carnival cruise ships by length

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Best List Of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size (2023)

Carnival Cruise Line currently has 25 cruise ships in service. Carnival Cruise Line is the largest cruise company in the world, based on passengers carried, and the flagship brand of Carnival Corporation & plc. Known as “America’s Cruise Line” for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other  cruise line .

Carnival Ships: Biggest to Smallest

Below you will find a list of all carnival ships by size, ordered from largest to smallest.

List of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size

Our list carnival cruise ships by size shows gross tonnage (which is a measure of internal volume, not weight), the total guest capacity of each ship, Length in Feet, ship class and the year the ship entered service:

List of Carnival Cruise Ships By Age With Photos

Carnival Cruise Line  has revolutionized cruising during it’s fifty year history by making cruise travel fun and enjoyable for both families and those new to cruising. Which is why they also carry more children and and  families than any other cruise line . We hope you enjoy our comprehensive list of Carnival  cruise ships . Here is a list of Carnival cruise ships by size listed with photos and details from largest to smallest:

1. Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration is the second ship in the popular  Excel Class  and sister to  Mardi Gra s. She is 182,800 GRT’s and carries 5,282 passengers (based on two per cabin).

2. Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is the first ship in the Carnival’s  Excellence Class or  Excel Class  and sister to  Carnival Celebration . She is 180,800 GRTs and carries 5,282 passengers (based on two per cabin). Note, The Mardi Gras is the only ship name in the current Carnival Cruise Line fleet without including the word Carnival. This honors Carnival’s original Mardi Gras that first sailed for the brands on March 11, 1972.

3. Carnival Venezia

Carnival Venezia was initially launched in 2019 for Costa Cruises and is 133,500 GRTs and carries 4,977 passengers. She is considered part of the Venice Class  and was the former  Costa Venezia .

4. Carnival Panorama

Carnival Panorama is 133,500 GRTs and carries 4,008 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the third ship in the  Vista Class . The ship debuted  Carnival  Kitchen, a first-in-fleet culinary center that offers more than 15 different interactive cooking, baking and decorating demonstrations.

5. Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon is 133,500 GRTs and carries 3,960 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the second ship in the  Vista Class .

6. Carnival Vista

Carnival Vista is 133,500 GRTs and carries 3,934 passengers (based on two per cabin). This new class of ship came  packed  with more ways to have fun such as a Multiplex featuring two theatres including a full-sized IMAX movie theatre, the Red Frog Pub And Brewery, a larger Carnival Waterworks, SportSquare including the SkyRide and the Havana Bar & Pool and much more.

7. Carnival Breeze

Carnival Breeze is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,724 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the third ship in the  Dream Class .

8. Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,724 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the second ship in the  Dream Class .

9. Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,631 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the first ship in Carnival Cruise Line’s popular Dream Class .

10. Carnival Splendor

Carnival Splendor is 113,300 GRTs and holds 3,012 passengers (based on two per cabin). The ship was originally designed and ordered for  Costa Cruises  but she was transferred to Carnival Cruise Line during construction. Being the only  Concordia -class  (Costa Cruises) ship in the Carnival fleet, she is referred to as a  Splendor class ship.

11. Carnival Conquest

Carnival Conquest is 110,000 GRTs and holds 2,980 passengers (based on two per cabin). She was originally homeported in New Orleans , LA when launched in 2002. She  made news  at the time due to the power lines as the largest ship and to ever sail from New Orleans at the time.

12. Carnival Glory

Carnival Glory is 110,000 GRTs and carries 2,980 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the second ship in the  Conquest Class  and sister to  Carnival Conquest ,  Carnival Liberty, Carnival Freedom, and  Carnival Valor .

13. Carnival Liberty

Carnival Liberty is 110,000 GRTs and carries 2,980 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the  fourth ship  to be built in the popular  Conquest Class  and sister to  Carnival Conquest, Carnival Valor, Carnival Freedom , and  Carnival Glory .

14. Carnival Valor

Carnival Valor is 110,000 GRTs and carries 2,980 passengers (based on two per cabin). Carnival Valor was the  third ship  built in the popular  Conquest Class  and sister to  Carnival Conquest ,  Carnival Liberty ,  Carnival Freedom , and  Carnival Glory . 

15. Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom is 110,000 GRTs and carries 2,980 passengers (based on two per cabin). The ship is the fifth ship to be built in the  Conquest Class  and sister to  Carnival Conquest ,  Carnival Valor ,  Carnival Liberty , and  Carnival Glory . 

16. Carnival Sunshine

Carnival Sunshine is 102,853 GRTs and carries 2,984 passengers (based on two per cabin). This ship entered service in 1996 as the former Carnival Destiny and the first in the  Destiny Class  of the vessel. Carnival Sunshine is the first ship of the  Sunshine Class  and sister to  Carnival Sunrise  and  Carnival Radiance . In 2013, the  Carnival   Destiny   received an amazing 49-day 155-million dollar transformation that resulted in it being renamed and reclassified as the first  Sunshine Class  ship. 

17. Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance is 101,509 GRTs and carries 2,984 passengers (based on two per cabin). This ship entered service 2000 as the former  Destiny Class  ship named the  Carnival Victory .

18. Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise is 101,509 GRT’s and carries 2,984 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the second ship in the  Sunshine Class  and sister to  Carnival Sunshine  and  Carnival Radiance .

19. Carnival Luminosa

Carnival Luminosa was originally launched in 2008 for Costa Cruises and is 92,600 GRT’s and carries 2,826 passengers. She is considered part of the  Spirit Class  and was the former  Costa Luminosa .

20. Carnival Miracle

21. Carnival Pride

22. Carnival Legend

Carnival  Legend is third ship the popular Spirit Class and sister to  Carnival Spirit ,  Carnival Pride  and  Carnival Miracle . She is 88,500 GRT’s and carries 2,124 passengers (based on two per cabin). 

23. Carnival Spirit

Carnival Spirit is first ship the popular  Spirit Class  of ships. She is 88,500 GRT’s and carries 2,124 passengers (based on two per cabin). The  Spirit Class  ships offer guest the highest percentage of space based on passenger capacity and ship volume in the entire Carnival fleet. 

24. Carnival Elation

Carnival  Elation  is a Fantasy Class ship and sister to  Carnival Paradise . She is 70,367 GRT’s and carries 2,052 passengers (based on two per cabin). The ship’s Godmother is Shari Arison.

25. Carnival Paradise

Carnival Paradise is second ship the  Fantasy Class  and sister to  Carnival Elation . She is 70,367 GRT’s and carries 2,052 passengers (based on two per cabin). Carnival  once had a full compliment of eight  Fantasy Class  ships before scrapping many due to cost-saving measures. The ship’s Godmother is Paula Zahn.

The Biggest Carnival Ship’s

Currently the largest Carnival cruise ship is Carnival Celebration. The Carnival Celebration is the second ship in the popular  Excel Class  and sister to  Mardi Gra s. She carries 5,282 passengers (based on two per cabin). The  Godmother of the ship is Cassidy Gifford . The ship takes her name from a former Carnival cruise ship,  Celebration , that was part of the  Holiday class . The name also pays homage to the companies long history as the ship was delivered during  Carnival Cruise  Line’s 50th birthday year.

Ship Highlights:

• Features on board  roller coaster  (BOLT)
• Powered by Liquefied Natural Gas  (LNG)
• Restaurants from partners Guy Fieri  (Guy’s Burger Joint and Guy’s Smokehouse Brewhouse where we brew our own beer onboard), Emeril Lagasse (Emeril’s Bistro 1397), Rudi Sodamin (Rudi’s Seagrill) and Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal (Big Chicken)

The Many Different Classes Of Carnival Ships (Biggest To Smallest)

Carnival Cruise Line currently has nine different classes of cruise ships. Each class of ship is a unique architectural design and has it’s own unique layout and features. Most ships in a particular class have an almost identical layout with minor changes.

The table below shows the Carnival ship classes from largest to smallest, based on ship volume.

Carnival Cruise Ships On Order

Carnival Jubilee  is under construction at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. Her delivery date is expected to be in early December 2023.

She will be the newest ship in the  Excel class , Carnival Jubilee will share many of the same features guests love on  Mardi Gras  – including the award-winning  BOLT, The Ultimate Sea Coaster . She will also feature unique experiences and signature venues of her own.

Carnival Jubilee will begin sailing from  Galveston  in December of 2023 and will offer seven-day Western Caribbean cruise vacations with stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, as well as Mahogany Bay (Isla Roatan), Honduras.

You view a list of of call the current Carnival Cruise Line ships by age:  Carnival Cruise Line Ships Listed By Age

Carnival Ship Size FAQ

What are the three newest carnival ships.

Currently Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ships are the  Carnival Celebration ,  Carnival Luminosa  and  Mardi Gras .

When was Carnival’s first cruise?

The original  Mardi Gras  which was a converted ocean liner and sailed from Port Miami. She left for her first  Caribbean cruise  on March 11, 1972 with 530 passengers and 200 crew on board. Unfortunately, the loaded ship ran around while exiting Port Miami’s shipping channel. This caused competitors calling the vessel “Mardi Gras On The Rocks”. However, Founder Ted Arison and the Carnival Cruise Line brand he created has had the last laugh. The Carnival Cruise Line brand continued to grow and become what it is part of today in Carnival Corporation & plc.  Carnival Corporation  & plc is currently the largest cruise vacation company and operates over 87 cruise ships sailing under 9 different brands. 

Has a Carnival cruise ship ever sunk?

No, Fortunately none of the Carnival Cruise Line brand ship’s have ever sunk.

What’s the oldest Carnival cruise ship?

Technically the oldest cruise ship in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet is the  Carnival Sunshine . However, Back in 2013 the ship was previously named Carnival Destiny. She was given a 49-day $155-million dollar transformation that resulted in her being renamed and almost like new.

What is Carnival’s biggest ship?

Carnival Cruise Line’s largest ship as of March 2023 is the Carnival Celebration. She is the largest ship in Carnival’s fleet, weighing 183,521 gross registered tons with a maximum passenger capacity of 6,631 in 2,687 staterooms.

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Carnival cruise ships by size: Here are the largest Carnival cruise ships, biggest to smallest, by tonnage

What is the biggest Carnival cruise ship? Currently, the largest Carnival ship is Carnival Jubilee, in terms of both tonnage and passenger capacity. Set to debut in late 2023, it will tie sister ship Carnival Celebration, which first set sail in 2022, at 183,521 gross tons and 5,374 passengers at double occupancy.

It's easy to remember that, generally, the newest ships are the largest Carnival ships. However, because Carnival Cruise Line has more than two dozen vessels in its fleet, it can be difficult to keep track of the ships that fall in between the newest and oldest.

So, to help you out, here is a list of Carnival ships, biggest to smallest, based on tonnage — a ship's internal capacity, as measured by volume.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Carnival cruise ships by size

1. carnival jubilee.

Size: 183,521 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 5,374. Maiden voyage: 2023.

2. Carnival Celebration

Size: 183,521 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 5,374. Maiden voyage: 2022.

3. Mardi Gras

Size: 180,800 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 5,282. Maiden voyage: 2021.

4. Carnival Venezia (formerly Costa Venezia)

Size: 135,225 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 4,072. Maiden voyage: 2019 (renamed in 2023).

5. Carnival Firenze (formerly Costa Firenze)

Size: 135,156 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 4,126. Maiden voyage: 2021 (renamed in 2024).

6. Carnival Panorama

Size: 133,500 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 4,008. Maiden voyage: 2019.

7. Carnival Horizon

Size: 133,500 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,960. Maiden voyage: 2018.

8. Carnival Vista

Size: 133,500 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,934. Maiden voyage: 2016.

9. Carnival Breeze

Size: 130,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,690. Maiden voyage: 2012.

10. Carnival Magic

Size: 130,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,690. Maiden voyage: 2011.

11. Carnival Dream

Size: 130,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,646. Maiden voyage: 2009.

12. Carnival Splendor

Size: 113,300 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,012. Maiden voyage: 2008.

13. Carnival Freedom

Size: 110,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,980. Maiden voyage: 2007.

14. Carnival Valor

Size: 110,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,980. Maiden voyage: 2004.

15. Carnival Glory

Size: 110,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,980. Maiden voyage: 2003.

16. Carnival Conquest

Size: 110,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,980. Maiden voyage: 2002.

17. Carnival Liberty

Size: 110,000 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,974. Maiden voyage: 2005.

18. Carnival Sunshine (formerly Carnival Destiny)

Size: 102,853 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 3,002. Maiden voyage: 1996 (overhauled and renamed in 2013).

19. Carnival Radiance (formerly Carnival Victory)

Size: 101,509 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,984. Maiden voyage: 2000 (overhauled and renamed in 2021).

20. Carnival Sunrise (formerly Carnival Triumph)

Size: 101,509 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,984. Maiden voyage: 1999 (overhauled and renamed in 2019).

21. Carnival Luminosa (formerly Costa Luminosa)

Size: 92,720 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,260. Maiden voyage: 2009 (overhauled and renamed in 2022).

22. Carnival Miracle

Size: 88,500 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,124. Maiden voyage: 2004.

23. Carnival Legend

Size: 88,500 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,124. Maiden voyage: 2002.

24. Carnival Pride

25. Carnival Spirit

Size: 88,500 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,124. Maiden voyage: 2001.

26. Carnival Paradise

Size: 71,925 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,124. Maiden voyage: 1998.

27. Carnival Elation

Size: 71,909 gross tons. Passenger capacity : 2,190. Maiden voyage: 1998.

What is the biggest Carnival ship?

The biggest Carnival ships are Carnival Celebration (2022) and Carnival Jubilee, which will set sail for the line in late 2023. They're tied in terms of size, each coming in at 183,521 gross tons and carrying 5,374 passengers at capacity.

Both vessels are throwback ships, which are named after two members of Carnival's original fleet. They feature cutting-edge entertainment, luxury cabin options, a slew of cuisine choices, onboard breweries, tons of lounge areas and top-deck amusements — ropes courses, waterslides and even roller coasters — that rival what you might find at an amusement park.

What is the smallest Carnival ship?

The smallest Carnival cruise ship is Carnival Elation, the line's second-oldest vessel. At 71,909 gross tons, it carries just 2,190 passengers — less than half the amount accommodated on ships in Carnival's Excel class.

Are bigger Carnival ships coming?

At the time of publication, Carnival Cruise Line was building its newest ship, Carnival Jubilee. It's one of two vessels — including its older sister Carnival Celebration — that shares the "biggest Carnival ship" title.

After Carnival Jubilee, the line has no ships on order for the first time in years.

What is the Carnival Jubilee tonnage?

Carnival Jubilee is 183,521 gross tons. Not to be confused with weight, gross registered tonnage measures a ship's size in terms of internal volume and what a vessel can hold or contain. Each gross registered ton is equal to 100 cubic feet of space.

What's the difference between big and small Carnival ships?

One of the biggest differences is that Carnival's tiniest ships carry between 2,100 and 3,000 passengers, while its biggest can accommodate more than 5,000 people. In addition, the largest vessels measure more than 180,000 gross tons, while the smallest measure less than 90,000 gross registered tons.

Smaller ships don't have space to offer as many attractions as huge vessels, but Carnival invested $500 million over five years to make its fleet more uniform, regardless of ship size.

Thanks to this initiative, all ships now feature venues including Alchemy Bar, Guy's Burger Joint by Guy Fieri — now a staple, along with barbecue and microbrewed beer on some ships — and the Punchliner Comedy Club, among other popular amenities that are now Carnival hallmarks.

Besides the obvious size differences between big and small cruise ships, smaller ships also tend to be older than their larger counterparts.

Decor is a dead giveaway to the age of a Carnival ship. Older hardware boasts interiors designed by Joe Farcus, a renowned architect known for his kitschy, fun style that employs bright colors, whimsical art installations and neon lights. (He's also responsible for the line's iconic "whale tail" funnels.) Newer vessels tend to have a more toned-down look.

Finally, fares are a factor. The smaller the ship, the more likely it is to sail short, affordable itineraries. Major exceptions to this rule are Carnival Journeys voyages, which are offered a few times each year and feature extended itineraries of two weeks or longer.

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Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (With Comparison Chart)

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Carnival has 25 cruise ships, with two more set to be added to the fleet by the end of 2024. But did you know that they vary in size massively?

The largest Carnival cruise ship, Carnival Jubilee (on the left) is two and a half times as big as the smallest ship, Carnival Elation (on the right).

Doesn’t look it, right? Well that’s because the size of cruise ships is measured in gross tonnes. This is a measure of the internal volume of a ship. So two ships can be not too dissimilar in terms on length, but one may have more decks and a larger width, giving a larger volume overall.

So, how do the other Carnival ships size up? And does bigger mean better? Read on to find out…

List of Carnival Ships from Biggest To Smallest

The infographic above shows illustrations of all of the Carnival ships by size, from biggest to smallest. The images are to scale. As the tonnage and guest capacity varies slightly between ships, I have used the averages.

Here are the Carnival ship sizes in a table for you…

Excel Class – The Biggest Carnival Ships

Carnival’s Excel-class ships are 35% larger than the next biggest ships in the fleet. They’re made with the same hull design as other Carnival-owned ships like P&O Cruises Arvia and Iona, AIDAnova and AIDAcosma and Costa Smeralda and Toscana.

Excel-class ships have some features that you won’t find on other Carnival ships, such as the first-ever rollercoasters at sea.

