Carnival Corporation has placed its first cruise ship order for the AIDA Cruises brand since the global pause in operations in 2020, marking a significant step in the group’s post-COVID shipbuilding resumption.
The order, placed with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, is also part of the corporation’s broader strategy to reinvest in non-U.S. brands after a period of concentration on CCL-Carnival Cruise Line.
Speaking to the media on April 6th, CEO Josh Weinstein confirmed the Corporation’s intention to resume brand-specific fleet expansions aligned with regional market demand. Weinstein referenced a successful fiscal recovery, including a reported 40% increase in FY 2024 EBITDA to $6.1 billion, and strong demand indicators for cruising globally. Operating income nearly doubled in the first quarter of the fiscal year, with revenues reaching US$5.8 billion.
In line with its long-term fleet strategy, Carnival had previously indicated plans to add approximately one newbuild per year across its nine brands.
Earlier in 2024, the group placed orders for seven ships for CCL, scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2033, to be constructed by Meyer Werft Papenburg (Germany) and Fincantieri (Italy). One additional ship, a legacy pre-pandemic order for Princess Cruises, is due for delivery this year.
The new AIDA ship order represents the first collaboration between Fincantieri and AIDA. Previously, AIDA has relied almost exclusively on Meyer Werft for fleet construction, with the exception of two Japan-built vessels (by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries).
Fincantieri has valued the new order at EUR 2+ billion (US$2.2 billion), underlining its strategic importance.
The two new AIDA ships will be mid-sized, positioned between the Helios Class (183,900 GT, 2,732 cabins) and Hyperion Class (125,572 GT, 1,643 cabins).
Specific dimensions and design details have not yet been disclosed, though it is confirmed each vessel will offer approximately 2,100 passenger cabins. Deliveries are slated for early 2030 and late 2031.
Both ships will be equipped with multi-fuel propulsion systems capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG), bio-diesel, and other sustainable marine fuels as they become available. AIDA has maintained a leadership position within Carnival Corporation in environmental innovation, having introduced the first LNG-capable cruise vessel (AIDANova, 2018) and incorporating LNG-ready engines on earlier ships for dockside operations.
With these additions, AIDA’s fleet will expand to 13 ships. According to AIDA President Felix Eichhorn, the newbuilds will introduce updated features and guest experiences, though no further specifics have been announced.
In parallel, AIDA has initiated a fleet modernization program beginning with the 2007-built AIDAdiva. The refurbishment includes technological upgrades and enhancements to public spaces, including new dining concepts such as a maritime-themed café, French and Asian cuisine venues, and a Tapas Bar. Sister ships AIDAluna and AIDAbella are scheduled to undergo similar refits in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
AIDA remains a strong performer within Carnival Corporation’s portfolio, with a targeted focus on the German-speaking cruise market.