The Carnival Corporation brand will launch its fourth and fifth Excel ships in 2027 and 2028 before introducing three 230,000 gross ton-ships, with more than 3,000 staterooms, in 2029, 2031 and 2033.

These ships – part of Carnival’s new ship platform, currently called Project Ace – will be able to carry nearly 8,000 passengers at full capacity. 

President Christine Duffy said: "[The Project Ace] ships will be experiences unto themselves, and, partnered with itineraries that include our exclusive destinations, will provide amazing cruise vacations for guests.

"This class will introduce new dining outlets, entertainment, and re-imagined outer deck amenities. 

"Our New-Build team is in the midst of designing these vessels, so stay tuned for more as we get closer to delivery."

Duffy added: "As new ships are introduced, this will allow us to upgrade capacity and hardware in key markets, with a particular focus on short cruises."

When fourth Excel ship – Carnival Festivale – launches starts sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, in spring 2027, existing Excel vessel – Mardi Gras – will begin doing shorter cruises from the same port. 

"With short cruises on Mardi Gras, our guests who may not have the time to take a weeklong vacation can experience all the amazing features of our Excel class," Duffy noted. 

Duffy also revealed the name of Carnival’s fifth Excel class ship will be Carnival Tropicale, also one of the original names of early Carnival ships. 

The homeport and open for sale date will be unveiled ahead of the scheduled delivery of the ship in spring 2028. 

Many of the new features on Carnival Festivale will also be included on Carnival Tropicale, as well as some new concepts and theming, the line said.