Carnival Sensation is a Fantasy Class cruise ship operated by Carnival Cruise Line. She entered service in 1993, measures 70,367 gross tons, and carries approximately 2,056 guests at double occupancy.
Looking for Carnival Sensation planning info? This memorial page covers the history and legacy of this retired Fantasy Class ship.
Carnival Sensation (1993-2022) was the third Fantasy Class ship featuring Joe Farcus' seven-deck neon atrium. 70,367 GT, 2,040 guests. 29 years of service. Scrapped Aliaga Turkey 2022.
A First Look at Carnival Sensation
Dining Venues
Carnival Sensation featured classic Fantasy Class dining venues including the main dining room and buffet. She received Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades in 2017 including Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. The ship offered traditional dining times and flexible casual dining options.
The Neon Cathedral
Carnival Sensation was Joe Farcus at his most theatrical. The legendary cruise ship designer created a seven-deck atrium that transformed light into spectacle — neon tubes climbing the walls, colors shifting through evening transitions, a space that felt more like art installation than cruise ship interior.
The third Fantasy Class ship launched in 1993, bringing Farcus' enhanced design philosophy to Miami. Where Fantasy proved the concept and Ecstasy refined it, Sensation elevated it into theater.
For 29 years, she served as Miami's reliable short-cruise option, delivering affordable Caribbean escapes while her neon atrium dazzled first-time cruisers and veterans alike.
Ship Timeline
From the Logbook
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Carnival Sensation Videos
Archival ship tours and passenger memories from Carnival Sensation's career.
Ship Status
Carnival Sensation was retired in 2022. Live tracking is no longer available.
Carnival Sensation Deck Plans
View the official deck plans to explore cabin locations, dining venues, pools, and entertainment areas.
Accessibility Notes
Sensation's Miami homeport made her one of the most accessible Fantasy Class ships geographically. Her neon atrium created natural navigation landmarks for guests with cognitive disabilities, while her intimate size kept distances manageable for wheelchair users.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carnival Sensation
When was Carnival Sensation retired?
Carnival Sensation was retired in 2022 after 29 years of service. She was scrapped at Aliaga, Turkey.
What made Carnival Sensation unique?
Sensation featured Joe Farcus' dramatic seven-deck neon-lit atrium, one of the most theatrical interior spaces in cruise ship history.
Where was Carnival Sensation homeported?
Sensation primarily sailed from Miami throughout her 29-year career, offering short Caribbean cruises.
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 was Carnival Sensation's final year of service?
Carnival Sensation's service was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and she was ultimately retired and sold for scrap in 2022.
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 Sensation
What dining options are available on Carnival Sensation?
Carnival Sensation 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 Sensation?
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 Sensation sail?
Ship deployments vary by season. Check the Carnival Cruise Line website for current itineraries and departure ports for Carnival Sensation.
How can I track Carnival Sensation'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: