnival Spirit is considered a smaller cruise ship by today’s standards.
During her refurbishment in 2021, new venues like WaterWorks, Guy’s Burger Joint, Bonsai Sushi, The Warehouse video araces, and Ol’ Fashioned BBQ were added.
It’s worth noting that Carnival Spirit is scheduled for a refit in early 2025.
Carnival Radiance (2000)
Carnival Radiance, formerly known as Carnival Victory, is a Sunshine Class cruise ship. Debuting in 2000 as Carnival Victory, she is the third and final sister ship in the Sunshine Class (formerly Destiny Class).
In 2021, after a 200 million dollar refit, she was renamed Carnival Radiance. She reentered service with her new name in December 2021.
Carnival Sunrise (1999)
Carnival Sunrise has been in service for Carnival Cruise Line since 1999. However, between 1999 and 2019, she was named Carnival Triumph until she went into dry dock, which cost over 200 million dollars and was renamed.
Carnival Sunshine is part of the Sunshine Class (formally known as the Destiny Class.)
Carnival Paridise (1998)
Carnival Paradise debuted in November 1998 (8 months after Carnival Elation) and has a gross tonnage of approximately 70,367 GT.
Approximately 920 crew members staff Carnival Paradise, and she can accommodate 2,124 passengers at double occupancy.
Refurbished in 2018 and 2023, Carnival Paradise features many of the Fun Ship 2.0 dining venues and onboard attractions.
Fun Fact: When it launched, Carnival Paradise was initially marketed as a non-smoking cruise shop. At the time, this was a novel concept. However, after guest feedback, this policy was discontinued in 2003.
Carnival Elation (1998)
In 1998, Carnival Elation launched along with its sister ship, Carnival Paradise. This Fantasy Class ship is Carnival’s smallest operational ship in the fleet (71,909 tons).
Since it is an older and smaller cruise ship, Carnival Elation is missing many features on newer cruise ships. However, since she was refurbished in 2017 and 2023, Carnival cruisers will find many Fun Ship 2.0 features.
Guest favorites like RedFrog Rum Bar, JaveBlue Café, Cherry On Top, BlueIguanna Tequila Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, the Alchemy Bar, Bonsai Sushi Express, and Lido Marketplace are featured onboard.
Carnival Sunshine (1996)
Carnival Sunshine is the oldest cruise ship in Carnival’s fleet and the first to exceed 100,000 gross tons. She was originally named Carnival Destiny until 2013 when she was renamed after a major refurbishment that cost 155 million dollars.
Constructed by Fincantieri at its Monfalcone shipyard in Italy, the ship can accommodate around 3,000 passengers (double occupancy) and has a crew of approximately 1,100.
The ship’s godmother is Lin Arison, who is the widow of Carnival Cruise Lines founder Ted Arison.
Despite being nearly 30 years old, this cruise ship still features many Carnival Cruise Line favorites. Key features include Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, WaterWorks, Havana Bar, Liquid Lounge, and Playlist Productions.
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Which Carnival cruise ships have you sailed on? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Ethan Schattauer, a seasoned cruiser since the age of four, has gone on over 40 cruises with his family. Drawing from his extensive travel experiences, Ethan offers a fresh and youthful perspective on the world of cruising. He also writes about cruise cuisine, onboard experiences, and practical tips, providing valuable insights for cruise travelers worldwide.