Carnival Sunshine Returns After Drydock, Prepares for USA

The Carnival Sunshine is currently making its way back to North America after completing maintenance at the Chantier Naval de Marseille shipyard in France.

After leaving Europe in late January, the vessel—originally built in 1996—is en route to its new homeport in Norfolk, where it is scheduled to arrive on February 10, 2025.

A day after its arrival, the Carnival Sunshine will begin a new year-round service from its new base in Virginia.

The ship's inaugural voyage from Norfolk will be a five-night itinerary to the Bahamas, including stops in Freeport and Nassau, along with two days at sea.

Following this launch, the Sunshine will operate a selection of six- to eight-night cruises, visiting destinations across the Bahamas and the Caribbean. These itineraries include calls at locations such as Princess Cays, Grand Turk, Puerto Plata, Half Moon Cay, and San Juan.

Throughout the summer, the Sunshine will also run six-night cruises to Bermuda, featuring extended stays at King’s Wharf and starting in September, the vessel will incorporate visits to Carnival’s latest private island destination, Celebration Key.

Before its drydock in France, the Carnival Sunshine had been homeported in Charleston, South Carolina, for several years. 

During its time at the shipyard, the vessel underwent standard maintenance, class inspections, and technical upgrades. Public spaces and staterooms also received routine refurbishments, including the replacement of tiles, upholstery, and carpeting.

Initially launched as the Carnival Destiny in the 1990s, the ship was transformed at the Fincantieri shipyard in 2013. As part of a $155-million renovation, the vessel gained new features such as the Havana Bar with a tropical theme, a two-level adults-only retreat, and a full-service Asian restaurant.

The 101,000-ton ship also saw its passenger capacity rise to 2,964 guests, thanks to the addition of 182 new staterooms and suites.