Carnival Corporation Expands with Fifth Excel-Class Ship for Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Corporation announces an agreement for a fifth Excel-class cruise ship for Carnival Cruise Line, marking the line's 5th Excel-class ship and the 11th for the global fleet, with delivery expected in 2028.

Carnival Corporation has revealed plans to expand its fleet with a new order for a fifth Excel-class cruise ship for Carnival Cruise Line, scheduled for delivery in 2028. This announcement comes shortly after the corporation disclosed its first newbuild order in five years—a fourth Excel-class ship set to join the fleet in Spring 2027. This latest addition will bring the total number of Excel-class ships across Carnival Corporation's portfolio to 11, distributed among four of its world-class brands.

Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the popularity and success of the Excel-class ships, citing strong guest satisfaction and demand since the debut of Mardi Gras in 2021. The forthcoming ships, including the Carnival Firenze set to arrive in April, are part of the line's growth and expansion strategy, enhancing its fleet with cutting-edge amenities and efficient operations.

The new ship will maintain the Excel-class standard, boasting a 180,000-ton size and powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). It will have the capacity to host over 6,400 guests and 1,800 crew members, emphasizing Carnival Cruise Line's commitment to sustainability and guest satisfaction.

Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc, underscored the strategic approach to growth, balancing investment with a focus on improving the company's financial health and shareholder value. The corporation plans a measured capacity growth strategy, adding one to two ships per year starting in 2027, aligning fleet expansion with market demand and operational excellence.

Bernd Eikens, CEO of the MEYER Group, expressed pride in the MEYER WERFT and MEYER TURKU shipyards' contribution to Carnival Corporation's success and looks forward to continuing this partnership. The order is contingent upon financing arrangements, expected to be finalized later in the year, marking another milestone in Carnival Cruise Line's journey towards enhancing its fleet and offering guests unparalleled cruising experiences.