Carnival Cruise Line announced Carnival Destiny as its largest cruise ship and the first in its new Ace-class fleet, set to launch in 2029. The 230,000-gross-ton ship will exceed 200,000 gross tons, a first for the company, and accommodate over 8,000 passengers at full capacity.
The steel-cutting ceremony took place in July 2026 at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, marking the start of Carnival Destiny’s construction. This milestone signals the addition of the largest vessel in Carnival’s history.
Carnival Destiny’s design focuses on enhancing passenger experience with increased ocean-facing balcony cabins and a redesigned lanai deck featuring 4.5 acres of
glass, including multi-story windows. More than 70% of its dining venues, bars, lounges, entertainment areas, and attractions will introduce new concepts to the Carnival fleet.
The vessel carries forward the legacy of the original Carnival Destiny, built by Fincantieri and launched in 1996 as the first cruise ship worldwide to exceed 100,000 gross tons. That ship was renamed Carnival Sunshine in 2013 following a major refurbishment. Fincantieri has built 76 ships for Carnival Corporation over three decades.
Itineraries on Carnival Destiny will feature destinations within Carnival’s Paradise Collection, including stops in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico, specifically Celebration Key and
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. Meanwhile, Carnival is also preparing the Excel-class Carnival Festivale, which will be the largest ship in service until Carnival Destiny debuts in 2029. By 2027, Carnival aims to operate a fleet of 30 ships.
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. With this ship, we’re elevating the guest experience again, creating a ship that feels more expansive, while helping guests feel more connected and ultimately have more fun.”
