carnival cruise ships in order of size

Carnival Ships by Size [2023] with Comparison Chart

Below you'll find a complete list of Carnival Ships by Size . From the cruise line's oldest ship (Carnival Sunshine) to their newest planned 2023 cruise ship, the Carnival Jubilee.

You'll find a massive difference between Carnival's smallet and the largest ship in their fleet. Scroll to the bottom of our sizing chart. You'll find that earlier ships were less than half the size of today's largest Carnival ships. To say, "my how you've grown" would be an understatement.

The drastic change in size can also be measured by "passenger count." Max capacity spans a range from 2,600 guests to over 6,600 passengers for Carnival's largest cruise ship, the Carnival Celebration.

First, we have to clear something up. We're measuring Carnival ships size by the metric, "Gross Tonnage." This always causes a bit of confusion amongst our community members. It's not simply "weight" that determines this size measurement. The definition is technical and boring, but we'll provide it anyway.

We told you it was boring! So why do we use this measurement to determine Carnival Ships Size? As noted above, it's used for safety rules and whatnot. As such, it's prevalent. Every passenger cruise ship will have this measurement . That makes it easy to compare ship size across ship, class, line and more. We've also used it to compare across cruise lines to bring you the list of the largest cruise ships in the world . Ok, we're done with today's maritime measurement course. Here's the good stuff.

Carnival Ships by Size (Largest to Smallest)

Click above to pin this Carnival Cruise Ships by Size Infograph to your cruise planning board , so you can refer back to it when choosing your next ship!

That's every Carnival Cruise Ship currently active in their fleet, along with a couple newer ships coming down the pipeline. You can see the vast difference in ship size . This is particularly dramatic when looking at Carnival's newest planned ship, the Carnival Celebration! Here's a visual representation showing the smallest of the fleet vs this new behemoth.

The experience on these two ships will be completely different! On the Carnival Celebration, you'll be lucky to experience half of the venues on this largest, active Carnival cruise ship. Whereas the smaller ships offer a more quaint and personal experience.

In just a day or two, you'll have your bearings and likely a fixed routine on these ships. Which is better ? That's all going to depend on personal preferences! Some say "size matters." Others say, it's the "motion in the ocean" that is more important. We'll let you decide!

We've create a new post to see how these ships rank on a global scale. Carnival has a showing (albeit small) on the list of the 20 Largest Cruise Ships in the World ! Click to find out which vessels made it and where it ranks. There we also analyze Carnival's average ship size versus all other lines!

Often we're asked if size affects price. The cost of a Carnival cruise isn't directly correlated with size. You won't find that the bigger the ship, the more the cost. Nor will you find the opposite. You won't necessarily pay less for the largest Carnival ship vs the smallest. It will all depend on the specific itinerary. To get a sense of pricing, please use our widget below.

Now on to sizing. To find your specific Carnival Cruise ship, feel free to use our menu below. Clicking on any will let you quickly jump to that ship's stats.

Click on any for quick access to ship stats for that vessel.

1) Carnival Celebration
2) Carnival Jubilee
3) Carnival Mardi Gras
4) Carnival Venezia
5) Carnival Panorama
6) Carnival Horizon
7) Carnival Vista
8) Carnival Breeze
9) Carnival Magic
10) Carnival Dream
11) Carnival Splendor
12) Carnival Conquest
13) Carnival Glory
14) Carnival Liberty
15) Carnival Valor
16) Carnival Freedom
17) Carnival Sunshine
18) Carnival Radiance
19) Carnival Sunrise
20) Carnival Luminosa
21) Carnival Miracle
22) Carnival Pride
23) Carnival Legend
24) Carnival Spirit
25) Carnival Elation
26) Carnival Paradise

Below we've listed all Carnival Ships by size, including a bit more info. You'll find a bunch of very helpful sizing metrics, including tonnage, length, capacity, speed, cost, cabins and much more!

1) Carnival Celebration Size

The Carnival Celebration has a construction date of 2022 and a total size of 183,521 gross tons. The ship measures 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length and falls in line as number 1 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s XL Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Celebration holds 8,375 passengers. That includes 6,630 cruise vacationers and 1,745 staff members. The Carnival Celebration total number of staterooms is 2,641.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Celebration age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Celebration Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

2) Carnival Jubilee Size

The Carnival Jubilee has a construction date of 2023 and a total size of 183,521 gross tons. The ship measures 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length and falls in line as number 2 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s XL Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Jubilee holds 8,365 passengers. That includes 6,630 cruise vacationers and 1,735 staff members. The Carnival Jubilee total number of staterooms is 2,641.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Jubilee age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Jubilee Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

3) Carnival Mardi Gras Size

The Carnival Mardi Gras has a construction date of 2020 and a total size of 180,800 gross tons. The ship measures 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length and falls in line as number 3 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s XL Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Mardi Gras holds 8,375 passengers. That includes 6,630 cruise vacationers and 1,745 staff members. The Carnival Mardi Gras total number of staterooms is 2,641.

Gross Tonnage : 180,800 GT
Year Built : 2020

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Mardi Gras age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Mardi Gras Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

4) Carnival Venezia Size

The Carnival Venezia has a construction date of 2019 and a total size of 135,500 gross tons. The ship measures 1,060 feet (323 meters) in length and falls in line as number 4 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Vista Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Venezia holds 6,538 passengers. That includes 5,260 cruise vacationers and 1,278 staff members. The Carnival Venezia total number of staterooms is 2,116.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Venezia age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Venezia Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

5) Carnival Panorama Size

The Carnival Panorama has a construction date of 2019 and a total size of 135,500 gross tons. The ship measures 1,055 feet (322 meters) in length and falls in line as number 5 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Vista Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Panorama holds 6,596 passengers. That includes 5,146 cruise vacationers and 1,450 staff members. The Carnival Panorama total number of staterooms is 1,823.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Panorama age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Panorama Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

6) Carnival Horizon Size

The Carnival Horizon has a construction date of 2018 and a total size of 133,500 gross tons. The ship measures 1,055 feet (322 meters) in length and falls in line as number 6 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Vista Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Horizon holds 6,427 passengers. That includes 4,977 cruise vacationers and 1,450 staff members. The Carnival Horizon total number of staterooms is 1,967.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Horizon age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Horizon Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

7) Carnival Vista Size

The Carnival Vista has a construction date of 2016 and a total size of 133,500 gross tons. The ship measures 1,055 feet (322 meters) in length and falls in line as number 7 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Vista Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Vista holds 6,427 passengers. That includes 4,977 cruise vacationers and 1,450 staff members. The Carnival Vista total number of staterooms is 1,967.

Year Built : 2016

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Vista age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Vista Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

8) Carnival Breeze Size

The Carnival Breeze has a construction date of 2012 and a total size of 130,000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,004 feet (306 meters) in length and falls in line as number 8 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Dream Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Breeze holds 6,110 passengers. That includes 4,724 cruise vacationers and 1,386 staff members. The Carnival Breeze total number of staterooms is 1,845.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Breeze age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Breeze Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

9) Carnival Magic Size

The Carnival Magic has a construction date of 2011 and a total size of 130,000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,004 feet (306 meters) in length and falls in line as number 9 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Dream Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Magic holds 6,110 passengers. That includes 4,724 cruise vacationers and 1,386 staff members. The Carnival Magic total number of staterooms is 1,845.

Year Built : 2011

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Magic age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Magic Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

10) Carnival Dream Size

The Carnival Dream has a construction date of 2009 and a total size of 130,000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,004 feet (306 meters) in length and falls in line as number 10 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Dream Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Dream holds 5,998 passengers. That includes 4,631 cruise vacationers and 1,367 staff members. The Carnival Dream total number of staterooms is 1,823.

Year Built : 2009
Capacity : 4,631 passengers
Crew Members : 1,367
Total on Board : 5,998
Passenger Decks : 13

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Dream age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Dream Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

11) Carnival Splendor Size

The Carnival Splendor has a construction date of 2008 and a total size of 113,300 gross tons. The ship measures 952 feet (290 meters) in length and falls in line as number 11 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Splendor Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Splendor holds 4,884 passengers. That includes 3,734 cruise vacationers and 1,150 staff members. The Carnival Splendor total number of staterooms is 1,506.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Splendor age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Splendor Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

12) Carnival Conquest Size

The Carnival Conquest has a construction date of 2002 and a total size of 110,000 gross tons. The ship measures 953 feet (290 meters) in length and falls in line as number 12 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Conquest Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Conquest holds 4,906 passengers. That includes 3,756 cruise vacationers and 1,150 staff members. The Carnival Conquest total number of staterooms is 1,487.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Conquest age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Conquest Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

13) Carnival Glory Size

The Carnival Glory has a construction date of 2003 and a total size of 110,000 gross tons. The ship measures 952 feet (290 meters) in length and falls in line as number 13 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Conquest Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Glory holds 4,906 passengers. That includes 3,756 cruise vacationers and 1,150 staff members. The Carnival Glory total number of staterooms is 1,485.

Year Built : 2003
Total Staterooms : 1,485

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Glory age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Glory Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

14) Carnival Liberty Size

The Carnival Liberty has a construction date of 2005 and a total size of 110,000 gross tons. The ship measures 952 feet (290 meters) in length and falls in line as number 14 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Conquest Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Liberty holds 4,916 passengers. That includes 3,756 cruise vacationers and 1,160 staff members. The Carnival Liberty total number of staterooms is 1,487.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Liberty age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Liberty Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

15) Carnival Valor Size

The Carnival Valor has a construction date of 2004 and a total size of 110,000 gross tons. The ship measures 952 feet (290 meters) in length and falls in line as number 15 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Conquest Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Valor holds 4,936 passengers. That includes 3,756 cruise vacationers and 1,180 staff members. The Carnival Valor total number of staterooms is 1,490.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Valor age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Valor Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

16) Carnival Freedom Size

The Carnival Freedom has a construction date of 2007 and a total size of 110,000 gross tons. The ship measures 952 feet (290 meters) in length and falls in line as number 16 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Conquest Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Freedom holds 4,904 passengers. That includes 3,754 cruise vacationers and 1,150 staff members. The Carnival Freedom total number of staterooms is 1,490.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Freedom age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Freedom Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

17) Carnival Sunshine Size

The Carnival Sunshine has a construction date of 1996 and a total size of 102,853 gross tons. The ship measures 893 feet (272 meters) in length and falls in line as number 17 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Sunshine Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Sunshine holds 4,152 passengers. That includes 3,002 cruise vacationers and 1,150 staff members. The Carnival Sunshine total number of staterooms is 1,321.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Sunshine age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Sunshine Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

18) Carnival Radiance Size

The Carnival Radiance has a construction date of 2000 and a total size of 101,509 gross tons. The ship measures 893 feet (272 meters) in length and falls in line as number 18 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Sunshine Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Radiance holds 4,981 passengers. That includes 3,873 cruise vacationers and 1,108 staff members. The Carnival Radiance total number of staterooms is 1,492.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Radiance age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Radiance Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

19) Carnival Sunrise Size

The Carnival Sunrise has a construction date of 1999 and a total size of 101,509 gross tons. The ship measures 893 feet (272 meters) in length and falls in line as number 19 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Sunshine Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Sunrise holds 4,981 passengers. That includes 3,873 cruise vacationers and 1,108 staff members. The Carnival Sunrise total number of staterooms is 1,492.

Year Built : 1999
Ship Cost : $420 Million

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Sunrise age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Sunrise Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

20) Carnival Luminosa Size

The Carnival Luminosa has a construction date of 2009 and a total size of 92,720 gross tons. The ship measures 963 feet (294 meters) in length and falls in line as number 20 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Luminosa Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Luminosa holds 3,876 passengers. That includes 2,826 cruise vacationers and 1,050 staff members. The Carnival Luminosa total number of staterooms is 1,130.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Luminosa age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Luminosa Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

21) Carnival Miracle Size

The Carnival Miracle has a construction date of 2004 and a total size of 88,500 gross tons. The ship measures 963 feet (294 meters) in length and falls in line as number 21 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Spirit Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Miracle holds 3,590 passengers. That includes 2,680 cruise vacationers and 910 staff members. The Carnival Miracle total number of staterooms is 1,062.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Miracle age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Miracle Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

22) Carnival Pride Size

The Carnival Pride has a construction date of 2002 and a total size of 88,500 gross tons. The ship measures 963 feet (294 meters) in length and falls in line as number 22 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Spirit Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Pride holds 3,590 passengers. That includes 2,680 cruise vacationers and 910 staff members. The Carnival Pride total number of staterooms is 1,062.

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Pride age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Pride Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

23) Carnival Legend Size

The Carnival Legend has a construction date of 2002 and a total size of 88,500 gross tons. The ship measures 963 feet (294 meters) in length and falls in line as number 23 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Spirit Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Legend holds 3,540 passengers. That includes 2,610 cruise vacationers and 930 staff members. The Carnival Legend total number of staterooms is 1,062.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Legend age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Legend Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

24) Carnival Spirit Size

The Carnival Spirit has a construction date of 2001 and a total size of 88,500 gross tons. The ship measures 963 feet (294 meters) in length and falls in line as number 24 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Spirit Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Spirit holds 3,540 passengers. That includes 2,610 cruise vacationers and 930 staff members. The Carnival Spirit total number of staterooms is 1,062.

Year Built : 2001

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Spirit age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Spirit Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

25) Carnival Elation Size

The Carnival Elation has a construction date of 1998 and a total size of 70,367 gross tons. The ship measures 855 feet (261 meters) in length and falls in line as number 25 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Fantasy Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Elation holds 3,526 passengers. That includes 2,606 cruise vacationers and 920 staff members. The Carnival Elation total number of staterooms is 1,026.

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

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Elation age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Elation Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

26) Carnival Paradise Size

The Carnival Paradise has a construction date of 1998 and a total size of 70,367 gross tons. The ship measures 855 feet (261 meters) in length and falls in line as number 26 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It’s included in Carnival’s Fantasy Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Paradise holds 3,526 passengers. That includes 2,606 cruise vacationers and 920 staff members. The Carnival Paradise total number of staterooms is 1,026.

To see how this compares, click through to see Carnival Paradise age and stats vs all Carnival ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

Also check out the Carnival Paradise Deck Plans . You’ll find detailed floorplans as well as a full list of Things to Do on the ship.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Size FAQs

We're constantly asked about Carnival's ships and size statistics. Here are the most frequently asked questions for your convenience!

Which Carnival cruise ship is the biggest? The largest active vessel in Carnival's fleet is the Carnival Celebration. She weighs in at 183,521 gross tons. However, the Celebration will soon share this title with the planned Carnival Jubilee. The sister ship will be completed in 2023.