Carnival Jubilee

Set to make her maiden voyage on December 23, 2023, Carnival Jubilee will be the joint-largest ship in the Carnival fleet.

This Excel-class vessel boasts a staggering gross tonnage of 183,521 GT and stretches an impressive 1,130 feet in length. With the capacity to host 6,630 passengers and a dedicated crew of 1,735, the ship has 2,641 staterooms spread.

Key attractions include the thrilling BOLT roller coaster, the WaterWorks aqua park, the serene adults-only Serenity Retreat sundeck and the NASA-inspired Space Cruisers programme for kids.

The ship also features delectable dining at the Seafood Shack, Shaq’s Big Chicken and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse.

Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration is the same size as Carnival Jubilee and accommodates the same number of guests. Launched in November 2022, this colossal vessel has a gross tonnage of 183,521 GT and spans a remarkable 1,130 feet in length.

Guests can experience the adrenaline rush of the BOLT roller coaster, engage in Family Feud Live, or unwind at the travel-inspired Latitudes bar. The WaterWorks aqua park promises splashing fun, while dining options range from the exotic Bonsai Sushi and upscale Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse to Rudi’s Seagrill and the ever-popular Shaq’s Big Chicken.

Registered in Panama and with an investment of $1 billion, the Carnival Celebration epitomises fun and entertainment at sea.

Mardi Gras was the first ship in Carnival’s groundbreaking Excel class and the first Carnival ship to be powered by Liquified Natural Gas , marking a significant step towards sustainable cruising.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The Mardi Gras also boasts the exhilarating BOLT roller coaster, ensuring thrill-seekers are in for a treat. Guests can engage in spirited games at Family Feud Live or sip tropical concoctions at the RedFrog Tiki Bar. The WaterWorks aqua park promises endless aquatic fun, while the Excel suites offer an elevated experience with exclusive Loft 19 access.

Culinary adventures abound with the unique fusion of flavours at Chibang! Mexican and Chinese restaurant, the revamped Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, and the crowd-favourite Shaq’s Big Chicken.

Venice Class – Ex-Costa Cruises Ships

The Venice Class ships we originally built for Carnival’s sister-company, Costa Cruises. Carnival Venezia was originally Costa Venezia, while Carnival Firenze, was originally Costa Firenze.

Carnival Corporation signed an agreement in 2015 for five ships to be delivered between 2019 and 2022. Two of these were planned for Costa Cruises’ expansion into the Chinese market. However, the global shutdown of 2020 meant that these ships were no longer needed for Costa Cruises, and instead, they were transferred to Carnival Cruise Line.

As construction of the ships had already started, you’ll notice that they have some key Costa-style features, such as the rounded funnels instead of Carnival’s signature whale tails.

Carnival Venezia

The first Carnival Fun Italian Style ship, Carnival Venezia began sailing for the cruise line in 2023 and it offers a fantastic blend of cruising styles. While she’s not as large as some of the other recent ships from Carnival, she still offers plenty to see and do for the whole family.

Guests will love the wide range of Italian and global dining options, the lively bars, and the relaxing Serenity Retreat for grown-ups only. Kids will never get bored too, with the organised activities and hangout spaces of the three youth zones plus the ropes course, mini golf, water slides and more.

Carnival Venezia offers cruises to the Caribbean and Canada/New England from New York and Port Canaveral.

Carnival Firenze

Carnival Firenze embodies the ‘Fun Italian Style’ of cruising with a fantastic combination of Costa-style venues and Carnival favourites. There are plenty of places to try Italian cuisine onboard, including the Palazzo and Medici restaurants along with the La Strada Grill street food venue, but guests can also enjoy classics like Guy’s Burger Joint, Bonsai Teppanyaki and more.

There’s more to Carnival Firenze than just food – guests can hit the waterslides, try out the ropes course and mini golf, or sample the many distinctive bars around the ship, while kids will love the different youth zones. Carnival Firenze sails to Mexico from Long Beach.

Vista Class 

Carnival vista.

Carnival Vista may be around 70% of the size of the biggest ships in the Carnival fleet, but she still packs in an absolutely incredible amount of activities and thrilling attractions. Chief among them is the SkyRide suspended bike course, which made its debut on this ship.

There are plenty of indoor and outdoor bars and restaurants, and a host of activities for younger guests too, including the Dr. Seuss Bookville. Adults will also find some peaceful locations to relax too, so there’s always somewhere to enjoy no matter whether you seek peace or adventure.

Carnival Horizon

The second of the Vista-class ships to launch for Carnival, the Carnival Horizon offers a very similar experience to her elder sister. There’s so much to see and do onboard that you likely won’t fit it all in on just one cruise – including the multi-screen cinema with IMAX, the water park and all the amazing live entertainment.

It also has a wider range of dining options than some of Carnival’s smaller ships, with plenty of snack stops, casual fast food options and speciality restaurants to cater to any taste. Carnival Horizon sails out of Miami to the Caribbean.

Carnival Panorama

Carnival Panorama was originally due to be added to the P&O Cruises Australia fleet, but plans changed and she instead joined her sisters as the third Vista-class ship for Carnival. While many of her features are the same as on Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon, she does have a Sky Zone trampoline park instead of the IMAX theatre.

Beyond this, there’s all the best Carnival restaurants to enjoy, live shows and entertainment in the evening, and plenty of quieter spots to unwind too. Carnival Panorama offers Mexico cruises from Long Beach.

Dream Class

Carnival dream.

The Carnival Dream launched in 2009 and took on the mantle of the largest ship in the Carnival fleet, offering around 11% more space than the Carnival Splendor which launched a year prior.

Guests can expect all of Carnival’s most popular bars and restaurants, along with plenty of outdoor space to relax and soak up the sun. Then there’s the waterpark, the spa, the comedy club, the theatre… boredom is impossible! Carnival Dream sails to the Caribbean from Galveston.

Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic introduced some of Carnival’s signature features when she debuted in 2011, including the Italian restaurant Cucina del Capitano and the SportsSquare, with the world’s first-ever ropes course at sea.

She also introduced the RedFrog pub and its exclusive beer, ThirstyFrog Red. Plus she debuted Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse too! While some of these have since been added to older ships, Carnival Magic was the original place to catch them. She now sails out of Miami and Norfolk, with cruises to the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas.

Carnival Breeze

Rounding out the Dream Class, Carnival Breeze didn’t necessarily bring anything new to the fleet, but she didn’t need to – replicating the amazing activities and dining options of Carnival Magic was plenty to keep guests happy.

There are outdoor sports activities, water slides, casual and speciality restaurants with choices galore, kids’ clubs, adults-only relaxation spaces and more. She sails out of Galveston, offering cruises to the Caribbean.

Splendor Class

Carnival splendor.

The sole ship in the Splendor Class, Carnival Splendor was originally planned to sail for Costa Cruises as part of the Concordia Class . Plans changed during construction, and she was transferred to the Carnival brand instead.

She was, for a short while, the largest ship in the fleet when she was built. And she has brought many of Carnival’s most popular restaurants and activities to the Australian cruise market, sailing around Asia and the South Pacific from Sydney (with some cruises from Singapore too).

Conquest Class

Carnival conquest.

When Carnival Conquest launched in 2002, she was the largest ship in the fleet. While the smaller Carnival Pride was considered the flagship, Carnival Conquest was around 30% larger, and she has packed that space with exciting things for guests to enjoy.

Kids love the youth zones and the Seuss at Sea interactive experiences, while adults can soak up the sun poolside or hit the various bars around the ship, including the Alchemy Bar and the ever-popular RedFrog Rum Bar. Carnival Conquest currently sails from Miami to the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Panama Canal.

Carnival Glory

Carnival Glory is a fantastic ship if you’re looking for non-stop fun and great food. Guests love the WaterWorks waterpark, including the Twister and AquaTunnel water slides, while the Dive-In Movies make for a more serene way to enjoy the water in the evening.

Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina and the Emerald Room Steakhouse are just a small sample of the popular Carnival restaurants onboard. Carnival Glory sails from New Orleans and Port Canaveral, with cruises to the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Panama Canal.

Carnival Valor

The Carnival Valor first set sail in 2004 and has been wowing guests for many years, especially with the upgrades she’s received since. Passengers love the variety of dining options, relaxation spaces and fun features, especially the Seuss at Sea kids’ activities and the impressive Twister water slide.

Big screen movies under the stars, live comedy and musical theatre performances all help to ensure the fun carries on well into the evening, too. Caribbean cruises are available on the ship, sailing out of New Orleans.

Carnival Liberty

Carnival Liberty first launched in 2005 as the fourth ship in the Conquest Class, and she’s been well taken care of since. Indeed, she was the first ship to get some of the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades, and she now has a fantastic range of activities and venues for guests to enjoy.

Whether it’s grabbing a beer in the SkyBox Sports Bar, soaking up the incredible live shows of the Playlist Productions theatre, or letting the kids go wild in the Camp Ocean clubs, there really is something for everyone. She sails out of Port Canaveral and New Orleans, with cruises to the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Panama Canal.

Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom was the last of the Conquest-class ships to launch, and she features the same venues and activities as her sister ships. There’s loads to do, and plenty of places to eat and drink, including all the Carnival favourites.

A great choice whether you want fun or relaxation, Carnival Freedom offers you the ‘freedom’ to cruise your way. She sails around the Caribbean and to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral.

Sunshine Class

Carnival sunshine.

The Carnival Sunshine is a milestone cruise ship – not just for Carnival but for all cruise lines. She was built in 1996 as the first-ever cruise ship to exceed 100,000 gross tons. She launched as the Carnival Destiny, but was refitted in 2013 and became the Carnival Sunshine, the first ship in the fleet to have all of Carnival’s Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades.

She’s now Carnival’s oldest ship, but still very popular with guests. She offers sailings out of Charleston and Norfolk, cruising to the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Carnival Sunrise

Launching as the Carnival Triumph and renamed in 2019 as part of a major refit, the Carnival Sunrise is packed with exciting things to see and do, ideal for a cruise where the fun never stops.

She has water slides, pools, three youth spaces, live comedy performances and music, theatre shows, a sing-a-long piano bar, sports facilities and so much more, along with a huge range of dining venues. She offers Bahamas and Caribbean cruises from Miami.

Carnival Radiance

Originally launching as the Carnival Victory, the Carnival Radiance was the first ship of the new millennium for Carnival, and also the last of the Sunshine/Destiny Class. She was given a major upgrade in 2020, which is when the ship was given her current name.

As part of that upgrade, she was given a whole host of new features. Now, guests can enjoy Shaq’s Big Chicken, Guy’s Burger Joint, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, the RedFrog pub and loads more, along with loads of entertainment and activities.

She sails out of Long Beach with cruises to Hawaii and Mexico.

Spirit Class

Carnival luminosa.

The Carnival Luminosa is a little bit of an outlier – while the rest of the Spirit Class was launched between 2001 and 2004, she set sail in 2009 for sister brand Costa Cruises, sailing as the Costa Luminosa. Then in 2022, she was transferred to Carnival. She’s considered a Vista/Spirit hybrid, but officially she’s marketed as part of the Spirit Class.

She doesn’t have all the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades of her sister ships, but you’ll still find Carnival favourites including many of the popular bars and restaurants, along with the Piano Bar and the Punchliner comedy club. She sails to Alaska and around Australasia from Seattle, Sydney and Brisbane.

Carnival Spirit

The founding ship of the Spirit Class, Carnival Spirit offers a great time whether you want a fun-packed cruise or one that’s more relaxing. During the day you’ll be able to play mini golf, unwind by the pool, try the water slide or escape to the Serenity adults-only retreat.

At night there’s the piano bar, live entertainment, lively bars, comedy performances and more. Carnival Spirit offers cruises to Alaska, the Bahamas, the Caribbean and Hawaii from Miami, Mobile, and Seattle.

Carnival Pride

When the Carnival Pride launched, she wasn’t the biggest ship in the fleet, but she was considered the flagship due to her excellent dining and entertainment options. And those have been further enhanced with subsequent dry dock upgrades, including the addition of the Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and a revamp of the Cloud 9 Spa.

She offers cruises primarily from Tampa in Florida, although sailings from Rome and Baltimore are also available.

Carnival Legend

The Carnival Legend has plenty to keep guests entertained, even when she’s crossing the Atlantic between seasons. Some of Carnival’s most classic features are present, including the Club Merlin Casino, the BlueIguana Cantina, and Truffles restaurant.

Entertainment options include Billie’s Piano Bar, the lively RedFrog pub, and the thrills of the Green Thunder waterslide. Carnival Legend sails around the Med in summer from Barcelona and Rome, and in winter offers sailings from Baltimore, Tampa, San Francisco and Galveston.

Carnival Miracle

Carnival Miracle is packed with features despite her smaller size, compared to larger ships in the fleet. The kids will love the WaterWorks park and the kids’ clubs, while the adults can escape to the Serenity Retreat for a truly relaxing getaway.

Food options include Nick & Nora’s Steakhouse and the RedFrog pub, with plenty of great bars too including the Alchemy Bar for unique cocktails. Carnival Miracle sails out of Long Beach, San Francisco, and Galveston with itineraries including Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Fantasy Class

Carnival paradise.

Carnival Paradise was the last Fantasy-class ship to be built (several have since been sold or scrapped) and while she was first launched in 1998, she has been updated several times since, ensuring she still offers a great Carnival cruise experience.

While she’s too small to have all the exciting bells and whistles of a modern Carnival ship, she does offer pools, hot tubs, the WaterWorks waterpark, Seuss at Sea and a host of great restaurants and bars. She sails out of Tampa on Bahamas cruises.

Carnival Elation

Despite being one of the smallest ships in the Carnival fleet, Carnival Elation still has plenty to keep guests entertained and happy during their cruise. There’s the WaterWorks splash area, three youth spaces, an arcade and more for the kids.

Plus there’s a wide variety of dining options, including BlueIguana Cantina for burritos and tacos, Guy’s Burger Joint, and some exciting bars for the grown-ups to try. Carnival Elation sails out of Jacksonville and offers Bahamas cruises.

The Different Classes Of Carnival Ships (Biggest To Smallest)

There are currently nine classes of Carnival cruise ships. Each ship in a particular class is almost identical, with some small differences.

The table below shows the Carnival ship classes from largest to smallest, based on ship volume.

You can read more about each of the different classes here: Carnival Cruise Ship Classes Compared .

How Size Influences the Onboard Experience

There are advantages to both the bigger and smaller Carnival ships. The biggest ships are newer and have more facilities on board, with bigger water parks and more stuff for kids to do.

The older, smaller ships in the Carnival fleet can be great too, though. The itineraries may be more destination-focused, so you’ll spend less time at sea during your cruise. Cruising on the older, smaller ships is usually a little cheaper, too.

One thing to consider with the older ships is that balcony rooms are rare. These ships have mostly interior and ocean view rooms .

Read more: Carnival Ships Ranked From Best To Worst

Carnival ship sizes rage from huge to medium-sized. None of the ships are small, and all of them have lots to keep guests entertained.

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Carnival Ship Size FAQ

The biggest Carnival cruise ships are Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee. With a volume of 182,800 gross tons, a length of 1,130 feet and 17 passenger decks, these ships are 2,000 GT larger than the next-biggest Carnival ship, Mardi Gras.

The smallest Carnival cruise ship is Carnival Elation with a gross tonnage of 71,909 GT and 10 passenger decks.

Carnival cruise ships are between 855 and 1,130 feet long. That’s two to three football fields long, depending on the ship.

Each Carnival cruise ship has between 10 and 17 guest decks, plus three or four more decks for crew members. So the tallest ships are about 300 feet high, depending on how deep they sit in the water at any moment.

The nicest Carnival cruise ship is Carnival Jubilee. The newest ship in the fleet, this ship has some great facilities such as the biggest water park, a huge atrium with aerial performers and even a rollercoaster on the top deck.

Related posts:

• Carnival Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest
• The Newest Carnival Ships (In Order)
• Royal Caribbean ships by size
• Celebrity cruise ships by size
• MSC Cruises ships by size

Ship Comparisons:

• Carnival Breeze Vs Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Dream Vs Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Elation Vs Carnival Liberty

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

2 thoughts on “Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (With Comparison Chart)”

Who needs to eat 7 Lobster Tails in a row??!! Geeeez

Each cruise line has it’s own set of perks. I like the food on Carnival the best. I have yet to be given 7 lobster tails one after another as I did on a Carnival at the Captains’ dinner. I was in heaven.

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Carnival Cruise Line Ships by Size: Largest to Smallest

• Sarah Bretz, Contributor
• October 17, 2022
• Cruise Advice

Carnival Cruise Line currently has 24 ships with varying sizes ranging from 70,000 to 180,000 gross registered tons.

With eight classes of Carnival cruise ships, it can be confusing to track how old and big each vessel is and what amenities are available on each one.

In this article, we’ve compiled an overview of all ships in the Carnival fleet, organized from largest to smallest by gross registered tonnage.

Carnival Cruise Line Ships by Size:

In this article:

Carnival Jubilee

Carnival celebration, carnival venezia, carnival panorama , carnival horizon , carnival vista, carnival breeze, carnival dream, carnival magic, carnival splendor, carnival glory, carnival liberty, carnival conquest, carnival valor, carnival freedom, carnival sunshine, carnival sunrise, carnival radiance, carnival luminosa, carnival miracle, carnival pride, carnival legend, carnival spirit, carnival paradise, carnival elation.

