Carnival Cruise Line conducted a steel-cutting ceremony on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, initiating construction of Carnival Destiny, the first ship in its new Ace class. The kickoff event included a 3D hologram preview of the vessel, which is planned to debut in summer 2029. Carnival also announced two additional Ace class sister ships scheduled for delivery in 2031 and 2033.
Ship Design Features and Capacity
Carnival Destiny will house an unprecedented number of ocean-view balcony cabins, doubling the guest capacity compared to the original Carnival Destiny launched around 1996. The new ship is designed to accommodate roughly 8,000
passengers, up from the previous vessel’s capacity of just over 2,000. It weighs 230,000 gross tons and incorporates more than 4.5 acres of glass, featuring expansive multi-story glass walls. The ship will also include a redesigned lanai deck to enhance the passenger experience.
Innovative Onboard Venues
Over 70% of Carnival Destiny’s venues and attractions will be new to Carnival Cruise Line, including next-generation concepts in dining, bars, and entertainment. These innovations support the brand’s intention to evolve and expand the onboard experience for guests.
Intended Routes and Cruise Destinations
Upon completion, Carnival Destiny will operate itineraries within the Paradise Collection by Carnival, offering cruises to exclusive destinations in
the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico. Carnival promotes this collection as the largest portfolio of exclusive Caribbean, Bahamian, and Mexican destinations in the cruise industry.
The Carnival Destiny name revives a legacy vessel that was the world’s largest cruise ship at its 1996 launch before becoming Carnival Sunshine in 2013 following refurbishment. Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, said the new Carnival Destiny builds on that legacy by redefining what guests can experience at sea. She added that the ship aims to deliver an expansive feel while increasing guest connections and fun onboard, according to Fox Business.
