Carnival Corporation & plc (CCL) 424B5Prospectus supplement for primary offering

This document is in two parts. The first part is this prospectus supplement, including the documents incorporated by reference, which describes the specific terms of the securities that we are currently offering. The second part is the accompanying prospectus, including the documents incorporated by reference therein, which gives more general information, some of which may not apply to the securities that we are currently offering. Generally, the term “prospectus” refers to both parts combined, including information that is incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.

Before you invest, you should carefully read this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and all information incorporated by reference herein and therein, as well as the additional information described under the sections titled “Where You Can Find More Information” in the accompanying prospectus and “Incorporation by Reference” in this prospectus supplement. These documents contain information you should consider when making your investment decision. This prospectus supplement may add, update or change information contained in the accompanying prospectus. To the extent that any statement that we make in this prospectus supplement is inconsistent with statements made in the accompanying prospectus, the statements made in this prospectus supplement or any documents incorporated by reference herein will be deemed to modify or supersede those made in the accompanying prospectus and such documents incorporated by reference therein.

You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and in any authorized free writing prospectus we may provide to you in connection with this offering. Neither we nor the underwriter has authorized any other person to provide you with any information that is different. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. We are offering to sell, and seeking offers to buy, our common stock only in jurisdictions where offers and sales are permitted. The distribution of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and the offering of our common stock in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons outside the United States who come into possession of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus must inform themselves about, and observe any restrictions relating to, the offering of our common stock and the distribution of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus outside the United States. This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus do not constitute, and may not be used in connection with, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities offered by this prospectus supplement by any person in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful for such person to make such an offer or solicitation.

You should assume that the information appearing in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference herein and therein, as well as any free writing prospectus that we have authorized for use in connection with this offering, is accurate only as of the date of those respective documents. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since those dates. You should read this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference herein and therein, as well as any free writing prospectus that we have authorized for use in connection with this offering, in their entirety before making an investment decision.

Unless the context otherwise requires, references to “Carnival Corporation,” “we,” “us” and “our” in this prospectus supplement and in the accompanying prospectus are references to Carnival Corporation including, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires, its subsidiaries. References to “Carnival plc” are to Carnival plc including, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires, its subsidiaries. References to “Carnival Corporation & plc” are to both Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc collectively, following the establishment of our dual listed company (“DLC”) arrangement. Terms used in this prospectus supplement that are otherwise not defined will have the meanings given to them in the accompanying prospectus.

Unless otherwise specified herein, foreign currency amounts have been converted to U.S. dollars at the applicable exchange rates on November 30, 2020. The rate may differ from the actual rates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements and other financial information appearing in this prospectus supplement. We make no representation that such foreign currency or U.S. dollar amounts referred

Forward-looking statements include those statements that relate to our outlook and financial position including, but not limited to, statements regarding:

Because forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are many factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. This note contains important cautionary statements of the known factors that we consider could materially affect the accuracy of our forward-looking statements and adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial position. Additionally, many of these risks and uncertainties are currently amplified by and will continue to be amplified by, or in the future may be amplified by, the COVID-19 outbreak. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. There may be additional risks that we consider immaterial or which are unknown in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus or the documents incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

Forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results. Subject to any continuing obligations under applicable law or any relevant stock exchange rules, Carnival Corporation & plc expressly disclaim any obligation to disseminate, after the date of this prospectus supplement, any updates or revisions to any such forward-looking statements to reflect any change in expectations or events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based.

The SEC allows us to “incorporate by reference” information we have filed with it, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information we incorporate by reference is an important part of this prospectus supplement, and later information that we file with the SEC will automatically update and supersede this information. The information set forth in the documents incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus is superseded by the information set forth in this prospectus supplement. The following documents have been filed by us with the SEC and are incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus:

place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt;

expose us to the risk of increased interest rates as certain of our borrowings are (and may be in the future) at a variable rate of interest.

Certain of our debt instruments limit our flexibility in operating our business. For example, the Secured Term Loan Facility and the indentures governing the 2023 First Lien Notes, the Second Lien Notes, the 2026 Unsecured Notes and the 2027 Unsecured Notes restrict or limit the ability of Carnival Corporation, Carnival plc and certain of their respective subsidiaries to, among other things:

All of these limitations are subject to significant exceptions and qualifications. Despite these exceptions and qualifications, we cannot assure you that the operating and financial restrictions and covenants in certain of our debt instruments will not adversely affect our ability to finance our future operations or capital needs or engage in other business activities that may be in our interest. Any future indebtedness may include similar or other restrictive terms. In addition, our ability to comply with these covenants, including the financial maintenance covenants described below, and restrictions may be affected by events beyond our control. These include prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If we breach any of these covenants or restrictions, we could be in default under the terms of certain of our debt facilities, and the relevant lenders could elect to declare the debt, together with accrued and unpaid interest and other fees, if any, immediately due and payable and proceed against any collateral, if any, securing that debt. If the debt under certain of our debt instruments that we enter into were to be accelerated, our assets may be insufficient to repay in full our debt. Borrowings under other debt instruments that contain cross-default provisions also may be accelerated or become payable on demand. In these circumstances, our assets may not be sufficient to repay in full our indebtedness then outstanding.

