Big, bold, and built for unforgettable fun, Carnival’s Excel Class takes cruising to a whole new level.

There’s cruising… and then there’s Excel Class cruising. Welcome to cruising at its finest. The moment you board one of Carnival’s Excel Class ships—Mardi Gras®, Carnival Celebration®, and Carnival Jubilee®—you’re in for an unforgettable vacation. These are the biggest, boldest, and most imaginative ships in the Carnival fleet, packed with features that turn every sailing into a nonstop celebration of adventure, relaxation, and connection. The fun doesn’t stop there with two new Excel Class ships—Carnival Festivale™ and Carnival Tropicale™—coming in 2027 and 2028.

Here are five irresistible reasons why Carnival’s Excel Class should be your next great vacation destination.

REASON 1: Elevated Fun for The Whole Family

Experience the first and fastest rollercoaster at sea, BOLT®. Hop on this all-electric, motorcycle-style thrill ride and take the wheel as you race around an open-air track high above the ocean. You control the speed, twisting, and turning through breathtaking views while the sea breeze rushes past your face. It’s heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping fun like nothing else at sea.

Family Feud™ Live brings the beloved game show straight to the high seas. Step onto a real Family Feud™ set, complete with the iconic Face-Off podium and the thrill of Fast Money. Gather your friends for a chance to compete, or cheer from the audience as teams battle it out with quick thinking, laughs, and plenty of surprises.

Center Stage + Playlist Productions™ takes entertainment to a whole new level. These aren’t just concerts or plays, they’re high-energy experiences combining music, dance, acrobatics, and innovative visuals. Enjoy fan-favorites like Celestial Strings, Amor Cubano, and interactive adventures like Dear Future Husband.

When it’s time to relax, Cloud 9 Spa™ offers a sanctuary of calm. Choose from indulgent massages, rejuvenating facials, body wraps, and more, or unwind in the thermal suites, each precisely designed to soothe and refresh.

REASON 2: Six Zones of Nonstop Fun

Forget ordinary decks—each Excel Class ship is designed around six immersive zones, each with its own energy, personality, and flavors. Every zone offers something unique, giving you endless ways to make the most of your time onboard.

ZONE 1: Grand Central

Grand Central is designed to make an impression… and it’s the very first one you’ll see on your Carnival cruise! This atrium sets the vacation vibes from the moment you step on board, with floor-to-ceiling windows, 14-foot LED screens, and a ceiling of 1,400 color-changing lights. Catch a rotating lineup of live shows at Center Stage, sip drinks with ocean views at Grand View Bar or the Aquaria Bar, or grab a comforting cup at JavaBlue™ Café. Satisfy your cravings at Bonsai Sushi™ and Bonsai Teppanyaki™, then laugh the night away at Piano Bar 88™ or The Punchliner Comedy Club™.

With high ceilings hinting at fun on the decks above, panoramic ocean views, and endless spaces to relax, dine, and be entertained, Grand Central isn’t just an atrium — it’s the heartbeat of your cruise, the place where your vacation truly begins.

ZONE 2: Themed Experiences

Step into a world of endless fun and discovery on your Carnival cruise, where every zone brings its own vibe, entertainment, and surprises.

• Mardi Gras®: Inspired by New Orleans, the French Quarter immerses you in vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors. Enjoy authentic dining at Emeril’s Bistro 1396™, sip jazz-infused cocktails at The Brass Magnolia bar, and explore quirky boutique shops.
• Carnival Celebration®: Explore The Gateway, where international flair comes alive through décor, cuisine, and entertainment inspired by landmarks around the world. Stunning LED ceilings and windows set the scene, while themed nights like Abroad in Europe, Far East Voyage, and Mexico Lindo bring food, drinks, and shows to life. Don’t miss favorites like Latitudes™, The Golden Jubilee™, Emeril’s Bistro 1397™, and Alchemy Bar®.
• Carnival Jubilee®: Dive into Currents™, a fantastical underwater world filled with mermaids, sunken cities, and sea monsters. Six massive LED “windows” and a wavy ceiling immerse you in interactive experiences and shows like Seaquest, while dining delights await at Emeril’s Bistro 717™, Dr.Inks, Ph.D.™, and The Golden Mermaid™.
• Carnival Festivale™: At Studio 724, music takes center stage with immersive audio, lighting, and animations spanning two decks. Enjoy fan-favorite bars like Alchemy Bar® and Piano Bar 88™, along with exciting new spots like The Spark and Mix. From lively streets to global adventures, underwater wonders, and multi-sensory music experiences, every moment on board is packed with flavor, fun, and memories waiting to be made.

ZONE 3: Summer Landing

Go ahead and call Summer Landing 'the greatest chill spot at sea'... and we'll be right there with you, any time of year! What’s three letters long and goes perfectly with relaxing outdoors? BBQ! That’s why Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse calls this zone home, serving up freshly smoked favorites crafted by Guy Fieri himself—plus original Parched Pig® beers brewed just feet away. When it’s time to cool off, you’ll find the pool and whirlpool right where you’d want them—next to The Watering Hole, a poolside bar made for fans of easy, breezy relaxation. Raise a glass at the Heroes Tribute™ Lounge, where guests can salute our military heroes in true Carnival style. And for everyone with a sweet tooth, there’s a Swirls™ location right here serving free soft-serve ice cream all day long.

ZONE 4: Dining Delights

Get ready to explore the flavors, sights, and vibes that make every Carnival Excel-class cruise unforgettable. The Excel Class lineup brings more than 20 unique dining options—each one worth a try! From Italian flair at La Piazza to Miami style at 820 Biscayne, coastal charm at The Shores™, and festival fun at The Festival, these zones deliver endless flavor and unforgettable experiences at every turn.