Which Carnival cruise ship is the smallest? Carnival's smallest, active cruise ship is the Carnival Paradise with a gross tonnage measuring 70,367. The smallest ship that has sailed with the cruise line was significantly smaller. The original Carnival Mardi Gras (built in 1961) was 1/3rd the size, at 18,261 GT.

How big is a Carnival cruise ship? Carnival's fleet varies in size as seen from our chart. The smallest, active ship holds 3,526 total passengers (including staff) and measures 855 feet in length. The Carnival Celebration, in comparison, holds 8,375 passengers and spans 1,130 feet in length. For reference, the Eiffel Tower is roughly 900 feet high!

We hope that the above list of Carnival Ships by size help you to find your ideal cruise.

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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.

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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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Cruise Knowledge

Carnival Cruise Ships by Size: Biggest to Smallest

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

December 4, 2023

Carnival Cruise Line currently has 26 ships varying in size from 70,000 to 182,800 gross registered tons.

8 Classes of Carnival Ships

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 Jubilee

What makes this ship notable?

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

Carnival Celebration

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

Carnival Venezia

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

Carnival Firenze

Features: Palazzo and Medici Restaurants, La Strada Grill, Tomodoro, Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, The Waterworks, The RedFrog Pub, Pools and Jacuzzis, Teatro Rosso, Tuscan Lounge, Casinos, and Spa and Fitness Center

Carnival Panorama

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.

Carnival Horizon

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

Carnival Vista

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.

Carnival Breeze

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

Carnival Dream

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 . This is like a giant oval porthole type of balcony that is surrounded by steel and can close incase of bad weather. These balcony cabins are located on deck two.

Carnival Magic

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

Carnival Splendor

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?

Carnival Glory

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

Carnival Liberty

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

Carnival Conquest

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.

Carnival Valor

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

Carnival Freedom

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

Carnival Sunshine

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

Carnival Sunrise

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

Carnival Radiance

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

Carnival Luminosa

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

Carnival Miracle

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

Carnival Pride

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

Carnival Legend

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

Carnival Spirit

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.

Carnival Paradise

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

Carnival Elation

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

As a result of the 2020-2021 cruise industry shutdown, Carnival Cruise Line sold off five Fantasy-class ships. Parent company Carnival Corporation sold off 21 cruise ships in total.

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.

What does gross registered tonnage mean?

Gross registered tonnage (GRT) doesn’t measure how much the cruise ship weighs but the total space inside. Every 100 cubic feet is equivalent to one gross registered ton.

Do all Carnival ships have Starlink internet?

By 2024, all Carnival Cruise Line ships will have Starlink wireless internet service.

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

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Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.

Carnival Cruise Line currently has 26 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 is known as “America’s Cruise Line” for taking more Americans on cruise vacations and serving more U.S. homeports than any other cruise line .

Carnival Ships: Biggest to Smallest

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

List of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size

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

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 families and those new to cruising. They also carry more children 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 Jubilee

Best List Of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size (2024) | 16

Carnival Jubilee is the third ship in the Excel Class and sister to Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras. She is 182,800 GRTs and carries 5,282 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the first ship to feature a Texas Star on her bow. She is the first brand new Carnival Cruise Line ship to sail year-round from the Port of Galveston.

2. Carnival Celebration

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

3. Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is the first ship in the Carnival’s Excellence Class or Excel Class and sister to the 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.

4. Carnival Venezia

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

5. 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.

6. 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 .

7. 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 & Brewery, a larger Carnival Waterworks, SportSquare including the SkyRide and the Havana Bar & Pool and much more.

8. 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 .

9. 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 .

10. 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 .

11. Carnival Splendor

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

12. Carnival Conquest

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

13. 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 .

14. 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 .

15. 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 .

16. 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 .

17. 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 being renamed and reclassified as the first Sunshine Class ship.

18. Carnival Radiance

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

19. Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise is 101,509 GRTs 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 .

20. Carnival Luminosa

Carnival Luminosa was initially launched in 2008 for Costa Cruises. It is 92,600 GRTs and carries 2,826 passengers. She is considered part of the Spirit Class and was the former Costa Luminosa .

21. Carnival Miracle

Carnival Miracle is fourth ship the popular Spirit Class of ships. She has a passenger capacity 2,124 (based on two per cabin). The Spirit Class ships offer guests the highest percentage of space compared to other vessels in the fleet.

22. Carnival Pride

Carnival Pride is second ship the popular Spirit Class and sister to Carnival Spirit , Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle . She has a passenger capacity 2,124 (based on two per cabin).

23. 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 GRTs and carries 2,124 passengers (based on two per cabin).

24. Carnival Spirit

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

25. Carnival Elation

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

26. Carnival Paradise

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

The Biggest Carnival Ships

Currently, the largest Carnival cruise ship is Carnival Jubilee. The Carnival Jubilee is the third ship in the popular Excel Class and sister to the Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gra s. She carries 5,282 passengers (based on two per cabin). The ship takes her name from a former Carnival cruise ship, MS Jubilee , that was part of the Holiday class .

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), Emeril Lagasse (Emeril’s Bistro 717 ™ ), 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 with its 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.

You view a list of all 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 Cruise Line ships?

Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ships are the Carnival Jubilee , Carnival Celebration and Carnival Luminosa .

When was Carnival’s first cruise?

The original Mardi Gras, a converted ocean liner, sailed from Port Miami. She left for her first Caribbean cruise on March 11, 1972, with 530 passengers and 200 crew members on board. Unfortunately, the loaded ship ran around while exiting Port Miami’s shipping channel. This caused competitors to call 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 nine 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 December 2023 is the Carnival Jubilee. 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.

What are the sizes of the Carnival Cruise Ships in 2024?

The Carnival Cruise Ships range from the smallest to the largest, providing different experiences for passengers. For example, the smallest is currently the Carnival Paradise at 70,367 gross registered tons, and the largest is Carnival Jubilee at 183,521 gross registered tons.

What are the biggest Carnival ships in the fleet?

The largest Carnival ships include the Carnival Celebration, Carnival Elation, and Carnival Sunshine, offering a wide range of amenities and experiences.

Can you provide a list of Carnival ships from biggest to smallest?

The list of Carnival ships by size, from largest to smallest, includes the Carnival Celebration, Carnival Elation, and Carnival Sunshine, among others. You can find a full list at the top of this page.

What is Carnival Firenze, and where does it fit in terms of size?

Carnival Firenze is one of the newer ships coming to the fleet, and though it’s not the largest, it provides exceptional amenities and experiences for passengers.

What are the sister ships of Carnival Cruise Ships?

Carnival Cruise Ships have sister ships such as the Carnival Triumph, Carnival Mardi Gras, and Carnival Firenze, each offering unique experiences for passengers.

How does the smallest Carnival cruise ship compare to other ships in the fleet?

The smallest Carnival cruise ship still delivers an excellent experience despite being half the size of some larger ships.

What are the classes of Carnival cruise ships?

Carnival cruise ships are classified into different classes, such as the Conquest class ships and the Vista-class ships, each with its distinct features and experiences.

Which ship became the Carnival Sunshine, and how does it compare in size?

The Carnival Sunshine was previously the Carnival Triumph and underwent significant enhancements, making it one of the most sought-after ships in the fleet.

What are the newer ships in the Carnival fleet?

The newer ships in the Carnival fleet include the upcoming Carnival Firenze and other ships offering state-of-the-art amenities and experiences for passengers.

What is the significance of the first-ever Carnival cruise ship to exceed a size limit?

The first-ever Carnival cruise ship to exceed size limits marked a significant milestone in the company’s history, allowing for larger and more innovative ship designs.

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Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (2024 UPDATE)

March 15, 2024

Hello, cruise lovers! As you probably know, Carnival Cruise has quite a large number of ships , and sometimes it can be difficult to choose between them.

In this article, you will find a ranking based on the size of the ships , from smallest to largest.

You will initially see a detailed list of the ships, followed by a summary table and a comparison chart at the article’s conclusion.

Table of Contents

27. Carnival Elation

Max Guest Capacity: 2,190
Guest Decks: 10
Length (Feet): 855
Gross Tonnage: 71,909

Launched in 1998, Carnival Elation is a cozy ship with a nostalgic touch . It’s the smallest ship in the Carnival fleet, yet it feels quite spacious and can accommodate about 2,200 passengers. The interior decor is a funky mix of the 1970s and Vegas flair .

It features eight cabin types and 10 different places to eat. The 2017 and 2020 refurbishments spruced things up, adding modern dining, bars, and entertainment, including a cool water park and mini-golf.

I personally think is great for older people and for those looking for relaxation . What really stands out? The crew’s warmth and dedication to making your journey unforgettable.

26. Carnival Paradise

Max Guest Capacity: 2,606
Gross Tonnage: 71,925

Carnival Paradise is definitely a unique ship. It’s been cruising since 1998 , so it’s not the newest ship, but it’s still full of fun things to do on board. In 2018, it got a big update, and now it also has Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, a big water park, and mini-golf.

It’s 855 feet long and can hold more than 2,100 guests . It’s one of those cozy and easy to get around ship. On board, you can find very different cabins, from simple ones to fancy suites. They all have nice beds, lots of space, and great service. On this ship, I particularly like the ocean-view rooms; they have big windows and great views.

An interesting fact is that Carnival Paradise was the first cruise ship that didn’t allow smoking on board .

25. Carnival Spirit

Max Guest Capacity: 2,610
Guest Decks: 12
Length (Feet): 963
Gross Tonnage: 88,500

Carnival Spirit, Carnival Cruise Line’s first venture outside the U.S., is a hit with Australian cruisers .

It’s got a chill, fun vibe and caters to families, couples, and singles. There’s a mix of kid-friendly areas and adults-only spots like the Serenity area.

The crew guarantees exceptional service, and you can definitely experience a friendly and community feel on board . It may not have the best features, but it’s got great family-friendly amenities, like the Green Thunder water slide and various dining options. From buffets to fancy Chef’s Tables, I really liked the food on this ship. Entertainment-wise, there’s live music, comedy, and theme nights. I have to be honest; the ship is a bit older , but its cleanliness and dedicated crew make every trip enjoyable .

24. Carnival Legend

Carnival Legend is part of the Spirit Class and focuses a lot on variety. It offers unique restaurants and even has a wedding chapel onboard . So it is the perfect choice if you want to get married or want to celebrate your anniversary at sea.

The ship has quite a vibrant atmosphere, with attractions like the Green Thunder water slide and Seuss at Sea for families.

The decor is inspired by legends from around the world ; while some might find this a little odd, I think it’s quite interesting about this ship.

It travels different routes, appealing to both American and Australian cruisers. Dining choices include Truffles, Unicorn Cafe, Guy’s Burger Joint, and specialty options. In my opinion, Carnival Legend is great for an action-packed holiday with good food and service.

I traveled on this ship several years ago and still have fond memories . Despite being quite small I consider her one of the best in the Carnival fleet !

23. Carnival Pride

Max Guest Capacity: 2,680

Carnival Pride had its first trip in 2002, and it’s still going! I love the Michelangelo-inspired decor that showcases Renaissance and Victorian England beauty.

In my opinion, the Renaissance Lobby is a masterpiece , setting the stage for the ship’s grand style. Yet, it’s not just about looks; the ship offers popular features like Guy’s Burger Joint, Bonsai Sushi, and modern entertainment .

Its unique layout places most amenities on the lower decks, making for a cozy yet spacious feel . Carnival Pride is perfect for those who like big-ship services but prefer fewer crowds .

22. Carnival Miracle

Launched in 2003, Carnival Miracle belongs to the Spirit class. Along with its siblings, this ship boasts a superb passenger-to-space ratio , and Its clever design avoids overcrowding.

It’s themed around miraculous concepts and includes The Raven Library, Mad Hatter’s Ball Lounge, The Bacchus Dining Room and Dr. Frankenstein’s Lab Dance Club.

A 2020 refurbishment even added more dining options and WaterWorks slides. It usually sails to Alaska, Hawaii, and Mexico.

21. Carnival Luminosa

Max Guest Capacity: 2,826
Gross Tonnage: 92,600

Carnival Luminosa is a mid-sized ship, therefore giving an intimate cruising experience. It accommodates about 2,800 guests, suiting those who prefer a personal touch to their cruise.

On board, you will find quite a few dining options, from specialty restaurants to casual eateries. Guests also enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment, including a casino, live shows, and a water park. It’s also a family-friendly ship with special children’s areas and activities. I personally tried one of the staterooms a few years ago, and it was comfortable and convenient for a relaxed stay.

20. Carnival Sunrise

Max Guest Capacity: 3,873
Guest Decks: 13
Length (Feet): 893
Gross Tonnage: 101,509

The Carnival Sunrise was recently refurbished . It presents an interesting array of dining experiences that range from casual to fine dining.

The ship features a ropes course, a mini-golf, and a water park. All these kid-friendly activities make it ideal for family vacations. Adults can also have a good time thanks to the serenity retreat and entertainment options, including musical shows, comedy clubs, and bars with live music.

19. Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance provides a very fun-filled cruise experience . It features diverse dining options, from the classic Guy’s Burger Joint to the BlueIguana Cantina.

The entertainment highlights include the water park, mini-golf, sports court, and comedy club. While, the Cloud 9 Spa offers relaxation and revitalization for adults. This ship is very family-friendly, with programs and activities designed specifically for children . I really think that Carnival Radiance is the perfect choice for a lively cruise .

18. Carnival Sunshine

Max Guest Capacity: 3,758
Gross Tonnage: 102,853

Carnival Sunshine it’s still a mid-size ship , but it stands out with its modernized bars, restaurants, and children’s areas.

It offers a good balance between relaxation and fun . Dining choices include the usual Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. In terms of activities, on board, you will find similar areas we already saw on the other ships, like the WaterWorks water park, mini-golf, and the Serenity area for adults.

17. Carnival Freedom

Max Guest Capacity: 3,754
Length (Feet): 952
Gross Tonnage: 110,000

Carnival Freedom is the fifth and last ship of the Conquest class, which includes (Conquest, Glory, Valor, Liberty and Freedom) On board, you will find all Carnival Favorite areas, and you could have a lot of fun with all the entertainment options.

An interesting thing that I want you to note is that she is themed to celebrate American history .

16. Carnival Valor

Max Guest Capacity: 3,756

Carnival Valor is notable for its port-intensive itineraries and resort-like amenities . The ship features multiple pools, Tiki-style bars, a water slide, and various dining options. Its décor celebrates American history in a fun and interesting way.