Key Features: BOLT roller coaster, Shaq’s Big Chicken, WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, adults-only Serenity Retreat sundeck, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Seafood Shack , NASA-inspired Space Cruisers programming for kids, and Alchemy Bar

Key Features: BOLT roller coaster, Family Feud Live, the travel-inspired Latitudes bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Bonsai Sushi, Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, Shaq’s Big Chicken, adults-only Serenity Retreat, and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

Key Features: First Carnival ship powered by Liquified Natural Gas, BOLT roller coaster, Family Feud Live, RedFrog Tiki Bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Excel suites with exclusive Loft 19 access, Chibang! Mexican and Chinese restaurant, revamped Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, Shaq’s Big Chicken, adults-only Serenity Retreat, a casino, and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

RELATED: Mardi Gras Dining Guide

Key Features: Venice-inspired atrium Piazza San Marco, Guy’s Burger Joint , WaterWorks aqua park, Bonsai Teppanyaki, adults-only Serenity Retreat sundeck, Tomodoro Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant, Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Amari bar, Gondola Lounge, and Terrazza staterooms with exclusive access to outdoor deck Terrazza Carnevale

Key Features: Sky Zone indoor trampoline park, Heroes Tribute Bar, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, WaterWorks aqua park, Bonsai Teppanyaki , SkyRide cycling attraction, Cucina del Capitano, other specialty dining options, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat. This was Carnival’s first brand-new west coast ship debut in almost 20 years. 

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, adults-only Serenity Retreat, SkyRide cycling attraction, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, Bonsai Teppanyaki, Cloud 9 Spa , and BlueIguana Cantina

Key Features: SkyRide cycling attraction, RedFrog Pub & Brewery, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, IMAX movie theater, Havana Bar, JiJi Asian Kitchen, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Seafood Shack, Cucina del Capitano, and the WaterWorks aqua park. The is the first ship in Carnival’s three-ship Vista class. 

Key Features: BlueIguana Tequila Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Cloud 9 Spa, Alchemy Bar , Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi, WaterWorks aqua park, adults-only Serenity Retreat, and Camp Ocean kids’ club

Key Features:   Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Alchemy Bar, Seafood Shack, Cloud 9 Spa, Bonsai Sushi, Guy’s Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, and Lip Sync Battle: Carnival. This was the first ship in Carnival’s Dream class. 

This was the first Carnival ship to introduce the cove balcony concept , which is like a giant oval porthole type of balcony. These balcony cabins are located on deck two.

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cloud 9 Spa, Seafood Shack, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que , BlueIguana Cantina, and the Alchemy Bar

Key Features: Punchliner Comedy Club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cloud 9 Spa, Alchemy Bar, Camp Ocean Kids’ club, RedFrog Pub, Seafood Shack, and BlueIguana Cantina

MORE: Carnival’s Mardi Gras: Is An Aft Excel Suite Worth The Price?

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, BlueIguana Cantina, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Alchemy Bar, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Guy’s Burger Joint, Seafood Shack, and Spa Carnival

Key Features: Guy’s Burger Joint, SkyBox Sports Bar, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Alchemy Bar, Punchliner Comedy Club, Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina, Camp Ocean Kids’ club, and Spa Carnival

Key Features: Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Seafood Shack, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Alchemy Bar, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Punchliner Comedy Club, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy’s Burger Joint. This is the first ship in the Carnival Conquest class. 

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, Camp Ocean Kids’ club, Punchliner Comedy Club, Seafood Shack, Guy’s Burger Joint, adults-only Serenity Retreat, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Pub, and Spa Carnival

Key Features: Seafood Shack, WaterWorks aqua park, BlueIguana Cantina, Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, Heroes Tribute Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, SkyBox Sports Bar, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, and Bonsai Sushi Express

Key Features: Havana Bar, WaterWorks aqua park, Punchliner Comedy Club, JiJi Asian Kitchen, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cucina del Capitano, Camp Ocean kids’ club, and Guy’s Burger Joint

MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Carnival’s Drink Package

RELATED: 31 Carnival Sunrise Cruise Tips

Key Features: Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, Cloud 9 Spa, Punchliner Comedy Club, Alchemy Bar, Cucina del Capitano, Camp Ocean Kids’ club, BlueIguana Cantina

Key Features: Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Shaq’s Big Chicken, Cloud 9 Spa, Cucina del Capitano, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, RedFrog Pub, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, SkyCourse (a ropes course), and the Alchemy Bar

Key Features: RedFrog Rum Bar, Cloud 9 Spa, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Bonsai Sushi Express, JavaBlue Café, Camp Ocean kids’ clubs, Alchemy Bar, Cherry on Top, and Punchliner Comedy Club

Key Features: WaterWorks aqua park, Alchemy Bar, Bonsai Sushi Express, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Camp Ocean kids’ club, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Guy’s Burger Joint, Punchliner Comedy Club, and BlueIguana Cantina

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Pub, Bonsai Sushi, Spa Carnival, Camp Ocean Kids’ club, WaterWorks aqua park, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, and Punchliner Comedy Club

Key Features: Camp Ocean kids’ club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Guy’s Burger Joint, Lip Sync Battle: Carnival, Bonsai Sushi, WaterWorks aqua park, Punchliner Comedy Club, and BlueIguana Cantina

Key Features: Alchemy Bar, Punchliner Comedy Club, adults-only Serenity Retreat, Seafood Shack, Spa Carnival, Bonsai Sushi, Guy’s Burger Joint, RedFrog Pub, and BlueIguana Tequila Bar. This was the first of four Spirit-class ships. 

Key Features: Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Spa Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat

Key Features:  Camp Ocean Kids’ Club, Punchliner Comedy Club, WaterWorks aqua park, Spa Carnival, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, and the adults-only Serenity Retreat

During the 2020 cruise industry shutdown,  Carnival sold off four  Fantasy-class ships.

Three were sold for scrap metal, including  Carnival Fantasy ,  Carnival Imagination , and  Carnival Inspiration . Carnival Fascination  was sold to another cruise line that never got off the ground, and it was eventually scrapped in December 2021.

In 2022, it was announced that Carnival Sensation and Carnival Ecstasy would also be leaving the fleet.

This article was originally published in January 2022. It was most recently updated in April 2023.

READ NEXT: Smallest to Largest: Norwegian Cruise Line’s 17 Ships Organized By Size

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Carnival Cruise Ships by Size and Age (2022)

Carnival Cruise Line has an active fleet of twenty-three ships with a further three ships due to join the fleet in the near future ( Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee are both new builds and a currently unnamed ship will transfer from sister brand Costa Cruises in late-2022.

The fleet is primarily based in the United States and sails frequently from the ports of Jacksonville (Florida), New York, Port Canaveral (Florida), San Francisco (California) and others.

Introduction to Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is often mistaken for the parent company Carnival Corporation. The brand is the biggest of the Carnival Corporation brands and is the first cruise line that started the business back in 1972, by founder Ted Arison.

Carnival primarily caters to the North American market with a lot of onboard activities, dining and entertainment geared towards the American clientele.

Back in 1972, Ted Arison founded the cruise line with just one ship – a former transatlantic liner under the name Empress of Canada . It was renamed Mardi Gras and marketed to young fun-loving individuals – a market that was not catered for at this time by cruise lines.

It proved very popular and the business grew quickly to take on a second ship in 1975 (calling it Carnivale ) and the third ship in 1978.

It wasn’t until 1982 that Carnival had its own first purpose-built cruise ship, Tropicale . This is also the first ship where the iconic ‘winged funnel’ first appeared and is now a trademark part of every Carnival cruise ship that people first spot when arriving at a cruise port.

By the 1990s, Carnival had introduced further classes of ships and kept on growing quickly throughout the 2000s too, by 2020 the company had 28 ships in its fleet.

Carnival Cruise Ship Frequently Asked Questions

Has a carnival cruise ship ever sunk.

No. Never. Carnival has had some ships with fires and engine issues over the years, but these are few and far between.

The only ship to sink (partially) was Costa Concordia and is a sister brand to Carnival Cruise Line – both owned by the parent company Carnival Corporation.

How much is a Carnival cruise ship?

$1 Billion USD is the approximate price of a new Carnival cruise ship ( Mardi Gras ) currently – this is due to the size and facilities on the ships. In comparison, Carnival Sunshine cost just $409 million when she was built in 1996.

What is Carnival’s biggest cruise ship?

Mardi Gras is Carnival’s biggest ship at 180,000 GRT and able to carry 5,282 passengers. More than double of their smallest cruise ship.

What is Carnival’s smallest cruise ship?

Carnival Ecstasy is Carnival’s smallest cruise ship at just 70,367 GRT and able to carry 2,056 passengers – less than half of their biggest cruise ship.

What is Carnival’s oldest cruise ship?

Carnival Ecstasy is the oldest Carnival ship. It entered service in 1991. However, it was refurbished in 2017 and is due to return in late 2022.

What is Carnival’s newest cruise ship?

Mardi Gras is Carnival’s latest ship and entered service in 2021.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Carnival Cruise Line has one of the biggest gaps between its youngest and oldest cruise ships. The oldest ship in the fleet ( Carnival Ecstasy ) entered service in 1991 and the latest ship ( Marda Gras ) entered service in 2021 – three entire decades later.

Whilst the recent events in the world stopped the cruise lines in their tracks, Carnival will take the longest to get back on its feet as it was spending the most every month during the global cruise shutdown.

This is because it had the largest fleet at the time and one of the reasons why it sold off some of its older ships ( Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Sensation ) to other cruise lines or for scrap to save money.

Carnival does refurbish its ships and has undergone a large program to modernize its fleet – calling the newly refurbished ships ‘Fun Ship 2.0’ and adding the same bars and restaurants to the ships as found on some of their newer vessels.

Final Thoughts

Carnival is seen as a ‘fun’ cruise line – but it also has a reputation as a party line that attracts more budget-friendly cruisers. In the last few years, the cruise line has found a niche of cruisers who enjoy really fun things on their cruises, but also want a little luxury too.

Carnival Vista , Carnival Horizon , Carnival Panorama and now Mardi Gras all have a new class of cabin called ‘Havana Cabins’ which offer a more upmarket-style cabin in an area of the ship called the Havana Retreat.

This exclusive area offers its own pool, hot tubs and bars and is only accessible to passengers staying in the Havana Cabins. It is often located at the rear of each ship, affording excellent views from the aft out to sea and offering a tranquil area to rest from the rest of the fun onboard the ship.

If you enjoyed this guide, take a read of our other guides which include MSC Cruises , Royal Caribbean , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises .

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Ranked: Carnival Cruise Ships by Size

posted by Charmaine Cortes on July 2, 2022 // last updated on January 20, 2023

Since 1972, Carnival has been sailing the vast oceans of the world, delivering incredible vacation experiences to millions of happy passengers. In 2021, Carnival operated an impressive fleet of 24 different ships, with more enormous ships planned by the company. 

Have you ever wondered which is the biggest ship in the Carnival fleet? Perhaps you want to know what the average weight of Carnival’s cruise lineup is. Or how many decks a specific class has? Keep reading to find out the answers to these questions and more as we delve deep into this article about Carnival cruise ships by size. 

Cruise Ships by the Numbers

Excel-class, vista-class, dream-class, splendor-class, conquest-class, sunshine-class, spirit-class, fantasy-class, final thoughts.

With so many ships in their fleet, it’s helpful to arrange them by size and cruise type as you begin narrowing your search. Below are all the Carnival cruise ships by size.

The Excel-class (also known as Excellence) consists of three ships, Celebration, Mardi Gras, and Jubilee. These three vessels are 1,131 feet long and weigh a staggering 180,000 gross tons. Each ship carries more than 7,000 passengers and crew. They are the largest vessels in the Carnival fleet. 

Celebration

Celebration is the second of the class and was built in Finland. The ship is homeported in Miami, Florida. It features ten restaurants, with outposts from Shaq and Guy Fieri, a Bolt sea rollercoaster, a waterpark, and extensive entertainment facilities.

The Mardi Gras joined Carnival’s fleet in 2020. This ship was built in Turku, Finland, and sails the Caribbean from its homeport of Port Canaveral. Due to its size, a specially-constructed terminal was built, costing more than $160 million. It was the most expensive project in the port’s history. This ship has 11 restaurants, including one from Emeril Lagasse, and a roller coaster.

The final example of the -class, the Jubilee was built in Finland. It was originally ordered for AIDA Cruises. It is slightly larger than its sister ships, with a projected weight of 183,000 gross tons. It houses ten restaurants, endless bars, and entertainment opportunities. 

Carnival’s Vista-class comprises the Panorama, Vista, and Horizon. These three ships are identical in size, weighing 133,500 gross tons and being 1,055 feet in length. Their 15 decks can hold almost 4,000 passengers.

The Panorama has been delighting cruisers since it entered service in 2019. It was built in Italy and sails from Los Angeles to Mexico. On its voyages, Panorama thrills passengers with ten restaurants, including two from Guy Fieri, and many exciting entertainment opportunities, such as a water park, playhouse, and trampoline park (the latter of which is unique to this vessel).

Sailing to the Caribbean from either Florida or Texas, the Vista was built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone, Italy. It entered service in 2016. This ship offers nine restaurants, numerous bars, a water park, a playhouse, a day spa, and many other amenities.

Horizon was built in Marghera, Italy. Since entering service in 2018, Horizon has been sailing from Miami to the Caribbean. It offers nine restaurants, an IMAX theater, a waterpark, a spa, and an adults-only retreat.

Carnival operates three Dream-class vessels, Magic, Dream, and Breeze. One other, the Costa Diadema, serves with Costa Cruises and is the largest example of the class. The three Carnival ships are 1,004 feet long, weigh 130,000 gross tons, and have 14 passenger decks. While passenger numbers vary, they carry an average of slightly over 3,600.

Breeze sails from Galveston, TX, to the Caribbean for short trips of five days or less. It offers nine restaurants, including two from Guy Fieri, the Lip Sync battle game show, a tequila bar, and mixology bar, a waterpark, and a spa and retreat. The breeze came into service in 2012 and was the last Dream built.

Sailing the seas since 2011, Magic is one of the most prolific ships in Carnival’s fleet, sailing to Bermuda, the Caribbean, and Canada from ports in Florida , Virginia, and New York. The Magic features ten restaurants, several bars and pubs, plenty of kids-only and adults-only entertainment options, and a fun-filled water park. 

The Dream has been delighting sailors since 2009 with its impressive array of top-class amenities. Ten restaurants, including two from Guy Fieri, a water park, an ice cream bar, and a comedy club, help make the Dream one of the most fun ships in the fleet. The dream was the first Carnival ship to host a multi-slide water park.

The Splendor is unique in the Carnival fleet as it has no sister ships because it was originally built for Costa Cruises. It is a mid-sized vessel that accommodates over 3,000 passengers across over 1,500 luxury staterooms. Built in Italy, Splendor joined the fleet in 2008. It weighs 113,300 gross tons, is 952 feet in length, has 13 passenger decks, and carries more than 3,000 passengers.

There are eight restaurants, an ice cream bar, and 24-hour room service with the many entertainment options on board. 

This class of five (Conquest, Glory, Liberty, Valor, and Freedom) is an enlarged version of the Dream series of ships. Rooms are themed and reflect the ship’s name. These ships are 980 feet long, have an impressive weight of 110,000 gross tons, and offer comfortable accommodation to almost 3,000 people.

Sailing to the Caribbean, the Miami-based Conquest embarks on cruises up to two weeks long. Conquest is the oldest of the class, entering service in 2002. French impressionism inspired its interior decor as a homage to New Orleans. This expansive ship has ten restaurants, several bars, kids-only destinations, a comedy club, and a playhouse.

Sailing from New Orleans to the Caribbean and Panama, the Italian-built Glory is nearly identical to its sister ship Conquest. Ten restaurants and entertainment include a playhouse, comedy club, water park, and several kid-only destinations.

Liberty , homeported in Orlando, Florida, operates in the Caribbean. Constructed in Italy, Liberty was the first Carnival ship to be equipped with a “Seaside Theater”. Elsewhere, there are nine restaurants, including an outpost from Guy Fieri, a coffee bar, a water slide, and a comedy club.

The Valor sails from New Orleans to the Caribbean on a weekend and five-day cruises. Its features are similar to its sister ships. Valor began its maiden voyage in 2004. In 2020, it hosted ShipRocked, a rock-theme cruise featuring several artists.

Sailing from Orlando to the Caribbean, Freedom was the last of the Conquests to join the fleet, entering service in 2007. Passengers can enjoy access to a nightclub, piano bar, rum and tequila bars, a waterpark, and a day camp for the kids. The Italian-built cruise ship sustained significant fire damage while docked in Grand Turk in May 2022.

The Sunshine-class consists of three ships with a length of 893 feet and a weight of more than 100,000 gross tons. There are 13 decks, housing about 3,000 passengers.

The Sunshine , originally the Destiny, was the first passenger ship to exceed 100,000 gross tons. It sails from Charleston, SC, and features eight restaurants, a waterpark, and plenty of excitement for the kids. 

Carnival Radiance joined the fleet in 2000. It has ten restaurants, including Shaq’s BIG Chicken and two Guy Fieri spots, bars, and the SportSquare outdoor recreation area.

Sunrise operates in the Caribbean and is homeported to Miami. The ship features Piano Bar 88, the Punchliner comedy club, nine restaurants, and a coffee shop. 

The Spirit-class was built in Finland. It consists of four ships, each with a length of 963 feet and a weight of 88,500 tons. Its 13 decks house almost 2,200 guests.

