Carnival is one of the world’s largest cruise operators and a familiar name to UK travellers. Its share price has seen sharp fluctuations recently, reflecting both hopes for recovery and ongoing financial pressure.
For UK investors, buying Carnival shares means accessing US markets, choosing the right broker, and understanding the risks involved. It’s not just about price. It’s about knowing the business and how it fits your investment goals.
This guide outlines the process with a focus on access, costs, and regulation, helping you invest with greater clarity and confidence.
In this guide
How to Buy Carnival Shares
Although Carnival operates worldwide, its main listing is on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker CCL. For UK investors, this means buying US shares priced in US dollars through a stockbroker with access to American stock exchanges.
Here’s a clear step-by-step guide:
Start by selecting an FCA-regulated stockbroker that supports trading on the NYSE. Not every UK broker gives access to the US markets, so it’s important to check before signing up.
Click the register or sign-up button to create an investment account. This involves sharing your personal details, including your name, email address, phone number, source of income, and more.
Additionally, you’ll need to complete a short verification process per the FCA requirements, which typically requires:
– Photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence. You can also share a copy of any other government-issued ID card.
– Proof of address, like a recent bank statement or utility bill
– Your National Insurance number
Most apps allow you to upload these documents directly, making the process fast and straightforward.
Your account will be funded in pounds, but since Carnival shares are priced in US dollars, the platform will convert your money automatically. This often involves a small foreign exchange (FX) fee.
Use the broker’s search tool to look up Carnival or its ticker symbol CCL. Confirm that you’re selecting the correct listing on the New York Stock Exchange, not a similarly named product or a different market.
You can choose a market order to buy at the current price or a limit order to target a specific entry point. A stop-loss order will also help to protect against a falling share price.
Check for any FX charges, trading commissions, or platform fees. Stamp duty doesn’t apply to US-listed stocks. Once confirmed, the shares will appear in your portfolio. You’ll then be able to monitor performance, hold long-term, or sell when needed.
Once you place your order and it’s filled, your Carnival shares will appear in your portfolio. You’ll be able to track performance, view your holdings, and sell whenever you choose.
Best Brokers to Invest in Carnival in the UK
Buying US-listed shares like Carnival requires a stockbroker that offers access to American stock markets, charges fair fees, and operates under UK regulation. Below are three well-established options that serve UK investors.
1. eToro
eToro offers commission-free access to US shares, including Carnival. It charges a 1% spread plus a 0.5% FX fee. The platform is beginner-friendly and includes CopyTrading, but it lacks ISA/SIPP accounts and has limited research tools. eToro also allows you to trade the shares as CFDs or indices.
On top of that, the broker lists additional global stocks and other assets, including forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and more
Disclaimer: eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs.
Please note that CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. {etoroCFDrisk}% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Zero commission means that no broker fee will be charged when opening or closing the position and does not apply to short or leveraged positions. Other fees apply including FX fees on non-USD deposits and withdrawals. Your capital is at risk. For more information, click here.
✔Low minimum to fund an account and begin investing
- FCA-regulated and beginner-friendly
- Simple, app-based platform with social features
- CopyTrading lets you follow experienced investors
- Low minimum deposit of $50
- No ISA or SIPP support, so not tax-efficient
- Research tools less comprehensive than traditional brokers
- Costs are built into spreads and FX charges
2. FP Markets
FP Markets provides access to US shares via its IRESS platform, alongside CFDs. It suits experienced investors seeking advanced tools, fast execution, and more control. However, the broker comes with higher deposits, variable fees, and a steeper learning curve.
✔Accounts can be opened fast and easy
- Access to real share ownership via IRESS
- Advanced platforms with professional-level charting tools
- Fast execution and reliable order processing
- Wide asset choice beyond equities
- Higher minimum deposits than beginner platforms
- Primarily designed for skilled or active traders
- Steeper learning curve compared with app-based brokers
3. CMC Markets
CMC Markets is a well-established UK stockbroker with a powerful share trading platform and access toglobal shares, including Carnival. It offers commission-free trading on US stocks, though FX fees still apply. Strong research support and detailed market data make it appealing to those who want more than just basic access. However, US shares cannot be held in an ISA here.