I would suggest this ship to families, couples, and friend groups. It offers a comfortable atmosphere for all ages , and all cabins are quite spacious and well-furnished.

15. Carnival Liberty

Carnival Liberty offers a good mix of classic and innovative elements . It features creatively designed staterooms with a very interesting design. These include Interior Upper/Lower and Scenic Ocean View rooms and Premium Vista Balcony staterooms. The dining options range from Guy’s Burger Joint to Seafood Shack, and there are plenty of bars and lounges like Alchemy Bar and The RedFrog Pub.

Entertainment includes Playlist Productions shows and The Punchliner Comedy Club. I wanna also say that Carnival Liberty has very good reviews and is known for its excellent service .

14. Carnival Glory

Carnival Glory is famous for its spacious staterooms , so you may want to consider it if you are looking for a big cabin .

Dining experiences are varied, featuring options like Guy’s Burger Joint (as we have seen on almost every previous ship) and Platinum Restaurant. Activities span from relaxing adults-only areas to exciting water slides and mini-golf. Entertainment includes the Amber Palace Main Lounge and nightly live music.

The ship has also undergone enhancements, adding modern bars, dining, and entertainment venues. Passengers usually really appreciate the ship’s quality , service , and activity variety .

13. Carnival Conquest

Carnival Conquest showcases creatively designed staterooms and a great ship’s art and décor that draw inspiration from 19th-century French Impressionism . Ratings highlight its great cabins, good service, and fun activities.

12. Carnival Splendor

Max Guest Capacity: 3,734
Gross Tonnage: 113,300

Carnival Splendor is the only ship in its class ! Why is that? Because it was built for Costa Cruises to join the Concordia Class, but then plans changed during her construction.

The ship’s unique “ Splendid theme ” is reflected in its bold colors and whimsical decor. It was placed in the Australian market to serve cruises in Asia and South Pacific.

11. Carnival Dream

Max Guest Capacity: 3,646
Length (Feet): 1,004
Gross Tonnage: 130,000

Carnival Dream offers spacious staterooms, including Cove Balcony and Spa Staterooms, with a really interesting spa access . Dining ranges from Chef’s Art Steakhouse to Mongolian Wok and Tandoor. Entertainment includes Playlist Productions, Punchliner Comedy Club, and Seaside Theatre.

Relaxation options include Cloud 9 Spa and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. The ship also has a water park, mini-golf, and Camp Ocean for kids. Its design is elegant and modern , creating a dreamy atmosphere for guests.

10. Carnival Magic

Max Guest Capacity: 3,690
Guest Decks: 14

Launched in 2011 , Carnival Magic is a Dream-class ship that focuses on fun. The 2016 upgrade introduced new dining options like Guy’s Burger Joint and a new sports area.

I really enjoyed the supersized hot tubs over the ship’s edge, while kids can have fun at the aqua park and ropes course. Entertainment ranges from Broadway-style shows to a piano bar with impressive quality. Carnival Magic sails mainly in the Caribbean from Miami, Florida.

9. Carnival Breeze

Carnival Breeze, a Dream-class vessel, is well known for family fun .

It features SportsSquare and WaterWorks for outdoor activities, and for this reason, I think it is perfect for families with kids.

Dining ranges from casual to elegant, and the ship also offers a very vibrant nightlife . It sails mainly in the Western Caribbean from Galveston, Texas.

8. Carnival Vista

Max Guest Capacity: 4,977
Guest Decks: 15
Length (Feet): 1,055
Gross Tonnage: 133,500

Carnival Vista is the first Vista-class ship . It debuted in 2016 and is finally different from the previous classes.

As Carnival’s largest ship at the time, Carnival Vista accommodates 3,954 guests . Highlighting outdoor spaces, it offers nearly 30 dining and drinking venues, including an onboard brewery.

Amenities include an IMAX Theatre, a SkyRide, and a water park. The ship also has a variety of staterooms, including Havana Cabanas , a “tropical chich” type of cabins. It operates mainly in the Caribbean.

7. Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon was launched in 2018 and is the second Vista-class ship.

It can accommodate 3,934 passengers , and like its sister Vista, Horizon features attractions like a bike ride-in-the-sky, an IMAX Theatre, and a water park.

Diverse dining options include Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que. The ship provides a great mix of spacious and well-equipped cabin types. This ship mainly focuses on cruises to the Caribbean .

6. Carnival Panorama

Max Guest Capacity: 5,146

Carnival Panorama is a really good ship, and I consider it the perfect size for a cruise . It’s not too big and not too small.

The ship features 14 bars and lounges , three pools, and six hot tubs. Activities range from Piano Bar 88 to WaterWorks water park.

Carnival Panorama also includes a Cloud 9 Spa and Carnival’s favorite dining options. For adventure seekers, there’s also the SkyRide , a pedal-powered bike hanging on the ship’s deck.

5. Carnival Firenze

Max Guest Capacity: 5,078
Length (Feet): 1,061
Gross Tonnage: 135,156

Carnival Firenze was the second ship transferred from Costa Crociere to Carnival Cruise Line .

It offers a variety of interesting staterooms, including Terrazza Premium Vista Balcony. Staterooms come with amenities like soft linens and climate control. I traveled on this ship when it was still under the Costa brand, it I have to say I really enjoyed it .

Dining options include Bonsai Sushi and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. It also offers two pools and six hot tubs, along with activities like a comedy club and ropes course.

4. Carnival Venezia

Max Guest Capacity: 5,260
Gross Tonnage: 135,225

Carnival Venezia initially debuted as Costa Venezia for Costa Cruises. Was after being transferred to the Carnival fleet to start the new cruising brand “ Carnival Fun Italian Style “.

Staterooms include Terrazza Cabana and Premium Balcony, offering access to Terrazza Carnevale. The ship provides a range of dining options, including Bonsai Sushi and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. Entertainment features various bars and lounges, art auctions, and a comedy club.

With two pools and six hot tubs, Carnival Venezia it’s not the biggest ship of the company but it’s still considered a pretty big one .

3. Mardi Gras

Max Guest Capacity: 6,465
Guest Decks: 17
Length (Feet): 1,130
Gross Tonnage: 180,800

Carnival Mardi Gras was the first ship in the excellence class.

A thing that I want to underline, and I personally think is really important, is that this ship was the first one of the company powered by liquified natural gas . A very important change with the aim to reduce pollution and emissions in the environment.

It’s one of the biggest ships in the Carnival fleet and can almost accommodate 6,500 passengers .

2. Carnival Celebration

Max Guest Capacity: 6,500
Gross Tonnage: 182,800

Carnival Celebration was the second ship in the excellence class , and it can accommodate just a few more passengers than the Mardi Gras.

It has six zones, each offering unique experiences. Cabins are modern with a soothing color palette. Relaxation options include Cloud 9 Spa and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat .

Dining choices range from Emeril’s Bistro 1397 to Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. Activities include BOLT roller coaster and WaterWorks. I think that this ship is ideal for multigenerational families because it has numerous areas both for kids and adults.

1. Carnival Jubilee

The Carnival Jubilee is the biggest ship in the Carnival fleet. Its gross tonnage is over 182,000 and its length is more than 1,100 fleets .

It has six pools and seven hot tubs , including an adults-only pool. Staterooms range from standard interior cabins to Cloud 9 Spa staterooms.

The Ultimate Playground includes the BOLT roller coaster and ropes course. Dining options include 21 choices like Street Eats, Seafood Shack, and Anchor Smokehouse. The ship’s design particularly focuses on outdoor activities and entertainment , so I would recommend it for a trip in warm weather.

Summary table

Below here you can find the summary table that goes from the smallest ship to the biggest one. You can also see their max guest capacity, the number of decks, their length, and the gross tonnage.

Comparison chart

To help you visualize the different sizes, I also made a chart comparing all the Carnival fleet ships . You can see them in the chart below from the biggest to the smallest .

all carnival cruise ships from the biggest to the smallest

Carnival Cruise Ships Ranked by Size along with Visual Comparison Chart

Carnival Cruise Line marked a sensational milestone in 2022, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Over the past five decades, Carnival’s Fun Ships have undergone a remarkable evolution, transitioning from a cruise line known for lively party scenes to a company revered for providing affordable and family-friendly vacations that deliver exceptional value.

With a fleet now exceeding two dozen vessels, Carnival boasts a legacy of 25 years’ worth of ship innovation. While Carnival’s ships were once regarded as colossal floating hotels, the recent surge in mega-ships from competitors like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises has set new standards in size.

Despite this, many of Carnival’s ships, by contemporary measures, fall into the mid-sized category. However, this certainly doesn’t imply any compromise on amenities.

The newer additions to the fleet showcase thrilling features such as top-deck coasters and onboard breweries. Culinary delights are taken to new heights with renowned chefs like Emeril Lagasse contributing to the dining options.

Carnival ensures a variety of accommodations, including unique cabana-style patios with hammocks. The hallmark friendly service is a constant, regardless of a ship’s age.

Carnival’s fleet currently comprises 25 cruise ships, with two more anticipated to join by the close of 2024. The surprising fact is that these ships exhibit substantial variations in size.

It’s not always evident at first glance, primarily because cruise ship size is gauged in gross tonnes, a measure of a ship’s internal volume.

Arranging Royal Caribbean Ships: From Newest to Oldest

Carnival cruise director’s schedule for 2024-2025.

Consequently, two ships with similar lengths may differ significantly due to variations in decks and width, influencing the overall volume.

So, how do Carnival’s ships measure up against each other? And does a larger size equate to a better experience?

Dive into our guide to Carnival Cruise ships, where we break down the nuances of size, age, and distinctions between ship classes, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what each vessel has to offer.

All the ships have their own elegance and from being at the top of the table Carnival Jubilee and celebration have more in its arsenal however it cannot overpass the fun the other ships have to offer.

You must have seen, Carnival Elation in the list It may be one of the smaller ships in the Carnival fleet, but it packs a punch when it comes to keeping guests entertained and content throughout their cruise.

Despite its size, this ship is loaded with amenities for both kids and adults, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

For the little ones, there’s the thrilling WaterWorks splash area, three dedicated youth spaces, and an arcade to keep them engaged and excited. Meanwhile, adults can indulge in a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes.

From the delectable offerings at BlueIguana Cantina, specializing in burritos and tacos, to the savory delights at Guy’s Burger Joint, there’s a culinary adventure awaiting every palate.

The excitement doesn’t stop there; Carnival Elation also boasts vibrant bars for grown-ups to explore, ensuring a lively atmosphere onboard.

Setting sail from Jacksonville, Carnival Elation offers enchanting cruises to the Bahamas. Despite its smaller size, this ship promises a cruise experience filled with fun and relaxation.

Now, let’s delve into the fascinating world of Carnival cruise ships and their classes, ranging from the grandest to the most intimate.

Currently, there are nine distinct classes, with each ship within a class sharing remarkable similarities, albeit with some charming nuances that make each voyage unique. Join us on a journey as we explore the diversity of Carnival’s fleet, where every class offers a distinct yet equally delightful cruise experience.

I understand, that choosing between larger and smaller Carnival ships comes with its own set of advantages.

The larger vessels, being more recent additions, offer a wealth of onboard facilities, boasting expansive water parks and an array of activities tailored for children.

However, as I mentioned earlier the charm of the older, smaller ships in the Carnival fleet should not be overlooked.

These cruises often prioritize the destinations on the itinerary, allowing passengers to spend less time at sea and more time exploring exciting ports.

Additionally, opting for these smaller ships can be a cost-effective choice, making them appealing to budget-conscious travelers.

It’s important to note that the older, smaller ships may have limited balcony room options, predominantly featuring interior and ocean-view accommodations.

Carnival’s fleet spans a diverse range of sizes, from the vast to the medium-sized. None of the ships fall into the small category, and each one is equipped with a plethora of entertainment options to keep guests engaged throughout their cruise experience.

Whether you’re drawn to the modern amenities of larger ships or the unique appeal of smaller, more budget-friendly options, Carnival Cruise Line has a variety of vessels to suit different preferences.

So, set sail with confidence, armed with the knowledge of Royal Caribbean cruise ships’ sizes, and let your seafaring adventure unfold in style, Bon voyage!

Q1. Which is the smallest Carnival Cruise Ships in the fleet?

Answer: Ship, Carnival Elation Specifications: 71,909 GT, 10 passenger decks.

Q2. Which are the biggest Carnival Cruise Ships in the fleet?

Answer: Ships: Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee with a volume of 182,800 gross tons, 1,130 feet length, 17 passenger decks , it outsizes Mardi Gras by 2,000 GT.

Q3. How long are these Carnival fleets?

Answer: It actually ranges from 855 to 1,130 feet, Equivalent to two to three football fields.

Q4. How many decks do Carnival Ships have?

These fleets have decks from 10 to 17 guest decks, with additional crew decks, The tallest Ships is around 300 feet, contingent on water depth.

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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

Carnival Cruise Ships - Carnival Celebration

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)
Max Speed : 26 mph (23 knots)
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

Carnival Cruise Ships - Carnival Liberty

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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26 Carnival Ships by Size And Age – Which Ship To Sail?

Greetings, fellow travel enthusiasts! If you’ve navigated to this page, you’re likely in search of a comprehensive list detailing the Carnival ships by size and age. Perhaps you’re in the exciting stage of planning your next cruise vacation with Carnival, and with their extensive fleet, choosing the right ship can seem like a daunting task.

Indeed, Carnival ships by size and age might not be your ultimate deciding factor, but it can undoubtedly influence your overall cruise experience. Larger vessels often boast a wider array of activities, whereas smaller ships offer a more intimate and cozy ambiance.

As an avid traveler with a particular passion for cruise journeys, I’ve dedicated countless hours to researching various cruise lines. Whether you’re a cruise rookie or a seasoned seafarer, this guide to Carnival ships by size and age aims to assist you in making an informed decision.

I’m well-acquainted with the thrill and sometimes the stress that comes with planning a cruise vacation. I’ve been in your shoes, and that’s why I’m here to help. So, let’s set sail on this informational voyage together, and by the end of this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to select the perfect ship for your upcoming cruise adventure.

Fleet Info For Carnival Ships By Class

Understanding the different classes within the fleet can be incredibly helpful when choosing which Carnival Cruise ship fits your needs. Each class of ships offers a unique set of features, amenities, and experiences catering to a wide range of passenger preferences.

Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet has several distinct classes, each with its own charm and character. From the latest and most innovative Excel Class to the classic and intimate Fantasy Class, Carnival’s diverse fleet ensures there’s a ship for every type of cruiser.

