With the addition of four new ships between now and 2016, Carnival Corporation intends to increase capacity by 10 percent. The four ships will spread across the Carnival brands beginning with Regal Princess, which was dedicated yesterday, Costa Diadema being christened tomorrow, and continuing with Briannia at P&O Cruises (UK), and AIDAPrima at AIDA.
Regal Princess is a beautiful new ship that has arrived in Fort Lauderdale for her inaugural Caribbean sailing season. With a capacity for 3,600 passengers, the ship “has many new features for passengers including: an over-water SeaWalk – a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship – a dramatic multi-story atrium serving as the social hub of the ship with a host of dining and entertainment options, the largest pastry shop at sea and a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience surrounding diners in a curtain of light,” according to Carnival’s press release. Last night, this beautiful new ship was officially christened by none other than cast members from the television series “The Love Boat.” đŸ™‚
Yep, that looks like Captain Stubing, Doc, Gopher, Isaac, and more! đŸ™‚ OK, I’m feeling nostalgic now!
Regal Princess isn’t the only Carnival Corporation ship getting christened this month. Costa Diadema is also joining the family. Costa’s newest ship will be able to accommodate 4,947 passengers. According to the company, the ship will feature 7,671 pieces of specially commissioned modern art that complement the ship’s innovative interior design. The ship will also feature new shows, new venues and high-tech games designed specifically for the line’s new flagship and meant to engage guests of all ages. The promenade on the Diadema will be the longest of any on the Italian cruise ship line’s fleet and will feature bars and restaurants throughout the 1,500 feet of open air. The naming ceremony for Costa Diadema will take place in Genoa, Italy, and the ship will sail Mediterranean itineraries throughout 2015.
MJ’s Take
Carnival appears to be bouncing back nicely from the Carnvial Triumph debacle. Demand seems pretty strong for cruises right now, and it’s good to see Carnival investing in its brands. Regal Princess is an especially beautiful ship that I’d love to sail on someday soon!
-MJ, November 6, 2014
I have… 24 days in the last 18 months. đŸ™‚ My next sailing is in 17 days… 12 nights Singapore to Bali. I quite like Seabourn – the ships are comfortable for me and the service is amazing.
Awesome! đŸ™‚ Thankfully, I’m not far behind you. But alas, on Quantum. I really, really, want to try Seabourn.
You missed the new Seabourn ship also coming online in 2016. She’ll be the largest in the current fleet at 604 passengers. Adam Tihany is doing the design and she’s being constructed at Fincantieri in Italy like her sisters.
Thanks for commenting! Have you cruised Seabourn before? What did you think?