Planning a Carnival cruise and want to know how the different ships actually compare in size?

You’re in the right place.

Carnival ships by size range from huge Excel class vessels with roller coasters and sky-high water slides… all the way down to compact, older ships that feel more like classic “Fun Ships” from the 90s. Size alone doesn’t make a ship good or bad, but it does change everything about your cruise:

Crowds, pool space, dining variety, cabin types, ports, noise levels… even how long it takes to walk from your cabin to your morning coffee.

In this guide, we’ll walk through all 29 Carnival ships by size, from largest to smallest, using gross tonnage and length as our main benchmarks. You’ll see:

• A clear explanation of what ship “size” really means and how it affects your experience
• A quick-reference chart of all Carnival ships by size (largest to smallest)
• Detailed breakdowns of each major size group… from mega-ships to true “little classics”
• Practical advice on which ship sizes are best for families, couples, first-time cruisers, and budget hunters

Unlike some quick lists that just throw numbers at you, this guide is written to help you actually choose the right style of ship:

• Do you want a huge floating resort with nonstop activities?
• Or a smaller ship that’s easier to navigate and visits ports the big girls can’t reach?
• Or something in the middle… enough fun without feeling overwhelming?

We’ll start with a simple look at how ship size works, then go straight into the full list of carnival ships by size from largest to smallest, with real-world context for what those numbers feel like on board.

Want to see how old each ship is too? Check out my full guide to Carnival ships by Age for a complete newest-to-oldest breakdown.

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How Cruise Ship Size Works (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

Before we dive into the full list of carnival ships by size, it helps to understand what “size” really means in the cruise world. Most people think size = length… but that’s actually the least important measurement.

Here are the three numbers that matter most:

Gross Tonnage (GT) – the true measure of ship size

This is the number you should look at.

Gross tonnage has nothing to do with weight. It measures the total interior volume of the ship — every restaurant, hallway, lounge, cabin, theater, and crew area.

More GT generally means:

• More dining options
• More entertainment
• More pools and deck space
• More cabins (and usually more balconies)
• More “breathing room” on sea days

It’s the best indicator of how big a ship feels.

Length

Length affects design more than experience, but it still matters:

• Longer ships spread crowds more easily
• It means more distance between venues
• It can limit which ports the ship can dock at

Carnival ships range from 855 feet to 1,130 feet.

Passenger Capacity

This tells you how many people actually share the space with you.

A huge ship with too many passengers can feel crowded.
A mid-size ship with fewer guests often feels more relaxed.

That’s why the passenger-to-space ratio is a hidden factor in comfort — something this guide helps you understand as you compare ships.

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Project ACE – Carnival’s Largest Ships Ever (2029–2033)

Carnival’s Project ACE ships aren’t sailing yet, but when they arrive, they will instantly become the biggest vessels in Carnival’s entire history. Measuring around 230,000 gross tons, these mega-ships will surpass the Excel Class and officially move Carnival into true “mega-resort at sea” territory.

The first Project ACE ship is scheduled for delivery in 2029, followed by two more in 2031 and 2033. All three will be built by Fincantieri, and Carnival has already confirmed these ships will launch an entirely new design direction for the brand—more open spaces, expanded entertainment districts, and a redesigned top-deck concept replacing BOLT with the new Sunsation Point attraction.

While Carnival hasn’t released full deck plans yet, each Project ACE ship is expected to feature:

• Completely redesigned pool & sun deck experiences
• Expanded dining “neighborhoods” inspired by Excel Class zones
• A new signature top-deck attraction replacing the roller coaster
• New cabin categories (including next-gen suites designed for families and small groups)
• More venues focused on live music, nightlife, and themed entertainment
• Environmental upgrades and a new propulsion system

The bottom line:
Project ACE will redefine the size hierarchy in this carnival ships by size comparison. These ships will be the first true “mega class” in Carnival’s fleet, and they will stand alone at the very top for years.

Since they aren’t in service yet, here’s what we do know:

Projected Stats (Expected):

• Estimated gross tonnage: ~230,000 GT
• Passenger capacity: Expected 6,600+
• Shipyard: Fincantieri
• Debut years: 2029, 2031, 2033
• Notable features: Sunsation Point (BOLT replacement), expanded zones, next-gen environmental tech

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Excel Class: Carnival’s Mega-Ships (Around 180,000+ GT)

The Excel Class is where Carnival finally steps into true mega-ship territory. These are Carnival’s largest ships by gross tonnage, length, and passenger capacity, and they sit right at the top of any list of carnival ships by size.

Excel Class ships are roughly 180,000+ gross tons, around 1,130 feet long, and can carry well over 6,000 guests at full capacity. They also bring Carnival’s most modern hardware: LNG fuel, huge open pool decks, themed zones, and headline features like the BOLT coaster or its replacement, Sunsation Point.

If you want the biggest and most feature-packed Carnival experience, this is the class you start with.

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Carnival Festivale size (2027)

Carnival Festivale will be the fourth Excel Class ship, scheduled to join the fleet in 2027. She will be roughly the same size as Carnival Jubilee and Carnival Celebration, sitting at around 183,000 gross tons, about 1,130 feet long, and carrying 5,000+ guests at double occupancy with well over 6,000 when fully loaded.

Festivale will sail as an evolution of the Excel design:

• Similar footprint and silhouette to Jubilee, Celebration, and Mardi Gras, so if you’ve seen those photos, you already know the basic scale.
• Powered by LNG, giving Carnival a more fuel-efficient, lower-emission flagship.
• Designed around multiple themed zones instead of a single central promenade, so the ship feels like a string of compact neighborhoods instead of one giant mall.

One key change that’s already been teased is Sunsation Point, which replaces the BOLT coaster on the top deck. Instead of coaster track wrapping the funnel, Festivale will lean into a huge, resort-style sun and lounge zone at the aft of the ship, keeping the “wow” factor without the roller coaster hardware.

Quick size snapshot (approximate, based on sister ships):

• Gross tonnage: ~183,000 GT
• Length: ~1,130 feet
• Guests (double occupancy): ~5,300
• Guests (max capacity): ~6,500+
• Class rank: Among the very largest carnival ships by size

If you want the full “new hardware” experience but like the idea of a slightly more refined, second-generation layout, Festivale will likely be one of the most in-demand Carnival ships once itineraries open.

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Carnival Tropicale size (2028)

Carnival Tropicale will follow right behind Festivale in 2028, as the fifth Excel Class ship and another top-of-the-list entry when you line up carnival ships by size.

Like Festivale, Tropicale is expected to be:

• Around 183,000 gross tons
• About 1,130 feet long
• Designed for 5,000+ guests at double occupancy, with a full capacity in the mid 6,000s

Tropicale will share the same Excel-Class DNA:

• Multiple themed zones for dining, entertainment, and lounging
• Massive open pool and sun decks for sea days
• A full selection of Carnival “greatest hits” venues… Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana, Alchemy Bar, comedy club, piano bar, sports bars, and specialty dining

Like Festivale, Tropicale is expected to feature Sunsation Point instead of BOLT, leaning into a huge, Instagram-ready aft retreat that feels more like a land resort.

