Carnival Cruise Line has officially opened reservations for Carnival Tropicale, the fifth and final Excel-class vessel, which will homeport from Galveston, Texas, beginning 15th April 2028.
The announcement coincides with the ship’s steel cutting ceremony at Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, marking the start of physical construction on this highly anticipated addition to the fleet.
Meyer Werft hosted a Texas-themed celebration to mark the steel cutting milestone for Carnival Tropicale, bringing a taste of the Lone Star State to northern Germany.
Shipyard crew members donned custom hard hats and cowboy attire whilst enjoying authentic Texas-style barbecue, creating an atmosphere befitting the vessel’s future homeport.
A horse even made a special appearance for photo opportunities, though Carnival has not confirmed any official equine role aboard the ship.
The festivities underscored the significance of this vessel as the final ship in the successful Excel-class series, which has proven immensely popular with cruisers since Mardi Gras launched the class in 2021.
New Leadership At Meyer Werft Celebrates Partnership With Carnival
André Walter, who assumed the role of CEO at MEYER WERFT GmbH on 1st July 2026, presided over his first construction celebration with Carnival Tropicale’s steel cutting.
His remarks highlighted the enduring collaboration between the German shipbuilder and one of the world’s largest cruise operators.
“I am delighted to experience my first construction celebration as the new CEO of MEYER WERFT,” Walter stated during the ceremony.
“Carnival Tropicale is already the fifth Excel-class ship for Carnival Cruise Line, a successful and highly popular series that reflects our long-standing partnership with Carnival.”
The Excel-class collaboration has transformed Carnival’s fleet with vessels exceeding 180,000 gross tonnes and carrying approximately 5,200 passengers at double occupancy.
Each ship features innovative zones and attractions whilst maintaining the line’s signature “Fun Ship” atmosphere that has defined the brand for decades.
Inaugural Sailing Showcases New Paradise Collection Destinations
Carnival Tropicale’s maiden voyage will embark on 15th April 2028, offering a six-night Western Caribbean itinerary from Galveston.
The carefully crafted route provides passengers with an ideal introduction to both the new ship and Carnival’s exclusive private destinations.
The inaugural sailing begins with a full day at sea on Sunday, 16th April, allowing guests to explore the vessel’s extensive amenities and dining venues.
On Monday, 17th April, Tropicale will call at Cozumel, Mexico, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., providing opportunities to explore Mayan ruins, snorkel pristine reefs, or simply relax on beautiful beaches.
The highlight arrives on Tuesday, 18th April, when Carnival Tropicale visits her namesake destination, Isla
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