With a symbolic steel-cutting ceremony using a plasma cutter capable of reaching temperatures of more than 20,000 degrees, MEYER WERFT today celebrated a major construction milestone for the Carnival Tropicale, which is being built for Carnival Cruise Line. The new Excel-class cruise ship is scheduled to set sail on her maiden voyage from Galveston, Texas, in April 2028. The ship’s bow will feature the “Star of Texas”, symbolising its connection with its home port.
Measuring 344 metres in length and 180,000 gross tonnes, the vessel will be able to accommodate more than 6,000 guests.
The name Carnival Tropicale pays tribute to the former MS Tropicale, a ship that played a pivotal role in the development of Carnival’s “Fun Ships” era. Its funnels, with their distinctive winged design, have become one of the most recognisable trademarks in the cruise industry. In 2028, this legacy will return, reimagined for a new generation with innovative design and exciting guest experiences.
“I am delighted to celebrate this milestone for the first time as the new CEO of MEYER WERFT,” said André Walter, who has served as Chairman of the Management Board of MEYER WERFT GmbH since 1 July 2026. “The Carnival Tropicale is already the fifth Excel-class ship for Carnival Cruise Line. This successful and highly popular class of vessel reflects our long-standing partnership with Carnival Cruise Line.”
“Today is a special day for Carnival Tropicale as we celebrate her progress from concept to reality,” said Ben Clement, Executive Vice President Maritime & New Builds at Carnival Cruise Line. “We greatly value our partnership with MEYER WERFT and are proud to be building Carnival Tropicale together. This represents another important milestone in our collaboration.”
The Carnival Tropicale will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and is based on the design of her sister ship, Carnival Festivale, which is scheduled to be delivered by MEYER WERFT in the first half of 2027. The vessel will feature innovative dining and entertainment concepts, as well as a new themed area called Sunsation Point, designed as a vibrant family adventure zone. At the heart of this area will be Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, a multi-storey water park, complemented by a wide range of additional family-friendly leisure and entertainment attractions.
Photos
Steel-cutting ceremony for Carnival Tropicale at MEYER WERFT
Copyright: MEYER WERFT
Carnival Tropicale rendering
Copyright: Carnival Cruise Line
At the steel-cutting ceremony at MEYER WERFT (left to right):
André Walter (CEO, MEYER WERFT), Ben Clement (Executive Vice President Maritime & New Builds, Carnival Cruise Line), Simon Pattison (Carnival Project Manager), Georg Schauen (MEYER WERFT Project Manager).
