Carnival Cruise Line started construction of its new vessel, Carnival Destiny, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, with a steel-cutting ceremony held on July 10, 2026. Carnival Destiny is the first of three ships in Carnival’s next-generation Ace Class series, with scheduled delivery in summer 2029.
Design Features Emphasize Ocean Views and New Concepts
The ship will have a record number of ocean-facing balcony cabins for Carnival, making it the most outward-facing megaship in Carnival’s fleet history. Carnival Destiny will also include a reimagined lanai deck and over 4.5 acres of glass, featuring expansive multi-story glass walls to enhance guest sightlines to the ocean throughout the vessel.
More than 70% of the ship’s venues and attractions will introduce entirely new concepts to Carnival Cruise Line. These will encompass new dining options, bars, lounges, immersive entertainment, and outdoor spaces designed to elevate the guest experience and connectivity on board.
Legacy of Carnival Destiny Name and Partnership with Fincantieri
The name Carnival Destiny recalls the original ship launched over 30 years ago, which was then the world’s largest cruise ship. The partnership between Carnival Cruise Line and Fincantieri spans more than three decades, reflecting a longstanding collaboration focused on innovation and quality shipbuilding.
Carnival operates a fleet of 29 ships as of 2026 and continues expanding its fleet
with five new ships planned through 2033. This includes two Excel Class vessels due in 2027 and 2028, alongside the three Ace Class ships beginning with Carnival Destiny.
Delivery Schedule and Operational Destinations
Carnival Destiny is set for delivery in the summer of 2029. Following this, two additional Ace Class vessels are planned for completion in 2031 and 2033. Carnival Destiny will primarily operate within Carnival’s Paradise Collection, an exclusive portfolio of cruise destinations including the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico.
Carnival’s Strategy to Elevate Guest Experience
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said Carnival Destiny “builds on a legacy that changed cruising once before, reimagining what guests can experience at
sea.” She added that the ship “feels more expansive, while helping guests feel more connected and ultimately have more fun.” Duffy emphasized Carnival’s goal to elevate the guest experience through design innovations and new onboard concepts.
