Carnival Inspiration is a Fantasy Class cruise ship operated by Carnival Cruise Line. She entered service in 1996, measures 70,367 gross tons, and carries approximately 2,056 guests at double occupancy.
Looking for Carnival Inspiration planning info? This memorial page covers the history and legacy of this retired Fantasy Class ship.
Carnival Inspiration (1996-2020) was the sixth Fantasy Class ship. Godmother Mary Anne Shula (NFL royalty). 70,367 GT, 2,040 guests. Scrapped Aliaga Turkey 2022.
A First Look at Carnival Inspiration
Dining Venues
Carnival Inspiration featured classic Fantasy Class dining venues including the main dining room and buffet. She received Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades in 2016 including Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. The ship offered traditional dining times and flexible casual options.
NFL Royalty's Blessing
Carnival Inspiration carried a champion's blessing. Mary Anne Shula, wife of legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula — the winningest coach in NFL history — christened her in 1996. That connection to sports excellence defined the sixth Fantasy Class ship.
The Shula name meant perfection. Don Shula led the only undefeated team in NFL history. His wife blessed a ship that would pursue its own form of excellence: 24 years of reliable service, delivering affordable cruises to California families.
Inspiration primarily served Long Beach, offering Mexican Riviera itineraries alongside her sister Imagination. Together they gave California two Fantasy Class options, doubling the West Coast's access to Fun Ship cruising.
Ship Timeline
From the Logbook
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Carnival Inspiration Videos
Archival ship tours and passenger memories from Carnival Inspiration's career.
Ship Status
Carnival Inspiration was retired in 2020. Live tracking is no longer available.
Carnival Inspiration Deck Plans
View the official deck plans to explore cabin locations, dining venues, pools, and entertainment areas.
Accessibility Notes
Inspiration's Long Beach homeport provided the same accessibility advantages as her sister Imagination — easy access for Southern California disabled cruisers, compact terminal navigation, and Mexican Riviera ports familiar with wheelchair accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carnival Inspiration
When was Carnival Inspiration retired?
Carnival Inspiration was retired in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic after 24 years of service. She was scrapped at Aliaga, Turkey in 2022.
Who was Carnival Inspiration's godmother?
Mary Anne Shula, wife of legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula — the winningest coach in NFL history — christened Carnival Inspiration in 1996.
Where did Carnival Inspiration sail from?
Inspiration primarily sailed from Long Beach, California, offering Mexican Riviera itineraries alongside her sister ship Imagination.
How many ships were in the Fantasy Class?
Eight ships comprised the Fantasy Class: Fantasy, Ecstasy, Sensation, Fascination, Imagination, Inspiration, Elation, and Paradise. Only Elation and Paradise remain in service today.
What made Carnival Inspiration special?
Beyond her NFL royalty connection through the Shula family, Inspiration served California families for 24 years, making cruising accessible to millions on the West Coast.
Sources & Attribution
Ship specifications from official Carnival Cruise Line materials and maritime records. Historical data verified against industry sources. Memorial content compiled from passenger testimonials and cruise archives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carnival Inspiration
What dining options are available on Carnival Inspiration?
Carnival Inspiration offers complimentary dining including the main dining room and buffet. Specialty restaurants vary by ship and may require reservations or carry an additional charge. Check the dining section above for specific venues available on this ship.
How do I find the deck plans for Carnival Inspiration?
Deck plans are available through the links on this page. You can also find official deck plans on the Carnival Cruise Line website or in the cruise planner app.
Where does Carnival Inspiration sail?
Ship deployments vary by season. Check the Carnival Cruise Line website for current itineraries and departure ports for Carnival Inspiration.
How can I track Carnival Inspiration's current location?
Use the live ship tracker section on this page to see the ship's current position, speed, and next port in real-time when available.
Is this information official?
This page provides planning resources and community insights. Always confirm details with Carnival Cruise Line or your travel advisor before booking.
Sources & Attribution
Ship specifications from official cruise line materials. Photos credited where shown. Data verified against industry sources.
Plan Your Cruise
Helpful resources to prepare for your voyage: