First Look at Carnival Festivale and the Biggest Waterpark in the Fleet
Carnival Cruise Line has revealed exciting new details about its upcoming ship, Carnival Festivale, debuting in May 2027 from Port Canaveral.
The headline feature? A massive WaterWorks Ultra waterpark—Carnival’s largest yet—packed with six waterslides and the first nighttime waterpark experience at sea.
The Biggest WaterPark in the Fleet
Replacing the roller coaster seen on other Excel-class ships, Carnival Festivale will dedicate decks 16–18 to Sunsation Point, an expansive family-friendly zone anchored by WaterWorks Ultra.
Guests can look forward to two innovative family raft rides—SunSoaker and Turning Tides—plus four additional slides for all thrill levels. On select evenings, the park will light up with vibrant illumination and a live DJ, keeping the fun going after dark.
Families with little ones will find a baby splash pad for toddlers in swim diapers, while the nearby Vista Pool offers space to relax. Popular favorites like Big Chicken and Swirls ice cream will be just steps away for quick bites between splashes.
Festival Vibes at Sea
On Deck 8, The Festival will recreate the feel of an outdoor music event with shifting lighting, live entertainment, and casual bites like Pizza Palooza and Rhythm & Rolls Deli.
Specialty coffee, cocktails, and all-day social energy will flow from Festival Grounds Coffee & Bar.
More Fun Beyond the Water
Deck 17 will deliver a nostalgic twist with Vault Retrocade, a mix of old-school charm and modern arcade gaming. The Scenic Overlook bar will offer panoramic sunset views, TVs for sports, and outdoor games.
Music will play a starring role onboard with Studio 724, an immersive zone where sound, light, and animation merge to let guests create and experience music in real time.
Nightlife venues like an expanded Alchemy Bar with a live music stage, Piano Bar 88, and the retro-themed Mix Bar will keep the party going.
Bigger and More Connected Cabins
With 1,000 interconnecting staterooms—nearly 70% more than previous Excel-class ships—Carnival Festivale aims to cater to multi-generational families and group travelers.
Caribbean Adventures Await
The ship will offer six- and eight-day Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries, visiting destinations like Amber Cove, San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Carnival’s award-winning RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.
All cruises will include a stop at Celebration Key, the cruise line’s exclusive Bahamian destination, with select Southern Caribbean sailings adding Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.
With over 50 sailings already open for booking, Carnival Festivale is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated new cruise ships of the year.
