Carnival Cruise Line is rolling out plenty of new features and updates by 2026.
From freshened-up private ports to brand-new on-ship tech and better loyalty perks, there’s a lot to look forward to.
Here are 7 major changes you can expect on Carnival ships in 2026!
1. Even Better Private Islands
Carnival is revamping its exclusive island destinations.
Half Moon Cay (in the Bahamas) will undergo a big expansion (branded RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay) by summer 2026, including a larger beach, new food and drink venues, and a pier for docking larger ships.
Similarly, Mahogany Bay (Roatan) will be renamed Isla Tropicale in 2026 and get fresh amenities like a new pool with a swim‑up bar, private cabanas, and more beach space.
These upgrades (part of Carnival’s “Paradise Collection”) mean guests will have even more to enjoy when the ships tie up at these ports.
2. New Ships and Sailings
Carnival’s fleet keeps growing, which means new cruise options in 2026.
For example, the new Carnival Jubilee (which entered service in 2023) will begin fresh Caribbean sailings from Galveston, TX in fall 2026.
Carnival Dream will also offer new longer “Carnival Journeys” cruises (from 9 days and more).
Looking further ahead, two more big “Excel-class” ships (Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale) are on order for 2027–2028, signaling that the fun fleet will have even more capacity.
In short, expect brand-new itineraries and plenty of ship options from late 2026 onward.
3. Fresh Onboard Dining and Entertainment
Carnival is updating its ships’ public spaces to match the latest design trends.
Starting in 2026, expect to see modernized decor and new venues on many ships, inspired by its newest ships.
Carnival’s leaders say they plan to “introduce new dining, beverage, and entertainment options on existing ships” based on what’s worked on the latest ships.
For passengers, this could mean more variety of eateries (from upscale restaurants to casual quick bites), new bars and lounges, and updated shows or game venues.
For example, the new Carnival Jubilee has a high‑tech “Currents” LED promenade and fresh venues; similar ideas will probably spread fleetwide.
4. Faster Wi-Fi and Smarter Tech
Technology is also getting a boost. Carnival has partnered with tech firms to speed up and stabilize shipboard internet and IT systems.
As you probably already know, in 2024, the entire Carnival fleet was outfitted with SpaceX Starlink satellites, delivering Wi‑Fi speeds that can now be compared to the on-land services.
And in 2025, Carnival teamed up with DXC Technology to manage its core IT infrastructure.
These moves mean more reliable internet at sea and smoother operations.
As CIO Sean Kenny notes, Carnival is investing in technology “to ensure guests have the best onboard experience.”
5. Greener and Cleaner Cruises
One thing that I particularly like is that Carnival is really pushing its environmental goals.
By 2026, Carnival Corporation aims to cut its greenhouse‑gas intensity by at least 20% (versus 2019 levels), four years ahead of its original 2030 target.
They’re achieving this through energy-efficient upgrades (like better hull coatings, LED lighting, and electric shore power) and by introducing cleaner fuels.
In fact, Carnival already has nine LNG-capable ships in service (LNG burns much cleaner than traditional marine diesel) and two more on the way.
In practical terms, cruises will quietly get greener with lower emissions in ports and more efficient trips, even before 2026 is over.
This is something that is getting pretty common among all cruise lines, but for the general list, just check out the article with the big cruise ship changes in 2026 (some will shock you).
6. A Brand-New Loyalty Program (Carnival Rewards)
If you are Carnival fans, you have probably already heard about the changes to the loyalty program.
In mid-2026, the new Carnival Rewards program launches, replacing the old VIFP Club.
This points-based program works more like airline or hotel rewards: you’ll earn points (“stars”) on cruise fares and onboard spending, and redeem them for discounts on future sailings and extras.
Carnival has already confirmed perks for top-tier members. For example, current Diamond members will gain lifetime Diamond status under the new program.
In short, loyal cruisers can look forward to richer rewards and even a co-branded credit card in 2026.
7. More Cruises from U.S. Ports
Carnival is adding sailings in more places. For 2026–27, they opened extra cruises from major U.S. homeports.
Carnival Venezia will offer cruises from New York City to Bermuda and the Caribbean (including the new Celebration Key private island).
On the West Coast, Carnival Firenze and Radiance will sail from Long Beach on new 3‑ to 14‑day voyages to Mexico and even Hawaii.
In other words, fans on both coasts will find more Carnival itineraries to pick from.
INSIDER TIP: And if you sail from Florida, the expanded Half Moon Cay will also be on more schedules.
All these extra routes mean more flexibility for bookings in 2026 and beyond.
The only thing that I wanna add is that all change plans are subject to the company’s schedule, but over the years, Carnival has proven to be a cruise line that always looks to the future.
In addition, remember to have a look at the new ranking with all the best and worst Carnival ships.