The Miracle sails from California to some of the world’s most incredible destinations, including Alaska and Hawaii. features eight restaurants, a pizzeria, and an ice cream bar to go along with multiple bars and entertainment options. 

Once the flagship of Carnival, Pride has multiple homeports throughout Europe and the US East Coast. It offers eight restaurants, including the Normandie dining room, a water park, a comedy club, and a spa.

Legend joined the fleet in 2002 and is homeported in Baltimore and Europe, traveling to destinations like Bermuda, Bahamas, and Canada. Several restaurants include Guy’s Burger Joint, a Build-a-Bear Workshop, and a water park.

The Spirit sails from ports across the United States and Brisbane, Australia. It was the first Carnival vessel to sail year-round from Australia. Spirit boasts several restaurants, two different dessert destinations, and a coffee shop. When you’re done eating, check out the water park, theater, or mini-golf course.

This class is the smallest and oldest on the list, with just ten passenger decks accommodating between 2,000 and 2,200 people. Another class built in Finland, these are 855 feet long and weigh in at 70,367 gross tons. All three ships have a Seuss Sea experience for kids.

Ecstasy is the oldest ship in the Carnival fleet, and once provided emergency accommodation to relief workers and survivors during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. It offers eight restaurants, ice cream and coffee bars, Build-a-Bear, and WaterWorks for the kids, and plenty of exciting full-service and specialty bars.

Elation was the first Carnival ship equipped with an Azipod propulsion system, sailing to the Caribbean and the Bahamas from the Port of Jacksonville. Elation has eight restaurants, ice cream bars, a theater, a comedy club, and a spa.  

The last of the Fantasy ships, Paradise had the distinction of being the first non-smoking ship in the world when the policy was introduced in 1999. It sails from Tampa to the Caribbean and offers seven restaurants, plenty of bars, a day camp for the kids, games, and contests. 

Carnival is one of the world’s largest and most prestigious cruise companies.

Unsurprisingly, they have an impressive fleet sailing to various destinations. Carnival cruise ships by size vary, from the enormous Mardi Gras (weighing 180,000 gross tons) to the more modestly proportioned Paradise. 

These vessels are more akin to floating hotels than the passenger ships of the past, like the QEII or Titanic. And, no matter which you voyage on, countless amenities keep you entertained and pampered.

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Home » Cruise » Carnival Cruise Line » Complete Guide to Carnival Cruise Ships By Size

Complete Guide to Carnival Cruise Ships By Size

In this complete guide to Carnival cruise ships by size, we give you a clearer idea of the difference between ship classes across the fleet.

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Carnival Cruise Line celebrated its 50 th anniversary in 2022. In those five decades, Carnival’s Fun Ships have transformed from a cruise line associated with boozy partying to a company well respected for budget-friendly family vacations that offer a tremendous value.

Now more than two-dozen strong, Carnival’s fleet spans 25 years’ worth of ship hardware. While Carnival ships were once considered behemoth floating hotels, the past two decades of mega-ships from brands like Royal Caribbean or MSC Cruises tower in comparison. Many of Carnival’s ships would be considered mid-sized by today’s standards.

That doesn’t mean that Carnival doesn’t compete when it comes to onboard amenities. Newer ships feature attractions like a top-deck coaster and an onboard brewery. There’s also dining options from celebrity chefs like Emeril Lagasse and room categories that accommodate every configuration — even cabana-style patios, complete with hammocks. Plus, the line’s signature friendly service endures, regardless of the age of the ship you’re sailing.

Of course, ship size as well as interior design and at-sea offerings can vary from ship to ship. This guide to Carnival Cruise ships will give you a clearer idea of the size, age, and difference between ship classes across the fleet.

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Guide to Carnival Cruise Ships by Size

How many cruise ships does carnival cruise line have.

By 2024, there will be 27 ships in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. Carnival Jubilee is a new-build that will join the cruise line in December 2023.

Additionally, two “Italian Style” ships, acquired from Costa Cruises, will join between 2023 and 2024 — Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze, respectively.

What is Carnival’s largest ship?

As is the case with many major cruise lines, Carnival’s newest ships are also its largest. Launched in 2022, Carnival Celebration is far and away the cruise line’s most massive vessel. It measures 183,521 gross registered tons (GRT) and accommodating 5,374 passengers. Sister ship Carnival Jubilee will boast the same stats when it launches in late 2023.

In terms of passenger capacity, Carnival Mardi Gras , introduced in 2021, accommodates the most cruisers at a maximum of 6,465 guests (at 180,000 GRT). Following these newest ships, size drops drastically to 135,225 GRT and 135,156 GRT, which are the sizes of acquired ships Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze.

In terms of size comparison over the years, some might wonder how do Carnival cruise ships compare to the Titanic? While historic at the time, the Titanic measured only 46,328 GRT. That is nearly half the size of some of Carnival’s smallest ships. The majority of the Spirit Class ships weigh in at 88,500 GRT.

What is Carnival’s smallest ship?

Carnival’s smallest cruise ship is currently its oldest, the Carnival Paradise. Built in 1998, Carnival Paradise measures 71,925 GRT and carries 2,124 guests.

Carnival Cruise Line Ships Ranked Biggest to Smallest

• Carnival Celebration (2022) – 183,521 GRT, 5,374 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Jubilee (2023) – 183,521 GRT, 5,374 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Mardi Gras (2021) – 180,000 GRT, 5,282 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Venezia (2023) – 135,225 GRT, 4,090 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Firenze (2024) – 135,156 GRT, 4,126 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Panorama (2019) – 133,500 GRT, 4,008 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Horizon (2018) – 133,500 GRT, 3,960 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Vista (2016) – 133,500 GRT, 3,934 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Breeze (2012) – 130,000 GRT, 3,690 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Magic (2011) – 130,000 GRT, 3,690 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Dream (2009) – 130,000 GRT, 3,646 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Splendor (2008) – 113,575 GRT, 3,012 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Conquest (2002) – 110,000 GRT, 2,980 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Valor (2004) – 110,000 GRT, 2,980 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Glory (2003) – 110,000 GRT, 2,980 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Freedom (2007) – 110,000 GRT, 2,980 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Liberty (2005) – 110,000 GRT, 2,974 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Sunshine (2013) – 102,853 GRT, 3,002 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Sunrise (2019) – 101,509 GRT, 2,984 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Radiance (2021) – 101,509 GRT, 2,984 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Luminosa (2009) – 92,720 GRT, 2,260 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Pride (2002) – 88,500 GRT, 2,134 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Legend (2002) – 88,500 GRT, 2,124 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Miracle (2004) – 88,500 GRT, 2,124 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Spirit (2001) – 88,500 GRT, 2,124 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Elation (1998) – 72,909 GRT, 2,190 guests at double capacity
• Carnival Paradise (1998) – 71,925 GRT, 2,124 guests at double capacity

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What are the different Carnival cruise ship classes?

Carnival’s 27 total ships are divided into nine ship classes. While there are of course differences, Carnival has worked hard to provide consistency in many of its onboard offerings through various upgrades and refurbishments over the years. For example, on nearly every pool deck you can expect to see a Red Frog Rum Bar and Blue Iguana Cantina. Guy’s Burger Joint is also a fleet signature eatery from Guy Fieri.

Fantasy Class

Carnival’s current fleet has its origins beginning in the ‘90s, with the two-ship Fantasy Class. This class, originally eight ships strong, is down to just Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation. This is after six ships were sold off following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Both built in 1998, the remaining ships of the Fantasy Class bear the hallmarks of smaller ships, with less dining options and fewer top-deck bells and whistles. Still, renovations — including major refurbishments in 2018 — have made marked improvements, especially to cabins, adding more much-needed balcony staterooms and suites to each ship.

These are the cheap and cheerful ships. They offer tremendous deals on cruise fares from smaller, Florida homeports like Tampa or Jacksonville. In addition, you won’t find too many nickel-and-diming upsells onboard . Instead, there is only one extra-fee dining experience in the once-per-cruise Chef’s Table. The pool deck burritos and burgers along with the buffet and main dining rooms keep it fast casual — perfect for 20-somethings on a shoestring budget or families with small children who want to keep things easy and kid-friendly.

An Art Deco-style theater with nightly performances; 10 bars and lounges, including a piano bar; comedy shows; a casino; a spa; and an adults-only sun deck provide plenty of entertainment for friends and couples. The Camp Ocean kids club; Seuss at Sea programming; a video arcade; mini golf; and small, WaterWorks waterpark will keep your kids and teens busy on short getaways.

Spirit Class

The Spirit Class contains four virtually identical ships plus a slightly larger ship, formerly known as the Costa Luminosa. Launched in the early aughts, the Spirit Class consists of Carnival Spirit, Carnival Pride, Carnival Legend, Carnival Miracle, and Luminosa.

With the ability to access some small ports and features built into their design that aid in weatherproofing (pools with domes overhead, for example), the Spirit Class have been deployed to some far-flung destinations over the part 20 years.

With a high percentage of balcony cabins, they are fitting ships to sail to scenic destinations. Carnival Pride alone currently sails to the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, but also Europe, Canada, the Panama Canal, and even Greenland.

You won’t have to fly to Italy or the UK to board a Spirit Class ship however. Others like Carnival Spirit sail voyages to Alaska , Hawaii, and more from U.S.-based ports including Seattle, Tampa, or Mobile. While some of these ships were deployed to Australia for a time, that changed following the country’s shutdown during the pandemic.

Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades, as Carnival calls them, hit these ships with the addition of popular mixology spot Alchemy Bar; Bonsai Sushi; Playlist Productions shows in the theater; the Punchliner Comedy Club; and the RedFrog Pub featuring craft beer including Carnival’s own ThirstyFrog Red ale. Still, Carnival’s in-your-face décor, courtesy of longtime, maximalist ship designer Joe Farcus, is not to everyone’s tastes. Others find it charming.

Most of the activities on these ships are centered around a hub on Decks 2 and 3, where the pools and lounges are located. Nightlife, including the remaining bars and restaurants, are on Decks 9, 10 and 11.

There are a few connecting and accessible rooms onboard Spirit Class ships. But there’s nothing groundbreaking apart from standard categories like Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and Suite.

Carnival Luminosa is slightly larger. It is also at least five years newer than any of the other Spirit Class ships but is similar in layout and amenities.

Conquest Class

The Conquest Class contains five cruise ships of the same size with very patriotic names. These include Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Valor, Carnival Liberty, and Carnival Freedom.

At 110,000 GRT, these ships aren’t teeny-tiny but also aren’t overrun with other cruisers, accommodating just shy of 3,000 passengers. Spanning 2002 to 2007, these ships have been around the block, but thanks to upgrades they still feature fresh Carnival signatures like the Serenity adults-only sun deck; Alchemy Bar; waterslides; and the reptilian rum and tequila bars of the pool deck.

These ships are a blend of old and new, with one foot in traditional and another that introduced these newer ship concepts in the form of Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades, around 2019. An elegant library might feel out of place, while Bookville — an all-ages reading nook near Camp Ocean kids club — is an interactive new space that’s part of Carnival’s Seuss at Sea family programming.

There are more dining options on Conquest Class ships than Carnival’s oldest vessels as well. These include specialty dining in the form of a steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, and the alfresco Seafood Shack.

Itineraries vary, but Conquest Class ships keep it relatively simple, currently sailing from Miami, Port Canaveral, New Orleans, and Barcelona. These are largely warm-weather ships designed for fun in the sun, whether it’s a short stint in the Bahamas or passing through the Panama Canal on a longer voyage.

Splendor Class

The Splendor Class is the only Carnival class containing a single ship. Formerly a Concordia Class vessel with Costa Cruises, Carnival Splendor, built in 2008, is a unique ship.

Splendor is currently the dedicated Carnival ship Down Under, sailing from Sydney as well as Singapore. It carries 3,000-plus passengers through itineraries in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.

Carnival Splendor boasts the branded Cloud 9 Spa, with thermal suite area. The theater hosts updated shows like “Epic Rock” and game show series “Hasbro, The Game Show.” The Dive-In movies, held in the Carnival Seaside Theater, is aided by a retractable roof.

Still, there is a mix of modern staples like Alchemy Bar and Fahrenheit555 steakhouse, alongside somewhat garish lounges like the El Morocco and somewhat dated staterooms. Some might say the overwhelming pink décor gives the ship its own character. Masala Tiger, the Indian counter in the Lido, is wildly popular and typically has a wait.

There are 1,506 cabins in all, with 68 dedicated as Cloud 9 Spa cabins, a first for the line at the time. These rooms carry a serene, Asian theme as well as upgraded toiletries and robes. They also include a few yoga or fitness classes, unlimited use of the thermal suite and of course, close access to the spa on Deck 11.

Dream Class

The three ships of Carnival’s Dream Class all measure 130,000 GRT. Carnival Dream was unveiled in 2009, followed by Carnival Magic in 2011 and Carnival Breeze in 2012.

The Dream Class is where many innovations that would be developed on Vista Class ships were first introduced. Similar in size, these ships classes aren’t entirely dissimilar. In addition to sports courts and waterslides, there is a ropes course as part of the top-deck attractions on any Dream Class ship. On Carnival Breeze, the Thrill Theater is an indoor, 4D interactive ride available for an additional charge — the first of its kind in the fleet.

Experimentation across the ship class continued. For example, on Breeze, the library became the Library Bar, with self-service wine dispensers. The Cherry on Top candy shop is the place to go for a special sweet treat. Further, cruisers can dig into something savory at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse — a delicious and complimentary offering that expands upon the line’s longtime partnership with “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” host Guy Fieri.

There’s no doubt these ships have plenty to do for all ages, as they sail the sunny Caribbean . Carnival Magic also sails a series of cruises in Canada/New England as well as Bermuda, from Miami and Norfolk. Carnival Dream and Carnival Breeze are currently homeported in Galveston, Texas.

Sunshine Class

The three ships of the Sunshine Class have unusual backstories. They have all been refurbished and renamed. Longtime Carnival cruisers might better know them as the Destiny Class.

Carnival Sunshine first came onto the scene back in 1996 as Carnival Destiny but transformed into the first Sunshine Class ship in 2013. Following a $155-million total refit, Carnival Sunshine emerged brighter and newer. The ship features spaces and amenities similar to a Dream Class ship, but at a size between the Spirit and Conquest classes (102,853 GRT).

Fast forward to 2019 and Carnival did it again. This time, it took 1999’s Carnival Triumph and gave it a $200 million makeover to shine again as Carnival Sunrise. From the top deck down, Sunrise was transformed to include Carnival WaterWorks waterpark, a SportSquare, the adults-only Serenity sun deck, Cucina del Capitano Italian restaurant, and on and on from the Limelight Lounge to the Cloud 9 Spa.

Carnival Radiance emerged in 2021 from its former life as Carnival Victory, built in 2000. With plenty of upgrades (like Shaq’s Big Chicken) to impress its 2,984 passengers, it’s a sought-after option sailing to Mexico and Hawaii from the Port of Long Beach, outside LA.

Carnival Sunrise sails from Miami. Sunshine offers island-hopping cruises in the Caribbean and the Bahamas from the small homeports of Charleston and Norfolk. 

Vista Class

The three modern ships of the Vista Class, kicked off with Carnival Vista in 2016. Larger than previous ships, these vessels ushered in a new era for Carnival. They largely leave the kooky décor behind and instead opt for bright and inviting vacation spaces.

At 133,500 GRT, Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Panorama still aren’t considered very large ships in the grand scheme of things. Though, they do accommodate about 4,000 passengers each — a jump in size from the rest of the fleet.

These cruise ships aim to grab your attention with wow-worthy features like the pedal-powered, top-deck SkyRide; the SkyZone trampoline park on Carnival Panorama; or the Dr. Seuss-themed waterpark on Carnival Horizon. Meanwhile, IMAX theaters can be found on Vista and Horizon.

The first-in-class additions don’t end there. Carnival Vista introduced entirely new cabin categories in Havana Cabanas and Family Harbor. These keycard-accessed areas of the ship not only contain swanky new types of staterooms, but dedicated spaces for occupants. Perks of family-minded Family Harbor rooms extend to a free night of babysitting and free specialty restaurant access for under-12s. Those staying in the Havana area have their own themed pool and sun deck.

Date night onboard these ships is a no-brainer, with ample bars including the line’s first working brewery in the expanded Guy’s Smokehouse | Brewhouse concept, which debuted on Carnival Horizon in 2018. For foodies, Carnival Panorama’s Carnival Kitchen is the seriously cool opportunity to book a cooking class, from a full Indian feast to the secret behind the line’s fan-favorite chocolate melting cake. Kids 12 and older can join in on the culinary action.

Geared up for tropical weather, sail Carnival Vista to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Galveston or Port Canaveral. You can also sail from Miami to the Caribbean year-round on Carnival Horizon or from the West Coast to Mexico on Carnival Panorama, homeported in Long Beach, California.

Excel Class

The three ships of Carnival’s recent Excel Class usher into an era of mega-ships. About 35 percent bigger than the Vista Class, Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee measure a whopping 183,521 GRT. Further, they invite upwards of 6,000 guests apiece at full capacity.

If their namesake is any indication, these ships are ready to party. BOLT is the first roller coaster at sea, parading its way to sea with the debut of Mardi Gras in 2021. It wouldn’t be in true Mardi Gras fashion if there wasn’t a bit of New Orleans. So, Chef Emeril Lagasse helps out with creole flavors at Emeril’s, the flagship restaurant of the French Quarter ship neighborhood. Creative new bar concepts, like the Fortune Teller Bar, are located here as well.

