TSS Festivale is a Fun Ship cruise ship operated by Carnival Cruise Line. She entered service in 1978, measures 32,697 gross tons, and carries approximately 1,400 guests at double occupancy.
Key Facts
- Class: Converted Ocean Liner
- Year: 1978
- Tonnage: 32,697 GT
- Guests: 1,400
Quick Answer: TSS Festivale (32,697 GT | 1,400 guests | 1978) was Carnival's second ship — a converted transatlantic liner that joined the fleet in 1978 and helped prove the Fun Ship concept could scale. This page covers historical ship details.
Best For: Cruise history researchers — Festivale was the ship that proved Mardi Gras wasn't a fluke, establishing Carnival as a multi-ship operation.
A First Look at TSS Festivale
TSS Festivale earned her place in cruise history not through size or luxury, but through bold innovation. As a converted ocean liner, she retained classic lines while Carnival transformed her interiors into a Fun Ship playground that redefined passenger expectations.
The 1981 installation of the industry's first waterslide marked a turning point — proof that cruise ships could offer theme-park-style thrills. Every water park on today's mega-ships traces its lineage back to Festivale's pioneering moment.
Dining Venues on TSS Festivale
TSS Festivale featured a grand main dining room that reflected her ocean liner heritage, along with a casual buffet option and poolside snack bars that embodied the Fun Ship spirit of accessible, enjoyable dining at sea.
The Innovation Pioneer
TSS Festivale earned her place in cruise history not through size or luxury, but through innovation. In 1981, she became the first cruise ship to feature a waterslide — a simple addition that revolutionized what passengers expected from cruise entertainment.
That single slide opened the floodgates for the elaborate water parks we see on today's mega-ships. Every WaterWorks, every Splash Zone, every aqua coaster traces back to Festivale's pioneering moment.
Ship Timeline
From the Logbook
Loading memorial stories...
TSS Festivale Videos
Archival footage and documentaries about Carnival's innovation pioneer.
TSS Festivale Deck Plans
Historical deck plans for TSS Festivale are preserved in maritime archives.
Ship Status
TSS Festivale was scrapped in 2003. Live tracking is not available for this historic vessel.
Legacy
Every water park, every slide, every splash zone on modern cruise ships traces back to Festivale's pioneering spirit. She proved that cruising could be playful, that innovation didn't require new construction, and that Fun Ships meant finding new ways to deliver joy.
Frequently Asked Questions About TSS Festivale
What dining options are available on TSS Festivale?
TSS Festivale 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 TSS Festivale?
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 TSS Festivale sail?
Ship deployments vary by season. Check the Carnival Cruise Line website for current itineraries and departure ports for TSS Festivale.
How can I track TSS Festivale'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: