Carnival Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest (2024)

Step aboard the floating wonders of the sea and embark on a journey through time as we unveil the fascinating world of Carnival Ships by age. From the majestic pioneers that set sail decades ago to the cutting-edge marvels of modern technology, each vessel tells a unique story of innovation, luxury, and adventure.

Join us on this virtual voyage as we navigate through the evolution of Carnival’s fleet, exploring how these magnificent ships have transformed over the years to redefine the cruising experience for generations of travelers. Get ready to be captivated by tales of grandeur, design prowess, and nautical splendor as we delve into the captivating realm of Carnival cruise ships by age.

Carnival Ships By Age

The process of acquiring and refurbishing older ships is not just about updating the aesthetics and ensuring everything is in working order. It’s also an opportunity for Carnival to infuse its unique brand identity into these vessels, adding new experiences and amenities that set it apart from its previous incarnations under different cruise lines.

With each transformation, Carnival breathes new life into these ships, creating a fresh start for passengers eager to explore the seas on a vessel that combines history with innovation.

By reimagining and rejuvenating older ships like Carnival Luminosa, Venezia, and Firenze, Carnival Cruise Line can offer a diverse range of options to guests looking for both nostalgia and modern comforts. The blend of old-world charm with contemporary design elements showcases Carnival’s commitment to providing unforgettable voyages on ships that have stories of their own. 

Carnival ships in age order

The following table provides you with a list of carnival cruise ships by age:

What Is the Newest Carnival Cruise Ship in 2024?

The Carnival Venezia, the latest addition to the Carnival fleet, stands out for its Italian-inspired design and luxurious amenities. Originally known as the Costa Venezia under Costa Cruises, this ship brings a touch of European elegance to its Caribbean voyages.

With its maiden voyage for Carnival setting sail on May 29, 2023, guests are treated to a truly immersive experience that seamlessly blends Italian charm with the renowned fun and excitement of Carnival cruises.

What Will Be the Next Carnival Cruise Ship to Launch?

Carnival Jubilee promises to offer a unique cruising experience, blending the latest in ship design and amenities with Carnival’s signature fun and lively atmosphere. With a capacity of over 6,000 guests, this new vessel will feature innovative dining options, thrilling entertainment venues, and luxurious accommodations to cater to every taste and preference.

The addition of Carnival Jubilee to the fleet signifies Carnival’s continued commitment to delivering unforgettable vacations at sea. As the third ship in the highly anticipated Excel class series, Carnival Jubilee is poised to set new standards in cruise industry excellence.

From spacious staterooms with stunning ocean views to an array of onboard activities for all ages, passengers can look forward to embarking on a journey filled with excitement and relaxation. With its debut voyage just around the corner, anticipation is building among both seasoned cruisers and first-time travelers eager to explore the world aboard this magnificent new ship.

What Is the Oldest Carnival Cruise Ship Still in Service?

The Carnival Sunshine, formerly known as the Carnival Destiny, holds a special place in cruise ship history as the oldest Carnival ship still sailing the seas. Launched in 1996, this Sunshine-class vessel has undergone significant transformations over the years to keep up with modern cruising trends.

Being surpassed in size by newer ships like Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the Carnival Sunshine remains a beloved favorite among cruisers for its charm and character.

Having paved the way for larger and more extravagant cruise ships that followed, the Carnival Sunshine stands as a testament to the evolution of the industry. With its storied past and continued popularity, this iconic vessel continues to offer unforgettable experiences for passengers seeking adventure on the high seas.

As we look back on its journey from being groundbreaking in the 90s to remaining relevant today, it’s clear that Carnival Sunshine has secured its place in maritime history as an enduring symbol of innovation and leisure.

Which Carnival Ships Were Scrapped?

The scrapping of Carnival’s iconic ships such as Ecstasy, Sensation, Fascination, Imagination, and Inspiration marks the end of an era for these vessels that once sailed the seas with grandeur. The decision to retire these ships came amidst the challenging times faced by the cruise industry during the global pause in operations in 2020.

While some initially had hopes of repurposing these vessels into floating hotels or other ventures, ultimately they met their fate in scrapyards in Turkey and Pakistan.

As these Carnival ships bid farewell to their days at sea, it symbolizes a shift in the cruise industry landscape towards more modern and efficient vessels. The legacy of these ships lives on in memories of past voyages for passengers who once experienced the magic onboard.

The act of scrapping these cruise liners serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of maritime travel and the constant evolution within this dynamic industry.

Are the Newer Carnival Ships Better?

While the newest Carnival ships boast thrilling attractions like sky bikes and high-flying rollercoasters, the older ships still offer a plethora of entertainment options. From water slides to mini golf, kids clubs to nightclubs, there’s something for everyone onboard.

