100 million guests that competitors struggling to match

Carnival Cruise Line has achieved a significant milestone becoming the first cruise line to embark 100 million guests since its first sailing in 1972.

The announcement was made earlier this week by Carnival President, Christine Duffy, who boarded the Carnival Sunrise at Port Miami, where the cruise line was founded, to thank guests for choosing Carnival and making it the world’s most popular cruise line. The celebration was marked by the boarding of the 100 millionth guests, Debi and David Clifford vacationing from Ohio with their family.

Duffy and the ship’s team members, led by Captain, Luca Cher chi welcomed them with fanfare taking photos to signify their place as “One in 100 Million.” In a statement marking the occasion, Duff remarked, “we’re the first cruise line to meet this incredible mark of 100 million guests, and I believe it is a testament to the fun, inclusive atmosphere our valued guests and our extraordinary team members have created together on board our ships for the past 51 years. “

Carnival Cruise Line, the world’s largest cruise line was founded in 1972 and celebrated its 50th birthday. Originally just a single ship, the Mardi Gras, the company has since expanded its fleet to 23. 

Putting milestone into perspective

The 100 million guests’ milestone achieved by Carnival is not just impressive but also comes with some astounding statistics. To put it into perspective, 100 million guests are more than the combined population of California, Texas, and Florida, the cruise line’s three most popular homeport states.

It also exceeds the populations of Canada, Australia, and Panama combined.

Additionally, among the 100 million guests, 167 individuals have sailed on more than 100 cruises, while 152,000 guests have spent more than 100 days onboard. To top it off, there is even a five-year-old guest, who has already accumulated 100+ cruise days.

These incredible statistics showcase the popularity and loyalty of Carnival’s guests. For his part, Carnival Cruise Line Ambassador, John Healed expressed his gratitude saying, “100 million. That’s absolutely outstanding to think that since 1972 to 2023, we have had 100 million passengers who became guests sail and have a massive dollop of fun with us. We are so thankful, so grateful, and so thrilled that you and your families have and continue to sail with Carnival cruise line.“

According to StatistaCarnival carried 7.7 million passengers in 2022, but that’s still behind the 13 million in 2019. The cruise line is now making a comeback following the global pandemic.

Rival Royal Caribbean was just behind with 5.5 million passengers in 2022, and Norwegian Cruise Line at 1.66 million.

Expanding fleet

Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet is expanding at an impressive rate, with three new ships set to join by the spring of 2024. Carnival Celebration, already a hit with guests, is currently sailing from Miami, offering a variety of exciting itineraries.