Ships of Carnival Cruise Line: Classes and Sizes

Carnival Cruise Line has a diverse fleet of ships, ranging from small to large in size. The smallest ship in the fleet is the Carnival Vista, which measures 133,868 gross tons.

The Vista is one of the newer ships in the fleet, launched in 2016. It features a capacity for 3,960 passengers.

Carnival's largest ship is the Mardi Gras, which holds 5,282 passengers.

The largest Carnival cruise ship right now is the 183,521 gross-ton Carnival Jubilee, which is part of the Excel-class vessels.

Carnival's tiniest ships carry between 2,100 and 3,000 passengers, while its biggest can accommodate more than 5,000 people.

Smaller ships tend to be older than their larger counterparts, with the smallest ship being the 70,367 gross-ton Carnival Paradise, a much older vessel that’s part of the Fantasy class.

All Carnival ships now feature popular amenities like the Alchemy Bar, Guy's Burger Joint by Guy Fieri, and the Punchliner Comedy Club, thanks to a $500 million investment over five years to make the fleet more uniform.

On a similar theme: Holland America Pinnacle Class Ships

Decor is a dead giveaway to the age of a Carnival ship, with older hardware boasting interiors designed by Joe Farcus, known for his kitschy, fun style.

Fares are a factor, with smaller ships more likely to sail short, affordable itineraries, except for Carnival Journeys voyages, which offer extended itineraries of two weeks or longer.

Carnival Corporation has ordered another large Excel-class cruise ship from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, with delivery in 2027, which could have a slightly larger tonnage and capacity than its sister ships.

Carnival Cruise Line has several ship classes, each with its own unique characteristics.

The smallest ships can carry between 2,100 and 3,000 passengers, while the largest can accommodate over 5,000 people.

Smaller ships tend to be older, often with interiors designed by renowned architect Joe Farcus, featuring bright colors, whimsical art installations, and neon lights.

Newer vessels have a more toned-down look, a noticeable difference from the older hardware.

Fares also vary depending on ship size, with smaller ships often offering short, affordable itineraries.

The Vista/Venezia Class ships are a series of modern cruise liners that offer a unique blend of entertainment, dining, and relaxation options. These ships are known for their impressive size, with a gross tonnage of 133,500.

The Vista class ships, in particular, have been designed with families in mind, offering a range of activities and amenities that cater to all ages. One standout feature is the SkyRide suspended bike, which provides breathtaking views of the ship and sea.

Carnival Vista, the first ship in this class, entered service in Spring 2016 and set a new standard for onboard breweries. The RedFrog Pub & Brewery is a unique feature that allows passengers to sample local beers in a relaxed atmosphere.

Here are some key specs for the Vista class ships:

The Vista class ships offer a range of itineraries, from two to nine days, making them perfect for new cruisers or those looking for a shorter sailing. With their impressive size and range of amenities, it's no wonder these ships are a popular choice for families and couples alike.

The Sunshine Class is a fan favorite, and it's easy to see why. Carnival Sunshine, a 10-year-old ship, has a lower guest capacity of 3,002 double occupancy, making it a great choice for those who want to avoid crowds.

This ship's amenities are top-notch, with Carnival WaterWorks featuring multiple slides and water features. You can also enjoy poolside libations at the BlueIguana Tequila Bar.

The onboard steakhouse boasts a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its exceptional wine list, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner.

Families will love the aft-view extended balcony rooms, which offer great wake views and ample private outdoor space. These rooms are perfect for families who want a little extra cabin space.

Readers also liked: Bulk Wine Shipping

The Jubilee Class is a relatively new addition to the Carnival fleet, with the first ship, Carnival Jubilee, joining the family in 2023. It's part of the Excel-class vessels, which also includes the Carnival Celebration.

These ships are massive, with the Carnival Jubilee and Carnival Celebration tied for the largest size at 183,521 gross tons. They can carry 5,374 passengers at capacity, making them a popular choice for travelers.

The Jubilee Class ships are designed to offer a luxurious experience, with cutting-edge entertainment options, luxury cabin choices, and a variety of cuisine options. They even have onboard breweries and tons of lounge areas.

The Carnival Jubilee is just about identical to its sister ship, the Carnival Celebration, which joined the fleet in 2022.

The world of ship classes is vast and varied. The Amphibious Assault Ship class is a prime example of versatility, capable of transporting troops and equipment, as well as serving as a floating airbase.

