Carnival Celebrates 35 Years at Port Canaveral

Carnival Cruise Line is commemorating 35 years of sailing from Port Canaveral with a host of announcements emphasizing its local engagement, upcoming developments, and environmental initiatives.

To coincide with World Ocean Day weekend, the cruise company donated a hybrid pickup truck to Keep Brevard Beautiful, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the environment. The contribution highlights Carnival’s increasing focus on eco-conscious operations.

“Port Canaveral has been a cornerstone of Carnival’s success for 35 years,” said Carnival President Christine Duffy. “Our exciting growth continues with the opening of Celebration Key next month, our exclusive destination that will really be a game-changer for us and for our guests.”

At present, Carnival operates four ships year-round and adds a fifth on a seasonal basis out of Port Canaveral. Further expansion is on the horizon, with the introduction of Carnival Festivale in 2027. The new ship will include music-themed areas and Carnival’s biggest water park to date.

Celebration Key, a new destination located in Grand Bahama, is scheduled to welcome Carnival Vista as its first visitor. It will soon become a central stop on every Carnival itinerary originating from Port Canaveral.

With over 300 departures each year, Carnival contributes roughly $450 million in annual economic impact to the region. Port Canaveral CEO Capt. John Murray lauded the long-standing alliance, noting it as the port’s longest-running cruise partnership and an essential part of Central Florida’s economic landscape.