Quick size snapshot (approximate, based on sister ships):

• Gross tonnage: ~183,000 GT
• Length: ~1,130 feet
• Guests (double occupancy): ~5,300
• Guests (max capacity): ~6,500+
• Class rank: Tied at the very top for largest Carnival ships

If you want a ship that feels completely modern and resort-like, Tropicale will sit right at the top of your shortlist.

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Carnival Jubilee size (2023)

Carnival Jubilee, which debuted in 2023, is currently Carnival’s largest ship in active service and the Excel Class benchmark in any carnival ships by size breakdown.

Sister to Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, Jubilee comes in at:

• Gross tonnage: 183,521 GT
• Length: 1,130 feet
• Guests (double occupancy): 5,362
• Guests (max capacity): 6,600+

She is based in Galveston, Texas, and mainly sails Western Caribbean itineraries, which gives her a strong “Texas fun” energy on board… right down to themed merchandise and onboard programming.

What stands out on a ship this size:

• Six major zones including The Ultimate Playground, Summer Landing, and a huge Lido area
• A full Excel-Class top deck with WaterWorks, ropes course, mini golf, and more
• BOLT, the roller coaster at sea, wrapping around the funnel and giving you cliff-edge views over the ocean
• Dozens of bars and lounges, from RedFrog Tiki Bar by the pool to Alchemy Bar and Havana-style spaces
• A deep mix of cabin types… interior, ocean view, standard balcony, Havana and Excel suites, and premium “neighborhood” locations

Despite her size, Carnival has carved the ship into compact, themed pockets so it feels busy and lively without being total chaos everywhere at once.

If you want the biggest currently sailing Carnival ship with BOLT still on board, Jubilee is your flagship.

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Carnival Celebration size (2022)

Carnival Celebration joined the fleet in 2022 as the second Excel Class ship and one of Carnival’s largest ships by size.

Her core stats are almost identical to Jubilee:

• Gross tonnage: 183,521 GT
• Length: 1,130 feet
• Guests (double occupancy): 5,362

Celebration is based in Miami, Florida, sailing 6 to 8 night Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean itineraries. That gives you a lot of flexibility if you want the biggest hardware plus more varied routes than a simple “same two ports over and over” loop.

What makes Celebration feel different from her sisters is the personality of her zones:

• 820 Biscayne with a Miami nostalgia vibe, neon signs, and food and drink themed after Carnival’s roots
• A lively Celebration Central atrium with multi-deck entertainment, rather than just a basic lobby
• A mix of Excel-Class staples like the roller coaster, WaterWorks, ropes course, SkyCourse, and SportSquare

You get the same “mega-resort at sea” feeling as Jubilee and Mardi Gras… just wrapped in a more Miami-forward aesthetic.

For anyone cruising out of South Florida who wants one of the newest and largest Carnival ships, Celebration is a top contender.

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Mardi Gras size (2021)

Mardi Gras kicked off the Excel Class in 2021 and was the first Carnival ship to break the 180,000 GT mark. She also dropped the “Carnival” prefix in her name as a nod to the original 1972 Mardi Gras that started the brand.

Her key size stats:

• Gross tonnage: 180,800 GT
• Length: 1,130 feet
• Guests (double occupancy): 5,270

Mardi Gras sails mainly from Port Canaveral (Orlando), with 6 to 9 night Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean cruises. She also occasionally heads to Europe for dry dock periods, which can create some unique repositioning itineraries.

Highlights of Mardi Gras as one of the biggest carnival ships by size:

• The original BOLT roller coaster at sea, circling the funnel and giving riders ocean views at speed
• Six themed zones, including the French Quarter style area, Grand Central, Lido, and The Ultimate Playground
• A long list of bars and eateries, with standout venues like:
  • Emeril’s Bistro
  • Big Chicken by Shaq
  • Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina
  • RedFrog Tiki Bar and Havana-inspired spaces
• Full Excel-Class outdoor fun… WaterWorks, ropes course, mini golf, SportSquare, and adults-only Serenity

Mardi Gras is slightly lighter in tonnage than Jubilee and Celebration but still firmly in the same mega-ship category. If you want one of Carnival’s biggest ships and prefer Port Canaveral over Miami or Galveston, she’s your go-to.

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Vista & Venice Class (133,500–135,225 GT)

Right below the Excel giants in the carnival ships by size lineup, you’ve got the Vista and Venice Class ships. On paper they’re a bit smaller than Mardi Gras and her sisters… in real life they still feel huge, with big pool decks, water parks, and a ton of included food.

Structurally, Vista Class and Venice Class are basically cousins:

• Vista = original design built for Carnival
• Venice = same underlying platform, but born as Costa ships and later “Italian-ified” for Carnival’s Fun Italian Style concept

If you want a ship that feels like a full resort at sea but not quite as overwhelming as the Excel Class, this is the band you’ll probably land in.

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Carnival Venezia size (2023)

Carnival Venezia is one of the largest ships in Carnival’s fleet, and the heaviest of the Venice / Vista group.

• Gross tonnage: 135,225
• Length: 1,061 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: about 4,090
• Entered Carnival fleet: 2023 (after refit from Costa Venezia)

Venezia started life sailing for Costa, then received a full refit to join Carnival with a very specific twist: Fun Italian Style. You still get the Carnival layout and programming you’re used to, but wrapped in an Italy-inspired theme.

What stands out on a ship this size:

• Big open pool and sun deck areas with WaterWorks slides and splash features
• Full SportsSquare with mini-golf, ropes course, jogging track and outdoor games
• A long interior promenade with bars, cafés and late-night people watching
• Dedicated kids and teens areas so families have real “divide and conquer” options

The Italian touches are mostly in the décor and a handful of venues:

• An atrium modeled after iconic Italian architecture
• Italian-leaning menus and desserts in a few spots
• Extra emphasis on espresso, wine and apertivo-style drinks

From a carnival ships by size perspective, Venezia is one of the best “big but not too big” choices if you like the idea of a themed ship with lots of dining and bar variety but don’t necessarily need a roller coaster on the top deck.

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Carnival Firenze size (2024)

Carnival Firenze is Venezia’s sister and the second Venice Class ship to sail for Carnival.

• Gross tonnage: 135,156
• Length: 1,061 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: about 4,126
• Entered Carnival fleet: 2024 (after refit from Costa Firenze)

Like Venezia, Firenze brings that Italian overlay onto a Vista-style platform. Same general scale, same “resort ship” feel, just with her own personality and homeport.

Key things to know about a ship this size:

• Multiple pool zones plus adults-only Serenity for quiet time
• WaterWorks, ropes course and sports deck for sea-day activity
• A big central atrium space that turns into an entertainment hub at night
• Plenty of bars and lounges so evenings never feel crammed into one area

The “Florence” theming shows up in places like:

• A domed atrium inspired by Florence’s cathedral
• Artwork and finishes that lean Tuscan and old-world rather than neon-heavy
• Italian-influenced menu items at a few of the casual and specialty venues

Within the carnival ships by size hierarchy, Firenze is ideal if you like the idea of a large, modern ship with a slightly more “styled” feel, but still want the casual, loud, fun Carnival energy.

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Carnival Panorama size (2019)

Carnival Panorama is the third and newest purpose-built Vista Class ship, and the last of the trio to join the fleet.