In the following section, we’ll provide an image that visually represents the different Carnival classes, helping you to better understand and choose the perfect ship for your next cruise adventure.

Carnival Class Ships Chart

Carnival Ships By size and age image of classes

Features Of Each Class Of The Carnival Cruise Line

Each class of Carnival ships offers unique features and amenities, catering to a wide range of preferences and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a ship with the most modern amenities or one that offers a more intimate cruising experience, Carnival Cruise Line has a ship for you.

Excel Class:

The Excel class ships, including Mardi Gras (2021), Carnival Celebration (2022), and Carnival Jubilee (coming December 2023), are the largest in the Carnival fleet. According to the Carnival ships by size and age chart, these three ships are newer and larger. They offer a plethora of eateries, lounges, bars, and deck-top attractions, including the first-ever roller coaster on a cruise ship. These ships also feature the first Emeril Lagasse restaurant at sea and the first Big Chicken eatery at sea, a chain created by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal.

Vista/Venezia Class:

Ships in this class include Carnival Panorama (2019), Carnival Horizon (2018), Carnival Vista (2016), Carnival Venezia (2023), and Carnival Firenze (coming in 2024). These ships are known for their water parks with waterslides, miniature golf courses, ropes courses, and multiple pool areas. They also feature the pedal-powered, suspended-in-the-air SkyRide attractions.

Dream Class

The Dream class ships, Carnival Breeze (2012), Carnival Magic (2011), and Carnival Dream (2009), are similar in size to the Vista class ships and offer a variety of amenities. They feature water parks with waterslides, miniature golf courses, sports courts for basketball and volleyball, and multiple pools.

Splendor Class

The Splendor class consists of a single ship, Carnival Splendor (2008). It is similar to the Conquest-class ships but features an enlarged and redesigned top deck area and a bigger spa area.

Conquest Class

Ships in this class include Carnival Freedom (2007), Carnival Liberty (2005), Carnival Valor (2004), Carnival Glory (2003), and Carnival Conquest (2002). They offer water play areas with waterslides, miniature golf courses, and adults-only Serenity deck-top retreat areas.

Spirit Class

The Spirit class ships, including Carnival Miracle (2004), Carnival Legend (2002), Carnival Pride (2002), Carnival Spirit (2001), and Carnival Luminosa (2009), are built for “all-weather” cruising. They feature pools that can be covered by retractable domes for colder climates and boast the largest percentage of balcony cabins and oceanview cabins in the Carnival fleet.

Sunshine Class

The Sunshine class ships, Carnival Radiance (2000/2021), Carnival Sunrise (1999/2019), and Carnival Sunshine (1996/2013), have been almost completely gutted and rebuilt, offering a variety of new amenities and venues.

Fantasy Class

The Fantasy class ships, Carnival Paradise (1998) and Carnival Elation (1998) are Carnival’s oldest and smallest ships. According to our Carnival ships by size and age, these two were among the first built and weigh the least. They offer a more intimate cruising experience and have undergone renovations over the years to add more balcony cabins.

Carnival Jubilee

The Carnival Jubilee, set to arrive in late 2023, is part of the Excel class. It will be similar in size and amenities to the Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, offering a wide selection of entertainment options as well as various dining options.

You can compare the features of the classes of ships to the Carnival ships by size and age, listed below, to get a bigger picture of what will be the best fit for you.

Carnival Ships by Size And Age

Carnival ships by size and age, boast a diverse fleet, with ships varying significantly in size. The size of a ship is typically in gross tonnage, which refers to the internal volume of the ship and its length. From the colossal Carnival Celebration, part of the Excel Class and boasting a gross tonnage of 183,900 and a length of 344 meters, to the more compact Carnival Elation, part of the Fantasy Class with a gross tonnage of 71,909 and a length of 260 meters, there’s a ship for every preference.

The Carnival ships by size and age also list the age of a ship. The age of a ship can also be a crucial factor when planning your cruise. While newer ships often come equipped with the latest technology, amenities, and a wide range of entertainment options, older ships have their own charm.

Carnival refurbishes its older ships regularly to maintain a modern and comfortable environment for passengers. Carnival’s fleet ranges from the brand new Carnival Jubilee, set to launch in late 2023, to the Carnival Sunshine, which first set sail in 1996. To help put the carnival ships by size and age into perspective, here is a table of the 26 Carnival cruise ship sizes.

Table Of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size And Carnival Cruise Ships By Age

Carnival Cruise Ships on Order

Carnival Cruise Line continues to innovate and expand its fleet. Currently, the cruise line has one ship on order, the Carnival Jubilee, which will launch in 2023. This Excel-class ship will join its sister ships, the Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, in providing passengers with a state-of-the-art cruising experience.

As of mid-July 2023, Carnival does not have any other new ships on order.

By understanding Carnival Ships by Size and Age, you can easily decide which ship aligns with your cruising preferences. Whether you prefer the grandeur of the newest and largest ships or the charm of the older and smaller vessels, Carnival Cruise Line offers a ship for every type of cruiser.

Remember, the best ship is not necessarily the newest or the biggest but the one that provides the experience you’re looking for. So, which Carnival ship will you choose for your next cruise adventure?

Frequently Asked Questions About Carnival Ships By Size And Age

When planning a cruise vacation, it’s natural to have questions when it comes to choosing the right ship. To assist you further, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about “Carnival ships by size and age.” Here are the answers to some of the most common queries:

What is the largest ship in the Carnival fleet?

The largest ship Carnival has is the Carnival Celebration, part of the Excel Class. Its gross tonnage is 183,900. It offers a plethora of amenities, including the first-ever roller coaster on a cruise ship.

What is the oldest ship in the Carnival fleet?

The Fantasy Class has the Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation, both launched in 1998, which makes them the oldest ships. Despite their age, they offer a classic and intimate cruise experience and have undergone renovations over the years to add more balcony cabins.

What are the main differences between the classes of Carnival ships?

Each class of Carnival ships by size and age offers unique features and amenities. For instance, the Excel Class ships are the newest and largest, boasting a wide array of modern amenities. On the other hand, the Fantasy Class ships are the oldest and smallest, offering a more intimate cruising experience. The specific amenities and experiences offered can vary from class to class, so it’s important to research each class when choosing your ship.

Additional Resources

If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs, and troubleshooting on cruises, here are some additional posts about cruises:

How To Go On A Cruise – Cheap Way To Vacation

Walt Disney Cruise Line – Discover Enticing Fun Destinations

Icon Of The Seas Vs Titanic: A Comparison Of 2 Worlds Of Sea Travel

Conclusion – Carnival Ships By Size And Age

In conclusion, understanding the various “Carnival ships by size and age” is crucial when planning your next cruise vacation. Each class of Carnival ships by size and age, from the Excel class to the Fantasy class, offers unique features and amenities that cater to a wide range of preferences and experiences.

Whether you’re looking for the most modern amenities on the Excel class ships or a more intimate cruising experience on the Fantasy class ships, Carnival Cruise Line has a ship for you.

This comprehensive guide to “Carnival ships by size and age” provides detailed information about each class of ships, their features, and the years they were launched. With this information at your fingertips, you’re now well-equipped to make an informed decision for your next cruise vacation.

Remember, the perfect ship for you depends on your personal preferences, and Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of options to meet every cruiser’s needs.

Happy cruising, my friends.

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Laura Fuller

Hello, I am a luggage and travel fanatic. With a vast knowledge of TSA regulations, I am here to assist you on your journey. Please join me, and together, we will navigate the world of travel. From TSA and air to cruising the high seas, we will explore the best accessories and tips for smooth travel.

Carnival Cruise Drink Packages – Guide to Sipping at Sea

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A Guide to All 27 Carnival Cruise Ships

With 27 ships and hundreds of itineraries, there’s a Carnival cruise for everyone.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line offers numerous cruise options worldwide with a fleet of 27 ships. Their cruises include all the hits: celebrity chef-driven restaurants, onboard rollercoasters, dedicated kids venues, serene spa moments, adults-exclusive pool decks, and exciting destinations. Carnival has it all — and can be relatively affordable. But which ship is right for you?

After sailing on eight Carnival cruises, including voyages on its oldest ship, Carnival Elation , and the newer Carnival Celebration, I’ve learned that sailing on newer ships is generally more expensive, and older vessels are more budget-friendly. However, I often consider more than the total cost before booking a cruise. I look at the ports of call, the space-to-guest ratio, the amenities and onboard activities, and the launch point.

When I select a sailing, I book through Carnival Cruise Line’s reservation number to see if I can snag an exclusive deal not listed online. Carnival's free-to-join loyalty program, the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club, offers deals like reduced deposits, onboard credit, and room upgrades. The more you book with the cruise line, the better your deals will be.

Before committing to a cruise, I break down the price per person per night, particularly if I need multiple cabins because I'm traveling with a group. I recommend you take advantage of Carnival's convenient 24-hour reservation hold, which displays the total cost, itinerary, and a countdown timer so you know when to purchase to secure the locked-in price.

Here, find guidance on every Carnival cruise ship, from the newest to the oldest.

Related: How to Save Money on a Cruise

Carnival Firenze

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Venice Class

Ship Capacity: 4,126 double occupancy; 5,245 total guests

Standout Amenities: Amari bar for a peritivi and digestivi ; Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need time away from kids; and Pizzeria Del Capitano for hand-tossed pizza made with imported Italian ingredients

Originally debuted in 2021 as part of the Costa Cruises fleet (an Italy-based subsidiary of Carnival), the Firenze will set sail as a Carnival ship — with an Italian twist — in Spring 2024. Across Firenze , you’ll see touches of Italy; think cute cafe set-ups that look like they were picked up from a Florence sidewalk. Terrazza staterooms access a private sun deck with whirlpools and a bar. Carnival’s fan-favorite dining options and amenities, like Guy’s Burger Joint and WaterWorks, will be on board.

Carnival Jubilee

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Excel Class

Ship Capacity: 5,374 double occupancy; 6,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster rollercoaster; relaxing Cloud 9 Spa thermal suites with adjustable humidity and temperature; pickleball courts for challenging family and friends

Carnival Jubilee is the newest Excel-class ship in the fleet, sailing from Galveston, Texas. The massive ship offers Camp Ocean, the onboard kids club. Adults also have their own space at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with swaying hammocks and a bar.

Carnival Venezia

Ship Capacity: 3,934 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: The Gondola Lounge, themed after Venice's beautiful canals; a pool area with a retractable roof

Initially built in 2019 for Costa Cruises, this ship joined the Carnival fleet in 2023. Carnival Venezia is ideal if you’re looking for a ship that celebrates one of Italy’s most iconic cities. Venice is the inspiration behind the indoor and outdoor areas, including the atrium, modeled after Piazza San Marco, and the Carnevale Lounge, inspired by Venetian masquerades. Don't miss the Venetian Toast, where the ship’s captain greets guests and crew don Venetian masks.

Carnival Celebration

Inaugural Year: 2022

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers, a kids camp in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; The Golden Jubilee Bar for vintage cocktails; BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster

Carnival Celebration is all about never-ending good times. During my recent sailing, I found all the Carnival classics, like the Alchemy Bar and Guy’s Burger Joint, a thrilling ropes course, dive-in movies, and plenty of themed deck parties. If you’re looking to relax, it has that, too. Rent cabanas or lounge in the ocean-view whirlpools at Loft 19, where attentive staff take care of everything, like delivering you fruit and chilled towels. My favorite spot to hang out was the aft Patio Pool because it wasn't ever super crowded, and the view of the ocean was unmatched.

Carnival Luminosa

Ship Class: Spirit Class

Ship Capacity: 2,260 double occupancy; 2,826 total guests

Standout Amenities: Carnival fan-favorite Alchemy Bar; Circle “C” tween club; Cloud 9 Spa hydrotherapy pool for rejuvenating soaks

Carnival Luminosa (formerly the Costa Luminosa ) is for you if you want to sail to destinations like Alaska and Australia. It also offers occasional itineraries through scenic transpacific spots like Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii, and Japan. The ship has all of the brand’s classic amenities, like the RedFrog Rum Bar and Punchliner Comedy Club, plus an array of dining options, including sushi, pizza, ice cream, and an over-the-top brunch.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Inaugural Year: 2021

Ship Capacity: 5,282 double occupancy; 6,456 total guests

Standout Amenities: BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster for adrenaline junkies; Havana Bar for Cuban drinks and live music; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse

Carnival Mardi Gras is a nod to Carnival’s first ship, also named Mardi Gras, which was launched in 1972. The vessel has six onboard zones where families can have fun together, including the Ultimate Playground, where BOLT and the SportsSquare are located. Of course, there’s no Mardi Gras without New Orleans, so the French Quarter zone is where you’ll find Big Easy-inspired amenities like an Emeril Lagasse restaurant.

Carnival Radiance

Inaugural Year: 2021 (formerly Carnival Victory , which set sail in 2000)

Ship Class: Sunshine Class

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,873 total guests

Standout Amenities: BlueIguana Tequila Bar for great margaritas; ZSPA for teens who want a spa day; an outdoor gym on the ship's top deck

Carnival Radiance has culinary delights and family fun in spades. If you're a foodie, try Guy’s Burger Joint for loaded burgers straight from Flavortown or Shaq’s Big Chicken for the basketball star's incredible fried chicken sandwiches. Kids will love seeing The Cat in the Hat characters during activities like character parades, story time, and character breakfasts.

Carnival Panorama

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Vista Class

Ship Capacity: 4,008 double occupancy; 5,146 total guests

Standout Amenities: Sky Zone trampoline park where families can bounce and play games; Skyride, a suspended bike on the top deck with great ship and ocean views; Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse featuring Carnival Cruise Line exclusive craft beers

Carnival Panorama is smaller than today's mega-ships, but it packs a ton of fun into its 15 decks. Rooms are spacious; some come with exclusive perks like access to the Havana Pool area or unlimited use of the spa’s thermal suites. Kids will also love that there’s an onboard waterpark, kids club, and a Build-a-Bear Workshop at Sea.

Carnival Sunrise

Ship Capacity: 2,984 double occupancy; 3,973 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa cabins with access to the thermal suites; Lucky Bowl restaurant, which is only on Carnival Sunrise and only open for lunch

Carnival Sunrise (formerly Carnival Triumph ) features an exciting splash zone for kids and a piano bar where adults can sing along to their favorite songs all night. The ship sails on two to five-night and six to nine-night cruises from Miami, Florida, to the Bahamas.