These ships are often equipped with a range of armaments, including anti-ship missiles and close-in gun systems. The versatility of Amphibious Assault Ships is evident in their ability to adapt to different roles and situations.

Some of the most notable examples of Amphibious Assault Ships include the USS Wasp and the USS America. These ships have played key roles in various military operations around the world.

The Landing Ship, Tank (LST) class is another notable example of amphibious warfare vessels. These ships are designed to transport tanks and other heavy equipment directly onto a beach.

The LST's design allows for a large cargo capacity and a ramp for easy offloading. This design has proven effective in various military operations.

The Carnival Panorama is a fantastic ship that's perfect for families and those looking for a fun, laid-back cruise experience. With a gross tonnage of 133,500, it can accommodate 4,008 passengers.

This ship is part of the Vista class and is the final ship in the class to be launched. It joined the fleet in December 2019 and is based on the U.S. West Coast, offering week-long Mexican Riviera cruises to destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.

One of the standout features of the Panorama is its Sky Zone Trampoline Park, which is the first of its kind at sea. It's a great place for families to bounce and play games together.

The Panorama has a total capacity of 5,146 guests, with 4,008 of those being double occupancy. This ship is smaller than some of the mega-ships out there, but it packs a lot of fun into its 15 decks.

Here are some of the ship's notable amenities:

The rooms on the Panorama are spacious, and some come with exclusive perks like access to the Havana Pool area or unlimited use of the spa’s thermal suites.

The Carnival Freedom is a great example of a cruise ship that's perfect for first-time cruisers. With a passenger capacity of 2,980, it's a bit smaller than some of the other ships in the fleet.

Built by Fincantieri, the Carnival Freedom was a $500 million investment that paid off in the end. It departed on its maiden voyage on March 14, 2007, and has been a popular choice for families ever since.

One of the standout features of the Carnival Freedom is its kids' program, Space Cruisers, which is in partnership with the Kennedy Space Center. This is a great option for families with kids who love space and adventure.

Here are some key stats about the Carnival Freedom:

The Carnival Freedom also has a great selection of amenities, including the RedFrog Pub, which serves up Key West-inspired food and drinks. It's a great place to relax and enjoy some live music.

Overall, the Carnival Freedom is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing cruise experience.

The Carnival Legend is a Spirit-class ship that was built in Finland and first set sail in 2002. It has a gross tonnage of 88,500.

This ship can accommodate a total of 2,124 passengers, and its maiden voyage took place on August 24, 2002. The Carnival Legend has sailed to various destinations, including Australia and Alaska.

The Carnival Legend has a capacity of 2,124 double occupancy and 2,610 total guests. It features a jogging track with panoramic ocean views and a Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea where kids can create their own stuffed animals.

One of the standout amenities on this ship is the White Hot Night Party, which is a fun event for passengers. The Carnival Legend also has two pools and several dining options, including the Golden Fleece Steakhouse.

The Carnival Spirit is a great example of the amenities you can expect on a Carnival cruise. With a gross tonnage of 88,500, it's a large ship that can accommodate 2,124 passengers.

One of the perks of cruising on a ship like the Carnival Spirit is the variety of onboard activities. Unfortunately, we don't have specific information on the types of rides and amenities available, but we do know that the Carnival Spirit made its maiden voyage in 2001.

The Carnival Spirit is a great ship to explore, with a massive size of 88,500 gross tons. I've heard it's a real treat to walk around the decks and take in the sights.

You'll have plenty of space to roam, with a passenger capacity of 2,124 people on board. It's not too crowded, but still lively enough to have some fun.

The ship has a lot of amenities, but one thing that stands out is its impressive size, with a gross tonnage of 88,500.

The amenities at this resort are top-notch. Guests can enjoy a range of services, including complimentary Wi-Fi and a fitness center.

You can also expect to find a business center, perfect for getting some work done on the go. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making it easy to plan events and meetings.

The resort offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and a bar. The restaurant serves up delicious meals, while the bar is a great spot to grab a drink and unwind.

Amenities like a concierge service and a tour desk make it easy to plan activities and excursions. The staff is happy to help with recommendations and reservations.

The largest Carnival ships are tied in terms of size, with Carnival Jubilee and Carnival Celebration each coming in at 183,521 gross tons and carrying 5,374 passengers at capacity.