Under the terms of certain of our debt facilities, we are required to maintain a minimum debt service coverage ratio (EBITDA to consolidated net interest charges for the most recently ended four fiscal quarters) of not less than 3.0 to 1.0 at the end of each fiscal quarter (the “Debt Service Covenant”). We have entered into supplemental agreements to amend our bank loans to extend existing amendments with respect to compliance with the Debt Service Covenant, in each case through the November 30, 2022 testing date and reduce the applicable covenant thresholds thereafter to 2.0 to 1.0 for the February 28, 2023 and May 31, 2023 testing dates, and 2.5 to 1.0 for the August 31, 2023 and November 30, 2023 testing dates, before reverting to 3.0 to 1.0 from the February 28, 2024 testing date onwards, or through their respective maturity dates, and to amend the Revolving Facility Agreement to include the Debt Service Covenant, with testing commencing on the February 28, 2023 testing date, with the same covenant thresholds as in our bank loan agreements. We are in the process of negotiating similar amendments to our remaining funded Export Credit Facilities

We have taken, and will continue to take, significant actions to preserve cash and secure additional financing to increase our liquidity, including through a combination of debt financings and equity financings. To the extent that we raise additional capital by issuing equity securities, or the Convertible Notes are converted into shares of our common stock (or shares of our common stock are issued in connection with the purchase or exchange of the Convertible Notes), you may experience substantial dilution. The Secured Term Loan Facility Agreement, the indentures governing the 2023 First Lien Notes, the Second Lien Notes and the Convertible Notes, the Revolving Facility Agreement, the 2026 Unsecured Notes, the 2027 Unsecured Notes, and certain other debt instruments involve, and any agreements for future debt or preferred equity financings, if available, may involve, covenants limiting or restricting our ability to take specific actions, such as incurring additional debt, which may require us to raise additional funds by issuing equity securities in public or private offerings to meet our liquidity needs.

Our Board of Directors has the authority, without action or vote of the shareholders, to issue any or all authorized but unissued shares of our common stock, including securities convertible into, or exchangeable for, our common stock and authorized but unissued shares under our equity compensation plans or otherwise. In the future, we may issue such additional securities, through public or private offerings, in order to raise additional capital. For example, in April 2020, we completed (i) a public offering of 71,875,000 shares of Carnival Corporation’s common stock at a price per share of $8.00, resulting in net proceeds of $556 million and (ii) a private offering of $2.0 billion aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes. Any such issuance will dilute the percentage ownership of shareholders and may dilute the per share projected earnings or book value of our common stock. Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public market after this offering, or the perception that these sales could occur, could cause the market price of our common stock to decline and may make it more difficult for you to sell your shares at a time and price that you deem appropriate.

We, our executive officers and directors and certain of our affiliates have entered into lock-up agreements with the underwriter under which we and they have agreed, subject to certain exceptions, not to sell, directly or indirectly, any of their shares of common stock without the permission of the underwriter for a period of 45 days following the date of this prospectus supplement. We refer to such period as the lock-up period. When the lock-up period expires, we, our executive officers and directors and certain of our affiliates will be able to sell common stock in the public market, subject to compliance with applicable securities laws restrictions. In addition, the underwriter may in its sole discretion, release all or some portion of the shares of common stock subject to lock-up agreements at any time and for any reason. Sales of shares of our common stock upon expiration of the lock-up agreements or otherwise, the perception that such sales may occur or early release of these agreements could cause the market price of our common stock to fall or make it more difficult for you to sell your shares at a time and price that you deem appropriate.

The trading market for our common stock may be impacted, in part, by the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us or our business. There can be no assurance that analysts will cover us, continue to cover us or provide favorable coverage. If one or more analysts downgrade our stock or change their opinion of our stock, our share price may decline. In addition, if one or more analysts cease

See Note 5 of the consolidated financial statements in the Annual Report.

Subject to the discussion of the “PFIC” rules below:

Any distributions made by us with respect to the Shares will generally constitute dividends taxable as ordinary income to the extent of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. Distributions in excess of those earnings and profits will be treated first as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in our Shares (determined on a share-by-share basis), and thereafter as capital gain. Because we are not a U.S. corporation, U.S. Holders that are corporations will not be entitled to claim a dividends-received deduction with respect to any distributions they receive from us. So long as our stock is considered readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States, we expect that we will constitute a “qualified foreign corporation” and dividends received by certain non-corporate U.S. Holders should, subject to applicable limitations, qualify as “qualified dividend income” eligible for preferential rates. As noted below under “— PFIC Status,” if were found to be a PFIC (as defined below), however, we would not constitute a “qualified foreign corporation” and dividends received by non-corporate U.S. Holders would not qualify as “qualified dividend income” eligible for preferential rates. We believe that we were not a PFIC for the 2020 taxable year, and as discussed below, we believe that we should not be a PFIC for the 2021 taxable year or for the foreseeable future.