Also new to the fleet beginning with Mardi Gras is Rudi’s Seagrill, an upscale seafood restaurant ; Big Chicken, Fun Ambassador Shaquille O’Neal’s homage to home-cooked poultry; Chibang, a Mexican-Asian fusion eatery; and Street Food, which mimics the style of food trucks with three stands featuring tasty finger foods like dumplings, kebabs, and fries.

Loft 19 is a swanky new sun deck with cabana rentals available to all, but come included with a booking in a Carnival Excel suite.

The Excel Class is accelerating Carnival Cruise Line into the future, with advancements like the use of LNG fuel. Although, it’s also celebrating the company’s half-century of cruise experience with nods to its history. Aboard Carnival Celebration, the Golden Jubilee is an homage to ships of yore as a bar filled with artifacts and reclaimed décor from previous or refurbished vessels. It’s a great place to make use of your Cheers drink package !

In addition to the theater, Celebration Central is a show space employing hi-def video screens and state-of-the-art effects across three decks.

As of publication, Carnival Jubilee has yet to debut, but Carnival has teased an underwater ocean theme to some public spaces. In the Currents section, find new craft cocktail lounges the Golden Mermaid and Inks Ph.D. with cutting-edge mixology. In Shores, enjoy boardwalk-style eats and amusements.

From the world’s cruising capital of Florida, while Jubilee homeports in Galveston , the Excel Class is currently sailing the turquoise waters of the Caribbean year-round.

Venice Class

The two recent acquisitions of Costa ships form the “Italian famiglia style” Venice Class. Rolling out over 2023 and 2024, Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze are retaining and celebrating their Italian roots with themed public spaces and restaurants, among other touches.

Carnival is joining together its classic offerings such as the Fahrenheit555 steakhouse, kid and teen clubs, Piano Bar 88, SportSquare and WaterWorks together with a lounge inspire by Venice or an Italian-Mexican fusion venue called Tomodoro. Don’t forget about the wine and coffee, all molto Italy.

Carnival Venezia set sail in 2023, now cruising from New York. Carnival Firenze will sail to Mexico from Long Beach in spring 2024.

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Did you find this guide to Carnival cruise ships by size helpful? On which classes of Carnival cruise ships have you sailed? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite ships from Carnival Cruise Line.

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Carnival Ships by Size and Age

Written By:

Marcello De Lio

Last Updated:

October 13, 2023

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Carnival Cruise Line is best known for its family-friendly cruises. The cruise line excels with traditional entertainment for guests of all ages.

Carnival’s fleet contains delivers fun, laid-back vacations that keep passengers returning year after year. And,

With few exceptions, the cruise line sails exclusively from North American homeports and offers some of the lowest fares in the industry.

Carnival Ships by Size

Below is a list of all the Carnival ships by size.

We’ve arranged the list according to size measured in gross tonnage (the internal volume of a ship) and length measured in feet.

List of Carnival Ships by Age

Knowing the age of a cruise ship is essential.

While newer vessels aren’t necessarily better, if you’re looking for the latest thrills, you might want to look at booking a voyage on a newer ship.

The differences are easy to see when comparing the oldest and newest vessels.

New cruise ships have newer technology, better amenities, more activities, and a broader range of entertainment options.

The table below shows Carnival’s cruise ships from, newest to oldest.

Although the cruise ships on the bottom of the list are very old, they receive regular refurbishments every three to five years. So, even if you aren’t sailing on the newest vessel, the ship won’t show its age.

Carnival Cruise Ship Classes

Carnival Cruise Line has eight cruise ship classes.

Carnival Cruise Ships on Order

Carnival Cruise Line currently has one cruise ship on order, Carnival Jubilee.

Jubilee is the third Excel-class cruise ship with an identical design to her sister ships  Mardi Gras   and  Carnival Celebration

Carnival will also be accepting delivery of three cruise ships that formerly sailed under Costa Cruises. The three vessels will undergo extensive renovations before the cruise line takes ownership.

Which Carnival Cruise Ship is the Biggest?

Carnival Celebration is the biggest cruise ship in Carnival’s fleet. Carnival Celebration boasts an internal volume of 180,000 GT and a length of 1,130 ft. The ship has a maximum capacity of 6,500 with an international crew of 1745.

Which Carnival Cruise Ship is the Smallest?

Carnival’s smallest ship is the Carnival Paradise measuring 70,367 gross tons. The 855-foot-long vessel can hold up to 2,606

Are Bigger Carnival Ships Better?

Newer ships tend to have more activities, better amenities, and modern decor. But, the best cruise ship depends on what you are looking to get out of a cruise. Bigger Carnival ships are usually better for most people. But they also have higher prices.

What is the Newest Carnival Ship?

The newest Carnival ship is Carnival Celebration . The second of Carnival’s Excel-class of cruise ships, Celebration sailed on her maiden voyage on November 21, 2022.

The 180,000 gross ton vessel is fully powered by liquified natural gas with a capacity for 6,500 passengers and 1745 crew members.

How Many Cruise Ships Does Carnival Have?

Carnival currently has 24 ships in its fleet.

What is the Oldest Carnival Ship?

The oldest Carnival ship is the Carnival Ecstasy , which launched in 1991. In February 2022, the cruise line announced that the vessel would be retired from the fleet in October 2022.

Carnival Ecstasy is also the smallest Carnival cruise ship at 70,367 gross tons and a length of 855 ft.

Are Newer Carnival Cruise Ships Better?

Newer Carnival ships feature better technology, more activities, modern facilities, and updated decor. While old vessels are refreshed every three to five years, they simply don’t compare to the range of amenities and features offered by newer cruise ships.

However, the great part about cruising is that there’s no single best cruise ship for everyone. While new cruise ships tend to have more thrills and activities, many passengers prefer the slower pace that older vessels provide. What’s most important is finding the best cruise ship for you and your travel party.

What Was the First Carnival Cruise Ship?

The first Carnival Cruise ship was the TSS Mardi Gras .

The vessel (named RMS  Empress of Canada at the time) was built for Canadian Pacific Steamships Ltd. in 1960 before being bought by the newly formed Ted Arison Carnival Cruise Line.

Empress of Canada was a little over 27,000 gross tons, a considerable difference compared to the 180,000 Excel-class ships.

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Carnival Cruise Ship Sizes: Biggest to Smallest (WITH PICTURES!)

Are you dreaming of setting sail on a Carnival Cruise? With so many ships to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.

But no worries! We’ve got you covered! Carnival Cruise Line boasts an impressive fleet of 26 ships, each with its own unique personality and offerings.

From the massive Carnival Jubilee, which can hold over 6,000 passengers, to the more intimate Carnival Paradise, there’s a ship to fit every type of traveler.

Table of Contents

Carnival Cruise Line Fleet

If you’re looking for a cruise vacation, Carnival Cruise Line has a fleet of 26 ships that offer a wide variety of experiences for all types of travelers.

From the largest ships to the most intimate, there’s something for everyone.

Largest Carnival Ships

Carnival Cruise Line’s largest ships are the Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Jubilee, and Carnival Celebration. All three are part of the XL class of ships and can accommodate over 6,000 passengers each.

The Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee are both new builds, with the former making its maiden voyage in 2022 and the latter in 2023.

The Carnival Celebration is the largest ship in the fleet, with a gross tonnage of 183,521 and a length of 1,130 feet. It has 17 passenger decks and can accommodate 6,630 passengers and 1,745 crew members.

The Carnival Jubilee, with the same gross tonnage and passenger capacity, is slightly shorter at 1,120 feet.

Dream Class

The Carnival Dream class of ships includes the Carnival Breeze, Carnival Magic, Carnival Dream, and Carnival Splendor.

These ships are slightly smaller than the XL class, but still offer plenty of amenities and entertainment options.

The Carnival Dream, for example, has a gross tonnage of 130,000 and can accommodate up to 3,646 passengers.

It features a WaterWorks water park, mini-golf course, and a two-level promenade with shops and restaurants .

The Carnival Breeze is similar in size and amenities, with a gross tonnage of 130,000 and a passenger capacity of 3,690. It features the Thrill Theater, a 4D cinema experience, and the Cloud 9 Spa.

The Carnival Magic and Carnival Splendor are both slightly smaller, with gross tonnages of 128,000 and 113,300, respectively.

However, they still offer a wide range of amenities, including a ropes course, sports court, and multiple dining options.

No matter which ship you choose, you’re sure to have a fantastic time on a Carnival Cruise Line vacation. From the largest ships to the most intimate, there’s something for everyone.

Carnival Cruise Ships By Size

If you’re planning a Carnival cruise, it’s important to understand the different sizes of ships available. Here are the key factors that determine the size of a Carnival cruise ship:

Tonnage is a measure of a ship’s size and weight. It’s calculated based on the volume of the ship’s interior spaces, including passenger cabins, crew quarters, public areas, and cargo holds.

Carnival cruise ships range in tonnage from 70,367 to 183,521 gross tons.

Gross Tonnage

Gross tonnage is a slightly different measure of a ship’s size. It’s calculated based on the total enclosed volume of the ship, including all interior spaces and the exterior decks and superstructure.

Carnival’s largest ship, the Carnival Celebration, has a gross tonnage of 183,521.

Gross Registered Tonnage

Gross registered tonnage is another measure of a ship’s size, but it’s less commonly used. It’s calculated based on the volume of the ship’s interior spaces only, and it’s used primarily for regulatory purposes.

Carnival’s largest ship, the Carnival Celebration, has a gross registered tonnage of 133,500.

Passenger Count

The number of passengers a Carnival cruise ship can accommodate depends on its size and layout. Carnival’s largest ship, the Carnival Celebration, can accommodate up to 6,500 passengers.

Carnival cruise ships have a range of staterooms available, from cozy interior cabins to spacious suites with balconies. The number of staterooms on a ship depends on its size and layout.

The Carnival Celebration, for example, has 2,641 staterooms.

The length of a Carnival cruise ship is another important factor in determining its size. Carnival’s largest ship, the Carnival Celebration, is 1,130 feet long.

Overall, Carnival cruise ships come in a range of sizes to suit different preferences and travel needs.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy interior cabin or a spacious suite with a balcony, there’s a Carnival ship that’s right for you.

Carnival Celebration Size

Completed in 2022, the Carnival Celebration is a true giant of the seas, boasting a whopping 183,521 gross tons.

At 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length, it’s the largest of Carnival’s 26 active cruise ships and is part of the XL Class.

With a maximum occupancy of 8,375, including 6,630 passengers and 1,745 staff members, this ship is designed to provide a truly unforgettable vacation experience.

The Carnival Celebration offers an impressive 2,641 staterooms, ensuring there’s plenty of room for everyone to relax and enjoy all the amenities this magnificent ship has to offer.

Carnival Celebration Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 183,521 GT
• Ship Length : 1,130 feet (344 meters)
• Beam : 137 feet (42 meters)
• Draft : 28 feet (9 meters)
• Max Speed : 26 mph (23 knots)
• Year Built : 2022
• Ship Class : XL
• Capacity : 6,630 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,745
• Total on Board : 8,375
• Total Staterooms : 2,641
• Passenger Decks : 17
• Flagged Country : Panama
• Ship Cost : $1,000 Million

Carnival Jubilee Size

Currently under construction and set to debut in 2023, the Carnival Jubilee is set to become one of the largest ships in the Carnival fleet.

With a massive 183,521 gross tons and measuring 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length, it’s the second-largest ship among Carnival’s 26 active cruise ships and is part of the coveted XL Class.

At full capacity, the Carnival Jubilee can accommodate 8,365 passengers, including 6,630 vacationers and 1,735 staff members.

The ship features a grand total of 2,641 staterooms, providing ample space for every guest to enjoy all the amenities and activities this magnificent vessel has to offer.

Carnival Jubilee Size & Stats

• Beam : 138 feet (42 meters)
• Year Built : 2023
• Crew Members : 1,735
• Total on Board : 8,365
• Passenger Decks : 12
• Flagged Country : Bahamas
• Ship Cost : $950 Million

Carnival Mardi Gras Size

Launched in 2020, the Carnival Mardi Gras is a magnificent vessel that boasts an impressive 180,800 gross tons.

Measuring 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length, it’s the third-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed XL Class.

With a total capacity of 8,375 passengers, including 6,630 vacationers and 1,745 staff members, the Carnival Mardi Gras offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 2,641 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Mardi Gras Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 180,800 GT
• Year Built : 2020

Carnival Venezia Size

Fresh off the docks in 2019, the Carnival Venezia is a stunning ship that boasts an impressive 135,500 gross tons.

Measuring 1,060 feet (323 meters) in length, it’s the fourth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the coveted Vista Class.

With a maximum capacity of 6,538 passengers, including 5,260 vacationers and 1,278 staff members, the Carnival Venezia offers an unforgettable vacation experience.

The ship features 2,116 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Venezia Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 135,500 GT
• Ship Length : 1,060 feet (323 meters)
• Beam : 122 feet (37 meters)
• Max Speed : 21 mph (18 knots)
• Year Built : 2019
• Ship Class : Vista
• Capacity : 5,260 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,278
• Total on Board : 6,538
• Total Staterooms : 2,116
• Passenger Decks : 14
• Flagged Country : Italy
• Ship Cost : $780 Million

Carnival Panorama Size

Setting sail for the first time in 2019, the Carnival Panorama is a magnificent vessel that boasts an impressive 135,500 gross tons.

Measuring 1,055 feet (322 meters) in length, it’s the fifth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Vista Class.

With a maximum capacity of 6,596 passengers, including 5,146 vacationers and 1,450 staff members, the Carnival Panorama offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,823 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Panorama Size & Stats

• Ship Length : 1,055 feet (322 meters)
• Draft : 27 feet (8 meters)
• Capacity : 5,146 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,450
• Total on Board : 6,596
• Total Staterooms : 1,823
• Passenger Decks : 15

Carnival Horizon Size

Embarking on its maiden voyage in 2018, the Carnival Horizon is a stunning ship that boasts an impressive 133,500 gross tons.

Measuring 1,055 feet (322 meters) in length, it’s the sixth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the coveted Vista Class.

With a maximum capacity of 6,427 passengers, including 4,977 vacationers and 1,450 staff members, the Carnival Horizon offers a vast array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,967 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Horizon Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 133,500 GT
• Year Built : 2018
• Capacity : 4,977 passengers
• Total on Board : 6,427
• Total Staterooms : 1,967
• Ship Cost : $800 Million

Carnival Vista Size

Taking to the seas in 2016, the Carnival Vista is an impressive ship that boasts a total size of 133,500 gross tons.

Measuring 1,055 feet (322 meters) in length, it’s the seventh-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Vista Class.

With a maximum capacity of 6,427 passengers, including 4,977 vacationers and 1,450 staff members, the Carnival Vista offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Vista Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2016

Carnival Breeze Size

Setting sail in 2012, the Carnival Breeze is a magnificent ship that boasts a total size of 130,000 gross tons.

Measuring 1,004 feet (306 meters) in length, it’s the eighth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Dream Class.

With a maximum capacity of 6,110 passengers, including 4,724 vacationers and 1,386 staff members, the Carnival Breeze offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,845 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Breeze Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 130,000 GT
• Ship Length : 1,004 feet (306 meters)
• Year Built : 2012
• Ship Class : Dream
• Capacity : 4,724 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,386
• Total on Board : 6,110
• Total Staterooms : 1,845
• Ship Cost : $740 Million

Carnival Magic Size

Taking to the seas in 2011, the Carnival Magic is a magnificent ship that boasts a total size of 130,000 gross tons.

Measuring 1,004 feet (306 meters) in length, it’s the ninth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Dream Class.

With a maximum capacity of 6,110 passengers, including 4,724 vacationers and 1,386 staff members, the Carnival Magic offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Magic Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2011

Carnival Dream Size

Launched in 2009, the Carnival Dream is a stunning ship that boasts a total size of 130,000 gross tons.

Measuring 1,004 feet (306 meters) in length, it’s the tenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Dream Class.

With a maximum capacity of 5,998 passengers, including 4,631 vacationers and 1,367 staff members, the Carnival Dream offers a vast array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Dream Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2009
• Capacity : 4,631 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,367
• Total on Board : 5,998
• Passenger Decks : 13
• Ship Cos t : $740 Million

Carnival Splendor Size

With its construction completed in 2008, the Carnival Splendor is a magnificent ship that boasts a total size of 113,300 gross tons.

Measuring 952 feet (290 meters) in length, it’s the eleventh-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Splendor Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,884 passengers, including 3,734 vacationers and 1,150 staff members, the Carnival Splendor offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,506 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Splendor Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 113,300 GT
• Ship Length : 952 feet (290 meters)
• Beam : 116 feet (35 meters)
• Max Speed : 25 mph (22 knots)
• Year Built : 2008
• Ship Class : Splendor
• Capacity : 3,734 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,150
• Total on Board : 4,884
• Total Staterooms : 1,506
• Flagged Country : Malta
• Ship Cost : $700 Million

Carnival Conquest Size

Launched in 2002, the Carnival Conquest is a stunning ship that boasts a total size of 110,000 gross tons.