Smaller ships, on the other hand, carry between 2,100 and 3,000 passengers, and measure less than 90,000 gross registered tons. The smallest Carnival ship is the 70,367 gross ton Carnival Paradise, which entered service in 1998.

Carnival's fleet has a wide range of ship sizes, from the smallest at 70,367 gross tons to the largest at 183,521 gross tons.

Here's a list of the smallest and largest Carnival ships by size:

The largest Carnival ship is the Carnival Jubilee, which is a massive 183,521 gross tons vessel. It's tied with its sister ship Carnival Celebration in terms of size, and both are part of the Excel Class.

These ships are throwback vessels, named after members of Carnival's original fleet, and feature cutting-edge entertainment, luxury cabin options, and a range of cuisine choices. They also have onboard breweries, lounge areas, and top-deck amusements like ropes courses, waterslides, and even roller coasters.

The Carnival Jubilee has a guest capacity of 5,374 at double occupancy, but can accommodate up to 6,631 passengers at maximum capacity. It also has a crew capacity of 1,735.

The Carnival Jubilee is the largest ship in the fleet, surpassing even its sister ship Carnival Celebration.

Worth a look: Carnival Cruise Line Largest Ship

The former Carnival ships were quite a bit smaller than the ones in service today. The largest of these ships was the Carnival Ecstasy, which had a gross tonnage of 70,367.

The Carnival Ecstasy was one of five Fantasy-class ships that were all scrapped. They were all around 855 feet long, just like the Carnival Paradise, the smallest ship in service today. The Carnival Ecstasy could accommodate a decent-sized crowd, but it's tiny compared to the Excel-class vessels that Carnival operates now.

Here's a list of the former Carnival ships by size, from largest to smallest:

Carnival's smallest ships carry between 2,100 and 3,000 passengers, while the largest can accommodate more than 5,000 people.

One of the biggest differences between big and small Carnival ships is their size, with the largest vessels measuring over 180,000 gross tons and the smallest measuring less than 90,000 gross registered tons.

Smaller ships don't have as much space for attractions, but Carnival has invested $500 million to make its fleet more uniform, regardless of ship size.

All Carnival ships now feature popular amenities like Alchemy Bar, Guy's Burger Joint, and the Punchliner Comedy Club.

Smaller ships tend to be older than their larger counterparts, and their decor is a dead giveaway to their age.

Newer vessels have a more toned-down look, while older hardware boasts interiors designed by Joe Farcus, known for his kitschy, fun style.

Fares are also a factor, with smaller ships more likely to sail short, affordable itineraries, except for Carnival Journeys voyages which offer extended itineraries.

Carnival Cruise Line has a new ship on the horizon, set to be delivered in 2027, which will be the fourth Excel-class vessel. This unnamed ship will join its sister ships Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.

Carnival Cruise Line has a history of expanding its fleet with larger ships, and this new addition will likely have a slightly larger tonnage and capacity than its sister ships. As of now, the largest Carnival ship by size is the Carnival Jubilee, measuring 183,521 gross tons.

In the future, Carnival might rival the size of Royal Caribbean cruise ships, but for now, it's hard to say for certain. The Excel-class ships are the largest in Carnival's fleet, and they can accommodate over 5,000 passengers.

Carnival has a total of 13 former ships that have been scrapped, with the largest of these ships measuring 70,367 gross tons. The smallest former Carnival ship was the Mardi Gras, which measured 27,284 gross tons.

Here's a list of the largest Carnival ships by size, including the new ship on the horizon:

The Carnival Cruise Line fleet has changed a lot over the years, and it will be interesting to see how the new ship fits in with the rest of the fleet.

The Carnival Sunrise is a massive ship that's perfect for a fun-filled vacation. It has a gross tonnage of 101,509, making it a substantial vessel.

This ship can accommodate a large number of passengers, with a total guest capacity of 2,984 and a ship capacity of 2,984 double occupancy. The Carnival Sunrise offers a variety of amenities, including Cloud 9 Spa cabins with access to thermal suites and the exclusive Lucky Bowl restaurant.

One of the standout features of the Carnival Sunrise is its exciting splash zone for kids, where they can have a blast and make some unforgettable memories. The ship also has a piano bar where adults can sing along to their favorite songs all night.

