Carnival Cruise Line is officially stepping into new territory. The company just pulled the curtain back on a massive expansion for its 2027 and 2028 seasons, revealing itineraries that will take guests to the African continent for the first time in the brand’s history.
The move signals a major shift as the cruise line looks to offer more adventurous, global routes to its loyal travelers. The spotlight for this expansion is on the Carnival Sunshine. Starting in May 2027, the ship will begin an extensive residency in Europe, sailing out of Barcelona, Spain, and Civitavecchia, Italy. While the Mediterranean has always been a fan favorite, the real buzz is about the addition of North African ports. For the first time, Carnival guests can book trips that include stops in Tangier, Morocco, and La Goulette, Tunisia.
It’s not just Africa that’s new on the map. The cruise line is also padding its European portfolio with several fresh destinations, including Ajaccio in Corsica, Bar in Montenegro, and Bari, Italy. They are also bringing back classic spots that have been off the schedule for years, such as Izmir, Turkey, and various Sicilian ports like Palermo and Catania.
One of the most unique offerings in the new lineup is a “celestial” voyage designed specifically for the rare solar eclipse.
Departing from Barcelona on July 25, 2027, the Carnival Sunshine will navigate directly into the path of totality for the August 2 eclipse. This special sailing will include stops in Malta and Tunisia, with specific onboard events centered around the rare event.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the bold move in a recent statement.
“We’re excited to bring Carnival Sunshine to an expanded lineup of destinations that offer our guests even more ways to explore Europe and beyond,” Duffy said. “With our first-ever African ports, new European calls and once-in-a-lifetime eclipse sailing, this deployment delivers variety, adventure and memorable experiences our guests look forward to when sailing on Carnival.”
To kick off the European season, the Sunshine will cross the Atlantic from Norfolk, Virginia, in May 2027. After wrapping up its historic run in October, the ship will return to the U.S., eventually settling into its new homeport in Galveston, Texas.
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