When you look at Carnival’s fleet today, it’s clear the cruise line is going through a massive transformation.
For years, Carnival focused on fun, mid-sized ships — but now, they’re stepping into the mega-ship category, directly competing with the biggest players in the industry.
What’s interesting is that Carnival isn’t just building bigger ships — they’re redesigning the entire experience.
From new zones to next-generation entertainment, these ships are shaping the future of Carnival cruising.
Let’s start with the biggest and most exciting ships
Project Ace (Future Mega Ships)
Gross Tonnage: 230,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 8,000 | Staterooms: 3,000+
Project Ace is where everything changes for Carnival.
For the first time ever, Carnival is entering the ultra-mega ship category, building ships that can compete directly with Royal Caribbean’s largest vessels.
And honestly, these ships are expected to completely redefine what a Carnival cruise looks like.
These ships are not just bigger — they’re expected to be the most advanced ships Carnival has ever built.
Here’s what we know so far:
- Three ships are planned (expected across the early 2030s).
- Built by Fincantieri in Italy.
- Massive 8,000 passenger capacity.
- Over 3,000 staterooms.
What makes this exciting is the scale — Carnival has never built anything close to this before. These ships will likely introduce completely new attractions, layouts, and experiences.
Carnival Festivale
Gross Tonnage: 182,800+ GT | Guest Capacity: 5,374 | Length: 1,130 ft
Carnival Festivale is one of the next big steps in the Excel-class evolution.
While it follows the same foundation as Mardi Gras and Celebration, Carnival is clearly trying something new here — especially with how they’re redesigning onboard attractions.
One of the biggest changes is the removal of BOLT in favor of something more inclusive.
What makes this ship stand out:
- Replacing BOLT with Sunsation Point waterpark.
- Around 1,000 interconnecting rooms (great for families).
- Updated layout compared to earlier Excel ships.
- Expected to debut in Spring 2027.
This ship feels like Carnival is shifting toward a more family-focused, all-ages experience.
Carnival Tropicale
Gross Tonnage: 182,800+ GT | Guest Capacity: 5,374 | Length: 1,130 ft
Carnival Tropicale will follow Festivale, arriving just a year later — and it’s expected to be very similar in design.
However, Carnival typically tweaks each new ship slightly, so there will likely be small improvements and upgrades.
Here’s what we know:
- Will also feature Sunsation Point.
- Launching in Spring 2028.
- Built at Meyer Werft shipyard (Germany).
- Same large family-friendly layout.
Together, Festivale and Tropicale show how Carnival is evolving — moving away from thrill-only attractions to more balanced entertainment for everyone.
Carnival Jubilee
Gross Tonnage: 183,521 GT | Guest Capacity: 5,374 | Length: 1,130 ft
Carnival Jubilee is currently one of the largest and most modern ships in the fleet, and it quickly became a fan favorite after launching in late 2023.
What makes Jubilee interesting is that it builds on the Excel-class design but introduces new themed areas that give it its own identity.
Some standout additions include:
- The Currents (multi-deck immersive zone).
- The Shores (coastal-inspired area).
- Coastal Slice, Marina Bar, Rudi’s Seagrill.
- Named by Gwen Stefani in 2024.
This ship feels like a refined version of what Carnival started with Mardi Gras.
Carnival Celebration
Gross Tonnage: 183,521 GT | Guest Capacity: 5,374 | Length: 1,130 ft
Carnival Celebration is the second Excel-class ship and one of the most feature-packed vessels in the fleet.
It follows the same structure as Mardi Gras but expands on the concept with more themed spaces and updated venues.
Here’s what you’ll find onboard:
- Six themed zones (including Celebration Central).
- BOLT roller coaster.
- Wide range of dining venues.
- Modern LNG-powered design.
This ship feels like Carnival fully embracing the next generation of cruising.
Carnival Mardi Gras
Gross Tonnage: 180,800 GT | Guest Capacity: 5,282 | Length: 1,130 ft
Mardi Gras is where the Excel-class journey began — and it changed everything for Carnival.
This was the first ship in the fleet powered by LNG and the first to introduce several now-famous features.
What made it revolutionary:
- First-ever BOLT roller coaster at sea.
- New dining concepts like Emeril’s Bistro.
- Unique venues like Fortune Teller Bar.
- Six themed zones.
This ship set the blueprint that all future Excel ships are built on.
Carnival Venezia
Gross Tonnage: 135,225 GT | Guest Capacity: 4,090 | Length: 1,061 ft
Carnival Venezia is where things start to shift again — not just in size, but in experience.
