As the representative of Carnival Cruise Line, John Heald is usually the go-to person for all things related to cruising – sharing vital updates, addressing inquiries, and providing guidance regularly on his authorized Facebook page.
However, on June 5, 2024, Heald presented a query to his followers. He inquired about their opinions on the idea of embarking on shorter trips aboard Carnival’s Excel-class ships, which are the largest ships in Carnival’s 27-ship fleet.
“Do you believe an excel class ship, like Mardi Gras or Carnival Celebration, should contemplate offering 4 or 5 day cruises? Many inquire if this could be a possibility. Can 4 or 5 days truly capture the essence of all the features these ships boast?” Heald inquired.
Traditionally, these massive ships offer itineraries that span at least a week to ensure guests can fully relish all the amenities onboard. However, other cruise companies, like Royal Caribbean, have recently diverged from this norm.
Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, currently the world’s second-largest cruise vessel weighing 236,857-gross tons and accommodating up to 6,988 passengers, will commence 3 to 4-night weekend trips to the Bahamas from Miami in September 2025.
Once Utopia of the Seas sets sail in July 2024, this 5,668-passenger ship will kick off its voyage by offering 3-4 night sailings to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Heald likely raised this question to gauge whether Carnival’s mega-ships should mimic Royal Caribbean’s approach. This query generated approximately 1,500 comments, sparking diverse opinions among potential patrons.
Some vehemently opposed the notion, arguing that it wouldn’t allow ample time to enjoy the plethora of offerings aboard Carnival’s largest ships.
“Absolutely not! Even 7 days are insufficient. I understand that schedules may be limiting, but it’s truly worthwhile to utilize your entire vacation period. There’s simply too much to indulge in, experience, and explore,”
Conversely, others viewed it as a favorable concept, especially for rookies looking to sample the maritime life, while still desiring the option to book longer cruises.
“As a travel agent and passionate cruiser, I concur. But let’s also retain the lengthier itineraries. A brief voyage could provide a sneak peek, inciting individuals to either book another journey on the same ship to explore the rest or extend their stay,”
Other Facebook users expressed a contrary view – urging Heald to introduce longer voyages rather than shortening them.
“I would be thrilled to witness an excel class ship undertake a slightly lengthier journey! Perhaps a 9 or 10-day trip from NYC!,” stated another comment.
As of the time of writing, neither John Heald nor Carnival Cruise Line have issued any official statement regarding the future itineraries for the Excel-class ships – yet indications suggest that the cruise line is contemplating its alternatives.
Advantages and Disadvantages Of Abbreviated Itineraries
Both vessels referenced in Heald’s post – Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras – presently run 6 to 8-night excursions.
These massive ships rotate between Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean routes – with Carnival Celebration operating from Miami, Florida, and Mardi Gras based in Port Canaveral, Florida.
It remains uncertain whether the Excel-class ships will persist with Caribbean voyages if the cruise line opts for truncated trips, or if they will be redeployed elsewhere.
Read Also: Carnival Vessels by Size: Largest to Smallest
The primary downside to offering shorter cruises on these monumental vessels is the potential for guests to feel rushed and not fully__);The ocean is vast with numerous opportunities to explore and experience, which may not all be achievable in a single journey – especially as travelers devote considerable time ashore at various destinations.
The Excel-class vessels represent the pinnacle of Carnival’s fleet, towering over other ships like the Carnival Venezia by a remarkable 35%. They boast an impressive array of 28 distinct stateroom options for guests to choose from, surpassing the variety offered by the cruise line’s older, smaller vessels.
With increased size also comes a wider selection of entertainment and dining establishments to indulge in. For instance, the expansive Mardi Gras is divided into six unique zones featuring themed attractions and culinary delights, with the added thrill of a at-sea roller coaster.
The Carnival Celebration, boasting 185,521 gross tons and a capacity of up to 6,500 guests, shares the limelight with Mardi Gras – the inaugural Excel-class ship – weighing in at an impressive 180,800 gross tons with accommodations for 6,500 travelers on each voyage.
Although not explicitly mentioned by Heald, the possibility arises that the cruise line may introduce shorter routes on Carnival Jubilee, the third and most recent addition to the Excel-class family, or one of the two upcoming Excel-class vessels recently commissioned by Carnival in early 2024.
While an extensive range of onboard activities beckon, shorter sailings present distinct advantages. Foremost among these is the affordability factor, as shorter cruises generally come with more wallet-friendly price tags, sparing travelers from hefty expenses related to shore excursions and pet care back home.
Furthermore, lightweight itineraries cater to individuals seeking quick retreats, ideal for those juggling constrained vacation schedules or facing challenges securing prolonged leaves from work.
Quick getaways serve as ideal options for commemorating special milestones, whether anniversaries, birthdays, or even pre-wedding celebrations such as bachelor or bachelorette parties.