• Gross tonnage: 133,500
• Length: 1,055 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: about 4,008
• Entered service: 2019

Panorama feels very much like a bridge between the older “Fun Ship” era and the current mega-ship world:

• A big outdoor SportSquare with SkyRide pedal track, ropes course and mini-golf
• WaterWorks with multiple slides and splash features
• A full suite of casual favorites like Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina
• Dedicated family zones like Family Harbor and playful kid spaces

What makes Panorama stand out in this size band:

• One of the more activity-packed ships without being as massive as Excel Class
• Well-developed top deck that keeps sea days busy even on longer sailings
• Enough dining variety that you aren’t stuck with the buffet plus main dining room

If you scan the carnival ships by size list and want a large but not overwhelming ship, Panorama is a sweet spot… especially if you like lots of outdoor action but still want a ship that’s easy to learn in a day or two.

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Carnival Horizon size (2018)

Carnival Horizon is Panorama’s slightly older Vista Class sister, sharing the same basic stats and overall feel.

• Gross tonnage: 133,500
• Length: 1,055 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: about 3,960
• Entered service: 2018

Horizon is built to be a full vacation in one package:

• Big pool decks with WaterWorks, hot tubs and sunbathing space
• SportSquare with aerial ropes course and outdoor games
• Popular Carnival bars like Alchemy Bar, RedFrog and BlueIguana Tequila Bar
• An IMAX theater and multiplex cinema for rainy sea days or late-night movies

Food and drink scale up nicely on a ship this size:

• Casual staples like Guy’s, BlueIguana, Lido buffet, pizzeria and deli
• Extra-fee options like Cucina del Capitano, steakhouse, sushi and teppanyaki
• Coffee, dessert and snack spots woven throughout the public decks

In the carnival ships by size lineup, Horizon is a great match if you want a “do everything on the ship” week where you can hit water slides, comedy, movies, pools and specialty dining without ever feeling like you ran out of options.

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Carnival Vista size (2016)

Carnival Vista was the first Vista Class ship and set the template for this whole group.

• Gross tonnage: 133,500
• Length: 1,055 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: about 3,934
• Entered service: 2016

Vista introduced a bunch of features that became Carnival staples on ships of this size:

• The original SkyRide suspended bike track
• A full WaterWorks park and splash zone
• Havana Cabana area with its own pool and tropical vibe
• Family Harbor cabins and lounge for families who want their own “home base”

Day to day, what you actually feel on board is:

• A busy but not chaotic pool deck with movies, parties and live music
• A good mix of indoor and outdoor bars so you can bounce between air-conditioning and sea breeze
• Enough variety in restaurants that a 7-night cruise doesn’t feel repetitive if you plan ahead a little

Within carnival ships by size, Vista is a very solid choice if you like a ship that feels fully “modern Carnival” without the extra thousands of people that come with the very biggest hardware.

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Dream Class (130,000 GT)

Right under the Vista/Venice group on the carnival ships by size ladder sits the Dream Class. These three ships are only a notch smaller than Vista, but in real life they feel very similar: big pool decks, water slides, tons of bars and restaurants, and that “full resort at sea” vibe.

They were Carnival’s first real step into what we’d now call large, modern ships:

• Around 130,000 gross tons
• Roughly 1,004 feet long
• Just under 3,700 guests at double occupancy
• Multiple pools, a big outdoor sports deck, and a proper water park on each

If you want most of the features of the newer hardware at (usually) slightly lower prices, Dream Class is where a lot of smart value hunters land.

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Carnival Breeze size (2012)

• Gross tonnage: 130,000
• Length: 1,004 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): about 3,690
• Entered service: 2012

Carnival Breeze is the youngest Dream Class ship and feels like the most “polished” of the trio. She takes the core Dream Class layout and layers on a lot of the Fun Ship 2.0 touches that people now expect:

What the ship feels like day to day

• Big central Lido pool with movies, parties and live music
• WaterWorks with multiple slides and splash features for kids and teens
• SportsSquare up top with mini-golf, ropes course, jogging track and games
• Adults-only Serenity retreat with hot tubs and loungers away from the chaos

Food & drink at this size

On a 130,000 GT ship like Breeze, you’re not going to run out of places to eat:

• Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina on the pool deck
• Lido Marketplace buffet plus pizzeria and deli options
• For-fee favorites like Cucina del Capitano, steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, etc.
• Plenty of bars: RedFrog Pub, BlueIguana Tequila Bar, Alchemy Bar, and more

Who Breeze tends to fit best

In the context of carnival ships by size, Breeze is a classic “all-rounder”:

• Great for families who want slides, sports, and casual food everywhere
• Solid for friend groups who care about bars, comedy, and sea-day action
• Good balance of size vs. manageability… big-ship energy without Excel-Class crowds

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Carnival Magic size (2011)

• Gross tonnage: 130,000
• Length: 1,004 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): about 3,690
• Entered service: 2011

Carnival Magic was the second Dream Class ship and the first in the fleet to debut a ropes course, which kind of set the tone for the top-deck “activity zone” style Carnival leans into now.

How the ship is laid out

• A long Lido deck with central pool, hot tubs, and movie screen
• WaterWorks area with slides and splash features
• SportsSquare with ropes course, mini-golf and outdoor games
• Promenade deck inside with bars, lounges and late-night traffic

Upgrades and modern touches

Magic has picked up a lot of newer Carnival ideas over the years:

• Themed pool bars (RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar)
• Alchemy Bar and other Fun Ship 2.0 favorites
• Updated casual and specialty dining in line with the rest of the big-ship fleet

Why you might pick Magic

On the carnival ships by size chart, Magic is in that sweet spot where:

• You get plenty of bells and whistles for kids and teens
• There’s enough bar and lounge variety to keep adults happy at night
• The ship is large enough to feel like a full vacation “bubble,” but still learnable in a day or two

If you’re okay trading the very newest hardware for a slightly better price or itinerary, Magic is a very easy ship to be happy on.

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Carnival Dream size (2009)

• Gross tonnage: 130,000
• Length: 1,004 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): about 3,646
• Entered service: 2009

Carnival Dream is the namesake of the class and the first of these bigger ships Carnival built. She set the basic template for what became standard on large Fun Ships.

One quirk: she’s the only Dream Class ship without a ropes course, but still has plenty of top-deck activity.

What you get on board

• Multiple pools spread along the open decks
• WaterWorks with slides and splash features
• A proper sports area with basketball, volleyball, mini-golf and more
• Comedy club, main theater shows, piano bar, nightclub and lounges for evenings

Dining and hangout options

On a 130,000 GT platform, Dream can support a lot of choice:

• Casual staples like Guy’s, BlueIguana, buffet, pizza, deli, etc.
• Specialty venues such as a steakhouse and Italian (Cucina del Capitano)
• Coffee bars, snack spots, and dessert options sprinkled around public spaces

Where Dream fits in the fleet

On a sorted list of carnival ships by size, Dream is:

• Big enough for a full-featured 7-night cruise with no “we already did everything” problem
• A bit older than Vista/Venezia/Firenze, which can mean better pricing on similar itineraries
• A strong choice if you care more about value and ports than having the absolute latest headline attractions

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Splendor Class (113,300 GT)

Right below the Dream Class on the carnival ships by size ladder is a true one-of-a-kind: the Splendor Class. It’s technically a “class of one” because Carnival Splendor was originally designed for Costa (as part of the Concordia concept) and then pivoted mid-build into the Carnival fleet.