Measuring 953 feet (290 meters) in length, it’s the twelfth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the revered Conquest Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,906 passengers, including 3,756 vacationers and 1,150 staff members, the Carnival Conquest offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,487 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Conquest Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 110,000 GT
• Ship Length : 953 feet (290 meters)
• Year Built : 2002
• Ship Class : Conquest
• Capacity : 3,756 passengers
• Total on Board : 4,906
• Total Staterooms : 1,487
• Ship Cost : $500 Million

Carnival Glory Size

The Carnival Glory, constructed in 2003, is a magnificent ship that boasts a total size of 110,000 gross tons.

Measuring 952 feet (290 meters) in length, it’s the thirteenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Conquest Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,906 passengers, including 3,756 vacationers and 1,150 staff members, the Carnival Glory offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,485 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Glory Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2003
• Total Staterooms : 1,485

Carnival Liberty Size

Launched in 2005, the Carnival Liberty is a spectacular ship that boasts a total size of 110,000 gross tons.

Measuring 952 feet (290 meters) in length, it’s the fourteenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the revered Conquest Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,916 passengers, including 3,756 vacationers and 1,160 staff members, the Carnival Liberty offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Liberty Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2005
• Crew Members : 1,160
• Total on Board : 4,916

Carnival Valor Size

The Carnival Valor, constructed in 2004, is an impressive ship that boasts a total size of 110,000 gross tons.

Measuring 952 feet (290 meters) in length, it’s the fifteenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Conquest Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,936 passengers, including 3,756 vacationers and 1,180 staff members, the Carnival Valor offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,490 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Valor Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2004
• Crew Members : 1,180
• Total on Board : 4,936
• Total Staterooms : 1,490

Carnival Freedom Size

The Carnival Freedom, built in 2007, is a magnificent ship that boasts a total size of 110,000 gross tons.

Measuring 952 feet (290 meters) in length, it’s the sixteenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the revered Conquest Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,904 passengers, including 3,754 vacationers and 1,150 staff members, the Carnival Freedom offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Freedom Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2007
• Capacity : 3,754 passengers
• Total on Board : 4,904

Carnival Sunshine Size

The Carnival Sunshine, constructed in 1996, is a stunning ship that boasts a total size of 102,853 gross tons.

Measuring 893 feet (272 meters) in length, it’s the seventeenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Sunshine Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,152 passengers, including 3,002 vacationers and 1,150 staff members, the Carnival

Sunshine offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,321 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Sunshine Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 102,853 GT
• Ship Length : 893 feet (272 meters)
• Beam : 125 feet (38 meters)
• Max Speed : 24 mph (21 knots)
• Year Built : 1996
• Ship Class : Sunshine
• Capacity : 3,002 passengers
• Total on Board : 4,152
• Total Staterooms : 1,321
• Ship Cost : $400 Million

Carnival Radiance Size

The Carnival Radiance, built in 2000, is an impressive ship that boasts a total size of 101,509 gross tons.

Measuring 893 feet (272 meters) in length, it’s the eighteenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Sunshine Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,981 passengers, including 3,873 vacationers and 1,108 staff members, the Carnival Radiance offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,492 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Radiance Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 101,509 GT
• Year Built : 2000
• Capacity : 3,873 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,108
• Total on Board : 4,981
• Total Staterooms : 1,492
• Ship Cost : $410 Million

Carnival Sunrise Size

Launched in 1999, the Carnival Sunrise is a magnificent ship that boasts a total size of 101,509 gross tons.

Measuring 893 feet (272 meters) in length, it’s the nineteenth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Sunshine Class.

With a maximum capacity of 4,981 passengers, including 3,873 vacationers and 1,108 staff members, the Carnival Sunrise offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Sunrise Size & Stats

• Year Built : 1999
• Ship Cost : $420 Million

Carnival Luminosa Size

The Carnival Luminosa, constructed in 2009, is a remarkable ship that boasts a total size of 92,720 gross tons.

Measuring 963 feet (294 meters) in length, it’s the twentieth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Luminosa Class.

With a maximum capacity of 3,876 passengers, including 2,826 vacationers and 1,050 staff members, the Carnival Luminosa offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,130 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Luminosa Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 92,720 GT
• Ship Length : 963 feet (294 meters)
• Beam : 106 feet (32 meters)
• Draft : 26 feet (8 meters)
• Ship Class : Luminosa
• Capacity : 2,826 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,050
• Total on Board : 3,876
• Total Staterooms : 1,130
• Ship Cost : $550 Million

Carnival Miracle Size

The Carnival Miracle, built in 2004, is a stunning ship that boasts a total size of 88,500 gross tons.

Measuring 963 feet (294 meters) in length, it’s the twenty-first-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the revered Spirit Class.

With a maximum capacity of 3,590 passengers, including 2,680 vacationers and 910 staff members, the Carnival Miracle offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,062 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Miracle Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 88,500 GT
• Ship Class : Spirit
• Capacity : 2,680 passengers
• Crew Members : 910
• Total on Board : 3,590
• Total Staterooms : 1,062
• Ship Cost : $375 Million

Carnival Pride Size

Launched in 2002, the Carnival Pride is a magnificent ship that boasts a total size of 88,500 gross tons.

Measuring 963 feet (294 meters) in length, it’s the twenty-second-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Spirit Class.

With a maximum capacity of 3,590 passengers, including 2,680 vacationers and 910 staff members, the Carnival Pride offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Pride Size & Stats

Carnival Legend Size

The Carnival Legend, constructed in 2002, is a remarkable ship that boasts a total size of 88,500 gross tons.

Measuring 963 feet (294 meters) in length, it’s the twenty-third-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the revered Spirit Class.

With a maximum capacity of 3,540 passengers, including 2,610 vacationers and 930 staff members, the Carnival Legend offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Legend Size & Stats

• Capacity : 2,610 passengers
• Crew Members : 930
• Total on Board : 3,540

Carnival Spirit Size

The Carnival Spirit, built in 2001, is a splendid ship that boasts a total size of 88,500 gross tons.

Measuring 963 feet (294 meters) in length, it’s the twenty-fourth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Spirit Class.

With a maximum capacity of 3,540 passengers, including 2,610 vacationers and 930 staff members, the Carnival Spirit offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Spirit Size & Stats

• Year Built : 2001

Carnival Elation Size

Launched in 1998, the Carnival Elation is a beautiful ship that boasts a total size of 70,367 gross tons.

Measuring 855 feet (261 meters) in length, it’s the twenty-fifth-largest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Fantasy Class.

With a maximum capacity of 3,526 passengers, including 2,606 vacationers and 920 staff members, the Carnival Elation offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The ship features 1,026 staterooms, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay on board.

Carnival Elation Size & Stats

• Gross Tonnage : 70,367 GT
• Ship Length : 855 feet (261 meters)
• Beam : 103 feet (31 meters)
• Year Built : 1998
• Ship Class : Fantasy
• Capacity : 2,606 passengers
• Crew Members : 920
• Total on Board : 3,526
• Total Staterooms : 1,026
• Passenger Decks : 10
• Ship Cost : $300 Million

Carnival Paradise Size

The Carnival Paradise, built in 1998, is a splendid ship that boasts a total size of 70,367 gross tons.

Measuring 855 feet (261 meters) in length, it’s the smallest ship in Carnival’s fleet of 26 active cruise ships and is part of the esteemed Fantasy Class.

With a maximum capacity of 3,526 passengers, including 2,606 vacationers and 920 staff members, the Carnival Paradise offers an incredible array of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Carnival Paradise Size & Stats

Whether you are looking for a smaller ship like the Carnival Sunrise or a larger ship like the Carnival Jubilee, Carnival has a ship that will fit your needs.

It’s also worth noting that Carnival is not the only cruise line out there. Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises are two other popular cruise lines that offer a variety of ship sizes.

Royal Caribbean’s largest ship, Symphony of the Seas, is even larger than the biggest Carnival cruise ship, the Carnival Jubilee.

Costa Cruises, on the other hand, has a fleet of smaller ships, with the largest ship, Costa Smeralda, having a gross tonnage of 185,010.

When choosing a cruise, it’s important to consider the size of the ship, as it can impact your overall experience. Larger ships offer more amenities and activities, while smaller ships can provide a more intimate and personalized experience.

Overall, Carnival Cruise Line offers a range of ship sizes to fit your preferences and needs.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly ship with waterslides and mini-golf, or a quieter ship with more relaxation options, Carnival has a ship for you.

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Carnival Ships by Class [2022] Compare Size & Features

Our ULTIMATE Carnival Ships by Class post has all of the information you'll need to choose your next vacation!

Your experience will be heavily influenced by the class of ship you pick. Carnival has gone through massive changes in 2021 . A few vessels were scrapped. Others have had their name changed. Some went through renovations. And a couple are soon to launch!

We have the latest and greatest info by Class. Here are some of the many pieces of info you'll find below.

Ship Stats : including size, capacity, speed, age & more Features : every Carnival feature and whether it's included on your ship Home Ports : see which class of ships is nearest you More : fun facts and tidbits you won't want to miss

Whether you're looking for your next vacation or sizing up a ship you've booked, we have the info you need.

The above infographic shows all Carnival Ships by Class. Make sure to save it to pinterest to refer to any time you're shopping for cruises.

We're just scratching the surface with that info above. The real meat and potatoes is below.

Feel free to click any of the Carnival ship classes below to jump to that section. No rush, though. We've got all day.

Carnival Ships by Class

• XL : Carnival Celebration
• XL : Carnival Mardi Gras
• Vista : Carnival Panorama
• Vista : Carnival Horizon
• Vista : Carnival Vista
• Dream : Carnival Breeze
• Dream : Carnival Magic
• Dream : Carnival Dream
• Splendor : Carnival Splendor
• Conquest : Carnival Freedom
• Conquest : Carnival Liberty
• Spirit : Carnival Miracle
• Conquest : Carnival Valor
• Conquest : Carnival Glory
• Conquest : Carnival Conquest
• Spirit : Carnival Legend
• Spirit : Carnival Pride
• Spirit : Carnival Spirit
• Sunshine : Carnival Radiance
• Sunshine : Carnival Sunrise
• Fantasy : Carnival Elation
• Fantasy : Carnival Paradise
• Fantasy : Carnival Inspiration
• Sunshine : Carnival Sunshine
• Fantasy : Carnival Imagination
• Fantasy : Carnival Fascination
• Fantasy : Carnival Sensation
• Fantasy : Carnival Ecstasy
• Fantasy : Carnival Fantasy

The eight Carnival Ship Classes shown above each have a distinct vibe . Some are huge, others more intimate. A few are more geared towards families. Others offer venues catered more towards adults. A few have more character (realtor speak for "older") and some still have that "new ship smell."

You should be able to use the info below to find exactly what you're looking for. Be sure to take advantage of our detailed charts below. They list every Carnival feature offered . Click through the tabs to filter by type of venue (ex: Bars, Dining, etc). On each tab we show all Carnival venues in that category and whether that ship offer each.

Often we're asked if Carnival class affects price. The cost of a Carnival cruise isn't directly correlated with class. You won't find that the Fantasy Class is always more expensive than the Spirit Class or vice versa. It will all depend on the specific itinerary. To get a sense of pricing, please use our widget below. Play around with destinations and dates to see the resulting prices. Feel free to click through for all details.

Conquest Class Info

The first of Carnival’s Conquest Class was launched in 2002 . The original Conquest ship was designed similar to the Destiny (now “Sunshine”) class of ships.

All ships among this class underwent significant renovations in the years spanning 2016 through 2019. The most notable change was a “lengthening” of each ship by roughly 60 feet! Most features were expanded and a new dining venue was added above the Lido deck. The number of passenger cabins was also increased.

Among the five ships in the Conquest Class, each have similar common areas. Yet, the decor varies among these and is consistent with the ships names.

One distinguishing characteristic of the Conquest Class is the patriotic theme you’ll find on each. This was influenced by the ships timing, having launched shortly after 9/11.

• Carnival Class : Conquest
• Ship Count : 5 ships
• Inaugural Year : 2002
• Tonnage : 110,000 GT
• Length : 952 ft (290 m)
• Beam : 116 ft (35 m)
• Draft : 27 ft (8 m)
• Passenger Decks : 13
• Max Speed : 26 mph (22 knots)
• Max Capacity : 3,756 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,158
• Total on Board : 4,914
• Total Staterooms : 1,488

Departure Ports : Miami; New Orleans; New Orleans; Port Canaveral; Galveston

Included Ships : Conquest (2002); Glory (2003); Valor (2004); Liberty (2005); Freedom (2007)

Dream Class Info

The first of Carnival’s Dream Class was launched in 2009 . The original Dream ship was designed similar to the Conquest class of ships with a few notable exceptions.

Most obvious was the massive, outdoor promenade on deck five. The venue featured outside cafes, a waterpark and jacuzzis lining the edge of the promenade. Dream Class ships were also the first to feature the Sky Course Ropes Course and the amazon 4D Theater.

When initially launched, the Dream Class was Carnival’s largest of the lot. This held true until the Vista Class came along.

The three ships in the Dream Class are similar, but the Magic and Dream are more identical to each other than the Dream. You’ll notice in our chart that there are some differences in features . The Magic and Breeze offer the ropes course, whereas the Breeze does not. The Breeze, however, does include the 4D theater not seen on the other two ships.

• Carnival Class : Dream
• Ship Count : 3 ships
• Inaugural Year : 2009
• Tonnage : 130,000 GT
• Length : 1,004 ft (306 m)
• Beam : 122 ft (37 m)
• Passenger Decks : 14
• Max Speed : 26 mph (23 knots)
• Max Capacity : 4,693 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,380
• Total on Board : 6,073
• Total Staterooms : 1,838

Departure Ports : Galveston; Miami; Port Canaveral

Included Ships : Dream (2009); Magic (2011); Breeze (2012)

Fantasy Class Info

The Fantasy Class is one of Carnival’s more mature family of vessels. The original Fantasy ship was introduced in 1990 and has had seven siblings added down the line.

It’s unsure whether Carnival planned to thin down the Fantasy Class , but that’s certainly been the case during 2020. The lock down has led to CCL retiring three Fantasy ships (Fantasy, Imagination & Inspiration). Additionally, the Fascination is in long term lay-up mode and has an unknown return date.

If we’re being honest, the Fantasy Class of ships aren’t the company’s “show ponies.” They’re older, smaller, and have less bells & whistles. That’s why you can typically find great cruise deals on this class of ships. It’s not uncommon to find cruises cheaper than $40 per day!

The Fantasy Class tends to sail short runs of less than five days. These are popular with repeat visitors and last-minute cruisers .

• Carnival Class : Fantasy
• Ship Count : 4 ships
• Inaugural Year : 1991
• Tonnage : 70,367 GT
• Length : 855 ft (260 m)
• Beam : 103 ft (31 m)
• Draft : 26 ft (8 m)
• Passenger Decks : 10
• Max Speed : 24 mph (21 knots)
• Max Capacity : 2,606 passengers
• Crew Members : 920
• Total on Board : 3,526
• Total Staterooms : 1,026

Departure Ports : Jacksonville; Mobile; Port Canaveral; Tampa

Included Ships : Ecstasy (1991); Sensation (1993); Elation (1998); Paradise (1998)

Spirit Class Info

The Spirit Class of Carnival ships includes four, active vessels. The first of which introduced in 2001 is, not surprisingly, the Carnival Spirit. She was followed by the Pride, Legend and Miracle.

Carnival’s sister brand, Costa Cruise Line, also has some Spirit Class ships. The Atlantica and Mediterranea are among the Spirit Class and similarly built.

In terms of size, the Fantasy Class of ships is smaller than the Triumph Class and larger than the Fantasy Class. Each ships holds just over 2k passengers.

You’ll find longer itineraries on Spirt Class ships. Typically 6-10 days and often longer.

• Carnival Class : Spirit
• Inaugural Year : 2001
• Tonnage : 88,500 GT
• Length : 963 ft (293 m)
• Beam : 106 ft (32 m)
• Passenger Decks : 12
• Max Speed : 25 mph (22 knots)
• Max Capacity : 2,645 passengers
• Total on Board : 3,565
• Total Staterooms : 1,062

Departure Ports : Brisbane; Tampa; Baltimore; San Diego, San Francisco

Included Ships : Spirit (2001); Legend (2002); Pride (2002); Miracle (2004)

Splendor Class Info

This poor ship sits alone in its own Splendor Class. It has no brothers or sisters and it appears she never will. Carnival had planned to remove the Splendor ship from its line in 2019. These plans were eventually scrapped. It’s likely she won’t be with the company for many more years.

The Splendor ship was launched in 2008 and served a bit in Europe until coming to Florida. Eventually the ship was moved to the west coast.

Significant renovations were completed on the Splendor in late 2019.

• Carnival Class : Splendor
• Ship Count : 1 ships
• Inaugural Year : 2008
• Tonnage : 113,300 GT
• Max Capacity : 3,734 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,150
• Total on Board : 4,884
• Total Staterooms : 1,506

Departure Ports : Sydney

Included Ships : Splendor (2008)

Sunshine Class Info

The Sunshine Class in Carnival’s fleet includes three, active ships.

Originally, the class was launched as the Destiny Class in 1996. At this time, the Destiny was the largest passenger ship in the world !

In 2013 it went into dry dock where it received significant renovations. It floated out with all new bells and whistles and was renamed, the Sunshine.

The Destiny wasn’t the only ship in its class to go through such a change. The Triumph was born in 1999 and Victory in 2000. Like their sister, they went under the scalpel and came out anew. You may not even recognize these two pretty ladies, especially considering they too changed their names. The Triumph is now the Sunrise and the Victory goes by, “Sunrise .”