Carnival Horizon

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 3,960 double occupancy; 4,977 total guests

Standout Amenities: IMAX movie theater for a family night out; Dr. Suess Bookville for family story time and character appearances; volleyball court where adults can test their skills or just hit the ball around

Carnival Horizon has all the makings of a fun family vacation. The kids clubs have dedicated counselors who ensure children are always having fun, and parents can slip away to an adults-only bar for a cocktail or the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat to catch some sun. Then, as night falls, you can come back together for a special meal in the main dining room or JiJi Asian Kitchen, which specializes in regional Asian cuisine.

Carnival Vista

Inaugural Year: 2016

Standout Amenities: The thrilling SkyRide suspended bike for great ship and sea views; Thrill Theater for a 3-D show with water, lighting, wind, and chair movement effects; RedFrog Pub & Brewery, the first brewery at sea in North America

Carnival Vista is perfect for new cruisers. Sailings range from two to nine days out of Port Canaveral, so you can get a taste of what a cruise is like without committing to a more traditional weeklong sailing. Expect an onboard brewery, incredible restaurants, and family-friendly fun.

Carnival Sunshine

Inaugural Year: 2013

Ship Capacity: 3,002 double occupancy; 3,758 total guests

Standout Amenities: Carnival WaterWorks with multiple slides and water features; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for poolside libations; an onboard steakhouse with a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its exceptional wine list

Carnival Sunshine (formerly Carnival Destiny ) is 10 years old and a fan favorite. The lower guest capacity, at just over 3,000 for double occupancy, means you won’t have to fight hoards of people to get to and from activities. Families who want even more cabin space should book one of the aft-view extended balcony rooms with great wake views and ample private outdoor space.

Carnival Breeze

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Dream Class

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa for next-level relaxation; Mongolian Wok lunch restaurant; pickleball courts to get competitive with your family; waterslides

Carnival Breeze is ideal for a short cruise out of Galveston, Texas. The ship has plenty of activities throughout the day, including bingo, trivia, and live performances in the comedy club.

Carnival Magic

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 3,690 double occupancy; 4,724 total guests

Standout Amenities: Cloud 9 Spa; a thrilling ropes course; Chef’s Table dining experience

Carnival Magic sails for a week or more from Miami, Florida. The ship debuted the restaurant Cucina del Capitano, which is now onboard multiple ships in the fleet. It’s also home to the original Guy’s Pig & Anchor. I sailed the Carnival Magic years ago, but I vividly remember spending an entire day enjoying the amenities at the Cloud 9 Spa and eating at the Mongolian Wok quick-service restaurant almost every afternoon for lunch.

Carnival Dream

Inaugural Year: 2009

Ship Capacity: 3,646 double occupancy; 4,631 total guests

Standout Amenities: Ocean Plaza, a multi-use entertainment venue that’s family-friendly during the day and a nightclub after dark; Guy’s Burger Joint for standout smash burgers; Cloud 9 Spa for adults to relax

Carnival Dream is known for exciting entertainment and food and beverage offerings, including Alchemy Bar, a vintage-themed cocktail "pharmacy." The ship sails from Galveston, Texas, on six to nine-day cruises. I loved playing the onboard mini-golf course.

Carnival Splendor

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Class: Splendor Class

Ship Capacity: 3,012 double occupancy; 3,734 total guests

Standout Amenities: Masala Tiger Indian restaurant, which is only open for lunch and only on this ship; a mini-golf course; a pool with a retractable cover

Carnival Splendor sails the Southern Hemisphere around Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific on cruises that range from two to 10 days. The ship has Carnival’s only quick-service Indian restaurant and boasts a pool with a retractable roof, so you can swim without worrying about the weather.

Carnival Freedom

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Conquest Class

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,754 total guests

Standout Amenities: Space Cruisers kids program in partnership with Kennedy Space Center; RedFrog Pub, with Key West-inspired food and drinks; Dr. Seuss Bookville, a kids library that's themed after the famous author’s characters

Carnival Freedom is ideal for first-time cruisers because of the lower guest capacity and the smaller ship size. But don’t let the numbers fool you; this ship is packed with high-energy activities for all ages; from the kid's clubs to the casino, there’s no lack of fun to be had.

Carnival Liberty

Inaugural Year: 2005

Ship Capacity: 2,974 double occupancy; 3,576 total guests

Standout Amenities: Punchliner Comedy Club for family-friendly laughs during the day and adults-only fun at night; SkyBox Sports Bar to keep up with the big games back home; Mongolian Wok, a prime lunch spot with custom bowls

Looking to relax? Prefer a high-energy vacation? Carnival Liberty can do it all. Head to the main theater for enchanting live performances and shows every night, enjoy tacos and burgers on the pool decks, or find a lounge chair around the pool and soak up the sun.

Carnival Valor

Inaugural Year: 2004

Ship Capacity: 2,980 double occupancy; 3,756 total guests

Standout Amenities: Dive-in movies where you can catch a family-friendly flick under the stars; BlueIguana Tequila Bar for tequila and Mexican beer-based cocktails; Scarlett’s Steakhouse, where perfect steaks and impeccable sides await

Carnival Valor is almost 20 years old and still showing cruisers a good time. The ship's home ports are New Orleans, Louisiana, and Barcelona, Spain, and it offers two to over 10-night sailings. Don’t miss the epic Seaday Brunch, where you'll find all kinds of treats like huevos rancheros, french toast, loaded burgers, and chicken and waffles.

Carnival Miracle

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,680 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat where the 21-plus crowd can enjoy a kid-free space; pickleball courts that have great views of the ocean and ports of call

Fantasy worlds and elements inspired Carnival Miracle . Around the ship, you’ll find spaces like Phantom Lounge and Dr. Frankenstein’s Lab, where you can see shows or dance the night away. When you’re ready to soak up the sun, find a lounge chair at the adults-only pool deck or splash down on one of the slides at WaterWorks.

Carnival Glory

Inaugural Year: 2003

Standout Amenities: Camp Ocean kids club for children ages two to 11; AquaTunnel waterslide; 24-hour pizza delivery to anywhere on the ship

Carnival Glory is a vibrant ship inside and out. Think nightly dance parties in White Heat Dance Club, movies under the stars on the pool deck, and tacos from BlueIguana Cantina. The ship sails around the Bahamas, Caribbean, and more on two to 10-day itineraries.

Carnival Legend

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests

Standout Amenities: White Hot Night Party; jogging track with panoramic ocean views; Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea where kids can make a new friend to bring home

Carnival Legend, themed around legends and lore around the world, has two pools and plenty of places to grab a bite, including the Golden Fleece Steakhouse for a stunning multi-course dinner. You're sure to return home with tales.

Carnival Conquest

Standout Amenities: Pickleball courts so you can keep up with weekly family matches; '80s Rock-In-Glow Party for an evening of throwback fun; Guy’s Burger Joint for tasty and quick meals between activities

Carnival Conquest takes cruisers to the Bahamas and the Caribbean on two to 10-day sailings. Special programs allow kids to see their favorite Dr. Seuss characters at sea, and adults can enjoy the enticing Alchemy Bar for one-of-a-kind cocktails.

Carnival Pride

Inaugural Year: 2002

Standout Amenities: Mid-ship pool with a retractable roof; Heroes Tribute Bar, which recognizes each branch of the American military

For an extended cruise from Tampa, Florida, or Baltimore, Maryland, look to Carnival Pride . The ship has something for every type of traveler, including three kids clubs, adult-only spaces, and over a dozen different dining options.

Carnival Spirit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,124 double occupancy; 2,610 total guests

Standout Amenities: Domed swimming pool; two-deck fitness center; a pizza window open until 4 a.m.

Carnival Spirit sets sail from home ports around the United States to Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal. The ship offers a wide range of entertainment options, including mini-golf, a jogging track, kids clubs, and adult-centric entertainment.

Carnival Paradise

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Fantasy Class

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests

Standout Amenities: Serenity Adult-Only Retreat when you need a place without kids; twin racing waterslides for all ages

With two to nine-day cruises from Tampa to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Carnival Paradise literally takes cruisers to paradise islands. The ship brims with fun amenities like the WaterWorks splash zone and the relaxing Cloud 9 Spa.

Carnival Elation

Ship Capacity: 2,052 double occupancy; 2,606 total guests

Standout Amenities: Duke’s Piano Bar for nightly sing-a-longs; Alchemy Bar for custom cocktails; BlueIguana Cantina for breakfast and lunch options with a Mexican twist

Carnival Elation is currently the fleet's oldest ship, debuting in March 1998, and the only cruise ship from any cruise line that sails from Jacksonville, Florida. Even though the ship is small, with a total guest capacity of 2,606, it’s ideal for a quick weekend away if you want a mix of relaxation and high-energy activities. I've sailed the most on Carnival Elation since the ship sails from my hometown of Jacksonville. Even though it's the oldest in the fleet, I love that the sailings are short weekend trips where I can sit outside in the sun enjoying a Guy's Burger Joint smash burger before heading inside to see a show or play bingo. And because the ship is so small, it's easy to navigate, and I always end up making friends with the delightful crew onboard.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (Largest to Smallest)

When I think about choosing the right Carnival cruise, I always start with the size of the ship. It’s amazing how much the size can influence your whole experience. Smaller ships offer a cozy, relaxed vibe, while the biggest ones are like floating cities, bursting with activities and options. For anyone planning a cruise, getting a handle on the ship size is a crucial first step.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through the Carnival fleet, starting with the smallest to the biggest. Whether you’re a newbie to cruising trying to figure out what’s what, or a seasoned sea-goer with a preference in mind, I’ll help you sift through the options. My goal is to make it easier for you to spot the Carnival ship that’s just right for your kind of vacation – whether you’re up for the buzz of a big ship or the quaintness of a smaller one.

Table of Contents

Carnival Cruise Ships by Size — Quick Overview

The table below lists Carnival cruise ships by size, starting with the largest.

Largest Carnival Cruise Ships

1. carnival jubilee.

Launched in 2022, the Carnival Celebration has a gross tonnage of 183,521 and a capacity for 5,374 passengers. This vessel stands out with BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, offering unique ocean views. Diverse dining options include Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken, adding celebrity appeal. The ship’s entertainment features a high-tech theater and immersive productions, alongside a vibrant deck party. Celebration’s design reflects Carnival’s heritage while embracing modernity. With areas like the Havana Bar & Pool, it offers both grandeur and intimate settings, appealing to both thrill-seekers and those seeking relaxation.

3. Mardi Gras

Launched in 2021, the Carnival Mardi Gras is another Carnival ship that can accommodate 5,282 passengers. What sets it apart is the diverse range of themed zones, from the lively Grand Central to the French Quarter’s jazz-infused atmosphere. The ship offers a culinary adventure with Emeril Lagasse’s first restaurant at sea, alongside a variety of other dining options. The Mardi Gras also features a spacious outdoor deck for relaxation and entertainment. This ship combines innovation and Carnival’s festive essence, creating a unique and engaging experience for every passenger.

4. Carnival Venezia

With a gross tonnage of 135,225, Carnival Venezia is another large ship that is tailored for Western cruising. It features spacious decks and captures the essence of Italy. The ship is known for its Venetian-themed dining and decor, providing guests with an authentic European experience. Its design and amenities cater to those who enjoy a mix of cultural immersion and the classic Carnival fun.

5. Carnival Firenze

Carnival Firenze has a gross tonnage of 135,156 and is themed after Florence, Italy. Its Renaissance-inspired interiors bring a touch of elegance to the seas. Firenze is unique for its Italian dining experiences and sophisticated atmosphere. This ship combines the charm of Italy with the excitement of a Carnival cruise, offering a distinct and enjoyable experience for its guests.

6. Carnival Panorama

Carnival Panorama, boasting a gross tonnage of 133,500, is a modern marvel in the Carnival fleet. This ship is known for its Sky Zone trampoline park and a wide array of family-friendly activities. Panorama’s spacious design allows for a variety of dining and entertainment options, making it a great choice for those seeking a fun and dynamic cruise experience.

7. Carnival Horizon

With a gross tonnage of 133,500, Carnival Horizon offers a large-scale, vibrant cruising experience. Its notable features include the SkyRide, an aerial bike ride, and the IMAX theater, providing unique entertainment at sea. Horizon’s varied dining options and spacious decks make it perfect for guests looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation.

8. Carnival Vista

Carnival Vista, also at 133,500 gross tonnage, is designed for an engaging family vacation. Highlights include the SkyRide and an expansive water park. Vista provides a range of dining experiences and entertainment options, suited to all ages. Its size and versatility make it an ideal choice for a fun-filled cruise.

9. Carnival Breeze

Carnival Breeze, with a gross tonnage of 130,000, offers a relaxed and spacious cruising experience. This ship features the Thrill Theater, an exciting 5D movie experience, and a range of diverse dining options. Breeze’s large size allows for various activities and entertainment, catering to both families and couples.

10. Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic has a gross tonnage of 130,000 and is known for its innovative design and wide range of onboard activities. The ship features the SportSquare and the Cucina del Capitano Italian restaurant, adding variety to the cruise experience. Magic’s size ensures there’s something for everyone, from sports enthusiasts to food lovers.

11. Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream, with a gross tonnage of 130,000, stands out with its Dream-class design. The ship is home to the WaterWorks aqua park and a variety of dining options, including the Chef’s Table experience. Dream’s large scale enables a diverse range of activities and entertainment, appealing to a broad audience of cruisers.

The Carnival fleet offers a variety of ships, each impressive in size and unique in offerings. From the largest, the Carnival Jubilee, to others like the Carnival Dream, size plays a key role in defining the onboard experience. Whether it’s expansive decks, a multitude of dining options, or diverse entertainment, the size of these ships caters to different tastes and needs. This guide to Carnival’s ships by size aims to help you find the right fit for your cruise adventure.

Sheryll holds an MA in Journalism and English from NYU. With over 7 years of experience in the cruise industry, she brings a blend of insightful reporting and firsthand cruising knowledge.

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Carnival Cruise Ships by Size and Age (2022)

Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras at sea

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.

Carnival Horizon Havana Retreat Bar area

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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The Family Vacation Guide

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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Carnival Ships by Size and Age

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Welcome aboard our voyage through the Carnival Cruise Line’s Fleet. Carnival has long been a favorite for its family-friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly options. Whether you’re planning your first sea adventure or a seasoned sailor of the high seas, understanding the diverse fleet of Carnival’s ships can help tailor your perfect cruise experience.

Carnival ships are famous for their signature red, white, and blue whale tail funnel, a symbol of fun and excitement on the open sea. This iconic design marks the ships’ distinctive profile and encapsulates the essence of Carnival’s brand—a world of fun, sun, and exploration.