At around 113,300 gross tons and just under 3,100 guests at double occupancy, she’s solidly a large ship… but not in the mega-ship league of Excel or Vista. Think “big enough to have lots of options, small enough not to feel overwhelming.”

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Carnival Splendor size (2009)

• Gross tonnage: 113,300
• Length: 952 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): about 3,012
• Entered service with Carnival: 2009

Carnival Splendor is a bit of a unicorn in the lineup: structurally close to a Conquest-era ship, but with her own top-deck layout and a few quirks you won’t find anywhere else in the fleet.

Where Carnival Splendor fits by size

On any chart of carnival ships by size, Splendor lands here:

• Smaller than Excel, Vista/Venezia/Firenze and Dream Class
• A step up in tonnage from Conquest, Sunshine, Spirit, and Fantasy
• Big enough for multiple pools, a proper water park, and lots of dining choices

So if Excel feels “too much” but you still want a ship that feels like a full resort, Splendor is a nice in-between.

Layout & vibe

Splendor has a very “classic Carnival, but extra” feel:

• A magrodome-covered main pool – the glass roof can close in cooler or windy weather, which is huge for shoulder-season and Australia sailings
• Multiple other pools and whirlpools spread around the open decks
• A big central atrium with glass elevators and lots of people-watching
• Typical Carnival night life: theater shows, comedy club, piano bar, nightclub, and busy promenade

She also has one of the larger Cloud 9 Spa complexes in the fleet, which helps her feel a bit more “spa ship” than her Conquest cousins.

Water park and outdoor fun

Up top you’ll typically find:

• Carnival WaterWorks with slides and splash features
• A dedicated adults-only Serenity area, moved to the aft pool in her big refit
• Mini-golf, sports areas, and the usual open-deck sea-day action

You don’t get Excel-level headline attractions (no roller coaster, no ropes course), but for most families and friend groups, there’s more than enough to fill sea days.

Food & drink at this size

On a 113k-ton platform, Splendor can support a wide list of venues:

• Casual must-haves like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Lido buffet, pizza, deli, ice cream
• A proper steakhouse and expanded buffet options from her 2019 refit
• Pool bars converted to RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar
• Coffee, desserts, and grab-and-go snacks scattered around public spaces

You don’t quite get the sheer variety of Excel or Vista, but you do get the full “modern Fun Ship” lineup most people care about.

Who Carnival Splendor is best for

Given her place in the carnival ships by size lineup, Splendor is a sweet spot for cruisers who:

• Want a big ship feel without jumping all the way to Excel-Class mega-ships
• Like the idea of a covered pool and flexible top deck (great for variable weather itineraries)
• Don’t need the absolutely newest hardware, but do want updated bars, water park, and modern dining
• Are sailing itineraries out of Australia, where Splendor is often the main Carnival presence

If you think Excel looks awesome but a bit intense… and Conquest looks solid but a little older/smaller than you want… Splendor is exactly the kind of “Goldilocks ship” that can make a 7–12 night cruise feel like a full resort vacation without the biggest-ship price tag.

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Conquest Class: Mid-Size “Fun Ships” Around 110,000 GT

Conquest Class ships sit right in the middle of the carnival ships by size lineup. At 110,000 gross tons and about 952 feet long, they’re noticeably smaller than Excel, Vista, and Dream Class… but still feel like “real” big ships with multiple pools, waterslides on most, and a full promenade of bars, lounges, and dining.

For a lot of cruisers, this size is the sweet spot:

• Big enough for plenty of venues and nightlife
• Small enough to feel more walkable and less overwhelming
• Often priced lower than the newer mega-ships

All five Conquest Class ships share the same basic hull and footprint, but they’ve had different refits over the years. That means the age of the hardware is similar, but the onboard experience can feel a little different depending on which ship you choose.

Below is each ship broken down individually so you can compare more than just tonnage.

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Carnival Freedom size (2007)

• Gross tonnage: 110,000
• Length: 952 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): 2,980

Carnival Freedom is the youngest of the Conquest Class and often feels like the most “updated” of the bunch thanks to her refits.

A major upgrade in 2019 added:

• WaterWorks splash park and slides
• Bonsai Sushi Express for quick, paid sushi
• Expanded retail space and a relocated mini golf course
• Additional berths in some cabins, nudging capacity up a bit

She primarily sails Caribbean itineraries from Florida, with Port Canaveral as a key homeport. For some seasons she also picks up special European sailings, including transatlantic repositioning cruises and Mediterranean itineraries, which is something you won’t see from every Conquest sister.

What Freedom’s size means in practice:

• Pool deck is lively but not as intense as the Excel ships
• Easy to walk from one end to the other in just a few minutes
• Enough dining variety to keep a 6–8 night cruise interesting, without feeling like you need a map all week

Best for: cruisers who want a classic Carnival feel with waterpark upgrades, lots of Caribbean options, and a ship that doesn’t feel “old” even though it’s not the newest hardware in the fleet.

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Carnival Liberty size (2005)

• Gross tonnage: 110,000
• Length: 952 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): 2,974

Carnival Liberty is remembered as the first ship to get the full Fun Ship 2.0 treatment, which brought many of the venues people now associate with “modern” Carnival.

Her Fun Ship 2.0 refit added things like:

• Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina
• RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar on the pool deck
• Upgraded Alchemy Bar and more modern lounges
• Cabin refreshes, including flat-screen TVs and cosmetic upgrades

Liberty generally sails Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries, and has been based in New Orleans in recent years, making her a popular option for drive-to cruisers in the Gulf region.

How her size feels onboard:

• One main pool plus aft spaces that can feel pleasantly busy but not packed like the very largest ships
• Promenade deck with bars, comedy, and music that gives that “classic Carnival night out” vibe
• Good mix of families, couples, and groups… especially on shorter sailings

Best for: cruisers who want a tried-and-true Conquest ship with all the signature Carnival 2.0 upgrades, sailing mostly warm-weather itineraries out of an easy-access Gulf port.

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Carnival Valor size (2004)

• Gross tonnage: 110,000
• Length: 952 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): 2,980

Carnival Valor is one of the more “classic” feeling Conquest ships in terms of hardware. Unlike some of her sisters, she does not have a full WaterWorks waterpark, which can actually be a plus if you prefer the pool deck to feel a little calmer.

Onboard you’ll typically find:

• Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina
• Cherry on Top candy shop
• Teen club Club O2, plus kids’ and tween spaces
• A central pool deck used heavily for games, music, and sea day parties

Valor usually sails shorter Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries, often from New Orleans, which makes her a popular weekend getaway ship.

What the size and features mean for your cruise:

• Less emphasis on huge slides, more on classic pool deck fun and sea day activities
• A very social atmosphere on shorter sailings… ideal if you like music, bars, and people-watching
• Enough venues to bar-hop at night without feeling like you’re missing half the ship

Best for: people who care more about price, ports, and nightlife than the latest waterpark features, especially if you’re looking at 3–5 night cruises.

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Carnival Glory size (2003)

• Gross tonnage: 110,000
• Length: 952 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): 2,980

Carnival Glory has been sailing for over two decades, but she’s had steady upgrades that keep her aligned with the rest of the Conquest Class.

