Carnival Cruise Line has opened reservations for its newest ship, Carnival Festivale, launching in 2027. This Excel-class vessel promises a cruise experience centered around music and family fun, with unique features and itineraries now available for booking.
Maiden Voyage and Itineraries
The Carnival Festivale will begin its journey with a 15-day transatlantic sailing from Southampton, England, on May 2, 2027, arriving at its homeport in Port Canaveral, Florida, on May 16. This voyage includes stops in Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands.
After its arrival, the ship will offer a variety of cruises from Port Canaveral:
- A four-day Bahamas cruise starting May 19, 2027, with stops at Carnival’s private destinations, Celebration Key and RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.
- A primary schedule of six- and eight-day Eastern and Southern Caribbean cruises. Itineraries will visit destinations like Amber Cove, San Juan, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. All sailings will include a stop at Celebration Key.
- A special seven-day New Year’s cruise departing on December 27, 2027.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line stated:
“Music is the universal language that brings families and friends together, and Carnival Festivale will amplify that unique connection. The experiences we’ll deliver will appeal to every generation,”
“Everyone – no matter their age or interest – will find their rhythm on this ship.”
Onboard Experience: Music and Family Fun
- Studio 724: Where Music Comes to Life This zone is dedicated to the creative process of making music. It features interactive technology that responds to sound with lights and animations. Highlights include:
- The Spark: A lounge for songwriting-inspired cocktails and live music.
- Alchemy Bar: An enhanced version of the popular craft cocktail bar with its own stage.
- Mix Bar: A turntable-themed bar where guests can create their own cocktails.
- Limelight Lounge: A redesigned venue for music-themed entertainment.
- The Festival: Outdoor Music Festival at Sea Deck 8 is designed to feel like an outdoor music festival. This brightly colored promenade connects various food and beverage spots, including:
- Festival Grounds Coffee & Bar: Offering specialty coffees and festival-inspired cocktails.
- Pizza Palooza: Serving up fresh pizza.
- Rhythm & Rolls Deli: Providing gourmet sandwiches.
- Sunsation Point: The Ultimate Family Adventure Zone Spanning three decks (16-18), this area is the hub for family entertainment, anchored by Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, the biggest water park in Carnival’s history. This multi-deck playground will offer:
- Carnival WaterWorks Ultra: Featuring six water slides, including family raft rides and dueling slides. The water park will also be open at night with a live DJ and special illumination.
- The Treehouse: A new concept with an adventure trail, netted bridges, and a dry slide.
- Vault Retrocade: A retro-themed arcade.
- Mini golf course: Illuminated for nighttime play.
Carnival Festivale – Racing Currents Waterslide
Carnival Festivale – Alchemy Bar
Carnival Festivale – Mix Bar
Carnival Festivale – Studio 724
The ship will also have 1,000 interconnecting rooms, a 70% increase compared to previous Excel-class ships, and new programming and dedicated spaces for the youngest cruisers, including a space for the Turtles program for children ages six months to two years.
More details on Carnival Festivale are available by visiting Carnival Cruise Line’s website.
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