This ship is very different from traditional Carnival ships because it brings a strong Italian-inspired theme, thanks to its origins with Costa Cruises.
What makes it unique:
- Italian-style décor and atmosphere.
- Transferred from Costa Cruises in 2023.
- Completely different interior vibe.
- Based out of New York.
It’s a great option if you want something that feels less like a typical Carnival cruise.
Carnival Firenze
Gross Tonnage: 135,156 GT | Guest Capacity: 4,126 | Length: 1,061 ft
Firenze is very similar to Venezia, but slightly refined and newer.
It continues the same Italian-inspired concept but with updates after its transformation.
Here’s what stands out:
- Italian-themed cruising experience.
- Major refurbishment in 2024.
- Based in the US market.
- Unique design compared to other Carnival ships.
These ships offer something completely different — a more stylish and themed cruise experience.
Carnival Panorama
Gross Tonnage: 133,500 GT | Guest Capacity: 4,008 | Length: 1,055 ft
Carnival Panorama is the newest ship in the Vista class and one of the most unique ships in Carnival’s lineup.
What really makes this ship stand out is its location — it’s based on the U.S. West Coast, which is quite rare for newer Carnival ships.
But beyond that, it introduced something completely different onboard.
Key highlights include:
- First Sky Zone trampoline park at sea.
- Designed for Mexican Riviera itineraries.
- Wide range of dining and bar options.
- Modern Vista-class layout.
This ship feels fresh, active, and perfect if you’re looking for something a little different from the usual Caribbean cruises.
Carnival Horizon
Gross Tonnage: 133,500 GT | Guest Capacity: 3,960 | Length: 1,055 ft
Carnival Horizon was the second Vista-class ship, and before Panorama arrived, it was the largest ship in the fleet.
While similar to its sister ships, it introduced a few unique features that made it stand out.
Here’s what you’ll find onboard:
- Guy Fieri’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse
- Teppanyaki-style dining experience
- Dr. Seuss WaterWorks (family-friendly area)
- Strong mix of entertainment options
It’s a ship that delivers a complete Carnival experience with something for everyone.
Carnival Vista
Gross Tonnage: 133,500 GT | Guest Capacity: 3,934 | Length: 1,055 ft
Carnival Vista is where this entire class began, and it introduced several new ideas that later became standard across the fleet.
What makes this ship memorable is that it brought completely new attractions to Carnival cruising.
Some standout features:
- SkyRide (bike ride high above the deck).
- First onboard brewery.
- IMAX Theater at sea.
- Expanded dining options.
This ship feels like the starting point of Carnival’s modern design era.
Carnival Breeze
Gross Tonnage: 130,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 3,690 | Length: 1,004 ft
Now we move into the Dream Class, where ships start to feel a bit more classic — but still very enjoyable.
Carnival Breeze was the last ship in this class and served as a flagship for a while before newer ships arrived.
Over time, it has been updated to stay relevant.
Recent upgrades include:
- Alchemy Bar
- Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ
- Improved pool and deck areas
It’s a great option if you want a relaxed cruise with solid features.
Carnival Magic
Gross Tonnage: 130,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 3,690 | Length: 1,004 ft
Carnival Magic is the second ship in the Dream class and has a similar feel to Breeze.
When it launched, it introduced Carnival’s FUN 2.0 upgrades, which changed the onboard experience significantly.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Guy’s Burger Joint
- RedFrog Pub
- Entertainment venues
- Spacious deck areas
Even today, it offers a well-balanced cruise experience.
Carnival Dream
Gross Tonnage: 130,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 3,646 | Length: 1,004 ft
Carnival Dream is where it all started for this class.
At the time of its launch, it represented a big step forward from older ships, especially in terms of layout and onboard design.
What makes it notable:
- Unique interior theme
- Major upgrades during dry dock
- Expanded dining options
- Strong entertainment lineup
While it’s no longer among the largest ships, it still delivers a classic Carnival experience with plenty to do.
Carnival Splendor
Gross Tonnage: 113,300 GT | Guest Capacity: 3,012 | Length: 952 ft
Carnival Splendor is a bit of a unique case — it’s the only ship of its kind in the fleet.
It feels different from other Carnival ships, partly because of its design origins.
Here’s what stands out:
- One-of-a-kind class within Carnival.
- Previously sailed unique routes like the Baltic.
- Currently based in Australia.
- Distinct interior style.
This ship is ideal if you’re looking for something a little different from the usual Carnival lineup.
Carnival Freedom
Gross Tonnage: 110,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,980 | Length: 952 ft
Carnival Freedom is part of the popular Conquest class, which has been a major success for Carnival.
