Carnival’s Excel Class fleet prepares for 2027 expansion
Carnival Festivale is scheduled to join three ships already operating in the cruise line’s largest class.
As of August, Carnival Cruise Line had three Excel Class vessels in service: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee. The ships measure about 180,000 gross tons, making them the largest in Carnival’s fleet.
Mardi Gras measures 180,800 gross tons, while Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee are each listed at 183,521 gross tons. All three are 1,130 feet long and 137 feet wide, with more than 2,600 staterooms apiece across suite, balcony, ocean-view and interior categories.
The class also features BOLT Ultimate Sea Coaster, a top-deck attraction not offered on Carnival’s other ships. Rides cost $15 per person and are not included in the cruise fare.
Carnival Festivale, the fourth Excel Class ship, is scheduled to enter the fleet in May 2027. Carnival says the vessel will have a music theme and introduce features including Carnival WaterWorks Ultra. Carnival Tropicale, which was also not yet in service as of August, is expected to follow in 2028.
