Sunsation at sea: Carnival’s new ships are built for play

Carnival Cruise Line is set to elevate family cruising with the introduction of Sunsation Point, a new multi-deck outdoor entertainment zone debuting on its upcoming Excel-class ships, Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale.

Carnival Cruise Line introduces Sunsation Point, an expansive three-deck outdoor entertainment area debuting on the upcoming Excel-class ships, Carnival Festivale (2027) and Carnival Tropicale (2028). Replacing the BOLT roller coaster, this vibrant zone features the largest WaterWorks Ultra water park in the fleet, boasting six exhilarating slides—including two family raft slides suitable for guests as short as three feet tall—two splash pads, dedicated baby areas, and a treehouse-inspired adventure trail. Additional amenities include a mini-golf course, sports court, ropes course, jogging track, outdoor games, and themed arcade spaces. For the first time, Carnival will extend water park hours into the evening, offering illuminated night-time fun with DJs and special events, enhancing the family cruising experience. ​ Credit: Carnival Cruise Line

Sunsation Point will span the top three decks of the ships, offering a vibrant space designed for guests of all ages. At its heart is Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, touted as the most family-friendly water park at sea. This expansive area will feature six exhilarating slides, including two family raft slides and options suitable for guests as short as three feet tall.

Additionally, there will be two splash pads equipped with kid-friendly slides and spray toys, as well as dedicated baby splash areas. A treehouse-inspired elevated adventure trail and toddler zones will provide dry play activities, complemented by ample shaded seating for relaxation.

Carnival Cruise Line is set to expand its Excel-class fleet with two new ships: Carnival Festivale, launching in 2027, and Carnival Tropicale, debuting in 2028. Both vessels will feature Sunsation Point, a multi-deck outdoor entertainment zone tailored for families. This area includes the expansive WaterWorks Ultra water park, boasting six slides, splash pads, and a treehouse-inspired adventure trail. Additional amenities encompass mini-golf, a sports court, a ropes course, and themed arcade spaces, ensuring a comprehensive onboard experience for guests of all ages.​ Each ship is estimated to cost approximately $950 million. In 2024, Carnival Cruise Line accommodated around 13.5 million passengers, reflecting the company's significant presence in the cruise industry.​ Credit: Carnival Cruise Line

Day-to-Night Fun

In a first for Carnival, Sunsation Point will offer extended hours into the evening. The area will come alive at night with vibrant illumination, special events, and entertainment, including a DJ. Guests can enjoy the water park under the stars, making it a unique nighttime attraction at sea.

Additional amenities

Beyond the water attractions, Sunsation Point will include a mini-golf course, sports court, ropes course, jogging track, and themed arcade spaces. These features aim to provide a comprehensive entertainment experience for families and guests seeking active pursuits.

Upcoming launches

Carnival Festivale is scheduled to debut in spring 2027, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida. Following closely, Carnival Tropicale will set sail in 2028. Both ships will incorporate the Sunsation Point concept, reflecting Carnival's commitment to innovative, family-focused cruise experiences.

Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line since 2015 and former CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), is one of the most influential leaders in the cruise industry. Known for guiding Carnival through major expansion and post-pandemic recovery, she also champions philanthropy, having helped raise over $27 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Photo: World Travel & Tourism Council, Flickr CC BY 2.0

One of the most inflental

Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line since 2015, has according to Global Leaders Today been instrumental in steering the company through significant growth and transformation. Under her leadership, Carnival has expanded its fleet, introduced innovative onboard experiences, and emphasized personalized guest services.​

Looking ahead, Duffy envisions a cruise industry that offers more tailored experiences to meet diverse passenger needs. She notes a shift towards customized programming, flexible dining options, and unique shore excursions that cater to various demographics. This approach aims to enhance the overall guest experience and attract a broader audience to cruising.​

Duffy also emphasizes the importance of innovation in maintaining Carnival's position as a leader in the industry. She highlights the company's commitment to developing new ships, expanding destinations like Celebration Key, and integrating advanced technologies to enrich the cruising experience.​

With a focus on growth, personalization, and innovation, Duffy's leadership continues to shape the future of Carnival Cruise Line and the broader cruise industry.

Facts about Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line, founded in 1972 by Ted Arison, is a leading international cruise operator headquartered in Doral, Florida. As a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc, the company has grown to become one of the most recognized names in the cruise industry.​

Key facts about Carnival Cruise Line

• Founded: March 11, 1972​

• Founder: Ted Arison​

• Headquarters: Doral, Florida, United States​

• Parent Company: Carnival Corporation & plc​

• President: Christine Duffy​

• Fleet Size: 29 ships as of March 2025​

• Employees: Approximately 52,000 globally​

• Annual Passengers: Nearly 6 million​

• Website: www.carnival.com