✔ Great selection of assets
- FCA-regulated and highly trusted in the UK
- No trading commission on US stocks
- Rich in research, analytics, and market data
- Intuitive yet powerful platform
- FX fees apply on US share trades
- ISA accounts not available for US holdings
- May feel more advanced than necessary for casual beginners
About Carnival Corp
Carnival Corporation is the world’s largest cruise operator, with a portfolio that includes P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and AIDA Cruises. Headquartered in the United States, the company runs over 90 ships across global routes.
Its business model relies on ticket sales, onboard spending, and upgrades, similar to airlines and hotel chains. Performance is closely tied to consumer confidence and discretionary travel spending.
The pandemic brought operations to a halt, leading to significant debt and long-term financial strain. Since 2022, most routes have resumed, and demand for cruises has returned, especially among older travellers. However, rising fuel costs, inflation, and interest rates continue to weigh on margins.
Carnival remains a key player in the global travel sector, but it is still working to restore profitability and manage its debt in a more cautious economic climate.
Carnival Shares Price Today
Carnival’s share price has been volatile in recent years. It fell sharply during the 2020 cruise shutdown, and while some recovery has followed, it still trades below pre-pandemic levels. The price reflects both renewed demand and financial pressure from high debt and disrupted operations.
It is influenced by booking levels, fuel and staffing costs, debt management, and overall sentiment toward travel stocks. Because shares are priced in US dollars, exchange rate movements also affect UK investors. A stronger pound can reduce sterling returns even when the dollar price rises.
The live chart below shows the latest price of Carnival Corporation (CCL) alongside historical data. It helps investors track performance and identify trends over time.
Is Carnival a Good Stock to Buy?
Carnival’s appeal as an investment depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and how it fits within your broader portfolio. It’s not a high-growth stock or a reliable dividend payer. Instead, it’s part of a cyclical industry shaped by global travel trends, operational costs, and economic conditions.
Carnival maintains a leading role in the cruise industry, supported by its extensive fleet and well-established brands. With demand for cruises rebounding across many regions and operations back in motion, the company continues to attract attention from investors interested in the travel and leisure sector.
However, Carnival is still managing the financial effects of the pandemic. It took on significant debt, and its share price remains well below past levels. The stock is sensitive to external shocks, and UK investors should also consider currency movements when reviewing potential returns.
Carnival may be of interest to those who are comfortable with short-term volatility and focused on longer-term developments in global tourism. As with any stock in this sector, careful evaluation is essential.
FAQs
No. It is challenging to acquire the shares of Carnival directly from the company. The most effective and efficient way to buy Carnival stock is through a broking account. We list above our top three stock brokers you can consider based on your investment needs.
Yes. Although we believe it is a good time to buy the shares of Carnival, the decision to do so should be based on your investment goals and risk tolerance. The current market conditions and financial performance of the company can also influence your decision. Overall, we advise you to conduct a thorough market analysis and research the company’s fundamentals before making an investment decision. You may also want to consider seeking advice from a financial advisor to help you make an informed decision.
Yes. Based on our professional analysis, Carnival PLC stock is a good buy in 2023. The company continues to take measures to remain a leading service provider in the tourism and travel industry, thus giving it an increased growth potential. As an investor, we advise you to conduct your research on the company to ensure you are making the best decision. Also, find a reliable and credible stockbroker like the ones we recommend above.
Yes, Carnival Corporation is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol CCL. It is a publicly traded company, meaning individual investors around the world can buy and sell its shares.
Carnival previously paid regular dividends but suspended them in early 2020 during the COVID-19 crisis. As of now, no dividends are being issued. The company has indicated it will focus on debt reduction before restoring shareholder payouts.
Conclusion
Carnival shares reflect both recovery potential and ongoing risk. For UK investors, they provide exposure to a globally recognised travel brand, but they also come with volatility and financial uncertainty.
The process of buying is straightforward. The real question is whether the stock fits your goals and risk profile. It may appeal to those comfortable with short-term swings and focused on long-term developments in the travel sector.
As with any investment, understanding the business and its challenges matters more than chasing momentum. Informed decisions start with a clear view of what you’re buying and why.
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25,000 hours of testing 60+ brokers. Our recommended broker is Capital.com.
Our recommended broker is Capital.com.
