Carnival Cruise Line to Welcome New Excel-Class Ship in 2028 Enhancing Passenger Experience

Carnival Corporation & plc, the largest cruise company globally, has announced a strategic addition to its fleet with the signing of an agreement with the renowned Meyer Werft shipyard. This agreement heralds the construction of a fifth Excel-class cruise ship designed for the Carnival Cruise Line brand, slated for delivery in 2028. This latest move not merely adds another luxurious vessel to the Carnival lineup but marks the company's continued investment in expanding and modernizing its fleet to enhance the cruising experience for passengers around the world.

Echoing a remarkable trend of growth and innovation, the new Excel-class vessel represents the eleventh of its kind within the wider Carnival Corporation family, spanning across four distinguished brands. Each Excel-class ship, including the forthcoming addition, is celebrated for its exceptional guest amenities and remarkable operational efficiencies. These ships have significantly contributed to the brand's allure, showcasing cutting-edge design and state-of-the-art technology, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) power systems, which underscore Carnival's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

Carnival's Excel-class vessels have consistently driven excitement, demand, and strong guest satisfaction ratings since the introduction of the Mardi Gras in 2021. This fleet expansion, including the subsequent launch of Carnival Celebration in 2022 and Carnival Jubilee in 2023, underscores the company's pledge to deliver unparalleled vacation experiences. The forthcoming Excel-class ship promises to build upon this legacy, featuring a capacity for over 6,400 guests and 1,800 crew members, ushering in a new era of cruise travel designed to exceed passenger expectations with innovation and luxury.

The strategic fleet expansion aligns with Carnival Corporation & plc's responsible growth strategy and capital investment planning. This measured approach ensures the company's resilience and ability to deliver consistent value to shareholders while balancing ambitious growth with sustainability objectives. With the anticipation of adding one to two ships per year starting in 2027, Carnival is poised to continue meeting and exceeding the burgeoning demand for cruise vacations. Furthermore, this approach celebrates a mutual success story with Meyer Werft and Meyer Turku shipyards, reinforcing a long-standing partnership that has played a pivotal role in Carnival Corporation's success over the years.

As the world's largest cruise company, Carnival Corporation & plc operates under a portfolio of world-class cruise lines that serve millions of guests annually, offering an array of travel experiences ranging from luxury voyages to family-friendly adventures. The addition of the latest Excel-class ship is a testament to Carnival's unwavering dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable cruising. As the cruise industry continues to evolve, Carnival Cruise Line remains at the forefront, ready to welcome passengers to embark on unforgettable journeys aboard some of the most technologically advanced and environmentally friendly ships sailing the seas.