Carnival’s Latest Cruise Plans Add a New Continent to the Map

Carnival Cruise Line has revealed a new wave of 2027 and 2028 sailings for Carnival Sunshine, with itineraries that include the line’s first-ever visits to African ports.

The milestone comes as part of Carnival Sunshine’s 2027–2028 deployment, which centers on Mediterranean sailings while adding North Africa to the mix. For a cruise brand long associated with Caribbean and Americas-focused itineraries, the inclusion of African ports represents a notable expansion of its global routes.

The ship will call on ports in Tunisia and Morocco, including La Goulette, the gateway to Tunis and Tangier. The season also includes a broader lineup of European destinations, with itineraries spanning Southern Europe, the Mediterranean and North Africa.

“We’re excited to bring Carnival Sunshine to an expanded lineup of destinations that offer our guests even more ways to explore Europe and beyond,” said President Christine Duffy. “With our first-ever African ports, new European calls and once-in-a-lifetime eclipse sailing, this deployment delivers variety, adventure and memorable experiences our guests look forward to when sailing on Carnival.”

Related: Carnival is Adding More Adults-Only Cruises Including This Mediterranean Hotspot

Throughout the deployment, Carnival Sunshine will operate a mix of week-long and extended sailings departing from Barcelona and Civitavecchia(Rome). Alongside the African ports, the schedule includes first-time visits to several European destinations as well as the return of ports the cruise line hasn’t visited in many years.

Adding to the season’s highlights is a special sailing timed around a rare total solar eclipse in the summer of 2027. One itinerary will position Carnival Sunshine at sea along the path of maximum visibility, with themed onboard programming built around the celestial event. A similar eclipse-focused experience will also be offered on another Carnival ship sailing from the U.K.

Related: These Are the 10 New Cruise Ships Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026

The season will also include transatlantic crossings designed to support Carnival’s Europe program, giving guests extended sailings between the U.S. and Europe with additional port calls along the way. After completing its international run, Carnival Sunshine will return to the United States and begin a new schedule sailing from Texas.

Together, the Africa expansion, new European ports and eclipse-focused cruise reflect Carnival’s expanding approach to itineraries, with longer sailings, a wider mix of destinations and more experience-driven travel options.

For a cruise brand built on accessibility and familiarity, it suggests future Carnival vacations may be less about quick escapes and more about memorable, once-in-a-lifetime trips.

Related: Carnival Cruise Line’s Mrs. Roper Trend Is ‘Getting Out of Control,’ Says Brand Ambassador