Engine Installation Begins at Meyer Werft: Construction Advances on Carnival Festivale

Work is progressing at Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany on the upcoming cruise vessel, Carnival Festivale, with a significant milestone achieved as the main engines are installed. This ship, which is part of the latest generation of large passenger vessels for CCL-Carnival Cruise Line, is scheduled for delivery in 2027.

Construction milestones have included the laying of the keel in Papenburg in August 2025, where commemorative coins were placed beneath the keel as tradition dictates. Recently, the installation of LNG storage tanks was completed, a crucial component of the ship’s gas-powered propulsion system.

The hull structure is progressing well within the shipyard’s dock. The forward section, including the bridge, is nearly complete, while work continues on the midship and aft blocks. Once the hull is finished, the focus will shift to outfitting the vessel, specifically the installation of prefabricated passenger cabins, public spaces, technical systems, and interior venues.

Approximately a year from completion, the ship is expected to be delivered in spring 2027. Notably, the entire hull is being assembled at the Papenburg yard itself, avoiding reliance on prefabricated sections from other facilities. This method reflects Meyer Werft’s current production capabilities and keeps the construction centralized.

Upon completion, Carnival Festivale will measure about 344 meters in length and weigh roughly 180,000 gross tons, with the capacity to accommodate over 6,400 passengers. The vessel is part of the Excel-class series, which includes Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.

After delivery, Carnival Festivale will set sail on a transatlantic voyage from Southampton to Port Canaveral in Florida, commencing in May 2027. The ship will offer regular week-long Caribbean itineraries and is anticipated to unveil several innovative onboard offerings, including enhanced music and entertainment venues, along with expanded family-friendly areas. This new vessel exemplifies the ongoing evolution of Carnival’s Excel-class design as it expands its LNG-powered fleet.

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