In 1974, due to regulatory issues, Riklis sold AITS's interest in the company to Arison for $1, but subject to Arison taking over the substantial company debts. Growing since our founding in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line — “The World’s Most Popular Cruise Line ® ” — now carries millions of passengers every year. The entrepreneurial spirit and pioneering vision of Carnival’s founder, the late Ted Arison, provided a solid foundation for … The success of the Mardi Gras was instrumental in Carnival’s growth. For good times, great views & fun vacations. Get started! Arison and Riklis set up the new company as a subsidiary of AITS. Find a cruise based on date range, home port, destination & duration. Carnival Cruise Line was founded in 1972 by Ted Arison.

Carnival was launched with a converted transatlantic ocean liner and a dream of entrepreneur Ted Arison, a pioneer in the modern-day cruise industry who set out to realize his vision of making a vacation experience once reserved for the very rich accessible to the average person. Enjoying a holiday at sea is a great way to make the occasion even more special.. SHOP CRUISES > SUMMER CRUISE DEALS. Carnival got its start in 1972 with a single ship, the Mardi Gras, a converted ocean liner which featured a number of innovative elements along with a festive onboard ambiance unlike any other cruise ship sailing at the time. The name Carnival Corporation was adopted in 1993, to distinguish the parent company from its flagship cruise lin… The company grew steadily throughout the 1970s and 1980s, making an initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange in 1987. The rest, as they say, is history. AITS was to market and promote the new venture. IMPORTANT: Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line suspended its North American fleet's passenger shipping operations (all USA- and Canada-homeported liners) cancelling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 13 through September 30, 2020 (previously up until April 9, May 11, June 26 and July 31).Fleet's operations are planned to resume on October 1. Take your summer vacation to a new level with these fantastic sailings.. SHOP CRUISES > WHERE TO GO? To finance the venture, Arison turned to his friend Meshulam Riklis, who owned Boston-based American International Travel Service (AITS). Book your Carnival cruise online using our convenient cruise search. Our newest ship is Carnival Panorama … The capital generated was used to finance acquisitions. Earn a $200 credit.

Earn a $200 statement credit toward your cruise with the Carnival ® Mastercard ®.. APPLY NOW > HOLIDAY CRUISES. Between 1989 and 1999, the company acquired Holland America Line, Windstar Cruises, Westours, Seabourn Cruise Line, Costa Cruises and Cunard Line. The split enabled Arison to enter into new … Carnival Corporation was founded as Carnival Cruise Line in 1972. If you’re thinking of cruising, there’s a very good chance you’re considering a Carnival cruise.