Even though it’s not among the biggest ships anymore, it still offers a very complete cruise experience.
What you’ll find onboard:
- Classic Carnival dining venues.
- Entertainment shows.
- Pool and deck areas.
- Proven ship design.
It’s a solid choice if you want a reliable and familiar cruise experience.
Carnival Liberty
Gross Tonnage: 110,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,974 | Length: 952 ft
Carnival Liberty played an important role in Carnival’s evolution — it was the first ship to receive the full FUN 2.0 upgrades.
That transformation added features that are now standard across the fleet.
Highlights include:
- Guy’s Burger Joint.
- Modernized bars and lounges.
- Updated entertainment.
- Refreshed deck areas.
It still feels relevant today thanks to those upgrades.
Carnival Valor
Gross Tonnage: 110,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,980 | Length: 952 ft
Carnival Valor may not be one of the newest ships, but it continues to deliver a strong cruise experience.
After its upgrades, it now includes many of Carnival’s modern features.
Key features:
- Updated FUN 2.0 venues.
- Variety of dining options.
- Entertainment spaces.
- Pool and relaxation areas.
It’s a good option for those who want a mid-sized ship without the latest mega-ship crowds.
Carnival Glory
Gross Tonnage: 110,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,980 | Length: 952 ft
Carnival Glory is another Conquest-class ship that has been updated to keep up with modern expectations.
Even though it’s older, recent refurbishments have helped it stay competitive.
What you’ll notice:
- Updated interiors (recent refurbishment).
- Dining and bar options.
- Entertainment venues.
- Relaxed onboard vibe.
It’s a reliable ship for a comfortable and easygoing cruise.
Carnival Conquest
Gross Tonnage: 110,000 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,980 | Length: 952 ft
Carnival Conquest is the ship that started this entire class — and it played a huge role in expanding Carnival’s fleet.
It introduced a new generation of ship design for the cruise line.
What makes it important:
- First Conquest-class ship.
- Early adopter of FUN 2.0 upgrades.
- Wide range of onboard options.
- Classic Carnival experience.
Even today, it remains a strong and dependable ship.
Carnival Encounter
Gross Tonnage: 108,856 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,600 | Length: 290 meters
Carnival Encounter is one of the newer additions to the fleet, transferred from P&O Australia.
It offers a slightly different experience compared to traditional Carnival ships.
Key details:
- Based in Australia
- Transferred in 2025
- Unique layout and design
- Smaller capacity
It’s a good option if you’re cruising in Australia and want something a bit different.
Carnival Adventure
Gross Tonnage: 108,856 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,600 | Length: 290 meters
Carnival Adventure is very similar to Encounter, sharing the same size and background.
Originally designed under a different brand, it brings a unique feel to the Carnival fleet.
What stands out:
- Grand-class design origins
- Australian itineraries
- Different onboard layout
- Mid-sized capacity
It’s another ship that adds variety to Carnival’s fleet.
Carnival Sunshine
Gross Tonnage: 102,853 GT | Guest Capacity: 3,002 | Length: 892 ft
Carnival Sunshine is a perfect example of how an older ship can be completely transformed into something modern.
Originally launched as Carnival Destiny, this ship underwent a massive renovation and came back as a completely reimagined vessel.
What makes it stand out:
- $155 million full transformation.
- Modern dining options like Guy’s Burger Joint.
- Updated bars and lounges.
- Refreshed pool and deck areas.
It’s a great option if you want a mid-sized ship with upgraded features at a lower price.
Carnival Sunrise
Gross Tonnage: 101,509 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,984 | Length: 893 ft
Carnival Sunrise followed a similar path to Sunshine — it was completely rebuilt from the former Carnival Triumph.
After a major investment, it now feels like a much newer ship.
Key highlights:
- $200 million refurbishment.
- Updated dining venues.
- Improved entertainment options.
- Modernized public areas.
This ship offers a fresh experience without the price tag of newer ships.
Carnival Radiance
Gross Tonnage: 101,509 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,764 | Length: 893 ft
Carnival Radiance is another transformed ship, formerly known as Carnival Victory.
After its upgrade, it now includes many of Carnival’s newer features.
Here’s what you’ll find onboard:
- Major refurbishment with added cabins.
- FUN 2.0 upgrades.
- Updated bars and lounges.
- Refreshed deck areas.
It’s a solid pick if you want a smaller ship that still feels updated.
Carnival Luminosa
Gross Tonnage: 92,720 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,260 | Length: 964 ft
Carnival Luminosa brings something different to the fleet.
Transferred from Costa Cruises, it still carries a noticeable Italian influence, which makes it feel unlike typical Carnival ships.
