- The new Excel-class Carnival Tropicale will homeport in Galveston in 2028, expanding the local fleet capacity
- Carnival continues its 25-year legacy of massive growth and investment at the Port of Galveston
- The massive ship features eco-friendly LNG propulsion and can accommodate over 6,000 passengers
- Exciting new family attractions include the Sunsation Point entertainment zone and Carnival WaterWorks Ultra waterpark
Carnival Cruise Line is bringing a wave of excitement to Texas with the announcement that its fifth Excel-class ship, the Carnival Tropicale, will homeport in Galveston starting in 2028. This move highlights a massive commitment to the Port of Galveston, where Carnival has proudly operated for over twenty-five years and recently celebrated carrying ten million passengers. By placing the Carnival Tropicale alongside the Carnival Jubilee, the company is positioning two of its newest and most advanced ships in the heart of the Lone Star State.

The Carnival Tropicale carries a rich legacy, named after the original 1982 vessel that helped shape modern cruising. The new ship perfectly blends this heritage with cutting-edge innovations. Guests can look forward to eco-friendly liquefied natural gas propulsion and a capacity to host over six thousand passengers. The ship will proudly display the Star of Texas on its bow, a nod to its regional home.
For those seeking onboard thrills, the Carnival Tropicale will introduce fresh concepts tailored for unforgettable vacations. Families will love Sunsation Point, a brand-new zone dedicated to recreation and entertainment, as well as the Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, an expanded and thrilling waterpark complex. These exciting additions build on Carnival’s renowned dining and entertainment offerings.

This deployment cements Galveston as a premier cruise hub for North American travelers. Port Director Rodger Rees praises Carnival as a valued partner driving record growth year after year. As the cruise industry continues to expand, the arrival of the Carnival Tropicale ensures that Galveston remains a top choice for sun-seekers ready to embark on spectacular journeys across the seas.
