Carnival Cruise Line Speeds Up Iconic Ship Repair

Carnival Cruise Line has announced that the Carnival Freedom will receive a new “whale tail” funnel during its upcoming dry dock in October 2023. The ship’s original funnel was damaged in a fire in May 2022, resulting in the loss of its distinctive wings. Brand ambassador John Heald confirmed that the new funnel will be installed during the dry dock, along with other routine maintenance and upgrades.

The Carnival Freedom will be in dry dock from October 5 to October 22, 2023, in Cadiz, Spain. This is part of the ship’s regular maintenance schedule, and it is the first opportunity for the funnel’s replacement since the fire. The ship’s last dry dock was in 2019, when it received a moderate refurbishment.

The fire in May 2022 caused damage to the starboard wing of the funnel, but it was contained within 20 minutes and fully extinguished shortly thereafter. No injuries or additional damage to the vessel were reported. The ship was temporarily removed from service for emergency repairs, and three cruises were cancelled. The funnel’s wings were removed during the repairs, giving the ship a more classic straight funnel appearance. Carnival Freedom returned to service in June 2022.

The Carnival Freedom, which joined the Fun Ship fleet in 2007, can accommodate up to 2,980 guests and is currently homeported in Port Canaveral. After its upcoming dry dock, the ship will continue to offer 4- and 5-night sailings to the Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean.

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