Full-ship charters can be lucrative opportunities for cruise lines, and that’s why decision-makers will sometimes choose to disappoint booked guests by cancelling a scheduled voyage in favor of a charter.
On March 20, 2025, Carnival Cruise Line became the latest brand to notify guests that their sailing — a 2026 voyage onboard Carnival Liberty , has been nixed in favor of a charter. It was the second time in less than a year that the ship’s schedule was interrupted for that reason.
The 3,000-guest Conquest-class ship that debuted in 2005 is homeported in New Orleans, sailing mostly 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises. In its notice to booked guests, the line noted that several alternatives are available to replace the April 26, 2026 departure…