Carnival Festivale | CruiseHuddle - CruiseHuddle

Carnival Festivale: Ocean Cruising on a Grand Scale

Connect with fellow cruisers sailing aboard one of Carnival's largest and most innovative Excel-class ships.

Carnival Festivale

The Story

Carnival Festivale represents the next generation of Carnival Cruise Line's Excel-class vessels, set to join the fleet in 2027. At 183,900 gross tons with capacity for 6,631 passengers, this ship continues Carnival's tradition of delivering fun, accessible ocean cruising on an impressive scale. As one of the line's largest ships, Festivale promises the signature Carnival experience with plenty of space for entertainment, dining, and relaxation at sea.

The Excel-class design brings Carnival's most innovative features to life, building on the success of sister ships in the fleet. Passengers can expect the brand's hallmark zones and venues that create distinct atmospheres throughout the ship, from family-friendly fun to adults-only retreats. The sheer size of Festivale means more dining options, expanded deck space, and enhanced entertainment venues that have become Excel-class signatures. Whether you're drawn to the water attractions, live performances, or simply finding your perfect spot to watch the ocean go by, this ship offers variety for every type of cruiser.

Carnival Festivale appeals to families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking an energetic, social atmosphere on the open ocean. The Excel-class ships are known for their ability to accommodate large numbers of passengers without feeling crowded, thanks to thoughtful design and multiple activity zones. First-time cruisers appreciate Carnival's approachable style, while repeat guests look forward to discovering what new twists Festivale brings to beloved traditions. As the ship prepares for its 2027 debut, the CruiseHuddle community will be the place to connect with others planning their Festivale voyages and sharing insights about this exciting addition to the Carnival fleet.

Onboard Highlights

🌊

Bolt Ultimate Sea Coaster

Riders race along a suspended track loop extending over the ship's side high above the ocean.

🎢

WaterWorks Aqua Park

Twisting waterslides and splash zones deliver family-friendly thrills across multiple pool decks.

🍽️

Chibang Specialty Restaurant

Latin-Asian fusion dishes headline this signature specialty dining venue exclusive to Excel-class ships.

🎭

Fully Submerged Production Shows

Broadway-style theater productions showcase elaborate sets, aerial acts, and original Carnival stage choreography.

🍹

Alchemy Bar Craft Cocktails

Mixologists shake up custom cocktails prescribed from a playful drink-menu concept in a moody lounge.

🌅

SkyRide Pedal Adventure

Guests pedal open-air suspended cars along an elevated track with sweeping ocean views.

By the Numbers

Ship Specifications

📅 Year Built

2027

👥 Passengers

6,631

👨‍✈️ Crew

1,735

🏢 Decks

18

🛏️ Cabins

2,626

⚖️ Gross Tonnage

183900 gt

📏 Length

346 m / 1135 ft

↔️ Beam

42 m / 138 ft

⚡ Speed

23 kn / 43 km/h / 26 mph

🔧 Builder

Meyer Werft (Papenburg, Germany)

🏷️ Ship Class

CCL EXCEL (XL)

🎀 Christened By

tba

⚓ Sister Ships

Carnival (TropicaleMardi GrasCelebrationJubilee)AIDA (novacosma)P&O (IonaArvia)Costa (SmeraldaToscana)

Questions

Carnival Festivale is scheduled to join the Carnival Cruise Line fleet in 2027. Specific itineraries and homeports will be announced closer to the ship's debut. Keep an eye on CruiseHuddle for updates as fellow cruisers share booking information.
At 183,900 gross tons with capacity for 6,631 passengers, Festivale ranks among Carnival's largest ships. It's part of the Excel-class, which represents the line's biggest and most feature-rich vessels, offering more space and amenities than earlier Carnival classes.
The Excel-class (also called XL-class) is Carnival's newest and largest ship category, featuring innovative design with distinct themed zones, expanded dining venues, enhanced water attractions, and more outdoor deck space. These ships represent Carnival's latest thinking in ocean cruise experiences.
While specific cabin details will be released closer to launch, Excel-class ships typically offer interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite accommodations. Expect Carnival's popular cabin categories including Family Harbor suites and Cloud 9 Spa staterooms with wellness amenities.
Yes, like all Carnival ships, Festivale will cater to families with dedicated kids' clubs, water parks, family dining options, and activities for all ages. The Excel-class design includes expanded youth facilities and family-friendly zones throughout the ship.
Beyond the fare

What Carnival Cruise Line actually costs

These rates apply fleetwide across Carnival Cruise Line.

Verified July 2026
Gratuities
$17
per person, per day
Couple, 7 nights
$238
before a single drink
Service charge
20%
bar · dining · spa
Wi-Fi from
$15
per device, per day
Drink packages run roughly $60–$85 per person, per day — and on most lines every adult in the cabin must buy one if anybody does.

Raised gratuities $1 on Apr 2, 2026 (first since 2023). Quietly moved the service charge from 18% to 20% in late 2025. Bottomless Bubbles (soda) is $11.99/day, over $14 with service charge. IMPORTANT: fund your Sail & Sign account before boarding or you will queue at Guest Services mid-cruise.

Published rates, not a quote. Cruise pricing changes frequently — confirm with the cruise line before booking.

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