Here are some key specs of the Carnival Sunrise:

The Carnival Sunrise was completely transformed from the Carnival Triumph in 2019, with a $200 million dry dock renovation taking place in Cadiz, Spain.

The Carnival Jubilee is the biggest Carnival ship, tied with Carnival Celebration at 183,521 gross tons and carrying 5,374 passengers at capacity.

The Carnival Mardi Gras is the first Excel class cruise ship in the fleet, powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), and introduced several new features and venues.

Here are some key stats for the Carnival Mardi Gras:

The Carnival Horizon has a smaller size of 133,500 gross tons and carries 3,960 passengers.

Firenze is a Conquest Class ship that's part of the Carnival fleet, and it's a real showstopper. With a gross tonnage of 135,156, it's one of the larger ships in the fleet.

You'll find that Firenze has a passenger capacity of 4,126, which is a decent size for a cruise ship. But what really sets it apart is its Italian-inspired theme, which is perfect for those looking for a taste of la dolce vita.

Firenze is almost identical to its sister ship, Carnival Venezia, and it's easy to see why - they both offer an incredible Italian-inspired cruising experience. The ship underwent a huge transformation in 2024, which added to its charm.

Here are some key stats about Firenze:

One of the standout features of Firenze is its Amari bar, which serves up aperitivi and digestivi in style. And if you're looking for some downtime, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

The Carnival Mardi Gras is a massive ship, with a gross tonnage of 180,800 and a guest capacity of 5,282. It's the first Excel class cruise ship in the fleet and the first powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG).

This ship has six different zones for passengers to enjoy, including Grand Central, French Quarter, Summer Landing, La Piazza, Lido, and The Ultimate Playground. You can find the first-ever BOLT Roller Coaster, Emeril's Bistro, Rudi's Seagrill, Street Eats, and the Fortune Teller Bar among its many amenities.

The Mardi Gras has a total capacity of 6,456 guests, including 5,282 double occupancy and 1,174 more guests. It's a great option for families, with the Ultimate Playground featuring BOLT and the SportsSquare.

Here's a breakdown of the ship's zones:

The Mardi Gras is a nod to Carnival's first ship, also named Mardi Gras, which was launched in 1972. It's a great option for those looking for a fun and exciting cruise experience.

The Carnival Horizon is a massive ship, with a size of 133,500 gross tons. It's one of the largest in the fleet, and its passenger capacity is 3,960.

One of the unique features of the Carnival Horizon is its Guy Fieri’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse venue, which offers a new dining experience on board. It also features Dr. Seuss WaterWorks and a dedicated Teppanyaki restaurant.

The ship has a length of 1,055 Feet, making it a significant vessel. Its size and capacity make it an ideal choice for families and groups of friends.

Here's a quick rundown of the Carnival Horizon's key stats:

Luminosa is a Spirit-class cruise ship that's part of the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. It was previously known as Costa Luminosa and was transferred to Carnival in September 2022.

The ship measures 92,720 gross tons and has a length of 964 feet. Its beam is 106 feet, and it has a maximum draft of 26 feet.

One of the standout features of Luminosa is its passenger capacity, which is 2,260 at double occupancy and 2,826 total guests. It also has a crew capacity of 926.

Here are some of the ship's notable amenities:

You can enjoy a variety of dining options on board, including sushi, pizza, ice cream, and an over-the-top brunch. The ship also features Italian-inspired venues, a nod to its Costa Cruises heritage.

The Carnival Dream is a massive ship, weighing in at 130,000 gross tons. It has a passenger capacity of 3,646 and debuted on September 21, 2009.

Built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the Carnival Dream is part of the Dream class, an evolution of the Conquest-class ships. This ship changed the layout compared to its predecessors and features a distinct red theme throughout.

One of the standout amenities on the Carnival Dream is the Ocean Plaza, a multi-use entertainment venue that's family-friendly during the day and a nightclub after dark. Guy's Burger Joint is also a popular spot for standout smash burgers.

The Carnival Dream sails from Galveston, Texas, on six to nine-day cruises. If you're looking for some fun in the sun, you can play the onboard mini-golf course or enjoy the Alchemy Bar, a vintage-themed cocktail "pharmacy."

The Carnival Splendor is a unique ship in the Carnival fleet. It's the only one of its class, but its sister ship can be found in the fleet of Costa Cruises.

Built at the Fincantieri Genoa shipyard, the Splendor class ship measures 113,300 gross tons. It has a passenger capacity of 3,012 and a length of 952 feet.

