Construction Starts on Next-Generation 8,000 Passenger Carnival Cruise Line Mega Ship

Sparks flew in Monfalcone, Italy, on 11 July 2026, as Carnival Cruise Line marked a major milestone with the traditional steel-cutting ceremony for its newest ship, Carnival Destiny.

The next-generation mega ship for Carnival Cruise Line is set to launch in summer 2029 as the first of three vessels in its next-generation of ships, officially named Ace Class. Held at the Fincantieri shipyard, the event revealed the ship's name and showcased a 3D hologram offering a first look at the future of Carnival cruising.

​Carnival's partnership with Fincantieri—a global leader in shipbuilding—dates back more than 30 years to the original Carnival Destiny, which ushered in a new era as the world's largest cruise ship at the time. Today, that legacy continues with a class designed to redefine the guest experience.

Carnival Destiny will introduce a new way of experiencing the ocean from the ship, becoming the most outward-facing megaship at sea. It will feature an unprecedented number of ocean-view balcony cabins, a reimagined lanai deck and more than 4.5 acres of glass—including expansive, multi-story glass walls—all of which will open-up sightlines across the vessel. Together, these elements will create ocean views from more places on board, bringing the ocean into constant view and redefining how guests connect with the sea.

Carnival Destiny will also deliver a bold evolution in how guests engage on board. More than 70 percent of its venues and attractions will be entirely new concepts for Carnival, spanning reimagined dining, next-generation bars and lounges, immersive entertainment and vibrant outdoor spaces.

"Carnival Destiny builds on a legacy that changed cruising once before, reimagining what guests can experience at sea," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. "With this ship, we're elevating the guest experience again creating a ship that feels more expansive, while helping guests feel more connected and ultimately have more fun."
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Carnival Destiny will sail to destinations in the Paradise Collection by Carnival, the largest portfolio of exclusive destinations in the Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico in the cruise industry. Additional details on Carnival Destiny's features and experiences will be released later this year with delivery of the ship scheduled for Summer 2029. Two additional Ace-Class ships are planned for 2031 and 2033.