Carnival’s partnership with Unisys began in 1979, when a single platform decision set the course for handling the growth that followed. The ClearPath Forward Dorado system, running the ClearPath OS 2200 operating environment, became the reservation engine at the heart of Carnival’s business — managing inventory, bookings, guest data and pre- and post-cruise commerce across the entire fleet.

Today, that platform processes 5.6 billion online transactions a year. For example, every pre-cruise purchase flows through the platform, whether it's specialty dining, shore excursions, spa services, beverage packages, photo experiences, or in-room celebrations, any of which can be handled before guests ever step on board.

At Carnival, volume climbs year after year. In the last five years alone, capacity grew more than 40%, and the ClearPath Forward Dorado system absorbed it all without the need for an infrastructure overhaul.

Unisys Data Exchange and ClearPath ePortal extend that reliability across Carnival’s pre-booking experience. Data Exchange distributes real-time data across Carnival’s platforms, powering a personalized pricing and promotions system that Kenny describes as the most advanced in the leisure travel industry. ePortal connects digital sales channels and ensures bookings are processed instantly and priced accurately — whether a guest is on mobile, the web, working through a travel agent or calling in.

In 2024, Carnival expanded the relationship to include Managed Services for ClearPath OS 2200. The decision was straightforward: Since Unisys professionals built the platform, they know it. Having the Unisys team managing it means Carnival’s IT team can direct their energy toward guest-facing priorities and business innovation.

“The Unisys team knows its technology. We know our business and our guests. We’re able to marry those two things together,” says Kenny. “Unisys is a seamless extension of our team.”