Are cruise passengers ready for an entirely new concept from one of the most popular cruise lines in the world? That’s what we’ll soon find out as today marks the inaugural trip of Carnival Venezia from its new homeport in New York City.
The ship was formerly part of Costa, Carnival’s sister line, but was transferred over to be redeployed stateside. While Carnival transformed the ship in a dry-docking earlier this year, it has left some of its original Italian theme intact. The cruise line has opted for Venezia to be the first ship introducing “Carnival Fun Italian Style.”
This concept, which will also be rolled out to Carnival Firenze when it arrives to the fleet later this year, combines the Italian theme of the formerly Costa cruise ships with Carnival’s brand.
Not only will the style and décor onboard be different than other Carnival ships, but the changes will impact everything from restaurants to entertainment.
“Distinct entertainment programming, such as a special Captain’s Venetian Toast and an Italian street party on Lido were created to enhance guests’ experience with the ship’s immersive Italian theming,” Carnival shared in a recent press release. “Carnival Venezia also introduces several new dining and beverage offerings, including the specialty restaurant, ‘Il Viaggio,’ which promises a culinary voyage of the best regional dishes and drinks from several regions of Italy.”
Ceremony & Blessing Held Ahead of First Regular Cruise
With the new ship and concept, Carnival held a ceremony in New York last night to welcome the new ship. There, the ship’s new godfather — comedian Jay Leno — was on hand, and the ship also received a blessing from Father Enrique Salvo of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
While the first voyage of Carnival Venezia was actually a transatlantic crossing, today the ship departs on its first regular voyage from its new homeport. It will sail a four-day cruise from Manhattan to Bermuda. From there, it will then sail 4-8 day trips to Bermuda, Canada, and the Caribbean.
“We’ve heard great reviews from guests who sailed on the ship’s transatlantic crossing, and now I am so happy to welcome our first guests joining us from New York to enjoy what’s in store for them,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
Starting in the fall, the ship will add 8-12 day cruises farther into the Caribbean, including trips to San Juan and Aruba.
