On Friday, July 21, 2023, Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Jubilee, was floated out of the covered building dock at the Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, a day early. She proudly displayed a Texas star on her bow, a nod to the Lone Star State where she will homeport.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line was in attendance for the ceremony and expressed her excitement regarding the ship. “The Texas star on Carnival Jubilee’s bow is a symbol of our commitment to the Port of Galveston. As the first cruise line to sail year-round from Galveston, we have a long history with the community, and our next new ship is our latest investment in support of the local economy’s impressive growth while delivering innovative experiences for our guests. I’m looking forward to Carnival Jubilee showing off her Texas pride starting later this year.”
According to a press release, hundreds of spectators were gathered at the shipyard to be among the first to get a look at the newest Carnival ship. Additionally, they received a little taste of Texas in the form of a tailgate-style party that included snacks and drinks supplied by PepsiCo, Carnival partner.
Carnival Jubilee is moving into the next phase of construction which began with a brief cast off from the pier for testing on the bow thrusters and stabilizers and is followed by interior outfitting to prepare for her inaugural voyage. Complete sea trials are scheduled for November.
Carnival Jubilee is part of the Excel-class and shares her name with a classic Carnival ship that also sailed out of Galveston. However, she is four times larger than her predecessor and is bringing four times the fun. She will offer some of the same features as her sister ships such as the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT: The Ultimate Sea Coaster. She will have six fun-filled zones like her sister ships, but two zones, Currents and Shore, will be unique to the ship and themed to celebrate the ocean. Naturally, guests will enjoy exclusive dining, beverage and entertainment.
The ship will sail year-round Western Caribbean itineraries beginning with her inaugural voyage on December 23, 2023.