• Mardi Gras®- La Piazza brings a taste of Italy to the sea, from family-style favorites at Cucina del Capitano® to fresh, cheesy pies at Pizzeria del Capitano, handheld delights at Piazza Panini, and espresso and cocktails at Bar della Rosa — all served in an atmosphere that’s just bellissimo, indoors or with a sea breeze outdoors.
• Carnival Celebration®- Over at 820 Biscayne, the spirit of Miami comes alive with art deco designs, neon accents, and flavors that shout hometown pride. Sip tropical cocktails and Cuban coffee at Bar 820, grab classic sandwiches at Deco Deli, dig into pizza at Miami Slice, or enjoy full-service dining at Cucina del Capitano and Rudi’s Seagrill.
• Carnival Jubilee®- The Shores™ captures the magic where land meets water, inspired by beaches, boardwalks, and piers. Fresh pies at Coastal Slice™, relaxing drinks at Marina Bar™, and casual bites like Beach Buns™ make this a perfect spot to unwind.
• Carnival Festivale™- And at The Festival, the energy of an outdoor music festival comes to sea — stroll, dance, and dine while sampling creative twists on comfort foods at Pizza Palooza and Rhythm & Rolls Deli, with drinks and vibes at Festival Grounds Coffee & Bar to match every moment. From Italian flair to Miami style, coastal charm to festival fun, these zones deliver endless flavor and unforgettable experiences at every turn.

ZONE 5: Lido Zone

If you’ve cruised with us before, you know Lido... but aboard Carnival’s Excel Class ships this poolside zone features even more delicious and fun experiences among the familiar flavors. Grab a tropical drink at the RedFrog® Tiki Bar, now stretching across two decks of South Pacific-inspired vibes. Then, stroll over to Street Eats, where global favorites like kebabs, bao buns, and over-the-top fries keep things deliciously casual. The fan favorite classics return, too—Shaq’s Big Chicken™, Guy’s Burger Joint™, Seafood Shack™, and BlueIguana Cantina™ all serve up fan-favorite bites you’ll crave again and again. And yes, Swirls™ is here with free soft-serve all day, every day.

ZONE 6: Ultimate Playground

On Mardi Gras®, Carnival Celebration®, and Carnival Jubilee®, this zone is ages everybody and up. Start with BOLT®, the first rollercoaster at sea, then splash into the largest Carnival WaterWorks™ ever, featuring three massive slides. SportSquare™ adds mini-golf, basketball, and a ropes course.  

On Carnival Festival™, the fun is just as exciting—even without BOLT®! Sunsation Point has something for everyone. Things start with Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, a high-energy waterpark that's our biggest one ever. Fairway 66 Mini Golf lets you drive down the greens, avoiding fun obstacles inspired by the iconic roadway, plus you'll find a ropes course, adventure trail, sports court and more. There are spots for kicking back, including lounge chairs and a scenic overlook with sunset views, casual games and more. Carnival’s ultimate playground delivers unforgettable fun at sea for everyone.

Whether you’re chasing thrills, splashing in the sun, or just soaking up the views, this is where every generation comes together for unforgettable fun at sea.

REASON 3: Staterooms Inspired by Comfort Itself

On Carnival’s Excel Class ships your stateroom is more than just a place to sleep. It’s designed for comfort, convenience, and style. Thoughtful details, like shadow-free ring-lit vanity mirrors, versatile ottomans, recessed reading lights, and plenty of USB ports, make every stay easier and more enjoyable.

For a private island vibe, Havana Staterooms & Suites place you near the Havana Bar & Pool, with Cabana and suite options offering extra space and luxurious touches. Cloud 9 Spa™ Staterooms pamper you with spa robes, Elemis toiletries, priority spa access, thermal suites, and fitness perks. Families will love Family Harbor Staterooms & Suites, located near the Family Harbor Lounge, where kids enjoy snacks, games, movies, and complimentary specialty dining while parents get a little alone time.

From cozy Interior Staterooms to Ocean View, Balcony, and spacious Suites, every room combines smart design with comfort, plus extra perks like VIP boarding for suite guests. For the ultimate retreat, Loft 19™ offers lounge chairs, an infinity whirlpool, drink service, and optional cabanas with concierge touches—perfect for a little sun-soaked indulgence.

REASON 4: Relax, Recharge & Take in the Views

For those picture-perfect moments, Loft 19™ offers a private retreat with panoramic views and plush cabanas. Or escape to the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, where ocean breezes, whirlpools, and cocktails combine for the ultimate “me-time.” Whether you’re soaking up sun or starlight, Excel Class ships redefine relaxation.

REASON 5: Discover Paradise at Celebration Key™

Celebration Key, Carnival Cruise Line’s new destination in Grand Bahama designed for Carnival guests is now open! Unlock paradise with unique island-style fun, relaxation, and adventure spread across 65 acres and five portals to explore. Each portal features unforgettable experiences perfect for adults, families with kids… everybody who is looking for the ultimate tropical paradise.

Get ready to enjoy more than 30 food and beverage venues across the destination, a variety of live entertainment like Junkanoo parades, roaming rake-and-scrape musicians, DJs, and all-day beach games. For private relaxation, choose from a wide variety of cabanas, daybeds, and villas and the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean. Action and adventure seekers can enjoy sports courts, water activities, and shore excursions. Guests simply looking for a perfect beach day will enjoy over one mile of pristine, white sand beach overlooking the beautiful Bahamian waters.

Contact your travel advisor for more information!