What stands out:
- Italian-inspired venues.
- Unique itineraries.
- Smaller, quieter atmosphere.
- Different dining experience.
It’s ideal if you want a more relaxed and unique cruise vibe.
Carnival Miracle
Gross Tonnage: 88,500 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,124 | Length: 963 ft
Carnival Miracle is part of the Spirit class and offers a well-balanced cruise experience on a smaller scale.
These ships are known for being able to travel through the Panama Canal, which opens up more itinerary options.
Onboard features include:
- Rock climbing wall
- Entertainment venues
- Dining and lounge options
- Relaxed deck areas
It’s a great option if you value destinations over onboard size.
Carnival Legend
Gross Tonnage: 88,500 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,124 | Length: 963 ft
Carnival Legend is very similar to Miracle but has traveled extensively around the world, including Australia and Alaska.
What you can expect:
- Diverse itineraries
- Classic ship design
- Solid dining options
- Comfortable layout
It’s a ship that’s perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring different destinations.
Carnival Pride
Gross Tonnage: 88,500 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,124 | Length: 963 ft
Carnival Pride has been updated with modern features while still maintaining its classic design.
Here’s what makes it appealing:
- FUN 2.0 upgrades
- Popular dining venues
- Entertainment options
- Relaxed onboard feel
It’s a good middle ground between old-school cruising and modern features.
Carnival Spirit
Gross Tonnage: 88,500 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,124 | Length: 963 ft
Carnival Spirit is the original ship in this class and was designed for more diverse routes.
Because of its size, it can access ports that larger ships simply can’t.
Highlights include:
- Flexible itineraries
- Panama Canal is capable
- Dining and entertainment
- Comfortable onboard atmosphere
It’s perfect if your focus is on where you’re going, not just the ship.
Carnival Elation
Gross Tonnage: 71,909 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,130 | Length: 855 ft
Now we move into the Fantasy Class, the smallest and oldest ships in the fleet.
Carnival Elation may not be the biggest, but it offers a surprisingly enjoyable experience.
What makes it appealing:
- Fewer crowds onboard
- Relaxed and easy navigation
- Recent upgrades (2023)
- Budget-friendly cruises
This ship is great for short getaways and first-time cruisers.
Carnival Paradise
Gross Tonnage: 70,367 GT | Guest Capacity: 2,124 | Length: 855 ft
Finally, we reach the smallest ship on this list — Carnival Paradise.
It may not have all the bells and whistles of newer ships, but that’s exactly why some people love it.
Here’s what you’ll get:
- Simple, classic cruise experience
- Smaller crowds
- Recently updated (2023)
- Very budget-friendly
If you’re looking for a no-frills cruise that focuses on relaxation, this is a great option.
List Of Carnival Cruise Ships by Size
If you want a fast comparison without going through the full guide, this table gives you a clear snapshot of Carnival’s fleet ranked by size.
You can quickly compare gross tonnage, capacity, and ship dimensions to understand how each vessel stacks up.
| SHIP NAME | GROSS TONNAGE | SHIP LENGTH | MAX SPEED | YEARS SERVED | TOTAL ON BOARD | TOTAL STATEROOMS | SHIP COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Project Ace (Future) | 230,000 GT | TBD | TBD | 2030s– | 8,000 | 3,000+ | TBD |
| Carnival Festivale | 182,800+ GT | 1,130 ft | TBD | 2027– | 5,374 | ~2,600+ | TBD |
| Carnival Tropicale | 182,800+ GT | 1,130 ft | TBD | 2028– | 5,374 | ~2,600+ | TBD |
| Carnival Jubilee | 183,521 GT | 1,130 ft | 22 knots | 2023– | 5,374 | ~2,600 | ~$1 Billion |
