Carnival Cruise Line began construction of Carnival Destiny, its largest vessel to date and the first in the new Ace Class, with a steel-cutting ceremony in Monfalcone, Italy, ahead of its planned 2029 debut. The 230,000 gross ton ship will have a capacity exceeding 8,000 passengers, making it the cruise line’s first ship to surpass 200,000 gross tons.
Design Features Emphasize Ocean Views and New Concepts
Carnival Destiny is designed to maximize ocean-facing experiences, incorporating expansive ocean-view balcony cabins and a reimagined lanai deck featuring 4.5 acres of glass including multi-story glass walls. Over 70% of the ship’s dining venues, bars, lounges, entertainment spaces, and attractions will be
newly developed concepts, aiming to elevate the guest experience.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said the ship reimagines guest experiences by creating an expansive design to help travelers feel more connected and have greater enjoyment at sea.
Legacy of the Original Carnival Destiny and Shipbuilder Fincantieri
The new Carnival Destiny shares its name with the original vessel built by Fincantieri and launched in 1996. That ship was the world’s first cruise ship exceeding 100,000 gross tons, 30% larger than competitors at the time. The original Carnival Destiny was refurbished and rebranded as Carnival Sunshine in 2013 and remains active. Fincantieri has built 76 ships across the Carnival
Corporation portfolio over the last 30 years.
Paradise Collection Itineraries and Fleet Expansion
Carnival announced the new ship will sail itineraries within the Paradise Collection, which includes Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico destinations such as Celebration Key, RelaxAway, and Half Moon Cay. Carnival is also developing the Excel-class Carnival Festivale, which is set to be the cruise line’s largest ship in service until the arrival of Carnival Destiny in 2029. Port Canaveral will serve as Carnival Festivale’s home port.
By 2027, Carnival plans to expand its fleet to 30 ships, incorporating both Excel- and Ace-class vessels.