The lively atmosphere on Carnival cruises can be exhilarating for some, but overwhelming for others who prefer a more intimate setting with fewer passengers. Choosing between newer or older Carnival ships ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the latest vessels may have cutting-edge amenities, the charm and coziness of smaller 2,000-passenger ships shouldn’t be overlooked.

Each ship offers a unique experience tailored to different tastes – whether you crave excitement and buzz or seek a more laid-back environment for your cruise getaway. Ultimately, both new and old Carnival ships have their distinct appeal that caters to diverse preferences among passengers.

Carnival Cruise Ships

Here we get more information about each of the carnival ships by size and age.

Carnival Jubilee

Sailing into the seas in December 2023, Carnival Jubilee promises all travelers a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

As part of the Excel-class series, this new addition to Carnival’s fleet showcases innovation and top-tier amenities that will elevate the cruising experience to new heights. With sister ships like Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras setting the bar high, Carnival Jubilee is set to surpass expectations with its unique offerings and unparalleled service.

Carnival Venezia

Carnival Venezia dazzles with a unique blend of Italian charm and contemporary elegance, setting her apart as a true gem in Carnival’s fleet. Originally crafted for the Chinese market as Costa Venezia, she underwent a magnificent transformation when she joined Carnival in 2023.

The ship now boasts vibrant colors, opulent interiors, and a variety of exciting entertainment options that cater to all types of travelers. Sailing on Carnival Venezia promises an enriching experience filled with cultural delights and thrilling adventures.

From exquisite dining venues celebrating Italian cuisine to immersive onboard activities that capture the essence of Venice, every moment onboard is designed to delight the senses and create unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the pool or seeking out new experiences in exotic ports of call, Carnival Venezia offers an unparalleled journey that seamlessly blends luxury with excitement.

Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration, the newest addition to Carnival’s fleet set to debut in 2022, promises an unforgettable cruising experience for travelers seeking adventure and luxury.

As the sister ship to the popular Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration is poised to take the cruising world by storm with its innovative features and cutting-edge design. Among its standout attractions is the BOLT rollercoaster, making it only the second ship in Carnival’s lineup to offer this thrilling ride at sea.

Carnival Luminosa

The transition of Costa Luminosa to Carnival Luminosa in 2022 marks a significant shift for both cruise lines, as the ship now brings its unique blend of Spirit and Vista Class influences to the Carnival fleet.

With its elegant design and modern amenities, Carnival Luminosa offers passengers an unforgettable cruising experience that seamlessly combines luxury with innovation. From the sophisticated onboard entertainment options to the exquisite dining offerings, guests are sure to be enchanted by all that this captivating ship has to offer.

Mardi Gras

As the first Excel-class cruise ship in the Carnival fleet, Mardi Gras offers passengers an unparalleled experience on the open seas. With a maximum occupancy of 6,500 passengers and a crew of 2,000, this floating city combines luxury with entertainment seamlessly.

From its innovative design to its state-of-the-art amenities, Mardi Gras promises a vacation like no other. The standout feature of Mardi Gras is its wide range of dining options that cater to every palate.

Whether you’re craving gourmet cuisine or casual fare, there’s something for everyone on board. The ship boasts thrilling attractions such as BOLT™, the first roller coaster at sea, ensuring that adventure-seekers will never have a dull moment during their voyage on Mardi Gras.

Carnival Panorama

Three years since its launch in 2019, Carnival Panorama continues to impress with its sleek design and impeccable service. As the flagship of Carnival Cruise Line until the introduction of Mardi Gras, this Vista-class cruise ship embodies luxury and comfort for its 4,008 guests.

From world-class dining options to thrilling onboard activities, Carnival Panorama offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure on the high seas.

Carnival Horizon

With its sleek design and top-notch amenities, the Carnival Horizon cruise ship continues to charm passengers four years after its launch. Boasting a capacity of 3,960 guests, this Vista-class gem offers a more intimate setting compared to its sister-ship Carnival Panorama.

From the thrilling water park and serene spa to the diverse dining options and lively entertainment venues, every corner of the ship beckons exploration.

Carnival Vista

The Carnival Vista cruise ship, launched in 2016, burst onto the scene with a level of anticipation that was palpable. As the first of its kind in Carnival’s Vista-Class ships, it signaled a new era for the cruise line after a significant hiatus in shipbuilding.

From innovative features like the multi-level SkyRide and IMAX theater to unique dining experiences and luxurious accommodations, Carnival Vista promised an unforgettable voyage for passengers seeking adventure on the high seas.

Now, six years later, Carnival Vista continues to charm guests with its unmatched blend of entertainment, relaxation, and luxury. 

