Image credit: Carnival Corporation.

Miami, 23 July 2024 - Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise company, has announced the finalization of an agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for the design, engineering, and construction of three new landmark cruise ships. These vessels, set to be the largest in the Carnival Corporation global fleet, will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and are scheduled for delivery in the summers of 2029, 2031, and 2033.

Each of the new ships will boast nearly 230,000 gross registered tonnes and over 3,000 guest staterooms, accommodating almost 8,000 guests at full capacity. This expansion will increase Carnival Corporation's LNG-powered fleet to 16 ships, representing nearly 30% of its global capacity and contributing to immediate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

The new vessels will be equipped with advanced energy efficiency, waste management, and emission reduction technologies, further minimizing the environmental impact of Carnival Corporation's operations. The agreement underscores the company's commitment to sustainable cruising and its ongoing efforts to enhance the guest experience while promoting environmental stewardship.Upon delivery, the new ships will solidify Carnival Corporation's position as a leader in the cruise industry, offering unparalleled capacity and amenities for guests while advancing its environmental goals.

https://maritime-executive.com/article/china-starts-assembly-of-second-cruise-ship-hails-progress-in-shipbuilding

Assembly work for China’s second large domestically-built cruise ship commenced on April 20 at the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding yard. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, the ship's construction aims to streamline efficiency by 20% compared to its predecessor, the Adora Magic City. This project marks China State Shipbuilding Corporation's (CSSC) continued advancement in cruise ship construction, following the success of the first domestically-built vessel, Adora Magic City, which entered service in January 2024.

CSSC, in collaboration with Fincantieri, is enhancing the design and technology of the new cruise ship, expanding its length to 1,119 feet and accommodating 2,144 staterooms. The vessel will feature advanced environmental protection systems and desulfurization technology. The endeavor underscores China's ambition to compete with established European shipbuilders in the cruise industry. Adora Cruises, formerly a joint venture with Carnival Corporation, now operates independently, symbolizing China's growing presence in the global cruise market.

https://shippingtelegraph.com/cruise-amp-amp-ferry-news/carnival-orders-fifth-excel-class-ship-for-carnival-cruise-line/

Carnival Corporation Secures Fifth Excel-Class Cruise Ship Amid Industry Resurgence. The cruise major finalized a deal with Meyer Werft shipyard for another addition to its Carnival Cruise Line fleet, scheduled for delivery in 2028. This follows the recent announcement of a fourth Excel-class ship set for spring 2027. With this, the corporation confirms its 11th Excel-class vessel across four brands and the fifth for Carnival Cruise Line. The 180,000-ton ship will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and accommodate over 6,400 guests and 1,800 crew. However, the order is subject to financing, expected to be secured later this year, as the industry continues its rebound from pandemic challenges.

https://gcaptain.com/carnival-corporation-orders-first-newbuild-in-five-years/

Carnival Corporation Orders First Newbuild in Five Years

Carnival Corporation, the world’s leading cruise company, has announced its first newbuild order since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The company signed a contract with German shipbuilder Meyer Werft for a fourth Excel-class cruise ship for its Carnival Cruise Line brand. Anticipated to join the fleet in Spring 2027, the 180,000-ton vessel will be the 10th Excel-class ship across four of the corporation’s brands. It will join Carnival Cruise Line’s current Excel-class vessels, accommodating over 6,400 guests and powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Carnival Corporation & plc, operating more than 90 ships across 9 brands, plans to add eight new ships by 2025. The new order marks the first in five years for Carnival Corporation, following a reported strong start to the peak booking season and record bookings for 2024, with pricing and occupancy surpassing 2023 levels.

https://www.cruisehive.com/oldest-carnival-cruise-ship-receives-new-look-and-upgrades/94231

Oldest Carnival Cruise Ship Receives New Look and Upgrades

The oldest Carnival cruise ship, Carnival Elation, has new livery and other upgrades from her recent dry dock, and is welcoming guests again.