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Carnival’s Fleet Journey: From Oldest to Newest Ships by Age

Isabella Taylor
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Carnival's Fleet Journey: From Oldest to Newest Ships by Age
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With a fleet of more than 20 ships, Carnival Cruise Line is one of the biggest cruise lines in the world and is well known for creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere on board.

Carnival is additionally referred to as the “Fun Ship” cruise company because of its emphasis on an upbeat and lively ambiance throughout its ships.

The ships are made to provide visitors of all ages with a variety of entertainment alternatives. They have a lot of different amenities, such as swimming pools, water parks, sports centers, spas, and plenty of different restaurants.

Who Started Carnival Cruise Line?

Ted Arison, an American-Israeli billionaire, started Carnival Cruise Line in 1972, and the company has a long and illustrious history. Carnival Cruise Line was founded when the ship was converted for the cruise business.

By frequently modernizing its fleet and adding new amenities, Carnival Cruise Line has managed to maintain its position as a prominent player in the cruise sector.

As the biggest cruise company in the world, Carnival Cruise company has a varied fleet with multiple ship classes that have entered the ranks at various times over its rich history.

History of Carnival Cruise Lines
History of Carnival Cruise Lines

List Of Ships In Table

We start with the most recent acquisitions to the fleet and work our way backward in time to maintain tabs on these ships.

This list of ships in chronological order gives a thorough picture of how Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet has changed over time, from the newest additions to the vessels that served as the model for the company’s well-known cruising experience.

Mardi Gras was the very first ship of Carnival cruise ship formed by Ted Arison in 1972. It signaled the start of what would grow to become one of the world’s most well-known and prosperous cruise lines.

Even though it was smaller than the mega-ships of today, the Mardi Gras was instrumental in building Carnival’s reputation as an inexpensive and pleasurable cruise line.

ShipClassYearRefurbished
Carnival SunshineSunshine19962021
Carnival ParadiseFantasy19982018
Carnival ElationFantasy19982020
Carnival SunriseSunshine19992019
Carnival RadianceSunshine20002020
Carnival SpiritSpirit20012018
Carnival PrideSpirit20022019
Carnival LegendSpirit20022018
Carnival ConquestConquest20022017
Carnival GloryConquest20032021
Carnival ValourConquest20042021
Carnival MiracleSpirit20042020
Carnival LibertyConquest20052021
Carnival FreedomConquest20072019
Carnival SplendorSplendor20082019
Carnival DreamDream20092017
Carnival MagicDream20112021
Carnival BreezeDream20122017
Carnival VistaVista2016
Carnival HorizonVista2018
Carnival PanoramaVista2019
Mardi GrasExcel2021
Carnival LuminosaSpirit20222022
Carnival CelebrationExcel2022
Carnival VeneziaVenice20232023
Carnival JubileeExcel2023 

Since then, Carnival Cruise Line has added more ship classes to its fleet, each with special amenities and experiences.

Here is a brief description of each Carnival cruise ship

1. Carnival Sunrise

Class: Sunshine | Built Year: 1999 | Refurbished Year: 2019

Carnival Sunrise
Carnival Sunrise

The Carnival Sunrise, originally known as the Carnival Triumph, set off on a journey of revitalization.

After a stunning $200 million makeover by Carnival Cruise Line in 2019, it reopened as the Carnival Sunrise revitalized and proud.

It was the second ship in the prestigious Destiny class when it was initially launched in 1999.

With more than 20 years of experience, this ship skillfully combines heritage with contemporary improvements to provide visitors with an improved maritime experience.

Its comprehensive refurbishment guarantees a revitalized experience, fusing the allure of classic sailing with modern amenities.

2. Carnival Paradise

Class: Fantasy | Built Year: 1998 | Refurbished Year: 2018

Carnival Paradise
Carnival Paradise

Carnival Paradise is the sister ship of Carnival Elation and the second vessel in the Fantasy class.

Being one of the fleet’s elder ships, it was put into service in 1998 by Carnival. Over the years, upgrades have been made to bring its facilities and features up to current.

2,052 people may ride in her (two in each cabin). Paula Zahn is the godmother of the ship.

3. Carnival Elation

Class: Fantasy | Built Year: 1998 | Refurbished Year: 2020

Carnival Elation
Carnival Elation

The Fantasy class cruise liner Carnival Elation, which is celebrating 24 years of nautical service, set sail for the first time in 1998.

