Carnival Ships: From Newest to Oldest (with Debut & Refurb Info)
1. Carnival Jubilee (2023)
- Debut: Entered service on December 23, 2023 — Carnival’s newest Excel‑class addition
- Highlights: One of the largest in the fleet, offering a modern onboard experience with amenities like roller coasters and high-capacity entertainment zones
2. Carnival Celebration (2022)
- Debut: Launched in 2022, an LNG‑powered Excel‑class sistership to Mardi Gras
3. Mardi Gras (2021)
- Debut: Maiden voyage July 31, 2021
- Notable: First ship to bring a roller coaster (“BOLT”) at sea
4. Carnival Firenze (2024 for Carnival)
- Debut: Originally a Costa Cruises vessel (Costa Firenze, 2020), she joined Carnival after a full transformation and rebranding in April 2024
5. Carnival Venezia (2023 for Carnival)
- Debut: Debuted as Costa Venezia in May 2019; transferred to Carnival with rebranding and first sailing on May 29, 2023
6. Carnival Panorama (2019)
- Debut: Delivered in October 2019; entered service December 2019
Other Notable Vessels (2000–2019)
- Carnival Horizon (2018) and Carnival Vista (2016) — both Vista‑class icons, generally last serviced April 2024 (Horizon) and January 2024 (Vista), featuring updated interiors and maintenance upgrades
- Carnival Breeze (2012), Magic (2011), Dream (2009), Luminosa (overhauled and added in 2022), Splendor (2008), Freedom (2007)—refurbished in 2023 with new venues like Heroes Tribute Bar—Liberty (2005), Valor (2004)—recently upgraded with a new waterpark and refreshed interiors
- Miracle (2004), Glory (2003)—refurbished with upgraded lounges and balcony windows in 2024
- Legend, Conquest, Pride (all debuted in 2002) – refreshed around 2019
- Spirit (2001)—refurbished in 2018
- Radiance (originally Victory, launched 2000)—renamed and relaunched after a $200M overhaul in 2021
- Sunrise (originally Triumph, 1999)—overhauled and renamed in 2019
- Paradise (1998) & Elation (1998)—among the fleet’s oldest, still sailing strong
- Sunshine (formerly Destiny, 1996) – a Sunshine‑class innovator, extensively transformed in 2013
Why It Matters
- Newer ships like Jubilee, Celebration, and Mardi Gras offer the latest tech, LNG propulsion, and headline-grabbing attractions like the first-at-sea roller coaster.
- Converted ships such as Firenze and Venezia bring Italian flair into Carnival’s lineup, blending new design with fresh functionality.
- Refurbished classics continue to deliver value—many received major upgrades in the past few years, ensuring that you can enjoy modern amenities at often friendlier prices, just like Freedom (2023) and Radiance (2021)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a brand-new megaship experience or a refreshed classic with a sprinkle of nostalgia, Carnival’s fleet has something for every cruiser.
- For the newest thrills: Go with Jubilee, Celebration, or Mardi Gras.
- Want Italian-style ambiance? Check out Firenze or Venezia.
- Looking for value without compromise? Refurbished favorites like Freedom or Radiance are smart picks.