Amounts taxable as dividends generally will be treated as income from sources outside the U.S. and will, depending on a U.S. Holder’s circumstances, be “passive” or “general” category income which, in either case, is treated separately from other types of income for purposes of computing the foreign tax credit allowable to such U.S. Holder.

However, if (a) we are 50% or more owned, by vote or value, by U.S. persons and (b) at least 10% of our earnings and profits are attributable to sources within the U.S., then for foreign tax credit purposes, a

To the extent that (taking account of any other non-exempt dividend income received by the shareholder in the same tax year) the dividend exceeds the nil rate band, it will be subject to income tax at 7.5 per cent to the extent that it falls below the threshold for higher rate income tax. To the extent that (taking account of other non-exempt dividend income received in the same tax year) it falls above the threshold for higher rate income tax then the dividend will be taxed at 32.5 per cent to the extent that it is within the higher rate band, or 38.1 per cent to the extent that it is within the additional rate band. For the purposes of determining which of the taxable bands dividend income falls into, dividend income is treated as the highest part of a shareholder’s income. In addition, dividends within the nil rate band which would (if there was no nil rate band) have fallen within the basic or higher rate bands will use up those bands respectively for the purposes of determining whether the threshold for higher rate or additional rate income tax is exceeded.

Unless the shareholder is a “small company” ​(see further below), it is likely that most dividends paid on the shares to UK resident corporate shareholders would fall within one or more of the classes of dividend qualifying for exemption from corporation tax. However, it should be noted that the exemptions are not comprehensive and are also subject to anti-avoidance rules.

Shareholders within the charge to UK corporation tax which are “small companies” ​(as that term is defined in section 931S of the Corporation Tax Act 2009) will be liable to corporation tax on dividends paid to them by Carnival Corporation because Carnival Corporation is not resident in a “qualifying territory”

We have agreed that we will not:

We have agreed to indemnify the underwriter against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933.

In connection with this offering, the underwriter may engage in stabilizing transactions, which involves making bids for, purchasing and selling shares of common stock in the open market for the purpose of preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the common stock while this offering is in progress. These stabilizing transactions may include making short sales of common stock, which involves the sale by the underwriter of a greater number of shares of common stock than it is required to purchase in this offering, and purchasing shares of common stock on the open market to cover positions created by short sales.

The underwriters has advised us that, pursuant to Regulation M of the Securities Act of 1933, it may also engage in other activities that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the common stock, including the imposition of penalty bids.

These activities may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of the common stock or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the common stock, and, as a result, the price of the common stock may be higher than the price that otherwise might exist in the open market. If the underwriter commences these activities, it may discontinue them at any time. The underwriter may carry out these transactions on the NYSE, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

Other than in the United States, no action has been taken by us or the underwriter that would permit a public offering of the securities offered by this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required. The securities offered by this prospectus may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, nor may this prospectus or any other offering material or advertisements in connection with the offer and sale of any such securities be distributed or published in any jurisdiction, except under circumstances that will result in compliance with the applicable rules and regulations of that jurisdiction. Persons into whose possession this prospectus comes are advised to inform themselves about and to observe any restrictions relating to the offering and the distribution of this prospectus. This prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities offered by this prospectus in any jurisdiction in which such an offer or a solicitation is unlawful.

The underwriter and its affiliates are full service financial institutions engaged in various activities, which may include sales and trading, commercial and investment banking, advisory, investment management, investment research, principal investment, hedging, market making, brokerage and other financial and

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area (each, a “Relevant State”), an offer to the public of any shares of common stock may not be made in that Relevant State, except that an offer to the public in that Relevant State of any shares of common stock may be made at any time under the following exemptions under the Prospectus Regulation:

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer to the public” in relation to any shares in any Relevant State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and any shares of common stock to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for any shares of common stock, and the expression “Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129.

An offer to the public of any shares of common stock may not be made in the United Kingdom, except that an offer to the public in the United Kingdom of any shares of common stock may be made at any time under the following exemptions under the UK Prospectus Regulation:

Some of the statements, estimates or projections contained in this prospectus or incorporated by reference into this prospectus are “forward-looking statements” that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions with respect to us, including some statements concerning the transactions described in this prospectus, future results, operations, outlooks, plans, goals, reputation, cash flows, liquidity and other events which have not yet occurred. These statements are intended to qualify for the safe harbors from liability provided by Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. All statements other than statements of historical facts are statements that could be deemed forward-looking. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about our business and the industry in which we operate and the beliefs and assumptions of our management. We have tried, whenever possible, to identify these statements by using words like “will,” “may,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “believe,” “depends,” “expect,” “goal,” “anticipate,” “forecast,” “project,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “indicate,” “outlook,” and similar expressions of future intent or the negative of such terms.