Although the Elation is one of Carnival’s smallest ships, it was refurbished in 2020 to make sure it still has a modern and welcoming feel for its guests.

The ship provides a more intimate cruise experience, carrying 2,052 guests based on double occupancy, with a guest capacity of 2,130.

The ship’s godmother, Shari Arison, gives it a unique touch that contributes to its history within the Carnival Cruise Line fleet.

4. Carnival Sunshine

Class: Sunshine | Built Year: 1996 | Refurbished Year: 2021

Carnival Sunshine
Carnival Sunshine

Sister ships Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Radiance also have the same design as the Carnival Sunshine, which is the first ship in the Sunshine Class.

This ship, which debuted as the first in the Destiny Class in 1996 under the name Carnival Destiny, can accommodate 2,984 passengers (assuming two people per cabin).

2013 saw the Carnival Destiny undergo an incredible $155 million, 49-day makeover that resulted in a rechristening as the first ship of the Sunshine Class. Lin Arison is the beloved godmother of the ship.

5. Carnival Radiance

Class: Sunshine | Built Year: 2000 | Refurbished Year: 2020

Carnival Radiance
Carnival Radiance

Previously known as the Carnival Victory, the Carnival Radiance underwent a makeover worth $200 million in 2021.

With an astounding gross tonnage of 101,509, it has become a unique example of style and creativity in the cruise business.

It has a space capacity of 2,754 passengers and offers visitors a modern and refreshed sailing experience.

6. Carnival Spirit

Class: Spirit | Built Year: 2001 | Refurbished Year: 2018

Carnival Spirit
Carnival Spirit

The Spirit class of Carnival ships was introduced by the Carnival Spirit, which made its debut in 2001.

With a gross tonnage of 88,500 and a capacity of 2,124 passengers, it has an elegant structure that signifies royalty and grace.

Among Carnival’s large fleet, the Spirit class stands out for its space making for an exceptional and comfortable sailing experience.

7. Carnival Pride

Class: Spirit | Built Year: 2002 | Refurbished Year: 2019

Carnival Pride
Carnival Pride

Along with three other sister ships, Carnival Pride made her debut in 2002 as a member of the prestigious Spirit class of Carnival Cruise Line.

It is known for offering lavish accommodations for up to 2,124 passengers. Its remarkable vessel with a gross tonnage of 88,500 guarantees an unforgettable cruise experience.

8. Carnival Legend

Class: Spirit | Built Year: 2002 | Refurbished Year: 2018

Carnival Legend
Carnival Legend

Built at the Kvaerner-Masa yards in Helsinki, Finland, Carnival Legend was the third Spirit-class ship owned by Carnival Cruise Line when it sailed for the first time on April 29, 2001.

Along with crew members of 930, it can accommodate 2,124 guests in comfort with a gross tonnage of 88,500.

At a cost of $375 million, this majestic ship was crafted into 12 passenger decks representing the cruise line’s dedication to providing outstanding seafaring experiences.

9. Carnival Conquest

Class: Conquest | Built Year: 2002 | Refurbished Year: 2017

Carnival Conquest
Carnival Conquest

Now celebrating its twentieth year at sea, the Carnival Conquest was the first of its kind when it launched a new class of ships for the Carnival Cruise Line in 2002.

The ship had its recent renovation in 2017, commemorating its two-decade anniversary, guaranteeing that it would continue to be a mainstay of Carnival’s fleet with updated features and experiences.

10. Carnival Glory

Class: Conquest | Built Year: 2003 | Refurbished Year: 2021

Carnival Glory
Carnival Glory

Having made her debut in 2003, the Carnival Glory, a cruise ship belonging to the Conquest class, underwent a significant refurbishment in 2021.

With space for almost 3,000 guests, it remains impressive even after being on the water for 19 years, it guarantees a lively and pleasurable cruise experience.

11. Carnival Valour

Class: Conquest | Built Year: 2004 | Refurbished Year: 2021

Carnival Valour
Carnival Valour

Sailing since 2004, the Carnival Valour has entered its 18th year with a refreshed look following a contemporary makeover in 2021.

Despite its seasoned status, this Conquest-class cruise ship now boasts modern amenities.

