New Carnival Cruises From Long Beach Announced for 2027 and 2028
Carnival Cruise Line is giving West Coast cruisers something big to look forward to: the cruise line has opened bookings for a full lineup of 2027–2028 sailings aboard Carnival Radiance, offering quick getaways to two of the region’s most beloved ports—Ensenada, Mexico, and Catalina Island.
The year-round Long Beach–based ship will continue its popular short-cruise program, leaning heavily into the demand for convenient Baja Mexico escapes.
A Full Season of Short Getaways From Long Beach
From May 3, 2027 through April 28, 2028, Carnival Radiance will sail a mix of three-day and four-day cruises:
- 3-day sailings: One call in Ensenada, Mexico
- 4-day sailings: Visits to both Catalina Island and Ensenada
- Special January 3, 2028 itinerary: A rare 4-day voyage with back-to-back days in Ensenada
- Special December 23, 2027 itinerary: A 5-day Christmas sailing to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada
The program keeps Carnival’s West Coast footprint strong, offering flexible long-weekend options with a familiar lineup of fun-focused ports.
Strengthening Decades-Long Port Partnerships
Carnival emphasized its ongoing commitment to these destinations, with President Christine Duffy highlighting the cruise line’s long-term relationships with both Catalina Island and Ensenada.
The announcement follows the company’s recently finalized 15-year agreement with the City of Avalon, ensuring consistent long-term cruise anchorage and continued collaboration with the local community.
Catalina Island—home to Avalon and the smaller village of Two Harbors—has seen a rise in cruise tourism thanks to its walkable waterfront, dining, and outdoor activities.
Ensenada Bay Village Could Be Ready by 2028
All eyes are also on Ensenada Bay Village, Carnival Corporation’s new $26-million shoreside destination currently under development.
Designed to celebrate Baja California’s natural beauty, the new waterfront experience is expected to feature:
- Wellness areas
- Hot springs
- Family activities
- Cultural programming
- An adults-only pool
Construction is underway, and Carnival hopes the destination will be operational by early 2028. If so, Carnival Radiance—along with Carnival Panorama, Carnival Legend, and other ships calling in Ensenada—would likely add the new village to their port lineup.
A Ship Designed for Short, Fun-Filled Escapes
Originally launched in 2000 as Carnival Victory, the vessel underwent a $200 million transformation in 2021, emerging as the Sunshine-class Carnival Radiance. The 2,764-guest ship (or 2,984 per Carnival’s updated specs) now carries some of the line’s most popular venues, including:
- Shaq’s Big Chicken
- Guy’s Burger Joint
- Cucina del Capitano
- Cloud9 Spa
- Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge
- Alchemy Bar
Short cruises from Long Beach consistently rank among the most popular in Carnival’s domestic lineup, giving travelers an easy, fun-packed getaway without the need for extended vacation time.
More West Coast Capacity Is Coming
While Carnival Radiance continues its short-sailing program, the cruise line is also expanding options on the West Coast:
- Carnival Panorama and Carnival Legend will join the region in 2027 and 2028.
- Together, the ships will offer a mix of Baja Mexico getaways and longer Mexican Riviera voyages.
If Ensenada Bay Village opens on schedule, all of Carnival’s West Coast ships may eventually integrate the new destination into their itineraries.