Carnival Breeze

As Carnival Breeze celebrates its milestone of a decade at sea, it’s fascinating to reflect on the memories and experiences shared by thousands of guests who have embarked on this Dream-class cruise ship.

The vessel’s last refurbishment in 2016 ensured that its amenities and features remain modern and inviting for both new and returning passengers. With a capacity to host nearly 5,000 people onboard, including guests and crew members, Carnival Breeze continues to create unforgettable moments at sea.

Carnival Magic

Having sailed the seas for over a decade, the Carnival Magic cruise ship embodies a perfect blend of elegance and adventure. With its recent refurbishment in May 2021, the ship now flaunts a stunning new blue, white, and red livery that radiates sophistication and modernity.

This Dream-class vessel offers luxurious accommodations for up to 3,690 guests, promising a truly unforgettable cruising experience.

Carnival Dream

As an icon of innovation in the cruise industry, Carnival Dream continues to amaze passengers with its cutting-edge amenities and design. Being 13 years old, this ship remains a pinnacle of luxury and entertainment, offering a truly unforgettable experience at sea.

From gourmet dining options to state-of-the-art entertainment venues, Carnival Dream sets the bar high for modern cruise ships. With its last refurbishment in 2017, Carnival Dream has managed to stay relevant and maintain its status as one of the most sought-after vessels in the Carnival fleet. 

Carnival Splendor

With a capacity of over 3,000 guests and a plethora of amenities, including multiple dining options and entertainment venues, she continues to capture the hearts of cruise enthusiasts worldwide.

The ship’s last refurbishment in 2017 ensured that she remains modern, vibrant, and ready to provide top-notch service for years to come.

Carnival Freedom

As Carnival Freedom marks its 15-year milestone since launching in 2007, the ship continues to embody a timeless allure that captivates guests with its vibrant energy and modern amenities.

Following a comprehensive refurbishment in 2019, the ship has been enhanced to offer an even more immersive and unforgettable cruise experience. Standing as the final vessel of Carnival’s Conquest-class ships, Carnival Freedom boasts a capacity to accommodate up to 2,980 guests at double occupancy.

Carnival Liberty

As the Carnival Liberty celebrates its 17th year afloat, it stands as a testament to the enduring charm of modern cruise ships. With multiple refurbishments under her belt, including the pioneering FUN 2.0 enhancements in 2011, this ship continues to redefine the onboard experience for passengers.

The recent addition of the striking blue, white, and red livery in 2021 further cements its status as a vibrant and dynamic vessel on the high seas.

Carnival Miracle

The Carnival Miracle cruise ship, being 18 years old, exudes a timeless charm that continues to captivate passengers from around the world. Launched in 2004 and boasting a refurbishment in 2020, this vessel epitomizes elegance coupled with modern amenities.

As a Spirit-class ship, the Carnival Miracle stands out for providing a spacious experience to its passengers, offering more room per guest than any other ship in the Carnival fleet.

Carnival Valor

The Carnival Valor, being 18 years old, gleams with a fresh charm following its 2021 refurbishment. This Conquest-class cruise ship boasts an impressive capacity of just under 3,000 guests, offering a dynamic and lively atmosphere for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences at sea.

Its recent revitalization breathes new life into the vessel, ensuring that passengers can enjoy modern amenities and luxuries while basking in the nostalgia of cruising on a beloved classic.

Carnival Glory

The Carnival Glory, a prominent figure in the world of cruise ships since her debut in 2003, has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment in 2021. This major update aimed to modernize and enhance the onboard experience for guests, ensuring that this iconic vessel remains at the forefront of the industry.

With a capacity to accommodate around 3,000 passengers, the Carnival Glory continues to offer a vast array of amenities and entertainment options for travelers seeking an unforgettable vacation at sea.

Carnival Conquest

The Carnival Conquest, with its sleek design and impressive amenities, set the stage for a new era of luxury cruising when it first launched in 2002. As one of Carnival Cruise Line’s flagship vessels, the Carnival Conquest redefined the standard for elegance and entertainment at sea.

The ship’s last refurbishment in 2017 brought new life to its onboard experience, ensuring that guests could continue to enjoy top-notch dining options, lively entertainment, and luxurious accommodations.

Carnival Legend

As the Carnival Legend sails into its 20th year on the seas, it embodies a timeless charm that captivates passengers with every voyage. Being smaller in size compared to modern cruise ships, this Spirit-class vessel offers an intimate and cozy ambiance that fosters a sense of community among guests.

The ship’s last refurbishment in 2018 ensures that it continues to exude a modern and elegant allure, blending contemporary amenities with classic sophistication. With space for up to 2,124 passengers, the Carnival Legend invites travelers to experience luxury and comfort on a more personalized scale.

