Carnival Valor has officially returned to service—and it’s bringing some exciting new upgrades along for the ride. Fresh from a major dry dock in Europe, the ship made its debut this week in Barcelona, showing off revamped public spaces, upgraded staterooms, and the addition of some guest-favorite features that will make future sailings even more fun.
Topping the list of enhancements is the new WaterWorks aqua park, now a signature feature on many Carnival ships. Designed for guests of all ages, this top-deck playground includes twin racing slides and splash areas, making it a must-visit for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Another standout is the Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, a warm and welcoming space dedicated to active-duty military members and veterans. With military memorabilia and themed décor, the venue serves as both a tribute and a place to relax. Carnival says more military families cruise with them than any other line, and this bar is now on 16 ships across the fleet.
Beyond the major attractions, Carnival made thoughtful updates across the entire vessel:
- Staterooms now feature better lighting and USB charging ports.
- The casino has been refreshed and expanded, with new machines and an improved layout.
- The ship’s spa and fitness center are now part of the Cloud 9 Spa brand, offering a calm and revitalizing space for wellness and workouts.
- A Dream Studio for professional photo sessions was added on Deck 3.
- Camp Ocean, Circle “C”, and Club 02 have all been updated with new tech, including interactive LED walls, gaming setups, and karaoke spots designed for kids and teens.
- Across the ship, new carpet, fresh paint, and accessibility upgrades have brought a modern and more inclusive feel to public spaces.
Carnival Valor will soon return to its homeport of New Orleans, where it’s set to resume year-round sailings to the Western Caribbean, including four- and five-day cruises with stops in Cozumel and Progreso.
What’s Next in Carnival’s Dry Dock Schedule?
Dry docks are rolling out across Carnival’s fleet in the coming year. Based on the schedule shared by dry‑dock trackers , here’s who’s up next:
- Carnival Liberty: Estimated May 17 – July 5, 2025
- Carnival Conquest: Scheduled August 22 – September 30, 2025
- Mardi Gras: Slated for late September – mid‑October 2025