Hosting under 3,000 guests, it promises a lively voyage, seamlessly marrying maritime excellence with updated comforts.

12. Carnival Miracle

Class: Spirit | Built Year: 2004 | Refurbished Year: 2020

Carnival Miracle
Carnival Miracle

Completed in 2004, the Carnival Miracle is the newest ship in Carnival Cruise Line’s Spirit-class fleet, having been proudly built in Helsinki, Finland.

With a gross tonnage of 88,500, it can carry 2,124 passengers in double occupancy along with the 930 foreign crew members.

13. Carnival Liberty

Class: Conquest | Built Year: 2005 | Refurbished Year: 2021

Carnival Liberty
Carnival Liberty

Carnival Liberty, a well-known ship in the Conquest class, wowed guests with more than ten years of exciting journeys when it made its debut in 2005.

With a gross tonnage of an amazing 110,000, this cruise ship can accommodate little less than 3,000 passengers, making for a comfortable and roomy sailing experience.

Among other things, Carnival Liberty was the first ship in the line to debut the revolutionary FUN 2.0 improvements in 2011, which included the addition of popular venues including Guy’s Burger Joint and the Alchemy Bar.

14. Carnival Freedom

Class: Conquest | Built Year: 2007 | Refurbished Year: 2019

Carnival Freedom
Carnival Freedom

With the retirement of the cherished Conquest class, Carnival Freedom represents the end of an era for the cruise line.

Its $500 million construction cost and 2007 launch mark the beginning of a new chapter in Carnival’s maritime tradition as well as the conclusion of an era.

15. Carnival Splendor

Class: Splendor | Built Year: 2008 | Refurbished Year: 2019

Carnival Splendor
Carnival Splendor

The only other Splendor-class ship in Carnival’s fleet, the Carnival Splendor has been sailing for 14 years, having been launched in 2009.

It was designed to be a sister ship to the tragic Costa Concordia in 2012, but it has subsequently given passengers amazing travel experiences.

With its most recent restoration completed in 2017, the Carnival Splendor offers passengers a refreshed and upgraded cruise experience.

16. Carnival Dream

Class: Dream | Built Year: 2009 | Refurbished Year: 2017

Carnival Dream
Carnival Dream

A turning point in the history of Carnival Cruise Line was the launch of the first ship in the Dream class, the Carnival Dream, in 2009.

When it made its big appearance, this ship, which redefined luxury and comfort at sea, weighed an amazing 128,000 gross tons.

The Carnival Dream, with its amazing 3,646-passenger capacity, is a prime example of Carnival’s dedication to offering roomy and engaging cruise experiences.

With the promise of providing everyone who boards with an amazing experience, it raises the bar for Dream class ships in the future.

17. Carnival Magic

Class: Dream | Built Year: 2011 | Refurbished Year: 2021

Carnival Magic
Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic, the second ship in the Dream class, is identical to her sister ships.

In May 2021, the Carnival Magic ship underwent maintenance and was painted in the colors red, white, and blue.

This was a significant change since it was the first ship in the Carnival line to have this particular look.

With a gross weight of around 130,000 tons, the ship can carry 3,690 guests in double rooms in addition to 1,367 staff members.

It has fourteen decks on it where guests can relax and enjoy their journey.

18. Carnival Breeze

Class: Dream | Built Year: 2012 | Refurbished Year: 2017

Carnival Breeze
Carnival Breeze

Celebrating its 10-year inauguration, the Carnival Breeze got its most recent refurbishment in 2017.

As a cruise ship of the Dream class, it provides 3,690 passengers with a luxury and lively experience, backed up by 1,386 staff members.

19. Carnival Vista

Class: Vista | Built Year: 2016 | Refurbished Year:

Carnival Vista
Carnival Vista

Carnival Vista, which debuted in 2016, is the most advanced ship in the Carnival line with the latest facilities and activities.

It has a strong gross tonnage of 133,500 and provides visitors with a wide range of amenities. It also guarantees a more private and roomy experience.

20. Carnival Horizon

Class: Vista | Built Year: 2018 | Refurbished Year:

Carnival Horizon
Carnival Horizon

The Carnival Horizon is the second ship of the Vista class in the Carnival fleet, after her sister ship, the Carnival Vista.

It was noteworthy because it was the second ship in the Carnival fleet to start up again in 2021 following the halt caused by the epidemic.

