Carnival Cruise Line Expands Fleet with Order of Fifth Excel-Class Ship Set for 2028 Launch

Carnival Corporation is set to expand its fleet with the addition of a fifth Excel-class cruise ship, earmarked to join Carnival Cruise Line in 2028. This announcement follows closely on the heels of the February revelation that a fourth Excel-class vessel is on order for a spring 2027 delivery. Both ships signify a new phase of growth for the company, marking its first newbuild orders in five years.

Destined to be constructed by Meyer Werft in Germany, the latest 180,000-ton vessel will mirror its Excel-class counterparts, boasting a capacity exceeding 6,400 guests and 1,800 crew members. A standout feature of these ships is their capability to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG), aligning with the cruise industry’s move towards more sustainable practices.

The addition of these two vessels will bring the total Excel-class ships within Carnival Corporation’s fleet to 11, five of which will operate under the Carnival Cruise Line brand. This expansion underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiency and guest satisfaction, leveraging the popularity and innovative design of the Excel-class ships.

Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the success of the Excel-class ships, citing the Mardi Gras introduced in 2021, followed by Carnival Celebration in 2022, and Carnival Jubilee in 2023. These vessels have not only generated considerable excitement and demand among travelers but have also achieved high guest satisfaction ratings.

Duffy emphasized the significance of the fleet expansion, stating, “With the arrival of Carnival Firenze in April, we are completing the addition of five ships to our fleet in less than 20 months, and then we will pivot to another phase of growth with these two Excel ships.” This strategic increase in capacity is poised to bolster Carnival Cruise Line’s offerings, providing guests with an array of enhanced amenities and sustainable cruising options as the company looks forward to its next phase of growth.