| Carnival Celebration | 183,521 GT | 1,130 ft | 22 knots | 2022– | 5,374 | ~2,600 | ~$1 Billion |
| Carnival Mardi Gras | 180,800 GT | 1,130 ft | 22 knots | 2021– | 5,282 | ~2,600 | ~$950 Million |
| Carnival Venezia | 135,225 GT | 1,061 ft | 22 knots | 2023– | 4,090 | ~2,100 | TBD |
| Carnival Firenze | 135,156 GT | 1,061 ft | 22 knots | 2024– | 4,126 | ~2,100 | TBD |
| Carnival Panorama | 133,500 GT | 1,055 ft | 22 knots | 2019– | 4,008 | ~2,000 | ~$780 Million |
| Carnival Horizon | 133,500 GT | 1,055 ft | 22 knots | 2018– | 3,960 | ~2,000 | ~$780 Million |
| Carnival Vista | 133,500 GT | 1,055 ft | 22 knots | 2016– | 3,934 | ~2,000 | ~$780 Million |
| Carnival Breeze | 130,000 GT | 1,004 ft | 22 knots | 2012– | 3,690 | ~1,845 | ~$740 Million |
| Carnival Magic | 130,000 GT | 1,004 ft | 22 knots | 2011– | 3,690 | ~1,845 | ~$740 Million |
| Carnival Dream | 130,000 GT | 1,004 ft | 22 knots | 2009– | 3,646 | ~1,823 | ~$740 Million |
| Carnival Splendor | 113,300 GT | 952 ft | 22 knots | 2008– | 3,012 | ~1,500 | ~$700 Million |
| Carnival Freedom | 110,000 GT | 952 ft | 22 knots | 2007– | 2,980 | ~1,490 | ~$500 Million |
| Carnival Liberty | 110,000 GT | 952 ft | 22 knots | 2005– | 2,974 | ~1,490 | ~$500 Million |
| Carnival Valor | 110,000 GT | 952 ft | 22 knots | 2004– | 2,980 | ~1,490 | ~$500 Million |
| Carnival Glory | 110,000 GT | 952 ft | 22 knots | 2003– | 2,980 | ~1,490 | ~$500 Million |
| Carnival Conquest | 110,000 GT | 952 ft | 22 knots | 2002– | 2,980 | ~1,490 | ~$500 Million |
| Carnival Encounter | 108,856 GT | 951 ft (290m) | TBD | 2025– | 2,600 | ~1,300 | TBD |
| Carnival Adventure | 108,856 GT | 951 ft (290m) | TBD | 2025– | 2,600 | ~1,300 | TBD |
| Carnival Sunshine | 102,853 GT | 892 ft | 21 knots | 2013– | 3,002 | ~1,500 | ~$155M (refit) |
| Carnival Sunrise | 101,509 GT | 893 ft | 21 knots | 2019– | 2,984 | ~1,500 | ~$200M (refit) |
| Carnival Radiance | 101,509 GT | 893 ft | 21 knots | 2020– | 2,764 | ~1,400 | ~$200M (refit) |
| Carnival Luminosa | 92,720 GT | 964 ft | 22 knots | 2022– | 2,260 | ~1,130 | TBD |
| Carnival Miracle | 88,500 GT | 963 ft | 22 knots | 2004– | 2,124 | ~1,060 | ~$375 Million |
| Carnival Legend | 88,500 GT | 963 ft | 22 knots | 2002– | 2,124 | ~1,060 | ~$375 Million |
| Carnival Pride | 88,500 GT | 963 ft | 22 knots | 2002– | 2,124 | ~1,060 | ~$375 Million |
| Carnival Spirit | 88,500 GT | 963 ft | 22 knots | 2001– | 2,124 | ~1,060 | ~$375 Million |
| Carnival Elation | 71,909 GT | 855 ft | 21 knots | 1998– | 2,130 | ~1,026 | ~$300 Million |
| Carnival Paradise | 70,367 GT | 855 ft | 21 knots | 1998– | 2,124 | ~1,026 | ~$300 Million |
Currently, there are nine distinct classes, with each ship within a class sharing remarkable similarities, albeit with some charming nuances that make each voyage unique.
| Class | Ships | Average Gross Tonnage |
| Excel Class | Mardi Gras, Celebration | 181,000 |
| Venice (Vista) Class | Venezia | 135,225 |
| Vista Class | Horizon, Panorama, Vista | 133,500 |
| Dream Class | Breeze, Dream, Magic | 130,000 |
| Splendor Class | Splendor | 113,300 |
| Conquest Class | Conquest, Freedom, Glory, Liberty, Valor | 110,000 |
| Sunshine Class | Radiance, Sunrise, Sunshine | 102,000 |
| Sprit Class | Legend, Miracle, Pride, Spirit | 88,500 |
| Fantasy Class | Elation, Paradise | 70,367 |
Which Carnival Ship Size is Best?
After going through the entire fleet, one thing is clear — Carnival offers something for every type of traveler.
Here’s a simple way to decide:
Go for the biggest ships if you want:
- Roller coasters, waterparks, and nonstop fun.
- The newest features and technology.
- A resort-style experience.
Choose mid-sized ships if you want:
- A balance of fun and relaxation.
- Modern features without huge crowds.
- Easier navigation.
Pick smaller ships if you want:
- Quiet, relaxed atmosphere.
- Unique itineraries.
- Budget-friendly options.