The Horizon, which sticks out with its Seuss at Sea waterpark, provides a contemporary cruise experience.

Her large gross tonnage of 133,500 allows it to hold 3,960 guests in double occupancy, which is a little less than that of the Carnival Panorama, her sister ship.

21. Carnival Panorama

Class: Vista | Built Year: 2019 | Refurbished Year:

Carnival Panorama
Carnival Panorama

In December 2019, Carnival Panorama, the last ship in the Vista class, sailed.

With 133,500 gross tons of space and about 4,000 passenger seats, it is unique among the fleet in that it is the only one with a Sky Zone Trampoline Park.

22. Mardi Gras

Class: Excel | Built Year: 2021 | Refurbished Year:

Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras

Carnival Cruise Line is leading the way in marine exploration with the Excel-class cruise ship Mardi Gras, which is powered solely by liquefied natural gas (LNG).

This ship is the epitome of innovation. Mardi Gras set out on its inaugural journey on July 31, 2021, leaving Port Canaveral, Florida, in spite of global difficulties.

With a remarkable gross tonnage of 180,800, this innovative ship can accommodate 5,282 people in double occupancy and provides a modern and roomy cruise experience.

23. Carnival Luminosa

Class: Spirit | Built Year: 2022 | Refurbished Year: 2022

Carnival Luminosa
Carnival Luminosa

Built-in 2009 as the Costa Luminosa for Costa Cruises, the ship was returned to the Carnival fleet in 2022 as the Carnival Luminosa.

Although Carnival classifies it as a Spirit-class ship, the ship’s design also borrows features from the Vista Class.

24. Carnival Celebration

Class: Excel | Built Year: 2022 | Refurbished Year:

Carnival Celebration
Carnival Celebration

November 2022 will see the launch of Carnival Celebration, a member of the Excellence class, to the exclusive fleet.

It is the second vessel from this line, continuing the inventive legacy of the revolutionary Mardi Gras.

Carnival Celebration boasts a remarkable gross tonnage of 181,808 and a double occupancy capacity of 5,282, making it an excellent choice for a fantastic cruise.

25. Carnival Venezia

Class: Venice | Built Year: 2023 | Refurbished Year: 2023

Carnival Venezia
Carnival Venezia

Carnival Venezia, which was moved from sibling brand Costa Cruises took its first trip on May 29, 2023.

The ship still feels new even though she’s just been here a short time. Despite extensive multi-million dollar repairs, the décor of Cadiz, Spain’s Carnival Venezia is still distinctly traditional Italian.

26. Carnival Jubilee

Class: Excel | Built Year: 2023 | Refurbished Year:

Carnival Jubilee
Carnival Jubilee

With its use of liquefied natural gas (LNG), Carnival Jubilee is the third cruise ship in Carnival Cruise Line’s Excel class, that is committed to transforming maritime travel.

With a gross tonnage of 183,521, it can accommodate 1,735 crew members and over 5,374 passengers.

Carnival Jubilee is named in honor of the original Jubilee from the Holiday class and provides thrilling seven-day Western Caribbean itineraries.

With the introduction of LNG-powered ships, Carnival has transformed the shipping industry and brought in a new era of cruising.

Along with increased operating capabilities, the addition of this modern structure is to provide sustainability also.

Carnival appears ready to enhance the cruise holiday experience with new amenities and advancements when these next-generation ships go sail.

This creative approach shows how committed Carnival is to staying at the forefront of the industry and ensures that passengers can anticipate exciting and environmentally conscious journeys on board the newest ships in the fleet.

FAQ’s

Q1. When did the Carnival Line start sailing?

Ans – The Carnival Cruise Line started sailing in 1972 with its first board Mardi Gras.

Q2. Which is the second Carnival Cruise ship?

Ans – The second Carnival Cruise ship was Carnivale which launched in 1975.

Q3. Did any Carnival Cruise ship ever sank?

Ans – None of the Carnival Cruise Ship Line ever sank. In 2012, the Costa Concordia which sank was owned by Costa Cruises which is a subsidiary of the Carnival Corporation.

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Isabella Taylor

Isabella Taylor

Isabella Taylor is your go-to friend for all things cruise-related! She's got the best advice and tips to make your cruise unforgettable. Follow Isabella's lead, and you'll be sailing into adventure with a big smile on your face.

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