In this blog post, we’ll navigate the waves of choices within the Carnival fleet. We’ll compare Carnival ships by size, age, and class to help you select the best one for your next cruise vacation.

Table of Contents

Carnival Ships by Size

A view of the port side of Carnival Spirit sailing through Juneau Alaska with trees and mountains in the background

Carnival’s fleet offers a variety of sizes catering to different passenger preferences, from those seeking an intimate experience to a thrill-packed city at sea with endless activities.

Larger Carnival cruise ships have more things to do, while smaller vessels offer a more relaxed and laid-back experience.

Below is a comprehensive guide to Carnival Cruise Line’s ships, categorized by size.

List of Carnival Ships by Age

The Bolt Roller coaster and Carnival Cruise Line’s signature whale tale funnel visible on the Carnival Celebration cruise ship while docked at San Juan, Puerto Rico

The ship’s age is an essential factor when planning your cruise vacation. Newer cruise ships, like Carnival Jubilee, offer newer technology, better amenities, more activities, and a broader range of entertainment options. In contrast, older vessels, like Carnival Spirit, are quieter and focus more on traditional cruise activities.

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

Although the cruise ships at 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 Liberty departing Port of Miami in Florida

Carnival Cruise Line has eight cruise ship classes.

Carnival Cruise Ships on Order

Carnival Cruise Line currently has one unnamed Excel-class ship on order. We’re expecting Carnival’s fourth Excel-class ship to arrive in 2027 and be identical in size to the previous Excel cruise ships.

The 180,000 gross-ton cruise ship will be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) and is under construction at the Meyer-Werft shipyard in Germany.

Which Carnival Cruise Ship is the Biggest?

The biggest Carnival cruise ship is the Carnival Jubilee . The Excel-class cruise ship has a gross tonnage of 183,900 GT, a length of 344 meters, and can accommodate 5,374 passengers.

Which Carnival Cruise Ship is the Smallest?

Carnival’s smallest cruise ship is the Carnival Elation, which has a gross tonnage of 71,909 GT, a length of 260 meters, and a 2,188-passenger capacity.

What is the Newest Carnival Ship?

Carnival’s newest cruise ship is the Carnival Firenze, which entered service for the cruise line in 2024. Firenze was built in 2021 for Carnival’s sister brand, Costa Cruises. Carnival acquired the cruise ship, and it entered service in 2024.

What is the Oldest Carnival Ship?

The oldest Carnival ship is the Carnival Sunshine , which launched in 1996.

How Many Cruise Ships Does Carnival Have?

Carnival operates the largest ocean cruise ship fleet with 27 cruise ships.

What Was the First Carnival Cruise Ship?

Carnival's first cruise ship Mardi Gras moored at Montreal on August 28, 1979

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 from the 180,000 Excel-class ships.

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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.

Carnival Cruise Line Gets Ready for Busy Alaska Season

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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Just sailed on the Radiance and can’t wait for the upcoming Firenze sailing out of Long Beach

DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Carnival Cruise Ships by Size: Your Guide to Comparing Vessels

Looking for Carnival cruise ships by size? Look no further.

We know when considering a vacation on the high seas, size matters – and Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet showcases a wide array of ship sizes catering to every traveler’s taste. With vessels ranging from the classic and cozy to the modern behemoths brimming with activities, the choice of ship can significantly shape your cruising experience. Our knowledge in ship size not only helps us appreciate the scale of these maritime marvels but also aids in understanding the variety of amenities and spaces available to guests on board.

Stepping aboard a Carnival cruise ship, one is met with a world of options. Each ship comes loaded with entertainment, dining venues, and comfortable accommodations. The diverse fleet allows passengers to select a ship that fits their desired balance of intimacy and grandeur, and each class of ship presents a unique set of features. From aquatic parks to thrilling rollercoasters, the size of the ship often dictates the range of activities available during your voyage.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Size Quick Glance

Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet offers a variety of ship sizes to suit different passenger preferences.
The size of a ship influences the onboard amenities and entertainment options available.
Choosing the right ship size can enhance the overall comfort and experience of your cruise getaway.

Understanding Cruise Ship Size

When we talk about cruise ship size, it’s key to understand the various metrics that define it, such as tonnage, dimensions, and passenger capacity. These metrics help to compare and contrast different ships within a fleet.

Gross Tonnage and Dimensions

Gross tonnage (GT) and dimensions are the primary metrics for determining the size of cruise ships. Gross tonnage reflects the internal volume of a vessel, with 1 GT equaling 100 cubic feet of space. The length of a ship also plays a crucial role in defining its size, as it affects both the aesthetic and functionality of the vessel.

Passenger Capacity and Crew

The maximized guest capacity of a ship is a vital measure in understanding its overall size. For example, Carnival Mardi Gras has a capacity of 6,465 passengers, marking it as one of the largest in terms of passenger accommodation. Crew size similarly scales with the ship’s capacity to ensure proper service and safety.

Ship Classes and Their Significance

Carnival’s fleet is divided into classes, such as Vista , Dream , and Fantasy classes. Each class has a signature design, size, and suite of amenities. The Vista class, for example, includes Carnival Vista and its sisterships like Carnival Horizon and Carnival Panorama , indicating a certain range of tonnage and length specific to this class.

Oldest to Newest Vessels

The age of vessels spans from the Carnival Fantasy in 1990 to the anticipated Carnival Jubilee set for 2023. Aging ships often have a smaller size and fewer modern amenities than the newer, larger vessels.

Refurbishment and Modernization

Refurbishments such as the transformation of Carnival Triumph into Carnival Sunrise involve significant changes in amenities and sometimes size. Such updates refresh the fleet without the need for entirely new constructions.

Largest vs Smallest Ships

Carnival’s largest ships can be considerably different in gross tonnage and passenger capacity compared to the smallest ships in the fleet. Carnival Vista , for example, measures over 130,000 GT and carries thousands of guests, dwarfing older and smaller vessels like Carnival Fantasy .

Environmental Considerations

Sustainability efforts include adopting liquified natural gas (LNG) for fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, as seen with the Excel class. Carnival aims to meet higher sustainability standards with each new vessel added to their fleet.

Cost Factors in Cruise Ship Construction

The cost of building a cruise ship varies greatly, depending on size, technology, and amenities. Bigger ships with advanced sustainability features and luxurious amenities are generally more expensive to build compared to smaller, less complex vessels.

The Fleet of Carnival Cruise Line

Our fleet is a dazzling array of fun-filled cruise ships, each class exhibiting unique features and amenities. From the groundbreaking designs of the Dream and Vista classes to the classic charm of the Fantasy class, we’ve ensured variety and excitement for each guest aboard.

Dream Class Overview

The Dream Class ships, including Carnival Dream , set the standard for our modern cruise experience with expansive promenade decks and deluxe facilities. Each ship in this class boasts a passenger capacity of over 3,600, striking a balance between grandeur and comfort.

Vista Class Highlights

Vista Class ships are a testament to our innovative spirit, highlighting panoramic sea views and onboard attractions. Ships like Carnival Vista , Carnival Horizon , and Carnival Panorama offer SkyRide, an open-air cycling experience, and an IMAX Theatre.

Sunshine Class Features

Sunshine Class ships epitomize our evolution, having been transformed to include features from the Fun Ship 2.0 program. Carnival Sunshine , along with its sister ships Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Radiance , offers diverse dining and entertainment choices.

Fantasy Class Ships

Our Fantasy Class ships are the pioneers of our fleet; with ships like Carnival Fantasy and Carnival Ecstasy , guests can enjoy a more intimate and classic cruise experience. Despite being our oldest class, they maintain a loyal following due to their charm.

Splendor Class Specifications

With only one vessel, Splendor Class is unique. Carnival Splendor offers exclusive features such as a 21,000 square foot spa and combines the coziness of smaller ships with the amenities of larger vessels.

Conquest Class Description

The Conquest Class vessels, including Carnival Conquest , Carnival Glory , Carnival Valor , Carnival Liberty , and Carnival Freedom , offer themed décor and a wide range of onboard dining and entertainment options, reflecting our dedication to guest satisfaction.

Excel Class Innovations

Our Excel Class represents the pinnacle of our creative endeavors with Mardi Gras leading the way and upcoming ships such as Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee . These ships introduce groundbreaking features like the first roller coaster at sea , BOLT™.

In each class of our fleet, we’ve designed ships that cater to the preferences of every traveler, delivering unforgettable vacations highlighted by our commitment to fun, comfort, and innovation.

Amenities and Entertainment

In our exploration of Carnival Cruise ships, we find an impressive array of amenities and entertainment options. These venues cater to diverse tastes and interests, ensuring every guest encounters something special. Let us guide you through the myriad of experiences that await on board.

Onboard Dining Options

Carnival’s culinary experiences delight with a variety of dining options. Guy’s Burger Joint is a must-try for casual fare, while Bonsai Sushi offers a sophisticated menu of Japanese cuisine . These ships also boast specialty restaurants and main dining rooms serving an array of delectable dishes.

Leisure and Recreation

Dive into fun with the onboard WaterWorks waterpark or challenge yourself on the Ropes Course . For a unique experience, try the SkyRide , an aerial attraction that offers breathtaking views of the sea. The Serenity Retreat offers a tranquil escape for adults seeking peace and relaxation.

Family and Kids Entertainment

Carnival Cruise ships are family-friendly with an array of activities. Children will find age-appropriate clubs loaded with fun, while families can come together for mini-golf, pool time, or a movie at the onboard IMAX theater.

Nightlife and Performances

Evenings come alive with a variety of entertainment. From the laughter-spilling Punchliner Comedy Club to Broadway-style shows in the main theater, there’s no shortage of live entertainment. The night continues with vibrant clubs and lounges like the Alchemy Bar , perfect for a handcrafted cocktail.

Health and Wellness Facilities

Well-being is prioritized with state-of-the-art spa and fitness center facilities. On ships like the Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Horizon , guests can indulge in pampering treatments or maintain their fitness routines with the latest equipment and classes.

Shopping and Retail

Explore the ships’ shops and boutiques offering a range of products from luxury goods to everyday items. Take home a memento or indulge in a duty-free shopping spree with brands and exclusive Carnival merchandise available on board.

Destinations and Itineraries

We understand the excitement that comes with exploring new destinations aboard a magnificent cruise ship. Carnival Cruise Lines offers a diverse range of itineraries that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring we sail to some of the most sought-after destinations in the world.

Popular Caribbean Cruises

Our Caribbean cruises are a perennial favorite. Guests can anticipate the vibrant culture and stunning beaches of islands such as Jamaica , the Cayman Islands, and the Bahamas. Itineraries range from short getaways to extended adventures covering multiple islands.

3-5 day cruises : Perfect for a quick escape, visiting locations like Nassau and Half Moon Cay.
6+ day cruises : These allow for deeper exploration, including stops at exotic locales such as St. Lucia and Barbados.

Australian Adventures

Venture down under with us as we explore Australia’s breathtaking coastlines and eclectic cities. Australian itineraries offer a mix of urban experiences in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, alongside more serene stops in regions such as the Great Barrier Reef.

Sydney : The iconic opera house and harbor
Great Barrier Reef : An underwater paradise

Panama Canal Voyages

Embark on a journey through engineering marvels on one of our Panama Canal voyages . We navigate through this famous waterway, offering passengers a chance to experience one of the great feats of human ingenuity.

Partial transit : An introductory experience of the canal
Full transit : Travel from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean

Specialized Bahamian Excursions

For those seeking a unique Bahamian experience, we craft specialized itineraries that offer more than the typical cruise stop. From private island stays on Half Moon Cay to eco-tours and cultural deep-dives, these excursions are tailored to showcase the richness of the Bahamas.

Private islands : Unwind on our exclusive retreats
Cultural experiences : Engage with local history and customs

Environmental Responsibility and Sustainability

In our commitment to environmental stewardship , we prioritize advanced fuel technologies and waste management practices to ensure sustainability in our operations.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

Liquified Natural Gas (LNG): We have integrated the use of liquified natural gas, one of the cleanest-burning fuels, to power our ships. LNG significantly reduces the emissions that contribute to air pollution and climate change.

Emissions Reduction: We are diligent in implementing technologies and practices aimed at reducing our carbon footprint. This involves optimizing our routes for fuel efficiency and investing in eco-friendly innovations.

Water Treatment and Waste Management

Advanced Water Treatment Systems : To preserve the oceans we sail in, we employ state-of-the-art water treatment systems. These systems effectively purify wastewater before it is discharged, exceeding international standards.

Waste Reduction: Our comprehensive waste management strategies emphasize the reduction, reuse, and recycling of materials across our fleet. We are committed to minimizing waste to landfill and responsibly managing hazardous substances.

Through these dedicated efforts in environmental responsibility and sustainability, we continually strive to enhance the eco-friendliness of our cruise ships and operations.

Booking and Planning Your Cruise

When we plan a cruise adventure, understanding the offerings and making informed decisions is vital. We’ll guide you through selecting cabin classes , finding the best deals, preparing for your first cruise, and making the most of loyalty programs.

Understanding Cabin Classes

Carnival Cruise ships offer a variety of cabin classes ranging from cozy interior staterooms to expansive suites . When booking, we need to consider our budget and preferences:

Interior Staterooms: Ideal for those who prioritize value over views.
Ocean View: A step up, these rooms offer a window to the ocean.
Balcony: Perfect for private ocean vistas and personal space.
Suites: Offering maximum comfort, amenities, and space.

Navigating Deals and Offers

To secure the best booking deals, we must:

Book Early: Snag early bird promotions and a broader choice of cabins.
Last-Minute Deals : While risky, last-minute bookings can offer significant savings.
Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and special offers that Carnival Cruise Line provides.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Navigating our first cruise booking is easier with these tips:

Research: Look into the specifics of your ship, destinations, and onboard amenities.
Pack Smart: Bring essentials and a mix of casual and formal attire.
Itinerary: Examine the planned itinerary to align our onshore activities with our interests.

Loyalty Programs and Member Benefits

Joining Carnival’s loyalty program, VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club, offers escalating rewards with each cruise. We start as Blue members and can work our way up to Diamond status, unlocking perks such as:

Priority embarkation
Complimentary drinks
Exclusive onboard events
Laundry services

By understanding each aspect of planning and booking, we ensure a cruise experience tailored to our preferences and maximized for enjoyment and value.

Carnival Cruise Ships By Size in 2024 [With Comparison Chart]

As of now, Carnival has 25 cruise ships, and two more are all set to join the fleet by 2024. The biggest Carnival cruise ship has 2.5x more capacity than the smallest one.