From its diverse dining options to its vibrant entertainment venues, this cruise ship promises an unforgettable journey filled with excitement and relaxation. Embark on a voyage aboard the Carnival Legend and discover why age is just a number when we create lasting memories at sea.

Carnival Pride

The Carnival Pride, a member of Carnival’s Spirit-class cruise ships, boasts a unique charm that sets it apart from the rest of the fleet. Being 20 years old, this vessel still exudes an air of modern elegance thanks to its 2019 refurbishment.

With a capacity for just 2,124 passengers, the Carnival Pride offers an intimate cruising experience that allows guests to truly unwind and enjoy the spacious surroundings.

Carnival Spirit

At 21 years old, the Carnival Spirit has certainly stood the test of time, much like a seasoned traveler who has weathered countless adventures. With each passing year, this ship seems to exude even more charm and character, its history etched into every nook and cranny.

The 2018 refurbishment breathed new life into this vessel, ensuring passengers can enjoy modern amenities while still reveling in its classic allure.

Carnival Radiance

The transformation of Carnival Radiance from its former identity as Carnival Victory to its new rebirth in 2021 symbolizes a remarkable evolution in the world of luxury cruise ships.

The extensive $200 million overhaul has not just revamped the ship’s appearance but also elevated the onboard experience to a whole new level of sophistication and indulgence.

The rechristening with its fresh livery heralds a rejuvenated era for this iconic vessel, embodying a fusion of innovation and tradition on the high seas.

Carnival Sunrise

The transformation of the Carnival Triumph into the Carnival Sunrise marked a significant milestone in the history of cruise ships. The $200 million revitalization project not only updated the ship’s amenities but also redefined its identity.

With new dining options, redesigned staterooms, and upgraded entertainment facilities, Carnival Sunrise emerged as a shining star in the cruise industry.

The 38-day transformation process was a testament to Carnival’s commitment to providing unparalleled experiences for its guests. From enhanced onboard activities to modernized spa and fitness centers, every aspect of Carnival Sunrise was carefully curated to cater to the evolving preferences of contemporary travelers. 

Carnival Elation

Being 24 years old, the Carnival Elation cruise ship continues to charm guests with its class and elegance.

The ship’s last refurbishment in 2020 brought modern amenities while preserving its classic appeal. With a capacity of 2,130 guests, the Carnival Elation offers an intimate and cozy setting for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger ships.

Carnival Paradise

As the sister ship to Carnival Elation, the Carnival Paradise exudes a timeless charm that appeals to both new and seasoned cruisers. Being 24 years old, this Fantasy-class vessel continues to impress with its classic design and modern amenities.

Following her refurbishment in 2018, the Carnival Paradise boasts updated features that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience.

Carnival Sunshine

The transformation of the Carnival Destiny into the Carnival Sunshine in 2013 marked a significant milestone in the world of cruise ship renovations. The addition of an entire deck to the front third of the ship not only expanded its capacity but also enhanced its overall aesthetic appeal.

With 182 more cabins on board, passengers now had even more options for accommodation, making their cruising experience all the more luxurious.

Carnival Ecstasy

As Carnival Cruise Line’s eldest vessel, Carnival Ecstasy proudly wears its 31 years with grace and poise. Stepping aboard this iconic ship is akin to entering a time capsule of maritime memories, where classic elegance meets modern revelry. In the passage of three decades, the ship exudes an infectious energy that transcends mere age.

Sailing on Carnival Ecstasy offers a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary entertainment. From vibrant deck parties to electrifying Vegas-style shows, every moment on board is a celebration waiting to unfold.

It’s not just a cruise; it’s an experience that bridges generations and creates lasting memories for all who embark on this storied vessel. So come aboard and join the never-ending party where age is just a number, but the fun is timeless.

Carnival Ships Newest To Oldest

Carnival Cruise Line’s latest ship, the Carnival Mardi Gras, is a game-changer in the cruise industry, boasting innovations like the first roller coaster at sea and diverse dining options that reflect global cuisine.

This floating city elevates luxury and redefines fun on the water with its unique amenities, such as an expansive WaterWorks park and exclusive themed areas. Mardi Gras was designed to cater to families and adventurous travelers, blending thrilling experiences with relaxation.

Conclusion 

By considering the age of a ship, passengers can make more informed decisions when choosing a cruise that aligns with their preferences and expectations. While newer ships may boast modern features and technologies, older vessels often offer a sense of nostalgia and charm.

The age of a Carnival ship is just one factor to consider when planning a cruise vacation, but it can play a significant role in shaping the overall experience. So, whether you prefer the latest innovations or classic elegance, take some time to explore the variety of Carnival ships by age to find the perfect fit for your next adventure on the high seas.

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