Although the name Carnival Corporation didn’t come into existence until 1994, the foundation for the company was laid when its flagship brand, Carnival Cruise Lines, was launched in 1972 by cruise industry pioneer, the late Ted Arison.  After achieving its position as “The World’s Most Popular Cruise Line,” in 1987 Carnival made an initial public offering of 20 percent of its common stock. It was this that provided the company with the means to begin expanding through acquisition.  Over the years, Carnival has acquired representation in almost all segments of the cruise industry, including premium operator Holland America Line in 1989; luxury brand Seabourn Cruise Line in 1992; Genoa, Italy-based contemporary brand Costa Cruises, Europe’s number one cruise operator, in 1997; and venerable premium/luxury operator Cunard Line in 1998, which built the world’s largest ocean liner, the 150,000-ton Queen Mary 2.

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