Twenty years ago, Carnival Legend arrived in New York City for its debut in the United States.
The first of two cruise ships to enter service for Carnival Cruise Line in 2002, the Spirit-Class ship docked in a stateside port for the first time on September 22, 2022.
That day, Legend completed a 15-night transatlantic crossing before embarking on her maiden voyage to Canada and New England.
The 11-night trip included visits to Boston, Portland, Quebec City, Sydney and Halifax before returning to New York City.
As part of its inaugural schedule, Legend offered additional itineraries departing from New York City, as well as sailings departing from Philadelphia and Baltimore in October.
The 2,100-guest ship then arrived in Fort Lauderdale — the home port for its first Caribbean winter season — in November.
Prior to her arrival in the United States, Legend became the first Carnival ship to offer cruises to Europe.
Shortly after being delivered by Kvaerner Masa-Yards in August, the vessel sailed two different cruises to Northern Europe and the Baltic.
Continuing the Carnival Spirit Class, Legend followed Carnival Spirit built in 2001 and Carnival Pride built in 2001. A fourth ship in the series, Carnival Miracle, entered service in 2004.
Designed with a multi-deck atrium, a glass-enclosed pool deck and a large number of cabins with private balconies, the ship underwent a major renovation in 2014.
The multi-million dollar renovation included additions to Green Thunder, one of the steepest and fastest water slides at sea; tropical-inspired RedFrog Pub; and a full-service sushi restaurant called Bonsai Sushi.
Currently sailing out of Baltimore, Legend last saw a dock in 2021. At that time, she received Carnival’s new look, as well as general maintenance and upkeep.
In addition to Carnival Legend, Carnival Invasion also debuted in 2002.
