Carnival Cruise Line Unveils 2027-28 Winter Itineraries for Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee and New Carnival Festivale, Boosting Caribbean and Bahamas Tourism

Published on November 30, 2025

Carnival Cruise Line is announcing exciting new itineraries for its Excel-class ships during the 2027-28 winter season, further expanding in the Caribbean and Bahamas. In addition to the newly launched Carnival Festivale, joining the established Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee, the cruise line is offering an even greater variety of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration across the tropical region.

The four ships will offer vacationers a variety of itinerary options from major U.S. ports, including Port Canaveral, Miami, and Galveston, assuring easier access to the Caribbean and Bahamas for family and business travelers alike. From short Bahamas cruises to weeklong Caribbean voyages, Carnival Cruise Line’s expanded fleet is ready to meet the increasing demand for affordable, premium cruise experiences.

Mardi Gras: Short Cruises to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral

Mardi Gras, Carnival’s flagship Excel-class ship, will transition to short cruises to the Bahamas starting in spring 2027. The ship, which currently offers weeklong Caribbean itineraries, will now operate four- and five-night cruises from Port Canaveral. These shorter voyages are tailored for guests looking for a quick escape to the Bahamas, with each sailing featuring stops at Celebration Key in Grand Bahama, Carnival’s private island destination.

The transition to shorter itineraries will help Carnival cater to travelers seeking a quick getaway with luxury amenities and family-friendly entertainment. The Mardi Gras continues to be one of Carnival’s most innovative ships, offering passengers world-class dining, entertainment, and exclusive family experiences, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want a dynamic vacation without a long commitment.

Carnival Celebration: Year-Round Caribbean and Bahamas Cruises

The Carnival Celebration, which first set sail in 2022, will continue to operate year-round weeklong cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas during the 2027-28 season. Operating from Miami, the 5,200-guest ship will visit top Caribbean destinations, including Amber Cove (Dominican Republic), Mahogany Bay (Honduras), and Celebration Key in the Bahamas.

With its focus on high-quality service, modern amenities, and varied itineraries, Carnival Celebration is well-positioned to attract a broad range of travelers, from families to couples and solo adventurers. The ship offers a combination of exciting shore excursions, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional dining experiences, ensuring that travelers experience the best of the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Carnival Jubilee: Expanding Western Caribbean and Bahamas Cruises

The Carnival Jubilee, launched in 2023, will continue to sail year-round from Galveston, Texas, offering a series of six- to eight-night cruises to the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas. The 5,400-guest ship provides an exciting itinerary for travelers who want to explore the Caribbean’s best destinations, including Cozumel (Mexico), Isla Tropicale (Honduras), and Nassau (Bahamas).

These itineraries are designed for guests who want a longer and more immersive experience, with visits to Carnival’s private islands, such as RelaxAway at Half Moon Key and Celebration Key, offering exclusive beachside relaxation and adventure-filled activities. The Carnival Jubilee offers something for everyone, from luxury relaxation to adventurous shore excursions. It is set to be a favorite for families and solo travelers alike who seek a mix of luxury cruising and adventure.

Carnival Festivale: New Ship and New Itinerary from Port Canaveral

In May 2027, Carnival Festivale will debut and take over the weeklong cruise schedule at Port Canaveral, replacing Mardi Gras’ current offerings. This 5,400-guest ship will sail on six- and eight-night cruises to the Eastern Caribbean and the Bahamas, with inaugural season itineraries that include stops in Aruba, Bonaire, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, and Celebration Key.

The introduction of Carnival Festivale adds an exciting new product offering for travelers who seek a mix of Caribbean exploration and exclusive experiences, such as visits to Carnival’s private islands. The new ship is designed to appeal to both adventurers and luxury travelers, with an abundance of activities, exclusive dining experiences, and a focus on high-end service.

Tourism and Economic Impact: Boosting Regional Travel and Local Economies

The increase in Carnival’s operations in the Caribbean and Bahamas brings substantial economic benefits to local tourism industries in these regions. As more ships dock at Caribbean ports and Bahamas islands, the local economies benefit from the spending power of tourists on shore excursions, local products, restaurants, and other travel services. The surge in tourist arrivals is also expected to stimulate growth in tourism infrastructure such as hotels, transportation, and recreational facilities.

In addition to boosting local economies, Carnival’s expanded fleet and increased regional connections will help strengthen the Caribbean and Bahamas as premier global tourism destinations, increasing the region’s competitiveness in the world’s most sought-after markets.

Future Growth Prospects for Carnival Cruise Line and Tourism

Carnival Cruise Line’s continued investment in its Excel-class ships, combined with the introduction of new destinations and innovative onboard experiences, is positioning the company for sustained growth in the global tourism and cruise market. With the Carnival Festivale debuting in 2027 and the continued success of Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee, the company is solidifying its position as a leading cruise operator in the Caribbean and Bahamas, offering diverse itineraries that cater to travelers of all types.

Looking ahead, Carnival Cruise Line is well-positioned to continue expanding its presence in the region, attracting new tourists while providing travelers with affordable, luxury travel experiences that emphasize sustainability, comfort, and innovation. The long-term growth prospects for Carnival in the Caribbean and Bahamas appear promising, with the company’s commitment to enhancing regional tourism and developing innovative travel products that align with tourism trends and consumer demand.

Carnival’s Role in Shaping the Future of Caribbean and Bahamas Tourism

The strategic growth of Carnival Cruise Line within the Caribbean and the Bahamas will continue to fuel tourism in these regions. Newer ships, like Carnival Festivale, are increasing the company’s itinerary options for travelers to see some of the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations in the world. As Carnival continues to enhance its presence and service offerings, the company will play a key role in the future success of both Caribbean and Bahamas tourism and be an active contributor to the economic development and sustainable growth of these critical regions.