Forward-looking statements include those statements that may impact our outlook including, but not limited to, the forecasting of our:

the terms for redemption, extension or early repayment;

the events of default;

One or more series of Debt Securities may be sold at a substantial discount below their stated principal amount, bearing no interest or interest at a rate which at the time of issuance is below market rates. Any applicable federal income tax consequences and special considerations will be described in the applicable prospectus supplement.

Except as otherwise stated in the applicable prospectus supplement, principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, will be payable at an office or agency to be maintained by us, except that at our option, interest may be paid by bank transfer or a check mailed to the person entitled to it.

The Debt Securities will be issued only in fully registered form without coupons and may be presented for registration of transfer or exchange at the corporate trust office of the Trustee. No service charge will be made for any transfer or exchange of the Debt Securities, but we may require payment of a sum to cover any tax or other governmental charge that must be paid in connection with the transfer or exchange. Not all Debt Securities of any one series need be issued at the same time, and, unless otherwise provided, a series may be reopened for issuances of additional Debt Securities of that series.

The Indenture does not contain any covenants or provisions that are specifically intended to give holders of the Debt Securities protection if we undertake a highly leveraged transaction. With respect to any series of Debt Securities, the existence or non-existence of such covenants or provisions will be disclosed in the applicable prospectus supplement.

Neither Panamanian law nor our Articles of Incorporation or By-laws limit the right of non-resident or foreign owners to hold Debt Securities. While no tax treaty currently exists between the Republic of Panama and the U.S., we believe that under current law interest payments to holders of our Debt Securities are not subject to taxation under the laws of the Republic of Panama.

Carnival plc will guarantee our Debt Securities under the Guarantees (as defined below), which will be contained in the applicable Indenture. Carnival plc, as obligor, will irrevocably, unconditionally and absolutely guarantee, jointly and severally and on a continuing basis, to each holder of the Debt Securities and to the applicable Trustee and its successors and assigns, as and for Carnival plc’s own debt, until final and indefeasible payment of the amounts referred to in clause (a) have been made: (a) the due and punctual payment of principal and interest, and, if applicable, Additional Amounts (as defined below under “— Payment of Additional Amounts”) (if any), on the Debt Securities when due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, and all other monetary obligations of ours under the Indentures (including obligations applicable to the Trustee) and the Debt Securities; and (b) the punctual and faithful performance, keeping, observance and fulfillment by us of all duties, agreements, covenants and obligations of ours under the Indentures and the Debt Securities (the obligations set forth in clauses (a) and (b), collectively, the “Guarantees”). Such Guarantees will constitute guarantees of payment and not merely of collection. The obligations of Carnival plc under the Indentures will be immediate and not contingent upon the exercise or enforcement by any holder of Debt Securities or other person. The Guarantees will be governed by New York law.

The Debt Securities of a series may be issued in the form of one or more global securities that will be deposited with a depository (the “Depository”) or with a nominee for the Depository identified in the applicable prospectus supplement, and will be registered in the name of the Depository or a nominee of it. In such a case one or more global securities will be issued in a denomination or aggregate denominations equal to the aggregate principal amount of all the Debt Securities of the series to be represented by the global security or securities. Unless and until it is exchanged in whole or in part for Debt Securities in definitive certificated form, a global security may be transferred, in whole but not in part, only to another nominee of

The specific depository arrangement with respect to any series of Debt Securities to be represented by a global security will be described in the applicable prospectus supplement.

We will agree that any amounts payable on the Debt Securities will be paid without deduction or withholding for any and all present and future taxes, levies, imposts or other governmental charges imposed, assessed, levied or collected by or for the account of (i)(x) the Republic of Panama or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof or (y) the jurisdiction of incorporation (other than the U.S. or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof) of a successor entity to us, to the extent that such taxes, levies, imports or other governmental charges first become applicable as a result of such successor entity becoming the obligor on the Debt Securities, or (ii) any other jurisdiction (other than the U.S. or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof) from or through which any amount is paid by us with respect to the Debt Securities or where we are resident or maintain a place of business or permanent establishment (each jurisdiction described in clauses (i) and (ii) above is referred to herein as a “Taxing Jurisdiction” and such taxes, levies, imposts or other governmental charges are referred to as “Taxes”), unless the withholding or deduction of such Tax is compelled by laws of the Republic of Panama or any other applicable Taxing Jurisdiction. If any deduction or withholding of any Taxes (other than Excluded Taxes, as defined below) is ever required by the Republic of Panama or any other Taxing Jurisdiction, we will (if the holders or beneficial owners of the relevant Debt Securities comply with any applicable administrative requirements) pay any additional amounts (“Additional Amounts”) required to make the net amounts paid to each holder of the Debt Securities or the Trustee pursuant to the terms of the Indenture or the Debt Securities after such deduction or withholding equal to the amounts then due and payable under the terms of the Indenture or the Debt Securities. However, we will not be required to pay Additional Amounts in respect of the following Taxes (“Excluded Taxes”):

We or our successor, as the case may be, will also:

Carnival plc or any successor to it, as the case may be, will indemnify and hold harmless each holder of Debt Securities and upon written request reimburse each holder for the amount of:

Carnival plc or its successor, as the case may be, will also:

Carnival plc or any successor to it, as the case may be, will furnish the Trustee within 30 days after the date the payment of any such Guarantor Jurisdiction Taxes is due pursuant to applicable law, certified copies of tax receipts evidencing the payment by Carnival plc or any successor to it, as the case may be, or other evidence of such payment reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee.

In addition, unless otherwise specified in the prospectus supplement with respect to any series of Debt Securities, if as the result of any change in or any amendment to the laws, including any regulations and any applicable double taxation treaty or convention, of the United Kingdom (or other jurisdiction of tax residence (other than the United States) of a successor entity to Carnival plc), or of any of its political subdivisions or taxing authorities affecting taxation, or any change in an application or interpretation of those laws, which change, amendment, application or interpretation becomes effective on or after the original

Neither we nor Carnival plc, as guarantor of Debt Securities, can consolidate with or merge into any other person or transfer or lease all or substantially all of our assets substantially as an entirety to any person unless:

Unless otherwise noted in an applicable prospectus supplement or board resolution creating a particular series of Debt Securities, the following are “Events of Default” in respect of a particular series of Debt Securities:

The Indenture provides that we (and, to the extent applicable, Carnival plc), at our option,

Carnival plc may issue from time to time debt securities in one or more series that will consist of either senior debt (“PLC Senior Debt Securities”) or subordinated debt (“PLC Subordinated Debt Securities”). The PLC Senior Debt Securities will be issued under an indenture (the “PLC Senior Indenture”), to be entered into between Carnival plc, Carnival Corporation, as guarantor, and U.S. Bank National Association (the “PLC Senior Trustee”), as the PLC Trustee. The PLC Subordinated Debt Securities will be issued under an indenture (the “PLC Subordinated Indenture”), to be entered into between Carnival plc, Carnival Corporation, as guarantor, and U.S. Bank National Association (the “PLC Subordinated Trustee”), as the PLC Trustee. The term “PLC Indenture” refers to either the PLC Senior Indenture or the PLC Subordinated Indenture, as appropriate, the term “PLC Trustee” refers to either the PLC Senior Trustee or the PLC Subordinated Trustee, as appropriate, and the term “PLC Debt Securities” refers to the PLC Senior Debt Securities and the PLC Subordinated Debt Securities. Each PLC Indenture will be subject to and governed by the Trust Indenture Act of 1939.

The following statements with respect to the PLC Debt Securities are not complete and are subject to the detailed provisions of the PLC Senior Indenture and the PLC Subordinated Indenture. Forms of these agreements are filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement.

The particular terms of each series of PLC Debt Securities (including any additions or modifications to the general terms of the PLC Debt Securities) will be described in a prospectus supplement that will be filed with the SEC. To review the terms of a particular series of PLC Debt Securities, you must refer to both the prospectus supplement for the particular series and to the description of PLC Debt Securities contained in this prospectus. There may be different trustees for one or more different series of PLC Debt Securities. See “— Trustee.”

The applicable prospectus supplement for a series of PLC Debt Securities to be issued will describe the following terms of the offered PLC Debt Securities:

Except as otherwise stated in the applicable prospectus supplement, principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, will be payable at an office or agency to be maintained by Carnival plc, except that at Carnival plc’s option, interest may be paid by bank transfer or a check mailed to the person entitled to it.

The PLC Debt Securities will be issued only in fully registered form without coupons and may be presented for registration of transfer or exchange at the corporate trust office of the PLC Trustee. No service charge will be made for any transfer or exchange of the PLC Debt Securities, but Carnival plc may require payment of a sum to cover any tax or other governmental charge that must be paid in connection with the transfer or exchange. Not all PLC Debt Securities of any one series need be issued at the same time, and, unless otherwise provided, a series may be reopened for issuances of additional PLC Debt Securities of that series.

The PLC Indenture does not contain any covenants or provisions that are specifically intended to give holders of the PLC Debt Securities protection if Carnival plc undertakes a highly leveraged transaction. With respect to any series of PLC Debt Securities, the existence or non-existence of such covenants or provisions will be disclosed in the applicable prospectus supplement.

Carnival Corporation will guarantee Carnival plc’s PLC Debt Securities under the PLC Guarantees (as defined below), which will be contained in the applicable PLC Indenture. Carnival Corporation, as obligor, will irrevocably, unconditionally and absolutely guarantee, jointly and severally and on a continuing basis, to each holder of the PLC Debt Securities and to the applicable PLC Trustee and its successors and assigns, as and for Carnival Corporation’s own debt, until final and indefeasible payment of the amounts referred to in clause (a) have been made: (a) the due and punctual payment of principal and interest, and, if applicable, PLC Guarantor Additional Amounts (as defined below under “— Payment of PLC Guarantor Additional Amounts”) (if any), on the PLC Debt Securities when due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, and all other monetary obligations of Carnival plc under the PLC Indentures (including obligations applicable to the PLC Trustee) and the PLC Debt Securities; and (b) the punctual and faithful performance, keeping, observance and fulfillment by Carnival plc of all duties, agreements, covenants and obligations of Carnival plc under the PLC Indentures and the PLC Debt Securities (the obligations set forth in clauses (a) and (b), collectively, the “PLC Guarantees”). Such PLC Guarantees will constitute guarantees of payment and not merely of collection. The obligations of Carnival Corporation under the PLC Indentures will be immediate and not contingent upon the exercise or enforcement by any holder of PLC Debt Securities or other person. The PLC Guarantees will be governed by New York law.

The PLC Debt Securities of a series may be issued in the form of one or more global securities that will be deposited with a depository or with a nominee for the Depository identified in the applicable prospectus supplement, and will be registered in the name of the Depository or a nominee of it. In such a case one or more global securities will be issued in a denomination or aggregate denominations equal to the aggregate principal amount of all the PLC Debt Securities of the series to be represented by the global security or securities. Unless and until it is exchanged in whole or in part for PLC Debt Securities in definitive certificated

Carnival plc or its successor, as the case may be, will also:

Each holder of the PLC Debt Securities, by acceptance of the PLC Debt Securities, agrees that, with reasonable promptness after receiving written notice from Carnival plc to the effect that such holder is eligible for a refund in respect of PLC Taxes actually paid by Carnival plc, such holder will sign and deliver, as reasonably directed by Carnival plc, any form provided to such by Carnival plc to enable such holder to obtain a refund in respect of such PLC Taxes; and if such holder thereafter receives such refund in respect of such PLC Taxes, such holder will promptly pay such refund to Carnival plc (together with interest, if any, received by such holder from the relevant taxing authority). If a holder applies for a refund of such PLC Taxes prior to a request by Carnival plc to apply for such a refund, the holder will, upon receipt of a request by Carnival plc to apply for, or to turn over the proceeds of, any such refund, pay any such refund to Carnival plc (together with interest, if any, received by such holder from the relevant taxing authority), promptly upon receipt of such refund. Carnival plc shall pay all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by a holder in connection with obtaining such refund.

Carnival Corporation, the guarantor of the PLC Debt Securities, will agree to make with respect to the PLC Indenture and the PLC Debt Securities, all such payments to be paid without deduction or withholding for any and all present and future taxes, levies, imposts or other governmental charges imposed, assessed, levied or collected by or for the account of (i)(x) the Republic of Panama or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof or (y) the jurisdiction of incorporation (other than the U.S. or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof) of a successor entity to Carnival Corporation, to the extent that such taxes, levies, imports or other governmental charges first become applicable as a result of such successor entity becoming the obligor on the PLC Guarantees, or (ii) any other jurisdiction (other than the U.S. or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof) from or through which any amount is paid by Carnival Corporation with respect to the PLC Debt Securities or where Carnival Corporation is resident or maintains a place of business or permanent establishment (each jurisdiction described in clauses (i) and (ii) above is referred to herein as a “PLC Guarantor Taxing Jurisdiction” and such taxes, levies, imposts or other governmental charges are referred to as “Corp. Taxes”), unless the withholding or deduction of such Tax is compelled by laws of the Republic of Panama or any other applicable PLC Guarantor Taxing Jurisdiction. If any deduction or withholding of any Corp. Taxes (other than Corp. Excluded Taxes, as defined below) is ever required by the Republic of Panama or any other PLC Guarantor Taxing Jurisdiction, Carnival Corporation will (if the holders or beneficial owners of the relevant PLC Debt Securities comply with any applicable administrative requirements) pay any additional amounts (“PLC Guarantor Additional Amounts”) required to make the net amounts paid to each holder of the PLC Debt Securities or the PLC Trustee pursuant to the terms of the PLC Indenture or the PLC Debt Securities after such deduction or withholding equal to the amounts then due and payable under the terms of the PLC Indenture or the PLC Debt Securities. However, Carnival Corporation will not be required to pay PLC Guarantor Additional Amounts in respect of the following Corp. Taxes (“Corp. Excluded Taxes”):

