CARNIVAL Cruise Line has ordered a 110,000-ton ship costing $500m for delivery in 2004.
It plans to stretch two other forthcoming vessels to also make them 110,000 tons. Carnival Conquest and Carnival Glory, due in 2002 and 2003 respectively, were originally intended to be 101,000 tons.
The company said it wanted the additional space to include more catering facilities, a family entertainment centre, a conference room/business centre, an Internet cafe and an expanded sports area.
Another 101,000-ton ship named Carnival Victory, which is scheduled for delivery this August, will not be enlarged.
Carnival also has three other 84,000-ton ships in the pipeline.
Carnival Spirit is due for delivery in spring 2001 and Carnival Pride in late 2001. Carnival Legend will enter service in summer 2002.