Carnival Cruise Line cruise director Robby Howell has announced that he will retire from life at sea later this year, bringing a 10-year career with the cruise line to an end.
Howell revealed the decision in a video shared on Instagram, confirming that his final cruise will be aboard Carnival Venezia when the ship departs Port Canaveral on 1st November 2026.
The sailing, which concludes on 8th November, will mark the end of what Howell is calling “Robby’s Retirement Run”, covering his remaining cruises with Carnival between now and his departure.
Explaining his decision, Howell made clear that the move was his own choice and said he is looking forward to beginning a new chapter ashore with his wife.
“10 years at sea… and it’s time for one last run.
After a lot of thought, I’ve made the decision that my time working at sea is coming to an end.
It’s entirely my decision, and I’m excited for what comes next… starting a new chapter on land with my beautiful wife.”
Howell also thanked Carnival Cruise Line and the guests he has entertained during his decade working aboard the company’s ships.
“Carnival has given me 10 years of experiences, friendships, laughter and memories that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.
To everyone at Carnival who has supported me throughout my career, and especially as I’ve made this decision… thank you.”
He reserved further thanks for Carnival guests, saying they had played a major role in creating the memories he will take with him when he leaves the cruise industry.
“And to the guests who have sailed with me over the years… thank you. You’ve been such a huge part of this journey. Without you, I simply wouldn’t have the memories I’m taking home with me.”
One Final Sailing On Carnival Venezia
Although Howell has confirmed his departure, he still has more than two months remaining before officially finishing his career at sea.
His final voyage is scheduled to begin on 1st November from Port Canaveral aboard Carnival Venezia, with the cruise ending on 8th November.
Howell is encouraging guests booked to sail with him before then to introduce themselves, while also inviting past passengers who may want to join him for one final cruise.
“But we’re not quite done yet…
My final cruise will sail November 1st from Port Canaveral aboard Carnival Venezia.
So from now until then, I’m calling this…
Robby’s Retirement Run. Now through November 8th
If you’re sailing with me between now and the November 1st sailing, come and say hello. And if you fancy joining me for one last cruise… I’d love to see you.
10 years. A lot of memories. And still more to make.”
Published cruise director schedules currently show Howell assigned to Carnival Venezia from 1st July until 8th November 2026, matching the date he has now given for the conclusion of his career.
Tyler Meehan Set To Take Over On Carnival Venezia
Carnival’s published cruise director schedules also indicate that Tyler Meehan is due to become the next cruise director aboard Carnival Venezia.
Current schedules list Meehan’s assignment as beginning on 1st November 2026 and continuing until 14th March 2027. That creates a short overlap with Howell’s final sailing, which is scheduled to end on 8th November, potentially allowing for a handover period between the two cruise directors. Cruise director assignments remain subject to change.
Carnival Venezia entered service for Carnival Cruise Line in 2023 after previously sailing for Costa Cruises as Costa Venezia. The ship operates with Carnival’s “Fun Italian Style” concept, combining familiar Carnival features with Italian-inspired design and venues.
For Howell, however, the November sailing will represent something considerably more personal: the conclusion of a decade spent entertaining Carnival guests at sea before beginning his next chapter on land.
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