Carnival Corporation or any successor to it, as the case may be, will indemnify and hold harmless each holder of the PLC Debt Securities and upon written request reimburse each holder for the amount of:

In addition, unless otherwise specified in the prospectus supplement with respect to any series of PLC Debt Securities, if as the result of any change in or any amendment to the laws, including any regulations and any applicable double taxation treaty or convention, of the Republic of Panama (or other jurisdiction of incorporation (other than the United States) of a successor entity to Carnival Corporation), or of any of its political subdivisions or taxing authorities affecting taxation, or any change in an application or interpretation of those laws, which change, amendment, application or interpretation becomes effective on or after the original issuance date of the series of PLC Debt Securities (or, in certain circumstances, the later date on which an entity becomes a successor entity to Carnival Corporation), we determine based upon an opinion of independent counsel of recognized standing that:

Neither Carnival plc nor Carnival Corporation, as guarantor of PLC Debt Securities, can consolidate with or merge into any other person or transfer or lease all or substantially all of its assets substantially as an entirety to any person unless:

Unless otherwise noted in an applicable prospectus supplement or board resolution creating a particular series of Debt Securities, the following are “Events of Default” in respect of a particular series of Debt Securities:

If an Event of Default in respect of a particular series of PLC Debt Securities outstanding occurs and is continuing, either the PLC Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount of the PLC Debt Securities outstanding of the series may declare the principal amount (or, if the PLC Debt Securities of the series are original issue discount PLC Debt Securities, the portion of the principal amount as may be specified in the terms of the series) of all of the PLC Debt Securities of the series to be due and payable immediately. At any time after such a declaration of acceleration has been made, but before a judgment or decree for the payment of money due upon acceleration has been obtained by the PLC Trustee, the holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the PLC Debt Securities of the affected series may, under certain circumstances, rescind and annul the declaration and its consequences if all Events of Default relating to the PLC Debt Securities of the series, other than the non-payment of principal due solely by the declaration of acceleration, have been cured or waived as provided in the PLC Indenture.

The PLC Trustee will, within 90 days after a default in respect of a series of PLC Debt Securities, give the holders of the series notice of all uncured defaults known to it (the term “default” includes the events specified above without grace periods). However, except in the case of default in the payment of the principal of, or premium, if any, on or interest on any of the PLC Debt Securities of the series, or in the payment of any sinking fund installment with respect to the PLC Debt Securities of the series, the PLC Trustee may withhold such notice and will not be liable to holders for doing so, if the PLC Trustee in good faith determines that the withholding of such notice is in the interests of the holders of the series.

Pursuant to the terms of the PLC Indenture, Carnival plc is required to furnish to the PLC Trustee within 120 days of the end of Carnival plc’s fiscal year a statement of certain of Carnival plc’s officers stating whether or not to the best of their knowledge Carnival plc is in default, in respect of any series of PLC Debt Securities or in the performance and observance of the terms of the PLC Indenture and, if Carnival plc is in default, specifying the default and the nature of it.

The PLC Indenture provides that the holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of all PLC Debt Securities then outstanding of a particular series will have the right to waive certain defaults in respect of the series and, subject to certain limitations, to direct the time, method and place of conducting any

We may issue warrants (the “Warrants”) for the purchase of our common stock, preferred stock or Debt Securities, Warrants to purchase or sell debt securities of or guaranteed by the U.S. (“Government Debt Securities”), Warrants to purchase or sell foreign currencies, currency units or units of a currency index or currency basket, Warrants to purchase or sell units of a stock index or a stock basket and Warrants to purchase or sell a commodity or a commodity index. Warrants may be issued independently or together with any Securities offered by any prospectus supplement and may be attached to or separate from those Securities. The Warrants will be settled either through physical delivery or through payment of a cash settlement value as described in this prospectus and in any applicable prospectus supplement. The Warrants will be issued under warrant agreements (each a “Warrant Agreement”) to be entered into with a bank or trust company, as warrant agent (the “Warrant Agent”), all as set forth in the relevant prospectus supplement. The Warrant Agent will act solely as our agent in connection with the Warrant certificates and will not assume any obligation or relationship of agency or trust for or with any holders of Warrant certificates or beneficial owners of Warrants. The following summaries of certain provisions of the forms of Warrant Agreement are not complete and are qualified by reference to the provisions of the forms of Warrant Agreement (including the forms of Warrant certificates), copies of which will be filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement (or incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement).

The particular terms of any Warrants (including any modification or additions to the general terms of the Warrants) will be described in a prospectus supplement that will be filed with the SEC. To review the terms of any particular Warrants, you must refer to both the prospectus supplement relating to such Warrants and to the description of the Warrants in this prospectus.