While the biggest Carnival cruise ship, Carnival Jubilee, has a capacity of a maximum of 6,500 guests and 182,800 gross tonnage, the smallest one, Carnival Elation, can only accommodate 2,606 guests and 71,909 gross tonnage.

If you are wondering which is the giant Carnival cruise ship, the smallest one, or how big and small are each one in the Carnival fleet, you are in the right place.

In this list, let’s look at Carnival cruise ships by size in terms of maximum passenger capacity, gross tonnage, number of decks, length, and more.

List Of Carnival Cruise Ships In Terms Of Size

Carnival excel class.

The Excel class has Carnival’s three biggest cruise ships in its fleet. The Excel class is 35% bigger than the next ships in its fleet. Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, and Mardi Gras are three cruises in the Excel class.

The gross tonnage of cruises in the Excel class ranges from 180,800 to 182,800.

Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee is the latest in the Carnival cruise fleet. The maiden voyage of the same is set for late December 2023.

The Carnival Jubilee is 1,130 feet long and has a gross tonnage of 183,521. The cruise ship can host a maximum of 6,500 passengers and 1,735 crew.

The vessel has a total of 17 decks, of which 15 of them houses more than 2,641 staterooms. It also has four pools, 20 restaurants and more.

Like other ships in the Excel class, Carnival Jubilee has attractions such as BOLT roller coasters, latitude bars, aqua parks, and more.

Carnival Celebration

Introduced in early November 2022, the Carnival Celebration, with a maximum capacity of 6,500 passengers, 1,735 crew, and a total gross tonnage of 183,521, is the same size as the Carnival Jubilee. The total cost is estimated to be 1 billion dollars.

The vessel is 1,130 feet or 344.5 m long and has 19 decks. Carnival Celebration has the Ultimate Playground zone on the top deck with the BOLT roller coaster that can travel up to 40 mph or 64 km/h.

WaterWork, Aqua Park and specialty restaurants are other attractions of the cruise.

The ship started its maiden voyage on November 6, 2022, in Southampton.

Mardi Gras is the first vessel in the Carnival Excel class. It is also the first-ever Carnival cruise ship to be powered by LNG (Liquefied Neutral Gas).

The first Excel class Carnival cruise ship has a gross tonnage of 181,808, slightly less than the other two in the same class. However, the total capacity, length, and number of decks remain the same.

Mardi Gras started its maiden voyage on July 31, 2021.

Mardi Gras also has the BOLT roller coaster, specialty parks, and restaurants similar to the Carnival Jubilee and Celebration.

Carnival Venice Class

Carnival venezia.

With a gross tonnage of about 135,225 and a maximum capacity of 5,260, Carnival Venezia is the biggest cruise ship in the Venice class of Carnival cruise. The vessel contains 14 passenger decks and is 1,061 feet or 323.6 m long.

Carnival Venezia is Carnival’s Italian-style ship. The ship originally intended to sail in the Chinese market, but for unforeseeable reasons, it joined Carnival Cruise and serve the Caribbean, Canada, and New York regions.

Italian specialty restaurants, bars, fun activities, waterslides, mini golf, sports, etc., are a few attractions of the ship.

Carnival Firenze

Carnival Firenze is an Italian Renaissance-inspired cruise ship with specific architectural features incorporated throughout the vessel. With a gross tonnage of 135,156 and a capacity of 5,078 guests, Firenze is Carnival’s one of the biggest cruises in the Venice class.

The ship has 15 decks and is 1,061 feet long.

Italian cuisine is a highlight of the vessel. It includes multiple Italian cuisine-based restaurants, including Palazzo and Medici restaurants, La Strada Street food venue, Bonsai Teppanyaki, and more.

Carnival Vista Class

Carnival vista.

With a gross tonnage of 133,500 and a total length of 1,055 ft, Carnival Vista regularly sails from the US to the Bahamas and the Caribbean regions. The usual duration of the trips is 2 to 5 days and 6 to 9 days, depending on the destination.

SkyRide at SportsSquare, Havana bar and pool, Carnival WaterWorks, serenity adult-only retreat, etc. are a few highlights of the vessel.

In terms of size, the Carnival Vista is about 30% smaller than the biggest one in the Carnival fleet.

Carnival Horizon

With a humongous IMAX with 3D visuals and motion effects, the Carnival Horizon features a two-screen Carnival Multiplex. Dr. Suess WaterWorks, Skyride, and The Punchliner Comedy Club are places to relax for people of all ages.

Sailing from Miami to the Caribbean, the Carnival Horizon can accommodate 3,960 guests and 1,450 crew onboard.

With a variety of specialty restaurants, seafood shacks, brewhouses, smokehouses, snack stops, and more, Carnival Horizon has restaurants for all foodies.

The vessel is 1,055 feet long and has a gross tonnage of 133,500.

Carnival Panorama

The Carnival Panorama cruise ship was originally set to be delivered to PNO Cruises Australia. But a year later, the Carnival cruise announced the same would be transferred to its Vista class as the third vessel in its fleet.

Carnival Panorama is 1,055 feet long and can accommodate 4,008 guests and 1,450 onboard crew. The ship has a gross tonnage of 133,500. All three vessels in the Carnival Vitsa class are almost the same size.

Carnival Panorama comes with all fun activities from Carnival Vista and Horizon, the two other vessels in the same class. The SkyZone trampoline park is one of the unique attractions of the Carnival Panorama.

Carnival Dream Class

Carnival dream.

Carnival Dream was the biggest cruise ship during its maiden voyage in September 2009. With a gross tonnage of 128,250, 15 decks, and 1,004 feet in length, it is the biggest cruise in the Carnival Dream class.

The Carnival Dream sails from Galveston, TX, to the Caribbean, Panama Canal. The trips are usually 6 to 10+ days long.

The vessel houses many restaurants and bars like RedFrog Rum Bar, Bluelguana Tequila Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, Guy’s Big & Anchor Smokehouse, Bonsai Sushi, and more.

Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic completed its maiden voyage in May 2011 and was christened by Godmother Lindsey Wilson.

With a gross tonnage of 128,048, 1,005 feet, or 306.471 m length, the Carnival Magic has 14 passenger decks out of 17 total decks. It can house 3,690 passengers in double occupancy, 4,724 in maximum occupancy, and 1,386 crew.

With plenty of food and entertainment options, the Carnival Magic sails to the Caribbean out from Miami, Florida.

Carnival Breeze

Carnival Breeze is another Vista-class cruise ship similar to Carnival Magic and Carnival Dream. It features almost everything from two of its sister ships.

With a gross tonnage of 130,000, 1004 feet in length, 15 decks, and a capacity for 3,690 passengers and 1,386 crew, the Carnival Breeze is like the other two in the Vista class.

Carnival Breeze sails from Galveston, TX, to the Caribbean. SportsSquare and Cucina del Capitano are two of many fun zones in the vessel.

Carnival Breeze has Guy’s Burger Joint, Deaday Brunch, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, Steakhouse, and more for foodies.

Carnival Splendor Class

Carnival splendor.

The Carnival Splendor is the only vessel in the Splendor class.

The ship was initially ordered for Costa Cruises, but later, the plans were changed, and the ship was transferred to Carnival Cruise Line. At the time of its launch, Carnival Splendor was the largest cruise ship in the fleet for a brief period.

The vessel has a gross tonnage of 113,300 and is 950 feet long. 13 decks house 3,012 passengers and 1,150 crew.

Carnival Splendor sails from Sydney, Australia, and Singapore to Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. The trips are usually 5 to 10+ days long.

Carnival Conquest Class

Carnival conquest.

During its maiden voyage, the Carnival Conquest was the most giant cruise ship in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. The Carnival Conquest was about 30% bigger than the previous vessel. It started its maiden voyage on November 12, 2002.

An important aspect of Carnival Conquest is that more than 37% of all cabins in the vessel have balconies, and more than 60% have ocean views.

The cruise ship has a gross tonnage of 110,000 and is 953 feet or 290 m long. The cruise ship has 13 decks, carrying 2,980 passengers and 1,150 crew.

Carnival Conquest comes with various onboard fun activities and food sports like Guy’s Burger Joint™, RedFrog Rum Bar®, and SkyBox ™ Sports Bar.

Conquest sails to the Bahamas and the Caribbean from Florida.

Carnival Glory

Carnival Glory is the second Conquest class cruise ship from the Carnival Cruise line. The vessel was launched in July 2003 and can carry 2,980 passengers and 1,150 crew.

The ship is 952 feet or 290.2 m long and has a gross tonnage of 110,000. In total, the vessel has 13 decks.

Carnival Glory has various fun attractions like Carnival Waterworks, AquaTunnel waterslide, Dive-in movies, and more. With various food options and many restaurants, you get to enjoy every food and drink on offer.

Carnival Glory sails from LA, Barcelona, FL to Carribran.

Carnival Valor

With various onboard activities, including Camp Ocean, a serenity adult retreat, the Punchliner comedy club, Twister waterslide, playlist productions, and onboard dining options, the Carnival Valor is the third cruise ship in the Conquest class.

Carnival Valor started sailing in 2004 and has had considerable upgrades ever since. The ship has a gross tonnage of 110,000 and is 952 ft or 290.2 m long. The total guest capacity of Carnival Valore is 2,974, and the crew capacity is 1,180.

The cruise sails to the Caribbean and Transatlantic regions.

Carnival Liberty

The Carnival Liberty was the first vessel in its fleet to feature a Carnival seaside Theatre with a wide LED screen. The vessel started its maiden voyage in 2005.

The vessel sails to the Bahamas from FL and LA.

Carnival Liberty has a gross tonnage of 110,000, a total capacity of 2,974 guests, and 1160 onboard crew.

The size and features of Carnival Liberty are pretty similar to that of others in the same class. The Carnival Liberty then got many upgrades, including Fun Ship 2.0, which has introduced many fun activities.

Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom is the fifth and last cruise ship in the Conquest class. The vessel started its first sail on March 5, 2007, and is considered the 22nd operating vessel in the Carnival cruise’s fleet.

The cruise ship’s gross tonnage, passenger capacity, number of decks, and length are similar to others in the same class.

Carnival Freedom sails from Orlando to the Bahamas, Caribbean. Fun attractions and lively food options make guests love the vessel.

Carnival Sunshine Class

Carnival sunshine.

Formerly known as Carnival Destiny, the Carnival Sunshine is the first-ever cruise ship to exceed a gross tonnage of 100,000. The vessel started its maiden voyage in May 1996. In 2013, the ship got a major refit and a rename.

Even though Carnival Sunshine is one of the oldest cruises, it has modern amenities and fun activities like Carnival WaterWorks, SportSquare, Ropes Course, and more, all thanks to Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades.

Carnival Sunshine has a gross tonnage of 102,853, a maximum guest capacity of 3,002, and 1,040 on board crew. The ship is 892 feet in length.

Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise was initially launched as Carnival Triumph and later renamed to Carnival Sunrise and became a part of the Carnival Sunrise class. The cruise ship has a gross tonnage of 101,509, 893 feet in length, 13 decks and can house 2,984 passengers and 1,108 crew.

Like other cruises in the class, Carnival Sunrise got a significant refit in 2019 and features all modern amenities and fun attractions people love.

Carnival Sunrise sails to the Bahamas, Caribbean, from Miami, FL. Duration is usually from 2 to 5 days and 6 to 9 days. RedFrog Pub, SportsSquare, Serenity Adult-only Retreat, etc. a few attractions and onboard activities

Carnival Radiance

Initially launched as Carnival Victory, Carnival Radiance is the third vessel in the Sunshine class. The ship was initially launched in 1998, but she got a major refit in 2020 with significant upgrades to match modern-day cruises.

Carnival Radiance has a gross tonnage of 101,509 and is 893 feet long. The vessel can accommodate 2,764 passengers in double occupancy, 3,470 passengers with maximum occupancy, and 1,100 onboard crew.

Carnival Spirit Class

Carnival luminosa.

Carnival Luminosa was originally part of the Carnival Cruise Line’s sister company, Costa Cruises.

Costa Luminosa started its maiden voyage in 2009. Later, in 2022, Costa Luminosa was transferred to Carnival, now known as Carnival Luminosa.

Carnival Luminosa is a hybrid design of Vista and Spirit class. But it is considered in Spirit class. She has a gross tonnage of 92,600 and can accommodate 2,260 passengers in double occupancy 2,826 passengers in maximum occupancy, and 1,050 onboard crew.

Carnival Spirit

Launched in 2001, Carnival Spirit is the first Spirit-class cruise ship by Carnival Cruise Line.

The cruise ship has a GT of 88,500 and is 963 feet long. The 12 decks on the vessel can accommodate 2,124 passengers and 930 crew. Pools, waterslide and serenity adult-only retreats are some fun activities on board.

Carnival Pride

With several dining options and flagship-level entertainment options during the time of its launch, Carnival Pride is a spirit-class cruise ship operated by Carnival Cruises.

Carnival Pride is similar to others in the class, with a gross tonnage of 88,500 and a guest capacity of 2,134 and 930 on-board crew.

Carnival Legend

With a similar capacity to Carnival Pride and others in the Spirit Class, Carnival Legend is yet another cruise ship operated by Carnival Cruise Line. She can keep anyone entertained throughout the journey with many amazing entertainment and dining options.

The vessel has a gross tonnage of 80,500 and is 963 feet long. The total capacity is 2,124 guests and 930 on-board crew.

Carnival Miracle

Sailing regularly to Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, the Panama Canal, and the Transatlantic, Carnival Miracle is a relatively small cruise ship in the Carnival Cruise Line Spirit class. She has a gross tonnage of 88,500 and can accommodate 2124 guests.

Various onboard activities include a RedFrog bar, WaterWorks, Cherry on top, Suess at sea, Alchemy bar, the punchline comedy club, and more.

Carnival Fantasy Class

Carnival paradise.

Even though Carnival Paradise was first launched in 1998, she has undergone major revamps in 2018 and 2023 to include modern-day cruise ship amenities and entertainment options.

Carnival Paradise is one of the smallest vessels, with a gross tonnage of 70,367, a length of 260.60 m, and a capacity for 2,040 passengers and 920 crew.

The Carnival Paradise is the last Fantasy class cruise ship.

Carnival Elation

Carnival Elation is the oldest and the smallest cruise ship in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet today.

The vessel was initially launched in 1998 and got a major refit in 2017 and 2020.

Carnival Elation has a gross tonnage of 70,367 and a length of 261 m, similar to Carnival Paradise. The vessel can accommodate 2,130 passengers. After the 2020 refit, the maximum capacity has increased to 2,190.