• Carnival Class : Sunshine
• Inaugural Year : 1996
• Tonnage : 101,957 GT
• Length : 893 ft (272 m)
• Beam : 125 ft (38 m)
• Max Capacity : 3,583 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,122
• Total on Board : 4,705
• Total Staterooms : 1,435

Departure Ports : Charleston; Miami; Long Beach

Included Ships : Sunshine (1996); Sunrise (1999); Radiance (2000)

Vista Class Info

When the Vista was first launched in 2016, it took the crown for largest Carnival Ship . Her reign continued for a few years until her sister trumped her in 2019. The Horizon is just slightly larger. The Panorama will soon launch as the Vista’s newest ship and take the torch for largest.

Vista class ships boasted more than size . Amazon new ship features were introduced. Some of the more notable include the IMAX Theater at Sea, Family Harbor, Dr Seuss at Sea and cabins with recreational space.

While the three ships are fairly consistent, there’s one big change to note . The Panorama chose not to include the IMAX theater in exchange for their SkyZone Trampoline Park!

You’ll find a wide variety of itineraries (length and destination) on these three ships.

• Carnival Class : Vista
• Inaugural Year : 2016
• Tonnage : 134,167 GT
• Length : 1,055 ft (321 m)
• Passenger Decks : 15
• Max Capacity : 5,033 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,450
• Total on Board : 6,483
• Total Staterooms : 1,919

Departure Ports : Galveston; Miami; Long Beach

Included Ships : Vista (2016); Horizon (2018); Panorama (2019)

XL Class Info

Carnival’s XL Class is the newest and most exciting addition. The first of the two planned ships was launched in 2021. The Mardi Gras is now the largest ship in Carnival’s fleet at 184k gross tons.

It’s common to mistake the XL Class name for a nod to its massive size. But, XL does NOT necessarily stand for “extra large.” This class of ships is actually a sub-class under Carnival Corporation’s Excellence Class of ships including some Costa, P&O and AIDA ships.

The XL class will be fueled by standard gas as well as liquid natural gas (LNG)! This allows for more environmental sustainability. The complexity has also led to the ship’s delay.

• Carnival Class : XL
• Ship Count : 2 ships
• Inaugural Year : 2020
• Tonnage : 183,900 GT
• Length : 1,130 ft (344 m)
• Beam : 137 ft (42 m)
• Draft : 28 ft (9 m)
• Passenger Decks : 17
• Max Capacity : 6,630 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,745
• Total on Board : 8,375
• Total Staterooms : 2,641

Departure Ports : Port Canaveral; Miami

Included Ships : Mardi Gras (2020); Celebration (2022)

If you like exploring our Carnival Ships by Class post, you'll also love our Carnival Ships by Size infographic ! There you'll see the dramatic difference in the cruise line's fleet.

We hope that you've gotten a good sense of Carnival Ships by Class.

To help spread the word, please use the share buttons below !

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Compare Carnival Ships Side by Side

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival conquest, passengers : .css-1xu3tth{color:black;} 2,980, crew : 1,150, launched : 2002, ratio : 2.59:1, size : large, departs from : miami.

Carnival Glory

Passengers : 2,980, launched : 2003, departs from : new orleans, port canaveral, barcelona.

Carnival Radiance

Passengers : 2,984, launched : 2021, departs from : los angeles.

Carnival Venezia

Passengers : 4,090, crew : 1,424, launched : 2019, ratio : 2.87:1, size : mega, departs from : istanbul, manhattan, port canaveral, carnival miracle, passengers : 2,124, launched : 2004, ratio : 2.27:1, departs from : los angeles, san francisco, galveston, tampa, dover, dover, rome, civitavecchia, lisbon, carnival valor, crew : 1,180, ratio : 2.53:1, departs from : new orleans, barcelona, carnival firenze, passengers : 4,072, crew : 1,278, launched : 2024, ratio : 3.19:1, carnival liberty, passengers : 2,974, crew : 1,160, launched : 2005, ratio : 2.56:1, departs from : port canaveral, new orleans, carnival elation, passengers : 2,130, launched : 1998, ratio : 2.32:1, departs from : jacksonville, carnival sunrise, crew : 1,108, launched : 1999, ratio : 2.69:1, carnival mardi gras, passengers : 5,282 (double occupancy), crew : 1,750, ratio : 3.02:1, departs from : port canaveral, barcelona, carnival spirit, launched : 2001, ratio : 2.28:1, departs from : brisbane, seattle, tampa, mobile, barcelona, miami, carnival legend, departs from : baltimore, barcelona, dover, dover, rome, civitavecchia, tampa, san francisco, galveston, carnival freedom, launched : 2007, departs from : miami, port canaveral, carnival paradise, passengers : 2,052, ratio : 2.23:1, departs from : tampa.

What Are the Sizes of Carnival Cruise Ships?

Travel tips.

What Are the Sizes of Carnival Cruise Ships? (Photo: )

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When a company has been around the block (around the sea?) as many times as Carnival has, it figures out what customers want. In Carnival's case, what customers want seems to be bigger ships. Each time the company expands its fleet, it breaks its own size record. Carnival's largest ships are now nearly twice as large as its smallest. Those smallest ships aren't exactly tiny, though. All Carnival cruises set sail on huge vessels that are loaded with amenities.

How Carnival Organizes Its Fleet

Carnival categorizes its ships by class, with a total of eight classes: Fantasy, Triumph, Spirit, Conquest, Splendor, Dream, Sunshine and Vista. The ships within each class have different names, different departure points and different destinations, but they're all approximately the same size. Each class has between one and eight ships. In all, Carnival's fleet includes more than two dozen ships. Each ship has two meaningful size measurements: gross tonnage (GT), which is a measurement of overall ship volume; and guest capacity, which is the maximum number of passengers the ship can accommodate, assuming double occupancy in each stateroom.

Carnival's Smallest Ships

The smallest ships in Carnival's fleet are those in the Fantasy class. Each one has a gross tonnage of 70,367 or 71,909 tons and can carry between 2,054 and 2,130 passengers. The ships in Carnival's Spirit class are the only others in the company's fleet that have a gross tonnage measurement under 100,000. Those four ships have a GT of 88,500 and hold 2,124 passengers each.

Carnival's Largest Ships

The rest of the ships in Carnival's fleet have a total volume that exceeds 100,000 tons. The newest ships, part of the Vista class, are the carrier's largest. Those three ships – the Vista, the Horizon and the Panorama – have a gross tonnage of 133,500 each. The Vista and Horizon can accommodate more than 3,900 passengers. With the 2019 launch of the Panorama, more than 4,000 people can fit comfortably on a single Carnival ship.

The other ships in the fleet come in at anywhere from 101,509 to 130,000 GT and have guest capacities between 2,764 and 3,690.

How Ship Size Affects a Cruise

All of Carnival's ships are huge. Some are larger than others, but none of them feel small. The major difference between the company's larger ships and smaller ones is the amenities available onboard. That difference isn't just because of size constraints, though. Carnival's smaller ships are also its oldest. The largest ships are the newest, and to remain competitive with other cruise companies, Carnival adds more sports and pool facilities, bars, restaurants and entertainment options to each new ship.

Passengers who board a ship in the Fantasy or Spirit class will find no shortage of high-quality attractions, however. Carnival routinely refurbishes and upgrades its older ships. Concerned an older ship won't have all the features you're seeking? Use the Compare Ships tool on Carnival's website to find a list of all the services and amenities available on a specific ship before booking a cruise.

• Carnival: Carnival Ships by Class
• Carnival: Cruise Ships
• Carnival: Compare Ships

Kathryn Walsh has been writing about travel topics for more than 10 years, but has been feeding her inner travel bug for much longer. Her favorite place to visit is Scotland, and her work has appeared on sites including USAToday, AZCentral and Choice Hotels.

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How Long Is a Carnival Cruise Ship? (With 25 Examples)

There are several Carnival cruise ships, with more to come in the near future. They all range in length and width but not by a lot. Before booking a spot on a cruise, a common question is how long the cruise is.

How long is a Carnival cruise ship?  Carnival cruise ships are an average of 292 meters (958 feet) long and hold an average of 3,000 passengers. Generally, Carnival ships measure from 261 meters (856.3 feet) to 322 meters in length (1,062 feet) and can accommodate 2,000 to 4,000 passengers. Passengers are served by a crew of 1,300 to 1,500 people. 

Read on to learn more about how long a Carnival cruise ship is, as well as the specs and features for 25 different ships.

How Long Is a Carnival Cruise Ship?

The following are the longest Carnival cruise ships in the world. The list starts from the longest to the shortest. They have several common features but also some big differences between each.

1. Carnival Vista

Vista is the longest Carnival cruise ship in the world at 322 meters (1,062 feet) . It has 1,500 crew members and can accommodate 4,000 passengers. 

2. Carnival Breeze

The Carnival Breeze is 306 meters in length (1,003.94 feet) and can accommodate 3,690 passengers. It has 1,386 crew members and was built in 2012. 

3. Carnival Dream

The Carnival Dream has the same length as the Carnival Breeze at 306 meters (1,003.9370 feet) but has fewer passengers at 3,646. It also has fewer crew members at 1,386. It was built in 2009.

4. Carnival Magic

The Carnival Magic has the same specification in length as Carnival Dream at 306 meters (1,003.9370 feet).  It can accommodate 3,646 passengers, who are served by 1,386 crew members. It was built in 2011, three years later than the Carnival Dream.

5. Carnival Miracle

This Carnival ship is 294 meters long (964.57 feet) . It can house 2,124 passengers plus 934 crew members. It was built in 2004, a few years later than some of the other Carnival ships.

6. Carnival Legend

This Carnival ship is also 294 meters long (964.57 feet).  It can accommodate 2,124 passengers and 930 crew members. It was built in 2002 with a gross tonnage of 86,000 tons.

7. Carnival Pride

The Pride is 294 meters in length (964.57 feet) too.  It has the same passenger capacity as the Legend and most of the Carnival ships. It was also built in 2002, the same year as the Legend.

8. Carnival Spirit

This ship is 293 meters long (961.29 feet).  It can carry 2,680 passengers plus a 960-member crew. It’s one of the oldest Carnival ships, having been built in 2001. It weighs 86,000 tons.

9. Carnival Splendor

The Carnival Splendor was built in 2008 at 290 meters long (951.44 feet).  It has 1,150 crew members serving 3,006 passengers.

10. Carnival Liberty

Carnival Liberty has the same length as the Carnival Splendor at 290 meters (951.44 feet).  However, it has more crew at 1,160, serving 2,974 passengers.

11. Carnival Freedom

This Carnival cruise ship has the same length as the Splendor and the Liberty at 290 meters (951.44 feet).  It also has the same number of crew members as that of the Splendor at 1,150. With regards to the number of passengers, it has the same passenger capacity as the Liberty at 2,974.

12. Carnival Valor

This carnival cruise ship is also 290 meters long (951.44 feet).  It has the same length as the Splendor, Liberty, and Freedom Carnival cruise ships. It can accommodate the same number of passengers as the Liberty and Freedom at 2,974 but has more crew at 1,180 than the Liberty, Splendor, and Freedom cruise ships.

13. Carnival Conquest

This Carnival  cruise ship  has the same length as the Liberty, Splendor, Freedom, and Valor at 290 meters (951.44 feet).  It has the same number of passengers as the Liberty, Splendor, Freedom, and Valor at 2,974, but served by a 1,150-crew, which is the same number as the Splendor and Freedom.

14. Carnival Glory

This ship is also 290 meters long (951.44 feet).  It has the same specifications as the Conquest with regards to the number of passengers (2,974) and crew (1,150). The Carnival Glory was built in 2003.

15. Carnival Sunshine

The Sunshine is 272 meters long (892.39 feet).  Even though it’s a bit shorter than  the Liberty, Splendor, Freedom, and Valor , it has eight more passengers at 3,002 than the four ships. In spite of this, the number of crew serving these passengers is fewer at 1,040.

Other Carnival Cruise Ships

1. carnival triumph.

This ship is also 272 meters long (892.39 feet) but has fewer passengers at 2,758 and crew at 1,100. It was built in 1999. 

2. Carnival Victory

The Victory is 272 meters (892.39 feet) as well  and has the same number of passengers and crew as the Triumph at 2,758 and 1,100, respectively. It was built in 2000, one year after the Triumph.

3. Carnival Fascination

This ship is shorter at 261 meters (856.3 feet) in length.  It can carry 2,052 passengers and 920 crew members. It was built in 1994 with a gross tonnage of 71,000.

4. Carnival Sensation

This carnival ship is also 261 meters long (856.3 feet).  Just like the Fascination, it has 2,052 passengers and a 920-crew. It’s one of the oldest Carnival ships built in 1993. It weighs 70,000 tons.

5. Carnival Ecstasy

At 261 meters long (856.3 feet), it’s one of the shortest Carnival ships.  It was built in 1991. Its maximum capacity is 2,052 passengers, similar to the other ships with the same length. It provides the services of 920 crew members and weighs 71,000 tons.

6. Carnival Elation

This carnival ship is 261 meters in length (856.3 feet).  It has the same specifications as the Ecstasy, except that it weighs 1,000-ton less at 70,000. It was built in 1998.

7. Carnival Paradise

This carnival ship is 261 meters in length (856.3 feet) too.  It can accommodate 2,052 passengers with 920 crew members. It also weighs 70,000 tons. It was built in 1998, like the Carnival Elation.

8. Carnival Fantasy

The Fantasy is also 261 meters long (856.3 feet).  This cruise ship was built in 1990 and can house 2,052 passengers and 920 crew.

9. Carnival Imagination

The Carnival Imagination was built in 1995 at 261 meters long (856.3 feet).  It can carry 2,052 passengers, plus a 920-crew team. It weighs 70,000 tons.

10. Carnival Inspiration

The Inspiration has the same length as many carnival ships at 261 meters (856.3 feet) . It was built in 1996 and can house 2,052 passengers and 920 crew members.

These are the longest Carnival cruise ships and their corresponding passenger capacity. The majority of these ships can accommodate the same number of passengers.

All About the Carnival Cruise Line

The headquarters of the Carnival Cruise Line is located in Doral,  Florida , USA. Based on the number of ships in the fleet and the number of passengers transported yearly, it is one of the largest cruise lines globally and the Carnival group’s largest fleet.

Founded in 1972 by Ted Arison, the Carnival Cruise Line continued to grow and expand. It now has 26 cruise ships, with at least four big ships being added in the next five years. Their fleet would certainly grow more as this happens every five years or so.

Carnival Cruises aim to improve their amenities and services more to cater to the different preferences of each passenger. Even though they could provide the necessary facilities as required by  law , the management of Carnival Cruises wants to add more superb events to their list of entertainment options.

How Long Do Carnival Cruises Last?

Carnival cruises usually last 2 to 4 days. It may be short for some vacationers, but it’s full of thrilling activities onboard and at the port calls.

Recently, Carnival Cruise has made a historical 24-day cruise that started from Long Beach,  California , to the ports of Honolulu and Maui and then to Singapore. This cruise may happen again in the future. If you plan to be one of the passengers on this 24-day cruise, you should be on the lookout for further announcements.

The Best Length of Time for a Carnival Cruise Trip?

The best length of time would depend on your available time and the company you are in for the trip. If you’re alone and the weekends are only your available days, then a 3-day Carnival cruise is perfect for you.

On the contrary, if you’re on vacation with your family, a 5 or 7-day cruise is ideal. The itinerary and ports of call for each cruise typically vary, but generally, here are things you can expect from a Carnival cruise:

1. 2 to 5-Day Cruises

These cruises are from Miami to the Caribbean or the Bahamas or from Long Beach to Baja, Mexico. During these short cruises, you can explore the adventures onboard and in port calls. There’s no shortage of events in a 2 to 5-day cruise.

This length of time can provide you the relaxation and adrenaline rush that you desire while on vacation. You could also choose to stay on board and simply rest for a more relaxing time.

2. 6 to 9-Day Cruises

These cruises allow you more time to find points of interest during your in port stops. Typically, the cruises start from New Orleans and Miami, going to the Western and Eastern Caribbean.

This time would be best for a family or a group vacation because family or group members would have the chance to experience their dream activity. What better place to spend your vacation than on a sunny and sizzling haven like the Caribbean?

3. 10 Plus Day Cruises

In these long cruises, Carnival ships can take you to Europe and back or provide you with Hawaiian and transatlantic cruises. You’ll have more port calls, experiencing a fruitful journey as you visit various places with different cultures.

If you have extra time and money, then this is the best type of cruise for you and your family.

Tips When Going on a Long Carnival Cruise

• Choose your Carnival cruise carefully. Pick a cruise that goes to your favored destinations and port calls. It’s your vacation, so you have to go where you want to go. Don’t be influenced by naysayers.
• Bring enough clothing for both cold and warm weather. You can never be sure of weather conditions.
• Be ready with your passport or acceptable proofs of residency when going on transatlantic  cruises . You may have to present them at some point.
• Save on cost by booking a year before your intended trip. There are huge discounts for early birds. You will have an array of staterooms to choose from, as there may still be no reservations.
• Learn what is provided for free during the cruise, and what you could bring with your carry-on-luggage. Several  cruise ships  allow drinks and alcohol in limited amounts, but they should be packed in your carry-on bag.
• Learn the rules and regulations of the cruise ship before boarding to avoid fines/sanctions and embarrassment later on.
• Browse reviews of the Carnival cruise ship you plan to book. You may find some vital information about its services through these reviews.
• Have enough cash in your possession as there may be times you have to use it in other ports.
• Have fun. Relax and enjoy your cruise. Make the most out of it and create some beautiful memories.