Recent work has included:

• Newer hull livery and exterior cosmetic updates
• Expanded or refreshed casino and shops
• Addition of venues like JavaBlue Café and Carnival Adventures–style shore ex spaces on many sailings

Glory tends to run Caribbean and Bahamas cruises from Florida, often out of Port Canaveral, which keeps her in the mix for families and first-time cruisers who want easy drive or fly access.

How Glory’s size plays out onboard:

• Big enough to feel like a “real” ship with multiple pool and lounge areas
• Still small enough that by day two or three, most people know where everything is
• A good all-rounder ship where you get the core Carnival experience without paying Excel-level fares

Best for: cruisers who want a balanced, classic mid-size ship with familiar Carnival venues and plenty of warm-weather itineraries from a major Florida port.

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Carnival Conquest size (2002)

• Gross tonnage: 110,000
• Length: 952 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): 2,980

Carnival Conquest is the namesake and first-built ship in the Conquest Class. She set the template for this mid-size design that Carnival has leaned on for years.

Highlights you’ll typically find onboard:

• A central pool with Twister waterslide rather than a full modern WaterWorks layout
• The usual lineup of bars, comedy club, piano bar, casino, and lounges
• Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina on most sailings after Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades
• An interior full of bold, classic Carnival theming compared to the more toned-down look of newer classes

Conquest often sails short Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from Florida, positioning herself as an accessible entry point into the Carnival fleet.

In terms of size and feel:

• You get that big ship atmosphere… theater, multiple lounges, casino, waterslide
• But you don’t have to deal with the sheer scale and crowds of the Excel and Vista ships
• Great for people who want lots to do, yet still appreciate that the ship is walkable and relatively simple to learn

Best for: first-time Carnival cruisers who want to try the brand on a mid-size ship, and repeat cruisers who care more about value and vibe than having every single newest feature.

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Adventure (Grand) Class: Ex-P&O Mid-Sized Ships for Australia

Carnival’s Adventure (Grand) Class ships started life sailing for Princess and P&O, then were reimagined for Carnival’s fleet. On the carnival ships by size list, they sit just under the Conquest class… mid-sized hardware with a slightly different layout and vibe than the “classic” Fun Ships you’ll find in North America.

At around 108,865 gross tons and 951 feet long, these ships are big enough to feel like a “real” resort at sea, but small enough to get into more varied itineraries around Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Inside, you’ll see a mix of:

• Legacy Princess/P&O design bones
• Carnival-branded venues and bars
• A more low-key, Aussie-friendly atmosphere compared to the high-octane Excel class

They’re a nice sweet spot if you want the Carnival energy… but don’t need a roller coaster on the top deck to have fun.

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Carnival Adventure size (2025)

Carnival Adventure began life as Golden Princess, later sailed as P&O Adventure, and officially joined the Carnival fleet in 2025. Structurally, she’s a Grand-class Princess design that’s been adapted to Carnival’s style and branding.

• Gross tonnage: ~108,865
• Length: ~951 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): ~2,600
• Home region: Australia, with routes to New Zealand and the South Pacific

What you can expect on board:

• A more traditional cruise-ship layout than Vista/Excel, with a strong focus on indoor lounges, theater, and atrium spaces
• A good mix of Carnival staples (casual eateries, lively bars, comedy, poolside fun) layered on top of the old Princess/P&O framework
• Spacious open decks for sea days, but without the sprawling waterpark footprint you see on newer mega-ships

Cabins tend to reflect her early-2000s heritage… but with refreshed soft furnishings and tech. You’ll find:

• A solid number of balconies and ocean-views
• Traditional interiors and minisuites
• Layouts that feel more like classic cruise ships than modern theme-park resorts

On any carnival ships by size comparison, Carnival Adventure is a great pick if you:

• Are based in Australia or want an Aussie-focused cruise
• Prefer a mid-sized ship with a more classic layout and atmosphere
• Want Carnival’s food, bars, and entertainment without the crowds of 5,000+ passengers

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Carnival Encounter size (2025)

Carnival Encounter is Adventure’s near-twin sister. She also started life for Princess, then moved to P&O Cruises Australia, and finally crossed over into Carnival’s fleet in 2025. She shares the same basic specs:

• Gross tonnage: ~108,865
• Length: ~951 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): ~2,600
• Home region: Australia, with South Pacific and New Zealand itineraries

Carnival Encounter is being progressively updated to bring her in line with the rest of the fleet. As refits roll through, you can expect:

• More Carnival-branded venues and bars replacing older P&O spaces
• Upgrades to pool areas, kids’ clubs, and casual dining
• Freshened cabins and public areas that feel brighter and more modern

She fits a nice niche in the carnival ships by size hierarchy:

• Larger and more feature-rich than Fantasy class
• A bit smaller and more intimate than Conquest, Dream, or Vista class
• Designed to handle longer, port-intensive itineraries around Australia and the South Pacific

If you’re comparing Carnival ships from an Australia homeport, Carnival Encounter is a strong option when you want:

• A mid-sized ship that’s easy to navigate
• A mix of familiar Carnival fun with a slightly more traditional, international feel
• Routes that focus on Australian, New Zealand, and South Pacific ports rather than Caribbean loops

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Sunshine (Destiny) Class: “New Old” Mid-Size Workhorses

Carnival’s Sunshine Class is one of the most interesting parts of your Carnival ships by size lineup. On paper, these three ships are older mid-size vessels a bit over 100,000 gross tons… but in reality they were gutted and rebuilt for over $200 million each and given new names.

So even though they started life in the late 90s / early 2000s, they feel much newer than their original build dates suggest. They sit just below the Conquest Class in size and above the Spirit Class… a real “middle lane” for guests who want lots of venues without Excel-size crowds.

Across the class you’ll see:

• Full WaterWorks waterpark on the top deck
• Large Serenity adults-only retreat
• SportsSquare with ropes course, mini golf, and courts
• Upgraded bars and dining like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, and a steakhouse

Now let’s go ship by ship.

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Carnival Sunshine size (1996 / 2013)

Carnival Sunshine started life as Carnival Destiny in 1996 and was the first cruise ship ever built over 100,000 gross tons. In 2013 she went into a massive, year-long transformation and came out as Carnival Sunshine… essentially a new ship built on an existing hull.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: 102,853
• Length: 892 feet
• Guest capacity (double occupancy): 3,002

Where she sits in your Carnival ships by size guide:
Sunshine is one of the smaller “100K-plus” ships in the fleet… bigger than the Spirit Class and Fantasy Class, but smaller than Conquest, Dream, Vista, and Excel. Think mid-size with a very full feature set.