Despite being the oldest Carnival cruise ship in its fleet today, the vessel has excellent entertainment and onboard dining options.

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's 2 largest cruise ships. They were shockingly similar for the $1,000 difference

Royal Caribbean operates many of the cruise industry's biggest ships.
Icon of the Seas launched in January, dethroning its predecessor, Wonder of the Seas, as the world's largest.
Here's how the two mega-ships compare in size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship darling, was deemed a success before it was even built.

In January, the highly anticipated vessel — complete with more than 40 bars and restaurants, a six-slide waterpark, and a waterfall — set sail, dethroning its less than two-year-old precursor, the Wonder of the Seas , as the world's largest cruise ship.

Before its debut, Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, had already repeatedly called Icon its "best-selling product" yet. The company experienced its largest booking day ever when reservations opened for Icon of the Seas more than a year before its launch, it said

Despite all of this fanfare, you might be surprised by how similar it is to its predecessor.

I've sailed on both ships. Let's see how Icon and Wonder compare in six categories: size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Both ships stunt the size of their competitors.

Wonder of the Seas debuted in 2022 as the then-world's largest cruise liner, measuring 235,600 gross-tons, 1,188 feet-long, and 18 decks-tall. The ship can accommodate up to 9,288 people, including 2,204 crew.

Icon of the Seas is, comparatively, 13,063 gross-tons heavier, eight feet longer, and two decks taller. It can sail up to 9,950 people, including 2,350 crew, although it's 52 feet less wide than its predecessor.

Both vessels feel more like amusement parks than traditional cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean invited me on complimentary, non-revenue sailings on both ships: two nights on Wonder in late 2022 and three nights on Icon in January.

I spent most of my time lost, overwhelmed, and exhausted.

It's no surprise both ships are operating weeklong itineraries this year. Any less, and you might not have time to experience all the activities and restaurants on your list.

Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Wonder and Icon have eight 'neighborhoods' that serve separate purposes.

The new ship shares three of Wonder of the Seas' neighborhoods : Central Park, Royal Promenade, and Suite.

Icon's other five — Thrill Island , Surfside, Hideaway, Chill Island, and AquaDome — are a first for the cruise line.

Many of the ships' amenities overlap, but in differing quantities.

Wonder has three waterslides. Icon has a six-slide waterpark complete with rafting and racing options.

Both have increasingly popular cruise amenities like decks-long dry slides, mini-golf courses, rock climbing walls, and playgrounds.

But instead of Wonder of the Seas' zipline , Icon of the Seas has Crown's Edge, a thrilling agility course with a small zipline that leaves travelers dangling 154 feet above the ocean.

Wonder’s Boardwalk neighborhood was my go-to.

Boardwalk delivered exactly as it had promised: an open-air space grounded by wood-planked floors, a hot dog stand, a sweets store, and kitschy, colorful decor.

Icon of the Seas' Surfside , designed for families with young children, felt like its closest dupe.

Both neighborhoods had a carousel, an outdoor playground, and family-friendly dining. But Surfside was more toddler-friendly, as suggested by the children's water play area and nighttime story readings.

On to entertainment: Both mega-ships have ice skating performances and exciting multi-disciplinary shows at the AquaTheater.

But travelers who enjoy musicals at sea will want to stick to Icon.

Unlike its predecessor, the new ship shows a rendition of Broadway hit "The Wizard of Oz" — Munchkins, a puppet Toto, and a 16-piece live band included.

The layout of Icon's amenities were better than its cousin.

Some of Wonder of the Seas' enticing outdoor amenities — like the surf simulator, zipline, and mini-golf course — are clustered on the deck above and away from the pools and water slides.

This layout might be difficult for parents with children who bounce from one activity to the next. Wouldn't it be easier to have all of these outdoor extras near each other, or at least on the same deck, for parental supervision purposes?

This is where Icon of the Seas excelled: All its exciting open-air activities were adjacent.

The rows of pools flowed perfectly into Thrill Island's waterpark , rock climbing walls, mini-golf course, and Crown's Edge.

The best part? The adult-only Hideaway — which flexes an infinity pool club with a DJ — is right behind Thrill Island, creating a clear separation between parents and their children without being too far from each other.

'Free' options like the buffet and build-your-own tacos and burritos bar are available on both ships.

But you won't find the larger vessel's five-stall food hall or mini-golf-adjacent finger food stand on Wonder.

As expected, Icon of the Seas has more dining options than its predecessor, although there are some overlaps.

Wonder of the Seas has 11 bars and 21 dining venues (9 complimentary and 12 upcharged).

Icon of the Seas has eight more bars, four more complimentary restaurants, and three more specialty dining choices.

Nor will you find the new ship’s plush $200-a-person Empire Supper Club on any other cruise liner.

The multi-course dinner, paired with cocktails and live music, stunts the cost of either vessel's other dinner options.

But if you love Johnny Rockets, you’ll be disappointed by Icon of the Seas.

Restaurants like the popular burger chain and Southern comfort-inspired Mason Jar are only on Wonder of the Seas. Fine by me: My fried chicken at Mason Jar was as dry as a desert.

The younger ship doesn't have Wonder's robot bartender-armed bar either. It does, however, have new watering holes with dueling pianos and live jazz.

Surprisingly, Wonder of the Seas has 65 more cabins than its new cousin.

But several of Icon's 28 stateroom categories are a first for the cruise line.

This includes the new family infinite balcony cabin, which has a small bunk bed nook for children.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony stateroom on both ships.

My Wonder of the Seas' cabin was 20 square-feet smaller than the one on Icon. But my bathroom on the latter was so tiny, I accidentally elbowed the walls at almost every turn.

Sailing on the world's largest cruise ship doesn't mean you'll have the world's largest cabin after all.

Wonder and Icon are both operating seven-night roundtrip itineraries from Florida to the Caribbean.

In 2024, Wonder of the Seas is scheduled for year-round sailings from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean and Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay , starting at $700 per person.

Icon of the Seas is spending its first year in service operating nearly identical itineraries but from Miami instead. The cheapest 2024 option is $1,786 per person.

That's a difference of more than $125 per person per day.

"Bookings and pricing for Icon of the Seas can only be described as 'iconic,'" Naftali Holtz, the CFO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in February.

Icon of the Seas’ name speaks for itself.

If your family is looking for a jam-packed kid-friendly cruise with enough amenities to stay entertained for a week, both ships are a great option.

But if you're a seasoned mega-ship-cruiser looking to experience something new, Icon of the Seas is your best bet.

They may be similar, but no other behemoth cruise liner has a waterpark for children and a pool club for adults just dozens of feet from each other.

Main content

Cruise From
Port-Canaveral

Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

Carnival Freedom
Carnival Glory
Carnival Liberty
Carnival Venezia
Carnival Vista

* Coming Soon

Buckle up for big adventure on the Space Coast when you book a Carnival cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida. Fun in the sun is a mission easily accomplished in Port Canaveral: before or after your cruise, take time to blast off from the Kennedy Space Center, hug the turns in a stock car at the world famous speedway, and zoom through the screaming roller coasters of Orlando's theme parks. In addition to all these man-made thrills, cruises from Port Canaveral depart from a coastline of sugary sand beaches and protected islands for native wildlife.

See a rocket up close at the Kennedy Space Center ™ .
Walk the bustling Cocoa Beach boardwalk before your cruise from Port Canaveral.
Encounter exotic animals and exciting adventures at Disney's Animal Kingdom ® park.
Enjoy an exciting wildlife and alligator tour by airboat.

Gotta see Port Canaveral (Orlando)?

We have a few ideas for you.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

IMAGES

Carnival Ships by Size [2023] with Comparison Chart
The Ultimate Cruise Guide on Carnival Ships by Size
Carnival Cruise Ships Names And Sizes
Carnival Ships by Age [Infographic] from Newest to Oldest in 2020
Carnival Cruise Ships Names And Sizes
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (With Comparison Chart)

VIDEO

All Carnival cruise ships by class
Does Size Matter??? Carnival Dream Class!
The Carnival Cruise Ships
No Other Carnival Cruise Ship Has This
How $300 million Carnival cruise ships are demolished #carnivalcruise #cruise #jennsjams

COMMENTS

Carnival Ships by Size [2023] with Comparison Chart
The Carnival Jubilee has a construction date of 2023 and a total size of 183,521 gross tons. The ship measures 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length and falls in line as number 2 among Carnival's 26 active cruise ships. It's included in Carnival's XL Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Jubilee holds 8,365 passengers.
Carnival cruise ships by size: Largest Carnival cruise ships, biggest
Carnival cruise ships by size 1. Carnival Jubilee. Carnival Jubilee. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE. Size: 183,521 gross tons. Passenger capacity: 5,374. Maiden voyage: 2023. 2. Carnival Celebration. ... After Carnival Jubilee, the line has no ships on order for the first time in years.
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size: Biggest to Smallest
Carnival Cruise Line currently has 26 ships varying in size from 70,000 to 182,800 gross registered tons. 8 Classes of Carnival Ships With eight classes of Carnival cruise ships, it can be ...
Best List Of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size (2024)
10. Carnival Dream. 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. 11. Carnival Splendor. The Carnival Splendor cruises at sea in the Bahamas. Photo by Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines.
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (With Comparison Chart)
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. What is the smallest Carnival cruise ship? The smallest Carnival cruise ship is Carnival Elation with a gross tonnage of 71,909 GT and 10 passenger decks.
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (2024 UPDATE)
27. Carnival Elation. Max Guest Capacity: 2,190. Guest Decks: 10. Length (Feet): 855. Gross Tonnage: 71,909. Launched in 1998, Carnival Elation is a cozy ship with a nostalgic touch. It's the smallest ship in the Carnival fleet, yet it feels quite spacious and can accommodate about 2,200 passengers. The interior decor is a funky mix of the ...
Carnival Ships by Size: Biggest to Smallest
Carnival Cruise Ships By Size. To cut it short, the largest Carnival cruise ship right now is the 183,521 gross-ton Carnival Jubilee, the third Excel-class vessel that joined the fleet at the end ...
Carnival Cruise Ships Ranked by Size along with Visual Comparison Chart
Carnival's fleet currently comprises 25 cruise ships, with two more anticipated to join by the close of 2024. The surprising fact is that these ships exhibit substantial variations in size. It's not always evident at first glance, primarily because cruise ship size is gauged in gross tonnes, a measure of a ship's internal volume.
Carnival Cruise Ship Sizes: Biggest to Smallest (WITH PICTURES!)
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.
26 Carnival Ships By Size And Age
Table Of Carnival Cruise Ships By Size And Carnival Cruise Ships By Age. Ship Year Capacity Tonnage; Jubilee (late) 2023: 5,347: 183,900: Celebration: 2022: 5,374: 183,900 : Mardi Gras: 2021: 5,282: ... Carnival Cruise Ships on Order. Carnival Cruise Line continues to innovate and expand its fleet. Currently, the cruise line has one ship on ...
Guide to All 27 Carnival Cruise Ships
With 27 ships and hundreds of itineraries, there's a Carnival cruise for everyone. Carnival Cruise Line offers numerous cruise options worldwide with a fleet of 27 ships. Their cruises include ...
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (2023)
Carnival Dream is the namesake ship for the Dream Class and entered service in September 2009. Like the other two Dream Class ships, Carnival Dream's gross registered tonnage is 130,000. Her maximum passenger capacity, 4,633, is the lowest of the three. She sails out of Galveston, Texas making 6-night cruises to the Western Caribbean, 8- and 14 ...
Carnival Ships by Size
The CARNIVAL VISTA, born in 2016 weighs in at a whopping 134k tons. At 1,062 feet in length, she'll hold close to 4,000 passengers and 1,500 crew. Largest Cruise Ship vs Smallest. For those with size preferences on one end of the spectrum or the other, this should be interesting.
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size (Largest to Smallest)
Largest Carnival Cruise Ships. 1. Carnival Jubilee. At 183,521 gross tonnage and with a capacity for 5,374 passengers, the Carnival Jubilee is the largest in the fleet. Launched in 2023, it's notable for featuring the first roller coaster at sea, adding a unique thrill to the cruise experience.
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size and Age (2022)
2017 (Due to retire Oct 2022) 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 ...
Ranked: 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.
Carnival Ships By Size And Age (2024 Comparison)
Carnival Cruise Ships on Order. Carnival Cruise Line currently has one unnamed Excel-class ship on order. We're expecting Carnival's fourth Excel-class ship to arrive in 2027 and be identical in size to the previous Excel cruise ships. The 180,000 gross-ton cruise ship will be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) and is under construction ...
Complete Guide to Carnival Cruise Ships By Size
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.
Carnival Cruise Ships by Size: Your Guide to Comparing Vessels
Looking for Carnival cruise ships by size? Look no further. We know when considering a vacation on the high seas, size matters - and Carnival Cruise Line's fleet showcases a wide array of ship sizes catering to every traveler's taste. With vessels ranging from the classic and cozy to the modern behemoths brimming with activities, the choice of ship can significantly shape your cruising ...
Carnival Cruise Ships By Size in 2024 [With Comparison Chart]
As of now, Carnival has 25 cruise ships, and two more are all set to join the fleet by 2024. The biggest Carnival cruise ship has 2.5x more capacity than the smallest one. While the biggest Carnival cruise ship, Carnival Jubilee, has a capacity of a maximum of 6,500 guests and 182,800 gross tonnage, the smallest one, Carnival Elation, can only ...
Compare Carnival Cruise Ships
Explore and compare all of the Carnival cruise ships in our fleet. Find out more about ship details, activities aboard, dining options, and much more!
Cruise Ships
Explore all of the Carnival Cruise ships in our fleet. Pick a cruise ship and hop aboard for an incredible vacation. Find out about ship details, activities on board, dining options, deck plans and much more!
All Carnival Cruise Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest
The ship started sailing for Carnival in 1972, and the "Fun Ships" have kept coming ever since! Mardi Gras was over 27,200 gross tons, a huge difference from the new Excel-class vessels. As of ...
I sailed on Royal Caribbean's 2 largest cruise ships. They were
Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship darling, was deemed a success before it was even built. In January, the highly anticipated vessel — complete with more than 40 bars and ...
Cruise from Port Canaveral (Orlando) with Carnival
Buckle up for big adventure on the Space Coast when you book a Carnival cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida. Fun in the sun is a mission easily accomplished in Port Canaveral: before or after your cruise, take time to blast off from the Kennedy Space Center, hug the turns in a stock car at the world famous speedway, and zoom through the screaming roller coasters of Orlando's theme parks.