There’s a new way to vacation coming to Texas, and it’s bringing a tropical vacation with a twist. Big experiences, bold flavors and plenty of ways to make every day at sea unforgettable.

Beginning April 15, 2028, Carnival Tropicale will bring a whole new level of fun to Galveston. She will join Carnival’s Excel-class lineup and bring exciting new vacation experiences and exclusive spaces inspired by the golden era of show business. Once onboard, guests can trade everyday routines for days filled with sunshine, incredible entertainment, globally inspired dining and new adventures, all with Carnival’s signature fun throughout.

Whether your perfect vacation means racing down a waterslide, discovering a new favorite dish or simply finding the perfect spot to relax with an ocean view, Carnival Tropicale will offer something for every kind of cruiser. And if incredible nations is what you’re looking for, even better, itineraries will feature Carnival’s exclusive Paradise Collection, including Celebration Key, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, Isla Tropicale and Puerta Maya, along with popular Caribbean ports like Progreso and Nassau.

Here are three reasons to get excited about your next vacation on Carnival Tropicale.

REASON 1: From Sunshine to After-Dark Fun at Sunsation Point

There’s no shortage of ways to soak up the day at Sunsation Point, Carnival Tropicale’s expansive outdoor destination where families can play, splash, relax and take in the ocean views across multiple decks.

At the heart of it all is Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, Carnival’s biggest water park yet and its most family-friendly water park at sea. Six waterslides bring plenty of ways to make a splash, including two family raft rides, SunSoaker and Turning Tides, racing slides, a twisting kids’ slide, and splash pads designed for different ages.

But the adventure goes well beyond the water. Families can put their skills to the test at Fairway 66 Mini Golf, head up high on the ropes course and adventure trail or get a little friendly competition going on the sports court. When it’s time to slow things down, lounge chairs and a scenic overlook offer the perfect place to relax and take in the views, while The Vault Retrocade brings even more ways to play.

As the sun goes down, Sunsation Point takes on a whole new vibe with special events and entertainment that keep the outdoor fun going after dark. Grab a bite, enjoy the ocean breeze or stick around for the nighttime action as the space takes on a whole new vibe.

From waterslides and friendly competition under the sun to sunset views and entertainment after dark, Sunsation Point is designed to keep the tropical vacation going from day to night. 

REASON 2: Take Your Taste Buds on an Adventure

A tropical vacation should taste just as exciting as it feels, and aboard Carnival Tropicale, every meal brings another opportunity to try something new. From the flavors of Hawaii and Asia to Mediterranean favorites and fresh coastal seafood, the ship puts a new twist on flavors from around the world.

Step into the colorful island atmosphere of Uku Lei Lei, where Hawaiian inspiration meets bold Asian flavors. Dig into dishes like Mongolian beef short rib and fresh poke bowls before finishing things off with a tropical-inspired dessert. With its relaxed island vibe, it’s a dining experience that feels right at home on a tropical getaway.

For a taste of the Mediterranean, Fetaccine brings together Greek seaside flavors and Italian favorites in one laid-back dining experience. Start with sizzling shrimp saganaki before choosing from dishes like chicken parmesan or Greek lamb chops and save room for a cannoli to finish the meal on a sweet note.

Seafood lovers can head to Emeril’s Coastal Seafood, where flavors from the Gulf to New England meet Celebrity Chef and Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse’s signature Creole flair. Fresh oysters, Gulf shrimp, whole roasted fish and other chef-driven specialties celebrate the best of the coast in a setting that feels refined yet relaxed.

And these new restaurants are only part of what’s on the menu. Carnival favorites including Guy’s Burger Joint™, Big Chicken™, BlueIguana Cantina™, Street Eats, Bonsai Sushi™ and Bonsai Teppanyaki™ give guests even more choices, whether they’re grabbing a quick poolside bite or sitting down for a memorable meal.

With so many flavors to explore, dining aboard Carnival Tropicale becomes another part of the adventure and another way this ship is bringing a fresh twist to the tropics.

REASON 3: Grab a Drink & Get Ready for Showtime 

On Carnival Tropicale, entertainment isn’t just something you watch, it’s part of the experience. This ship brings together old-Vegas flair and tropical energy to create nights filled with music, laughter and plenty of showstopping moments.

At Grand Central, the ship’s soaring atrium becomes part of the show, with floor-to-ceiling windows, dazzling LED screens and dramatic lighting setting the scene. It’s also home to Center Stage, where singers, dancers and larger-than-life performances bring the space to life throughout the cruise.

The excitement continues with Playlist Productions™, bringing everyone’s favorite songs to life through high-energy musical performances, and Family Feud Live™, where guests can step up to the iconic Face-Off podium and compete just like they’ve seen on TV. For even more laughs, The Punchliner Comedy Club™ features both family-friendly shows and performances geared toward adults.

And the entertainment doesn’t stop when you leave the theater. Piano Bar 88™ keeps the music going, while the expanded Alchemy Bar adds a stage for live performances alongside its signature cocktails.

From dazzling productions and interactive game shows to comedy and live music, Carnival Tropicale puts its own tropical twist on showtime making every evening feel like opening night.

Ready to experience a tropical vacation with a twist? Contact your travel advisor and discover all the ways Carnival Tropicale™ is bringing something new to your next Carnival vacation.