CCL-Carnival Cruise Line launched its latest ship, Carnival Venezia, with her inaugural voyage departing from NYC New York.
Enthusiastic fans of the line awaited the arrival of the first ship embodying the "Carnival Fun Italian Style" concept as the former Costa Cruises vessel set sail for Bermuda following a naming ceremony hosted by the ship's godfather, Jay Leno.
On Thursday, June 15th, 2023, Carnival Venezia began her maiden voyage from New York City, heading towards King's Wharf, Bermuda, where she will arrive on June 17th. Subsequently, on June 19th, the ship will embark on an 8-night cruise to the Eastern Caribbean. The grand introduction of this new addition to the CCL fleet was celebrated in the city on June 13th.
To commemorate the maiden voyage, CCL organized a welcoming event at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal. Festivities commenced with an onboard naming ceremony on Wednesday evening, followed by the boarding of the first guests the next day. The event was made even more special with a blessing from Father Enrique Salvo of St. Patrick's Cathedral. Renowned comedian and TV host Jay Leno (the ship's godfather) became the first-ever godfather of a CCL ship. Leno also entertained attendees with an exclusive comedy show, adding to the festive ambiance.
Following the festivities at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, CCL's President Christine Duffy, accompanied by Captain Claudio Cupisti and a group of early passengers, conducted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially commence the embarkation process. With this symbolic act, the ship's journey truly began, and eager guests eagerly boarded the newly christened cruise ship.
Carnival Venezia's summer itinerary offers a variety of sailings, including 4-, 5-, 6-, and 8-day trips to destinations such as the Caribbean, Bermuda, as well as ports in Canada and New England. Starting from September 29th, 2023, the ship will embark on 8- to 12-day cruises to the Eastern Caribbean, Southern Caribbean, and The Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida.