Note: Total gross tonnage derived from the average gross tonnage per ship multiplied by the number of ships in class.
Cruise ships are frequently classified by size, associated with a particular commercial cruise line, and not by a more general industry-wide characterization. Carnival Cruises has introduced eight successive cruise ship classes that enhance the quality (with more amenities) and quantity (accommodating more passengers) of the cruise experience.
The Fantasy Class is the oldest class still in service. They are smaller, more compact ships with fewer amenities than the newest ships. The Panamax-size Spirit Class is also a smaller cruise ship generation compared to the newer large ones, and the Conquest Class offers large mid-size ships, with a good mix of amenities but fewer new features.
Dream Class offers slightly older “new-generation” ships (2009-2012) with spacious public areas, a balance of modern & classic design. Vista Class, on the other hand, includes vessels delivered from the mid-2010s to the late 2010s. Ships in the Excel Class are the newest and largest.