Where she sails:

• Now based mainly out of Norfolk, Virginia on Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries
• Previously a Charleston staple, so she has a loyal repeat crowd that loves the “classic fun” feel

What feels different on Carnival Sunshine:

• Huge Serenity adults-only area at the aft, with multiple decks, loungers, clamshells, and its own bar
• WaterWorks waterpark with racing slides and splash features, which totally changed the top-deck vibe compared to the original Destiny layout
• SportsSquare up top, with a ropes course, mini golf, and court space for basketball and other activities
• The full “Fun Ship 2.0” bar package…
  • RedFrog Rum Bar
  • BlueIguana Tequila Bar
  • Alchemy Bar
  • SportSquare Bar and more

Dining wise, Sunshine has pretty much the full modern Carnival lineup for a mid-size ship:

• Guy’s Burger Joint
• BlueIguana Cantina
• Pizzeria, deli, Lido buffet, late-night options
• Cucina del Capitano (Italian) on many sailings
• Steakhouse for a proper special-occasion dinner

Who Carnival Sunshine is best for:

• Cruisers who want a ship that feels modern but isn’t enormous
• Adults who care a lot about the Serenity area… hers is one of the best in the fleet for her size
• East Coast guests who prefer driving to the port in Norfolk instead of flying to Florida

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Carnival Sunrise size (1999 / 2019)

Carnival Sunrise began as Carnival Triumph in 1999 and was re-imagined into Sunrise in 2019 after a ~$200 million rebuild. Most public spaces were redesigned, given new names, or replaced entirely, putting her in line with the rest of the upgraded fleet.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: 101,509
• Length: 893 feet
• Guest capacity (double occupancy): 2,984

Place in the Carnival ships by size lineup:
Sunrise is just a touch smaller on paper than Sunshine, but in practical terms they feel very similar in scale. You get a mid-size platform that still handles big-ship features without feeling overwhelming.

Where she sails:

• Typically based in Miami, Florida, doing shorter Caribbean and Bahamas cruises
• Great option for quick getaways where guests still want a full WaterWorks, comedy, spa, and specialty dining mix

What was added in the Sunrise transformation:

• Completely refreshed pool and top-deck layout with:
  • WaterWorks
  • Serenity adults-only space
  • SportsSquare activities
• Full suite of newer bars and lounges, including:
  • Alchemy Bar
  • RedFrog Rum Bar
  • BlueIguana Tequila Bar
• Updated cabins with modern TVs, new soft goods, and reconfigured family options

Dining upgrades mirror the current “Fun Ship 2.0” style:

• Guy’s Burger Joint
• BlueIguana Cantina
• JavaBlue / coffee concepts
• Specialty steakhouse and Italian dining on most sailings

Who Carnival Sunrise is best for:

• People doing shorter sailings from Miami who still want plenty to do on sea days
• Guests who like a busy pool deck and nightlife but do not necessarily want Excel-level crowds
• Repeat Carnival fans who want that familiar layout, just in a fully refreshed package

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Carnival Radiance size (2000 / 2021)

Carnival Radiance is the former Carnival Victory, which sailed from 2000 until her full rebuild was completed in 2021. Like her Sunshine Class sisters, she received the “strip it down and rebuild it” treatment, emerging as essentially a new ship with a new name.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: 101,509
• Length: 893 feet
• Guest capacity (double occupancy): 2,984

Position in Carnival ships by size:
Radiance rounds out the Sunshine Class at just over 101K gross tons… again, firmly in that mid-size band. In your Carnival ships by size hierarchy she’s in the same weight class as Sunrise, sitting below Conquest and above Spirit.

Where she sails:

• Based in Long Beach (Los Angeles) on 3, 4, and 6 night sailings to Baja Mexico and the Mexican Riviera
• A super common “first Carnival” ship for West Coast cruisers who want short, easy trips from LA

What makes Carnival Radiance stand out:

• A redesigned Lido deck with WaterWorks, new pools, and a refreshed movie screen area
• Converted aft pool area into a dedicated Serenity adults-only retreat, shifting the vibe of the back of the ship
• Full Fun Ship 2.0 rollout, including:
  • Guy’s Burger Joint
  • BlueIguana Cantina
  • RedFrog Rum Bar
  • BlueIguana Tequila Bar
  • Upgraded comedy club and lounges

Dining and bars are very similar to Sunrise, but on the West Coast this feels like a “compact Excel lite”… lots of energy packed into a smaller footprint.

Who Carnival Radiance is best for:

• West Coast guests who want a short, fun cruise from LA
• First-timers who want to sample Carnival without a week-long commitment
• People who want a recently rebuilt ship with modern venues but do not care about being on one of the very newest mega-ships

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Spirit Class (~88,500–92,720 Gross Tons)

Spirit Class ships sit in that sweet spot between big and small. They’re noticeably smaller than the Excel/Vista/Dream giants, but larger and more feature-packed than the tiny Fantasy Class ships at the very bottom of your carnival ships by size list.

These ships were designed to handle more varied conditions and ports:

• Sleeker hulls and good fuel efficiency
• Covered or retractable-roof pools that work well in cooler climates
• The ability to dock in smaller, more “off the beaten path” ports

They’re workhorses for Alaska, Europe, Australia, and longer repositioning routes, while still keeping the classic Carnival vibe… comedy, bars, WaterWorks, and adults-only Serenity.

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Carnival Luminosa size (2022)

Originally built as Costa Luminosa in 2009, this ship officially joined the Carnival fleet as Carnival Luminosa in 2022, becoming the newest and largest member of the Spirit Class by tonnage.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: ~92,720
• Length: ~964 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: ~2,260

Where she sails:
Carnival Luminosa usually splits her time between Australia and Alaska:

• Brisbane in the Southern Hemisphere season
• Seasonal Alaska runs (Seattle now, San Francisco in 2026 per current plans)

Onboard vibe & features:

• Classic Spirit-class layout with good outdoor space and a more “grown-up” feel than the mega-ships
• A strong bar lineup: Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Rum Bar, Piano Bar 88, plus the usual lounges and live music spots
• Serenity adults-only retreat and a solid pool deck that still works in cooler weather thanks to covered areas

Unlike some of her sisters, Luminosa doesn’t have every single Carnival signature dining venue (for example, no full Guy’s Burger/BlueIguana combo at the time she joined the fleet), but she makes up for it with a more relaxed, international feel and interesting itineraries.

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Carnival Miracle size (2004)

Carnival Miracle entered service in 2004 and is one of the classic Spirit-class ships in the middle of your carnival ships by size lineup.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: ~88,500
• Length: ~963 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: ~2,124

Over multiple dry docks (2020, 2022, 2025), Miracle has been heavily updated:

• New hull livery with the navy/red Carnival look
• Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge added
• WaterWorks splash zone and slides
• Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina & Tequila Bar
• RedFrog Rum Bar, JavaBlue Café, Bonsai Sushi Express, refreshed mini-golf, and expanded arcade spaces

Who Miracle is best for:

• Cruisers who like a mid-size ship with plenty of “Fun Ship 2.0” upgrades
• Guests who want a bit of everything (bars, slides, comedy, kids’ spaces) without Excel-class crowd levels
• Fans of quieter sea views and classic lounges vs. full-blown theme-park energy

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Carnival Legend size (2002)

Carnival Legend debuted in 2002 and has quietly become one of the more versatile Spirit-class ships, bouncing between Europe, the Caribbean, and North America.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: ~88,500
• Length: ~963 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: ~2,124

Between earlier upgrades and a more recent refresh (including 2021 and 2024 work), Legend now carries:

• The newer hull color scheme and updated open deck
• Alchemy Bar, Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina & Tequila Bar, and RedFrog Rum Bar
• A refreshed waterpark and pool areas
• Expanded retail, updated kids’ and teen spaces, and a Chef’s Table-style experience on many sailings

Typical itineraries & vibe:

