The deal, which had already been rumoured in the Italian press, includes options for additional ship builds, and is dependent on several conditions, including satisfactory financing.

Italy’s Fincantieri and Germany’s Meyer Werft shipbuilders will build five and four ships respectively, with the aim of producing “the most efficient ships in the company’s history’.

Once built the ships will serve established markets in Europe and North America as well as emerging markets, including China.

Each ship will be specifically designed for the brand and customers it will serve.

Carnival Corporation president and chief executive Arnold Donald said: “We’re excited to take this next step in our fleet enhancement plan with these two new agreements that are consistent with our long-term strategy of measured capacity growth over time.

“Our goal as a company is to exceed the expectations of every guest on every ship every day, and these new ships will further enable us to do just that.

“These will be the most efficient ships we have ever built and the great guest experience will create even more excitement around cruising – helping new cruisers realize the superior vacation experience and value that cruising offers versus land-based vacations.”