Conclusion – How Long Is a Carnival Cruise Ship?

So to revisit our initial question: How long is a Carnival cruise ship? Carnival cruise ships are an average of 292 meters (958 feet) long and hold an average of 3,000 passengers. The ships range from approximately 261 meters (856.3 feet) to 322 meters (1,062 feet). Several ships do have uniform lengths, sizes, and the number of passengers.

As for the activities, there are teen and youth programs for other family members to join. There are also fun shops and diverse events you can explore. Offshore, you can join onshore excursions, visit spas, and play at a casino. You may want to visit famous tourist spots, too. If you’re traveling alone, it would be a fantastic learning quest for you.

Also, whether it’s a 2-day or 10-day cruise, a Carnival cruise could be a refreshing respite that could strengthen relationships within your family. Bond with a group of friends or with your loved ones in one of these Carnival cruises, and you won’t regret it.

Related reading:

What Is the Best Carnival Cruise Ship? – Our Top 10 Picks

What Is the Biggest Carnival Cruise Ship?

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Cruise Ship Size Comparison, Dimensions

Compare cruise ship sizes by length, weight (tonnage), height, width/beam. Review cruise ship dimensions in both meters and feet, and FAQ information, definitions.

Cruise ship size comparison

In our huge table below there's a list of all most famous, ever best passenger cruise ships sorted by name. This survey also offers smaller cruise ships size comparison of top luxury all-inclusive vessels with gross tonnage even lesser than 5,000 GT. Now the list of all ship sizes related and integrated articles:

• passenger capacity of cruise ships
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• newest cruise ships (on order/under construction)
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Length of a cruise ship (Length Overall / LOA)

The cruise ship length is professionally referred to as LOA (length overall), meaning the maximum length between the two most distant points on its hull. LOA may also include the tip of the bowsprit - the pole extending from the ship's prow (usually on tall sailing ships, yachts, and smaller boats). The bowsprit is the "winning" part of the ship when competing in a race or during trials/speed tests.

Another passenger cruise ship length measuring (though not included in this survey) is called LWL. LWL signifies "loaded waterline length" (or just "waterline length"). It excludes the total length, denoting only the length at the point where the vessel sits in the water. The LWL measure plays an important role when assessing some ship properties, like "hull speed" (aka "displacement speed"), water displacement, the amount of paint needed for the ship's bottom, etc.

Longest cruise ship in the world

The longest cruise ships by size also occupy the first two positions in the list of the largest cruise ships of the world by passenger capacity and gross tonnage. The humongous Royal Caribbean's floating cities Allure and Oasis boast the whole 360 meters in length (1,181 ft), and breadth of 47 meters (154 ft), the unbelievable for a passenger cruise ship tonnage of 225,300 tons, and max crew-passenger capacity of almost 8,500 (2,170+6,300) - each!

Weight of a cruise ship (tonnage) and draft

The size (tonnage weight) of a cruise ship is measured in "gross tonnage" (GT). It relates to the vessel's internal volume (keel to funnel* and to the outside of the hull) and applying a mathematical formula. The cruise ship tonnage is generally used for determining registration fees, port fees, safety rules, regulations. Another ship data (though not included in this survey) is the vessel's "deadweight tonnage" (DWT), which is the weight a vessel can safely carry (cargo, passengers, etc).

The cruise ship draft (or draught) measures the number of meters/feet from the waterline to the lowest point of the keel - or the ship's "invisible" portion below the surface (and especially when loaded). The cruise ship's draft is very important when considering docking in a particular port, sailing through channels or the inland waterways of the continents (rivers and canals).

*Note: Actually, the ship's funnel is the only part of the enclosed interior space that is NOT included in its Gross Tonnage measurement.

Cruise ship weight

As one of our fans Mr John Spooner (cruiser / Retired Master Mariner) have pointed out, the "Gross Tonnage" weight is a measurement of VOLUME, and not of MASS. GT  is an index related to marine vessels' overall internal volume. According to Wikipedia's definition:

• "Gross Tonnage" (GT) calculations are based on the volume of all the ship's enclosed spaces.
• "Gross Register Tonnage" (GRT) is the vessel's total internal volume measured in "register tons" (each ton equals 100 ft3 / 2,83 m3).
• Neither GT nor GTR measures the vessel's displacement (mass), but really show how big cruise ships are.
• "Deadweight Tonnage" (DWT) measures how much weight a cruise ship (or any of the marine vessel types) can carry safely. This a weighted sum of the vessel's cargo (incl provisions, passengers, crew), fuel, water (fresh and ballast), etc.
• "Displacement Tonnage" is how much weight the water that a cruise ship (any vessel) displaces when floating (the total weight of the ship / including its contents). Displacement is usually applied to the navy rather than commercial marine vessels. It is measured when the ship is loaded at full capacity.

Compare cruise ship sizes

Smallest Carnival Cruise Ships – Worth Considering & Why? (2023)

Carnival Cruise Line is well known for some of its huge “Fun Ships,”  full of amenities, activities, and entertainment options.

But what about the smallest Carnival ships in the fleet?

Often overlooked but brimming with their own unique charm.

Here we take a look at the individual ships as well as who they might be best suited for.

Do they offer the same Carnival experience in a more intimate setting?  Are they still fun.

Here we take a look at the smallest Carnival cruise ships in the fleet and whether they might be suitable for you.

What Is The Smallest Carnival Cruise Ship ?

The smallest ships in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet are the Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise, both identical in size and offering intimate cruising experiences without compromising on amenities.

Fantasy Class – The Smallest Carnival Class of Ship

Carnivals Fantasy class was launched with the Carnival Fantasy in 1990.   Ultimately comprising eight vessels, all much smaller than the mega-cruise ships of today with each exuding its own charm.

Now, in 2023, only 2 of the Fantasy Class ships remain:

Carnival Elation

Carnival paradise.

Constructed with precision in Helsinki, Finland, these ships blended the classic ocean liner design with modern amenities. 

As it happens, these were the only 2 ships of the 8 to be built with Azipod azimuth thrusters for propulsion.

The majority of the cabins are housed within the ship’s hull, a design choice that evokes memories of traditional ocean voyages. 

This ensures passengers get a unique cruising experience, combining the nostalgia of old-world travel with the comforts of the modern age.

Ships like the Mardi Gras come equipped with expansive water parks, themed zones, and even roller coasters. But what the Fantasy class lacks in grandeur, it makes up for in intimacy, charm, and a sense of nostalgia.

What Is Carnivals Smallest Ship?

There are two ships left in the Fantasy Class, both identical in size and in the majority of features, namely Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise.

Carnival Elation was built in 1998, one of the last of a series of eight sister ships and one of only two with Azipod azimuth thrusters, ensuring a vibration-free cruising experience and smooth journey. 

Externally there is no Promenade deck, which means means that certain areas can feel particularly crowded, especially when the ship is fully booked.

 However, the aft section offers a quieter respite, as it’s distanced from the bustling activities around the main pool and AquaPark.

For those seeking tranquility, the adults-only Serenity retreat on deck 9 provides a peaceful haven for guests over 21. 

The Elation’s interior design is a tribute to mythical muses and renowned composers, creating an ambiance that resonates with their timeless compositions.

Dining aboard the Elation offers both fixed and flexible options. While the food is satisfactory, it might not be the highlight of the Carnival experience. 

However, guests can look forward to lively entertainment during meals, complete with singing, dancing, and parades. And for those feeling lucky, the onboard casino offers a range of entertainment options.

As the day transitions into night, the Elation comes alive with vibrant energy you’d expert on a Carnival fun ship. 

The ship boasts multiple bars and lounges, a library, and a reading room. As evening progresses, the atmosphere shifts to party mode, promising fun-filled moments.

As the last of the eight sister ships in the renowned Fantasy class, it was built in 1998 and sails to destinations like the Bahamas and the Caribbean from Tampa, FL. 

The ship was just one of two in the class built with its vibration-free cruising, a result of the advanced Azipod azimuth thrusters used for propulsion. This ensures that guests enjoy a smooth journey, free from the disturbances that can sometimes mar sea voyages.

While the Carnival Paradise boasts a plethora of amenities for its size, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t have a walk-around Promenade deck. 

On particularly busy days, this can lead to a bit of a squeeze in outdoor spaces. However, for those who prefer quieter areas travelers have found the aft of the ship tends to be less crowded, given that most activities are centered around the main pool and AquaPark areas. 

For those seeking a quieter experience still, the adults-only Serenity retreat, reserved for guests over 21, offers a peaceful space away from the hustle and bustle.

The ship’s interior design is a nod to the grandeur of ocean liners from years gone by, evoking a sense of nostalgia while providing all the modern comforts. 

As evening descends, the Carnival Paradise truly comes alive. Guests can expect the fun to amplify, with shows and music reaching higher decibels, ensuring that every night is a as fun as you’d expect on a Carnival cruise.

Upper Deck Lifeboats

Interesting both Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise were the last cruise ships to be built with lifeboats only available on the upper decks.

You can see this is the close up of Carnival Elation: You might also be interested in whether cruises ships have enough lifeboats for everyone .

Comparison of Smallest Carnival Cruise Ship to the Largest

The smallest Carnival Cruise ships are more than half the size of the largest in the fleet, currently Carnival Celebration.

Carnival Cruise Line boasts a diverse fleet, ranging from more intimate, smaller vessels like Carnival Elation to massive floating cities that push the boundaries of maritime engineering, of which Carnival Celebration is a prime example.

This variety ensures that travelers have options, whether they prefer a cozier cruise experience or a mega-ship’s grandeur and extensive amenities.

The following table offers a side-by-side comparison, highlighting the differences in size, capacity, and features between the smallest and the largest ships in Carnival’s lineup.

Comparison of Smallest Carnival Cruise Ship to the Titanic

When it comes to cruise ships, it’s interesting for some people to compare modern-day cruise ships to the size of the Titanic.

The RMS Titanic, once the world’s largest and most luxurious ocean liner, has long been a benchmark for maritime grandeur. 

However, in today’s context, even the smallest ships in major cruise lines like Carnival often surpass the Titanic in terms of size, amenities, and technological advancements.

The Titanic, with its length of 882 feet and 9 inches and a gross tonnage of about 46,328, was considered colossal in its era.

 In contrast, the smallest ships in Carnival’s fleet, such as those from the Fantasy class like the Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise, boast a length of 855 feet but have a gross tonnage of 70,367. This indicates a more efficient use of space, with more amenities packed into a slightly shorter length.

While the Titanic could accommodate around 2,435 passengers and 892 crew members, the smallest Carnival ships can comfortably house over 2,600 passengers, with modern amenities ranging from expansive water parks to multiple dining venues and entertainment options.

In essence, the evolution of cruise ship design and engineering over the past century means that even the “small” ships of today would be considered giants in the Titanic’s era, both in terms of size and the range of experiences they offer to passengers.

Although shorter in length, even the smallest Carnival cruise is larger overall than the Titanic, with a much larger gross tonnage, an extra guest deck, more staterooms and subsequently higher guest capacity.

Advantages of Sailing on a Smaller Ship

Choosing a smaller ship comes with its own set of advantages. The intimate atmosphere ensures personalized attention, making every guest feel special. 

The smaller size also allows for quicker embarkation and disembarkation, saving passengers valuable time. 

Additionally, these ships can access ports that might be off-limits to larger vessels, ensuring unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Retired Small Ships from the Carnival Fantasy Class

The Carnival Fantasy class, a hallmark of Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet from the 1990s, has seen several of its iconic ships retire over recent years.  Among the smallest ships in the Carnival fleet and similar to the last 2 existing smallest Carnival cruises ships they will be missed by those who sailed on them.

Here’s a brief summary of the ships from the Fantasy class that have been retired in the last couple of years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the smallest carnival cruise ship compare in price to the larger ships.

Generally, the smallest Carnival cruise ships, like those in the Fantasy class, might offer more affordable rates due to fewer amenities and older designs.

Prices for Carnival cruises can vary based on several factors, including ship size, itinerary, duration, and time of year. 

However, larger, newer ships with more features and specialty dining options might command higher prices. It’s essential to compare specific itineraries and dates to get an accurate price comparison.

How Does The Stability Of The Smallest Ship Compare To Larger Ships, Especially In Rough Seas?

Larger ships typically offer more stability in rough seas due to their greater mass. 

However, modern stabilization technology ensures that even smaller ships, like those in Carnival’s Fantasy class, provide a comfortable experience. 

Nonetheless, passengers might feel more movement on smaller vessels during turbulent conditions.

What is the Smallest Class of Carnival Cruise Ship?

Fantasy class is the smallest Class of ship in the Carnival fleet, currently comprising 2 vessels, Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise, of an original 8 vessels.

Is Carnival Magic a Small Cruise Ship?

No, at 130,000 gross tonnes the Carnival Magic is not considered a small ship.

It belongs to the Dream class of Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet, which consists of larger, more modern vessels. 

The Carnival Magic offers a wide range of amenities and has a larger guest capacity of 3,690 compared to ships in the earlier Fantasy class.

Is Carnival Breeze a Small Cruise Ship?

The Carnival Breeze not considered a small ship.  Being part of Carnival Cruise Line’s Dream class, which consists of larger vessels in the fleet. 

With a gross tonnage of approximately 130,000 and a guest capacity of over 3,600 passengers, it is significantly larger than ships in the earlier Fantasy class and offers a wide range of amenities and activities.

Is Carnival Spirit a Small Ship?

The Carnival Spirit is part of Carnival Cruise Line’s Spirit class. With a gross tonnage of approximately 88,500 and a capacity to accommodate over 2,100 passengers, it is mid-sized when compared to the entire range of Carnival’s fleet. 

While it’s larger than ships in the Fantasy class, it’s smaller than the vessels in the Dream class.

The same applies for other Spirit Class ships:

• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Pride

Is There a Difference in the Quality or Variety of Dining Options on the Smallest Ship?

The quality of dining remains consistent across the Carnival fleet. As for variety, the smaller ships offer both fixed and flexible dining options. 

However, due to their size, there are fewer restaurants and dining options on the smaller ships compared to the larger vessels.

Only two ships remain in Carnivals smallest Fantasy class.  How long they will remain we will just have to wait and see.  

While they are sailing there’s no doubt they offer a compact and all round fun Carnival cruising experience to still be enjoyed if you get the opportunity and cruising on one of the smallest Carnival cruise ships appeals to you.

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Set sail from a historic jewel in the Gulf of Mexico on Carnival cruises out of Galveston, Texas. Perched on the Gulf Coast, Galveston was a major commercial port in the late 1800s and has the restored architecture and proud history to show for it. Galveston’s long seawall stretches from beach to beach and offers gulf views the whole way. Sprinkle in a few museums, amusement parks, attractive beaches and tasty seafood restaurants, and you’ve got a great start to your cruise from Galveston.

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From Virgin Voyages to Carnival: These 10 cruises are worth the money, travelers say

When it comes to a cruise vacation, it's all aboard. An October survey from Condé Nast Traveler  revealed that 47% of people said they would be interested in setting sail on a ship.

A study by the Cruise Lines International Association also found that traveling by cruise is becoming one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors.

In October, U.S. News and World Report published its 2023 ranking of the best cruises for the money. The report ranked the top ships out of 17 of the most popular ocean cruise lines and gave them a rating of one through five.

U.S. News and World Report ranked the cruise lines based on the following factors:

• Average overall rating
• Average nightly pricing on a scale of one to five
• Value-added benefits included in the base fare, such as prepaid gratuities, free onboard Wi-Fi access, etc.

Virgin Voyages is worth the money, travelers say

Overall rating: 4.39

Created by British entrepreneur Richard Branson, Virgin Voyages ranked as the best cruise line for the money.

The adults-only cruise has three ships in the fleet, with a fourth debuting in 2024. Virgin Voyages stands out thanks to its free Wi-Fi access onboard, over 20 dining venues, unlimited group workouts and all essential drinks, which include sodas, drip coffee, water and more.

All Virgin Voyage ships are nearly identical and feature similar layouts, according to the U.S. News and World Report. The cruise line offers sailings to the Caribbean, Europe and the South Pacific and has ports in Miami, Puerto Rico, Spain and more.

According to Bloomberg , rates start at $1,550 per double-occupancy cabin.

Top 10 cruise lines that are worth the money

• Virgin Voyages
• Celebrity Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Cunard Line
• Costa Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is the No. 2 cruise line that is worth the money, according to travelers. It has an overall rating of 4.36.

The line has 16 ships and stops in Asia, the Caribbean, Europe and more. Each ship carries approximately one crew member for every two passengers, according to the report.

Voyages range anywhere from three to 18 nights. Since late 2020, Celebrity Cruises has included free Wi-Fi, unlimited drinks and daily gratuities in its base fare .

Princess Cruises ranked as the No. 3 cruise line for the money, with an overall rating of 4.02.

It is the fifth largest cruise line in the world with 17 ships and trips that last between two and 116 days. It sails to popular destinations in Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska and more.

Princess Cruises has approximately one crew member for every two or three passengers, according to the report.

As an homage to its Hollywood debut on the 1977 TV series, "The Love Boat," Princess Cruises offers versatile itineraries like "Movies Under the Stars" poolside screenings and their takes on "The Voice," "Deal or No Deal" and more.

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