• Often runs Europe (Med / Northern Europe) and Caribbean rotations, plus some longer repositioning cruises
• Mid-size feel: easier to get around, plenty of deck space, but not overwhelming
• Good fit for travelers who like port-focused itineraries but still want recognizable Carnival bars, burgers, and waterslides waiting onboard

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Carnival Pride size (2002)

Carnival Pride also entered service in 2002 and has become Carnival’s long-time Baltimore ship, making her a big deal for East Coast cruisers who don’t want to fly to Florida.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: ~88,500
• Length: ~963 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: ~2,134

Homeport & routes:

• Based primarily in Baltimore, Maryland
• Sails to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama Canal, Canada/New England, and even Greenland on select sailings

Onboard features:

• Spirit-class layout with lots of ocean-view lounges and a compact, easy-to-learn deck plan
• Serenity adults-only area, WaterWorks, sports courts, mini-golf, comedy club, and production shows
• The usual Carnival staples: Guy’s Burger Joint (on updated layouts), BlueIguana Cantina, pizzerias, buffets, and main dining rooms

Pride is a great example of a mid-size, multi-itinerary workhorse: not the newest hardware, but heavily upgraded and beloved by repeat cruisers who sail from the Mid-Atlantic.

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Carnival Spirit size (2001)

Carnival Spirit was the first Spirit-class ship, entering service in 2001, and set the template for this whole mid-size, long-range design.

Key stats:

• Gross tonnage: ~88,500
• Length: ~963 feet
• Double-occupancy passengers: ~2,124

Design strengths:

• Built for varied climates and longer routes, with good indoor spaces and covered pool areas
• More streamlined and “ship-like” than the chunky Excel/Vista hulls, which helps her get into ports that huge ships can’t reach
• A nice balance between sea views, outdoor space, and interior lounges

After her early-2025 refit, Spirit carries:

• Freshened public areas (spa, fitness center, shops, general cosmetic work)
• Updated bar and lounge mix, including Heroes Tribute Bar on many itineraries
• Refreshed kids’ and family areas, plus WaterWorks and Serenity

Who Spirit Class is perfect for overall:

• Cruisers who want more port variety and scenic routes instead of just the “biggest ship”
• People who like mid-size ships with real outdoor deck space, good sea views, and fewer crowds
• Guests who are happy trading a few mega-ship bells and whistles for quieter lounges, better itineraries, and easier navigation

When someone scrolls through your carnival ships by size guide and lands on Spirit Class, the message should be clear: these are traveler ships… built for seeing more of the world, not just circling the same warm-weather loop on a floating theme park.

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Fantasy Class (~71,900 GT)

The Fantasy Class ships are the smallest and oldest Carnival ships by size, and they’re also the last true “classic” Fun Ships still sailing. Built in the late 1990s, they’re compact at around 71,900 gross tons and carry just over 2,100 guests at double occupancy… a completely different vibe from the 180,000+ GT Excel Class giants.

Instead of huge water parks and long promenades, these ships focus on simple, old-school cruising: one main pool, a compact WaterWorks area, classic lounges, and a layout you’ll learn in a day. If you care more about quick, affordable getaways and easy navigation than about the latest headline attractions, this is where Carnival’s fleet starts to feel cozy instead of huge.

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Carnival Paradise size (1998)

• Gross tonnage: ~71,925 GT
• Length: ~855 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): ~2,124

Carnival Paradise is one of Carnival’s smallest ships and one of the last remaining Fantasy Class vessels. Entering service in 1998, she represents the “classic” end of the Carnival ships by size lineup… small by modern standards, but still packed with the core Fun Ship experience.

Because of her compact footprint, the whole ship feels more walkable and low-stress:

• Fewer decks and shorter hallways mean you’re rarely far from your cabin, the pool, or the buffet.
• Public spaces center around a single main pool area, hot tubs, and an upper sun deck with plenty of open space.
• A Carnival WaterWorks mini-park adds slides and splash features that keep her from feeling outdated on the top deck.

On the inside, Paradise still delivers the Carnival staples people expect:

• Main show lounge with production shows and headliner acts
• Multiple bars and live-music venues, plus a piano bar-style hangout most nights
• Comedy, karaoke, trivia, and late-night events along the promenade
• Casual dining like the Lido buffet, pizza, ice cream, and post-refit favorites such as Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana-style options on many sailings

Cabins are very much from the 90s era:

• Heavy on interior and ocean-view cabins, with far fewer balconies than modern ships
• Some balconies and suites added later in her life, but not in the numbers you’ll find on Dream, Vista, or Excel Class
• Rooms that are compact but functional… designed for guests who spend most of their time out enjoying the ship or ports

Within your overall Carnival ships by size (2026) guide, Carnival Paradise marks the point where the fleet really shifts from “resort ship” to “classic ship.” She’s a great fit if you:

• Want a smaller, easier-to-navigate ship instead of a floating city
• Care more about price, ports, and sea-day vibes than the newest hardware
• Like that nostalgic Carnival feel: big shows, lively bars, deck parties, and sunsets on a simpler, more intimate ship

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Carnival Elation size (1998)

• Gross tonnage: ~71,909 GT
• Length: ~855 feet
• Passengers (double occupancy): ~2,190

Carnival Elation is effectively Paradise’s sister and, by gross tonnage, the smallest ship in the Carnival fleet. She also entered service in 1998, making her one of the most “veteran” vessels in your Carnival ships by size breakdown.

On paper, she’s almost identical to Paradise, but a few details shape her feel:

• Similar ~71,900 GT size, so expect the same small-ship atmosphere and easy layout.
• Slightly higher double-occupancy capacity than Paradise, with plenty of third and fourth berths for families.
• A refit added a new top-deck deck plan with WaterWorks, more shaded seating, and the now-standard Serenity adults-only retreat.

Day-to-day life onboard Elation feels like a classic Carnival sea vacation:

• One main pool with surrounding hot tubs and a compact WaterWorks slide area
• Serenity adults-only area that gives you a quiet escape from the main deck energy
• Traditional main dining room service plus the Lido buffet and casual spots like Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina (post-upgrade)
• Evening entertainment driven by comedy, live bands, piano bar nights, and production shows, rather than giant theaters or big-label branded experiences

Cabins follow the same Fantasy Class pattern:

• Lots of interior and ocean-view cabins, limited balconies
• Balcony and suite options exist, but they’re not the primary cabin type
• Compact staterooms with enough storage for short cruises and drive-to itineraries

In your Carnival ships by size ladder, Carnival Elation is the smallest ship, and that’s exactly why some cruisers love her:

• Ideal for short, affordable sailings where you just want to get away
• Great for people who feel overwhelmed by mega-ships
• Perfect if you prefer smaller ports and simpler logistics (short gangways, less walking, fewer crowds)

If Excel Class is all about “doing everything,” Paradise and Elation are about keeping it simple: one pool, a few slides, some good food, and plenty of classic Carnival energy in a much smaller package.

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Carnival ships by size: Big vs small (pros & cons)

Now that you’ve seen the full Carnival fleet from largest to smallest, it helps to step back and look at what size actually changes for your cruise.

In practical terms, ship size affects:

• How many things there are to do on board
• How crowded the ship feels in peak times
• What ports the ship can visit
• How long it takes to get anywhere on board
• How much you’re likely to pay

Here’s a simple way to think about it.

