If you think Carnival’s Excel-class ships (like Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee) are the ultimate way to vacation at sea, get ready to double down on the fun. Carnival Cruise Line has officially locked in the next two mega-ships to join this award-winning fleet, and they are bringing a massive dose of nostalgia mixed with next-gen innovation.
Say hello to Carnival Festivale (2027) and Carnival Tropicale (2028)!
2027: Carnival Festivale (Port Canaveral, FL)
Setting sail in the summer of 2027, Carnival Festivale pays homage to one of the line’s historic early vessels but reimagines it entirely for the modern era. Stationed out of Port Canaveral, this giant will focus heavily on family harmony and music.
- Sunsation Point: A brand-new, massive top-deck open-air zone featuring Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, loaded with six thrilling waterslides, splash pads, and dual raft rides (SunSoaker and Turning Tides).
- Grand Central Atrium: Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, 14-foot LED screens, and a ceiling illuminated by 1,400 color-changing lights that shift dynamically with live Center Stage performances.
- Summer Landing & Lido Favorites: Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse, Shaq’s Big Chicken, and an upgraded multi-deck RedFrog Tiki Bar are all confirmed to return.
2028: Carnival Tropicale (Galveston, TX)
In 2028, the spotlight shifts to Texas as Carnival Tropicale makes its grand debut in Galveston. Named after the legendary 1982 MS Tropicale—the ship that originally revolutionized onboard entertainment—this new giant is blending tropical charm with a showstopping “Old Vegas” flair.
Expect immersive performance spaces, next-level dining, and retro-vibrant aesthetics that make you feel like you’ve stepped right into opening night on the strip.
| Feature | Carnival Festivale (2027) | Carnival Tropicale (2028) |
| Homeport | Port Canaveral, Florida | Galveston, Texas |
| Theme/Vibe | Music, family harmony, and high-tech energy | “Old Vegas” glamour mixed with tropical flair |
| Top-Deck Highlight | Sunsation Point & WaterWorks Ultra | Sunsation Point & immersive family zones |
Whether you want to sail out of Florida or Texas, the late 2020s are shaping up to be an unbelievable era for cruise lovers.