Carnival Corporation & PLC owns and operates many popular cruise brands, including the company’s largest eponymous Carnival Cruise Line brand.
Nine cruise lines fall under the Carnival umbrella, making it the largest parent company in the cruise industry. You’ve probably heard of Carnival Cruise Line, but you may be less familiar with the smaller brands in the group.
Here you will find a complete list of cruise brands owned by Carnival Corporation & PLC.
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Aida Cruises
Aida may not be familiar to you, but that is by design. It caters squarely to a German-speaking market, meaning North Americans may find it difficult to mingle with fellow passengers and crew when sailing on one of the line’s twelve ships.
Aida’s ships are painted with the line’s signature faces, with yellow eyes, blue eyeshadow and bright red lips.
The line became part of Carnival Corp. in 2003, when the company merged with P&O Princess Cruises, which also included Aida, P&O, P&O Australia and Princess.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line, founded in 1972 by Ted Arison, started with just one used ship, Mardi Gras. It has since grown into the industry’s largest cruise brand, with more than twenty ships currently in service, all built specifically for the line (including one of the newest, also named Mardi Gras in honor of the original ship). .
Carnival calls its fleet the “fun ships” and offers a lively onboard atmosphere that focuses on pool parties, game shows and original entertainment. It prides itself on friendly service and an abundance of casual yet delicious dining options. The line is an excellent choice for families, offering both short and long voyages at a variety of price points that make cruising affordable for most travelers.
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Related: Everything you need to know about Carnival
Costa Cruises
Carnival Corp. took over full ownership of the Italian shipping company Costa Cruises in 2000, after initially acquiring only 50% in 1997. The brand largely serves the Italian cruise group in the Mediterranean. In 2022, following the conclusion of the COVID-19 pandemic, Carnival Corp. transferred several of Costa’s ships to Carnival Cruise Line, praising “Fun Italian Style” and giving North Americans a taste of what Costa has to offer.
Like its North American-based counterparts, Costa sails ships with several restaurants, bars and entertainment options, but with an Italian twist – right down to the gondola decor and pasta galore.
Cunard line
Carnival’s parent company acquired a majority stake in Cunard in 1998, but the brand’s history began in 1840, when a Canadian war veteran founded a fleet of steam-powered ferries and later ocean liners.
Over the years, Cunard ships have been responsible for serving in wars, transporting immigrants and operating transatlantic routes between the US and Europe. The line started out offering essential transportation, but eventually transitioned into the luxury leisure travel for which the line is known today.
Try a fencing lesson on board, learn flower arranging or enjoy an extensive afternoon tea with real clotted cream, served by white-gloved waiters.
Related: Everything you need to know about Cunard
Holland America Line
Holland America was acquired by Carnival Corp. in 1989. and also has a rich history dating back to 1873. Initially it operated transatlantic voyages transporting immigrants between the Netherlands and New York City.
The line currently relies heavily on its heritage to define its current identity. On board, passengers will find excellent food, music and customer service, all of which tend to attract slightly older passengers and multi-generational family groups.
Related: Everything you need to know about Holland America
P&O Australia
P&O Australia was acquired by Carnival in 2003 and remains the only cruise line in the world focused entirely on Australian passengers enjoying fun-in-the-sun cruises.
With only three ships in the fleet, the line is small but specific. She offers return voyages from Sydney and Brisbane in Australia and sails throughout the regions of Australia and New Zealand.
P&O cruises
P&O Cruises is the British counterpart of P&O Australia, offering Brits a fun and affordable cruise experience.
It has an onboard atmosphere that’s a little more upmarket than sister brand Carnival, but at a similar price and with decidedly English touches, like an absolutely delicious (and complimentary) afternoon tea.
Like several other Carnival Corp. brands. the line came under the umbrella in 2003 during the merger with P&O Princess Cruises.
Princess Cruises
Princess was rolled under the Carnival umbrella in 2003 when Carnival Corp. merged with P&O Princess Cruises.
Princess ships walk the line between courting older passengers with their connection to the hit 1980s television show “The Love Boat” and staying on top of technological developments, including the industry’s first portable wearable , the Ocean Medallion. As a result, the line appeals to a variety of passengers of all ages, including couples looking to share a romantic vacation.
Related: Everything you need to know about Princess
Seabourn Cruise Line
In 1992, Carnival Corp. acquired a 25% stake in Seabourn before purchasing the entire brand outright in 2001. The luxury cruise line, which includes items like alcohol, Wi-Fi and gratuities in its rates, sails a fleet of beautiful ships with a focus on high-quality furnishings and next-level service.
Seabourn also began offering expedition sailings with a number of ships built specifically for cruises to rugged, remote and less-traveled destinations, including the Arctic and the Galapagos.
Related: Everything you need to know about Silversea
Carnival Corp. Frequently Asked Questions
Does Carnival own Royal Caribbean?
No. Royal Caribbean International is owned and operated by the Royal Caribbean Group, which includes Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises.
Does Carnival own Disney Cruise Line?
No. Disney Cruise Line is owned by The Walt Disney Company.
Is Princess owned by Carnival?
Yes. Princess Cruises is owned and operated by Carnival Corporation & PLC.
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