Bigger ships (Excel, Vista, Dream, Venice, Project Ace in the future)

Pros of the biggest ships:

• Tons of attractions: water parks, ropes courses, SkyRide, BOLT roller coaster (on Excel), sports courts, big kids’ areas
• The most bars, lounges, and specialty restaurants
• Newest hardware, modern cabins and updated décor
• Great for families, groups, and multi-gen trips
• More evening options: theaters, comedy, live music, themed bars

Cons of the biggest ships:

• More walking… you really feel that 1,000+ foot length
• Can feel busy and loud on sea days and around the pool
• Often sail similar, “greatest hits” Caribbean itineraries
• Usually not the cheapest sailings in the fleet
• Need more planning (dining reservations, show times, etc.)

If you want the most “resort at sea” type experience, the largest ships at the top of your carnival ships by size list (Excel, Vista, Dream, Venice Class and eventually Project Ace) are where you start.

Mid-size ships (Splendor, Conquest, Adventure/Grand, Sunshine, Spirit)

Pros of mid-size ships:

• Still have plenty to do… pools, WaterWorks, bars, comedy, live music
• Often feel more balanced: not tiny, not overwhelming
• Can reach a mix of mainstream and slightly smaller ports
• Great sweet spot for value vs. amenities
• Layout is easier to learn than the largest ships

Cons of mid-size ships:

• Fewer headline “wow” features than Excel/Vista
• Pool deck and popular bars can still feel busy at peak times
• Some classes (like Conquest) may show a bit more age in decor
• Not as many specialty restaurants as the very newest ships

For a lot of cruisers, this band of the carnival ships by size ladder is the “just right” zone: enough to keep everyone entertained, without feeling like you’re in a floating theme park.

Smallest ships (Fantasy Class: Paradise, Elation)

Pros of the smallest ships:

• Very easy to navigate – you’ll know the ship in a day
• Shorter walks from cabin to pool, dining, theater, etc.
• Often sail simple, budget-friendly itineraries (perfect for quick getaways)
• More classic cruise feel vs. big-resort vibe
• Great for people who get overwhelmed by huge crowds

Cons of the smallest ships:

• Far fewer bells and whistles: no roller coasters, fewer slides, smaller kids’ areas
• Limited dining variety compared with newer, larger ships
• Many cabins are interior or ocean-view with relatively few balconies
• Décor and layout can feel more old-school compared to Excel/Vista

These ships sit at the bottom of the carnival ships by size list, but for some people that’s actually the selling point: simple, affordable, easy cruises that feel more “ship” than “resort.”

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Which Carnival ship size is right for you?

If you’re still staring at the fleet list thinking “okay, but which one do I actually book?”, here’s a quick way to match ship size to your travel style.

If you want the biggest, most modern Carnival experience

Choose:

• Excel Class (Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, and soon Carnival Festivale / Carnival Tropicale)
• Vista & Dream Class (Vista, Horizon, Panorama, Dream, Magic, Breeze)

Best for:

• Families with kids and teens
• Groups that want lots of late-night options
• People who love water slides, big pool decks, and themed zones
• First-timers who want that big “wow” factor right away

These ships sit near the top of the carnival ships by size ranking for a reason… they’re built to be destinations all by themselves.

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If you want variety and value without going full mega-ship

Choose:

• Vista Class (on older itineraries)
• Conquest Class
• Splendor
• Adventure / Grand Class (Carnival Adventure, Carnival Encounter)
• Sunshine Class

Best for:

• Budget-conscious families who still want pools, slides, and multiple bars
• Repeat Carnival cruisers who don’t need the newest roller coaster every time
• People who want good itineraries + solid onboard fun

These ships are in the middle of your carnival ships by size list, and they’re often the best bang-for-your-buck options in the fleet.

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If you care more about ports and scenery than ship features

Choose:

• Spirit Class (Spirit, Pride, Legend, Miracle, Luminosa)
• Sometimes Sunshine Class depending on the routing

Best for:

• Itineraries like Alaska, Europe, Panama Canal, longer Caribbean
• Cruisers who love ocean views, glassy lounges, and covered pools
• People who don’t mind fewer slides in exchange for more interesting ports

These ships sit in the lower-middle band of the carnival ships by size lineup, but they punch way above their weight when it comes to route variety and scenic sailing.

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If you just want a quick, cheap, easy escape

Choose:

• Fantasy Class (Paradise, Elation)
• Some short runs on Conquest or Sunshine Class

Best for:

• Weekend or 4–5 night getaways
• First-timers who want to “test drive” cruising without spending a ton
• People who live near homeports like Tampa, Jacksonville, etc.

You’re at the small end of the carnival ships by size scale here, which is exactly why these sailings can be such good value and so easy logistically.

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How to use this guide (and what to read next)

The easiest way to use all of this in real life:

1. Pick your size range first.
   • Mega & large: Excel, Vista, Dream, Venice
   • Mid-size: Splendor, Conquest, Spirit, Sunshine, Adventure/Grand
   • Small: Fantasy
2. Then pick itinerary.
   • Big ships: great for Caribbean, Bahamas, and “fun in the sun” trips
   • Spirit/Sunshine: great for Alaska, Europe, longer routes, and smaller ports
   • Fantasy: great for simple, drive-to homeports and quick breaks
3. Then compare price and dates.
   • Usually, the newest and largest ships cost more
   • Older and smaller ships can be incredible value if your expectations match the hardware

If you want to go even deeper than just carnival ships by size:

• Check out your Carnival ship classes guide to understand the design DNA of each group (layout, typical amenities, and vibe).
• Then use your Carnival ships by age breakdown to see how “new” each ship really is, when it was last upgraded, and where it sits in the fleet timeline.

Put all three together – size + class + age – and you’re making decisions at a level most cruisers never reach.

That’s where you stop just booking a cruise… and start picking the exact ship that fits how you actually like to travel.

All ship stats in this carnival ships by size guide (gross tonnage, length, and double-occupancy capacity) are based on publicly available Carnival fact sheets and fleet specs from their official cruise ships page.

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Jim’s Take: How I use ship size when picking a Carnival cruise

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Final thoughts on carnival ships by size

When you zoom out across the full list of Carnival ships by size, a few simple truths pop out:

• The largest ships (Excel, Vista, Dream, Venice and eventually Project Ace) feel like full-scale resorts at sea… packed with slides, bars, shows, and crowd-pleasing everything.
• The mid-size ships are often the best blend of price, features, and simplicity… they still feel fun and lively without being overwhelming.
• The smallest ships lean classic and cozy… fewer bells and whistles, but easier to navigate, often cheaper, and perfect for shorter getaways.

There isn’t a single “best” spot on the size ladder.

There’s just:

• The best size for your trip
• The best ship for your route
• And the best balance between budget, ports, and how much you care about onboard hardware

If you want to keep going deeper and really dial in your choice:

• Use your Carnival ship classes guide to understand layout, design style, and typical features.
• Use your Carnival ships by age guide to see how new each ship is and when it was last refreshed.
• Then layer in everything you’ve just read here about size and how it feels on board.

Put all three together and you’re no longer just booking “whatever is cheap on Carnival”…

You’re intentionally choosing the exact ship that fits the kind of cruise you actually want.

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