The Splendor has a distinctive feature - a mini-golf course that's perfect for a fun day at sea. It also boasts a pool with a retractable cover.

Here are some key facts about the Carnival Splendor:

The Splendor sails the Southern Hemisphere, offering cruises to Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Its itineraries range from two to 10 days.

The Carnival Liberty is a great ship to consider for your next cruise. It has a passenger capacity of 2,974 and a gross tonnage of 110,000.

This ship is known for its FUN 2.0 upgrades, which were completed in 2011 and included the popular Guy's Burger Joint. You can find this venue on many ships in the fleet, but it's a great spot to grab a burger on Liberty.

If you're looking for some laughs, the Punchliner Comedy Club is a great place to start. It's a family-friendly spot during the day, but turns into an adults-only comedy club at night.

For sports fans, the SkyBox Sports Bar is a must-visit. You can catch up on the big games back home while enjoying a drink or snack.

Here are some key stats about the Carnival Liberty:

The Carnival Liberty has a lot to offer, whether you're looking to relax or have a high-energy vacation. You can choose from a variety of activities, including live performances and shows in the main theater.

The Carnival Miracle is a ship that's full of surprises. Built at the Kvaerner-Masa Yards in Helsinki, Finland, it's a bit of an outlier among the fleet.

The Miracle has a gross tonnage of 88,500 and a length of 963 feet, making it a substantial vessel. It can fit through the Panama Canal, which is a plus for those who want to explore the Caribbean.

With 12 passenger decks, there's plenty of room for guests to spread out. And with a guest capacity of 2,124, you'll have plenty of opportunities to meet new people.

Here are some key statistics about the Carnival Miracle:

The ship has a unique design that's inspired by fantasy worlds and elements. You'll find spaces like the Phantom Lounge and Dr. Frankenstein's Lab, where you can see shows or dance the night away.

Carnival Valor is almost 20 years old and still shows cruisers a good time.

The ship's home ports are New Orleans, Louisiana, and Barcelona, Spain, offering a range of itineraries from two to over 10-night sailings.

You can enjoy epic Seaday Brunch on board, featuring treats like huevos rancheros, french toast, loaded burgers, and chicken and waffles.

Carnival Valor has a large ship experience, even if it's not the biggest in the fleet.

The ship received all the latest FUN 2.0 onboard features during a huge dry dock in 2016.

You can catch a family-friendly flick under the stars at the ship's Dive-in movies.

Perfect steaks and impeccable sides await at Scarlett’s Steakhouse.

The ship has a capacity of 2,980 double occupancy and 3,756 total guests.

The Carnival Elation is a Fantasy class ship that's been around since 1998. It's the oldest ship in the fleet, but that doesn't mean it's outdated. With a total guest capacity of 2,190, it's a great option for those who prefer a more intimate cruise experience.

One of the benefits of sailing on the Elation is that it's easy to navigate, with only 11 passenger decks. This makes it simple to get around the ship and find your way to your favorite spots.

The Elation has undergone a major dry dock upgrade in February 2023, ensuring that it's equipped with all the modern amenities you'd expect from a cruise ship.

You can enjoy a variety of onboard activities, including nightly sing-a-longs at Duke's Piano Bar and custom cocktails at the Alchemy Bar. If you're in the mood for something different, the BlueIguana Cantina offers breakfast and lunch options with a Mexican twist.

The Elation's size is relatively small compared to other cruise ships, which can be a plus for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Carnival Jubilee is quite the impressive ship, with a massive size of 183,521 gross tons. It has a guest capacity of 5,374 at double occupancy, but can accommodate up to 6,631 passengers in total.

This ship is part of the Excel class and has a crew capacity of 1,735. It's the newest addition to the Carnival fleet, joining in December 2023. The Carnival Jubilee was even voted the best new cruise ship of 2023.

The ship has 15 passenger decks, with a length of 1,130 feet. It's a great option for families, with the onboard kids club, Camp Ocean, available for kids to enjoy. The ship also features a Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with swaying hammocks and a bar for adults to relax.

Some of the standout amenities on the Carnival Jubilee include the BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster rollercoaster, the Cloud 9 Spa thermal suites, and pickleball courts. The ship sails from Galveston, Texas, making it a convenient option for those in the area.

Here are some key specs of the Carnival Jubilee: