Carnival is Choosin’ Texas for its Newest Excel-Class Ship

Carnival Tropicale is named after the original MS Tropicale, which was Carnival’s first originally designed cruise ship. That vessel helped shape the Fun Ship era, making entertainment and shared joy as central as the destinations themselves. It also introduced the iconic winged funnel to the fleet, which is now one of the most recognizable symbols in cruising.

In 2028, that legacy returns, reimagined for a new generation with innovative design and next-generation guest experiences.

Carnival currently homeports four ships in Galveston, and its continued investment in the region has been a driving force in the state’s tourism economy, attracting guests from across the Southwest region and beyond who come to Galveston and the greater Houston area and spend on other tourism activities as part of their trip.

“Carnival’s continued investment in the Port of Galveston is a big reason why we’re the cruise port of choice for a growing number of Americans and why we’re setting new growth records year over year,” said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO. “Carnival has been a valued partner for this port and this community for 26 years. We look forward to many more years of growth together.”

In 2024, Carnival became the first cruise line to welcome more than 10 million guests to Galveston, underscoring the strength of the Texas market. That same year, Carnival Jubilee was the first new ship to be inaugurated at the Port of Galveston. The Excel-class ship was the first North American ship to provide guests with 5G connectivity, and the first homeported in Galveston powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) – reflecting Carnival’s focus on innovation and sustainability.