Carnival Cruise Line is making a major move for its 2027–2028 cruise season, announcing the return of year-round sailings from Mobile, Alabama — and, for the first time, deploying a Conquest-class ship from the port.
Beginning May 15, 2027, Carnival Valor will begin year-round operations out of Mobile, offering six- to eight-day cruises visiting The Bahamas, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and its new port in Grand Bahama, Celebration Key. The deployment marks a significant capacity increase for the line in the region, opening up more itineraries and destinations from the Gulf Coast.
Before repositioning to Mobile, Carnival Valor will conclude its New Orleans season with a five-day sailing on May 1, followed by two four-day cruises to Mexico on May 6 and May 10.
“Mobile has been an important part of the Carnival family, and we’re thrilled to mark the return of year-round deployment with our first-ever Conquest-class ship serving the market,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “This is a big win for our guests who love the convenience of cruising close to home, and for the community that has supported us for many years. Carnival Valor will bring even more opportunity for fun, and we can’t wait to welcome our guests aboard.”
The ship’s deployment will also feature two 14-day Carnival Journeys sailings. On Sept. 26, Carnival Valor will set out on a 14-day itinerary calling on Ocho Rios, Cartagena, Colón, Limón, Cozumel, Aruba and Curaçao. A second 14-day Southern Caribbean cruise departs Jan. 16, visiting San Juan, Montego Bay, Amber Cove, St. Thomas, Aruba, Curaçao and Celebration Key.
Carnival Valor will also host a special seven-day Thanksgiving sailing on Nov. 20, 2027, visiting Key West, Florida, Nassau and Celebration Key.
A Conquest-class ship, Carnival Valor brings expanded dining venues, multiple entertainment spaces, a water park, pools, and a full spa. It’s a significant upgrade for Mobile, giving guests more capacity and more onboard options than ever before.
Until Carnival Valor’s arrival, Carnival will continue to serve the port seasonally with Carnival Spirit from October 2026 through April 2027.
Caribbean Journal Staff
2025-10-26 00:46:00