A prospectus supplement will describe the following terms of any Warrants (to the extent such terms are applicable to the Warrants):

If the Warrants are to purchase common stock or preferred stock, the prospectus supplement will also describe the purchase price for the underlying common stock or preferred stock.

If the Warrants are to purchase Debt Securities, the prospectus supplement will also describe:

If the Warrants are to purchase or sell Government Debt Securities or a foreign currency, currency unit, composite currency, currency index or currency basket, the Warrants will be listed on a national securities exchange and the prospectus supplement will describe the amount and designation of the Government Debt Securities or currency, currency unit, composite currency, currency index or currency basket, as the case may be, subject to each Warrant, whether the Warrants are to purchase or sell the Government Debt Securities, foreign currency, currency unit, composite currency, currency index or currency basket, whether the Warrants provide for cash settlement or delivery of the Government Debt Securities or foreign currency, currency unit, composite currency, currency index or currency basket upon exercise, and the national securities exchange on which the Warrants will be listed.

If the Warrants are to purchase or sell a stock index or a stock basket, the Warrants will provide for payment of an amount in cash determined by reference to increases or decreases in that stock index or stock basket and will be listed on a national securities exchange, and the prospectus supplement will describe the terms of the Warrants, whether the Warrants are to purchase or sell the stock index or stock basket, the stock index or stock basket covered by the Warrants and the market to which the stock index or stock basket relates, whether the Warrants are to purchase or sell the stock index or stock basket and the national securities exchange on which the Warrants will be listed.

If the Warrants are to purchase or sell a commodity or commodity index, the Warrants will provide for cash settlement or delivery of the particular commodity or commodities, and the Warrants will be listed on a national securities exchange. The prospectus supplement will describe the terms of the Warrants, the commodity or commodity index covered by the Warrants, whether the Warrants are to purchase or sell the commodity or commodity index, whether the Warrants provide for cash settlement or delivery of the commodity or commodity index, the market, if any, to which the commodity or commodity index relates and the national securities exchange on which the Warrants will be listed.

Warrant certificates may be exchanged for new Warrant certificates of different denominations, may be presented for registration of transfer, and may be exercised at the corporate trust office of the Warrant Agent or any other office indicated in the prospectus supplement. Warrants to purchase or sell Government Debt Securities or a foreign currency, currency unit, composite currency, currency index or currency basket, and Warrants to purchase stock indices or stock baskets or commodities or commodity indices, may be issued in the form of a single global warrant certificate, registered in the name of the nominee of the depository of the Warrants, or may initially be issued in the form of definitive certificates that may be exchanged, on a fixed date, or on a date or dates we select, for interests in a global warrant certificate, as described in the applicable prospectus supplement.

Prior to the exercise of their Warrants, holders of Warrants to purchase common stock, preferred stock or Debt Securities will, until their Warrants are exercised, not have any of the rights of holders of such Securities.

Each Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase the amount of common stock, preferred stock or Debt Securities, or purchase or sell the amount of Government Debt Securities, or the amount of currency, currency unit, composite currency, currency index or currency basket, stock index or stock basket,

The following is a description of the material terms of our capital stock. Because it is a summary, the following description is not complete and is subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to our third amended and restated articles of incorporation, or articles, our third amended and restated by-laws, or by-laws, and the other agreements specifically referenced in this section.

Our authorized capital stock consists of 2,000,000,000 shares, of which 1,959,999,998 are shares of common stock, 40,000,000 are shares of preferred stock, one share is a special voting stock and one share is a special stock. As of January 14, 2021, there were 932,485,510 shares of common stock, no shares of preferred stock, one share of special voting stock and one share of special stock outstanding. The one share of special voting stock, which we refer to in this prospectus as the special voting share, and the one share of special stock, which we refer to in this prospectus as the equalization share, were issued in connection with the DLC transaction, which was completed on April 17, 2003. See “— Special Voting Share” and “— Equalization Share.”

Our common stock and the trust shares of beneficial interest in the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust, including the beneficial interest in the Carnival plc special voting share, are listed and trade together on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “CCL.”

At any meeting of shareholders, all matters, except as otherwise expressly provided by Panamanian law and our articles or our by-laws, are decided by a majority of the votes cast by all shareholders entitled to vote, including, where applicable, the Carnival Corporation Special Voting Entity, as described below, who are present in person or by proxy at such meeting. In connection with the DLC transaction, special voting arrangements were implemented so that our shareholders and Carnival plc’s shareholders vote together as a single decision-making body on all actions submitted to a shareholder vote other than matters designated as “class rights actions” or resolutions on procedural or technical matters.

These are called JOINT ELECTORATE ACTIONS and include:

The relative voting rights of the Carnival plc shares and our shares are determined by the equalization ratio. Based on the current equalization ratio of 1:1, each of our shares has the same voting rights as one Carnival plc share on joint electorate actions.

A change in the equalization ratio resulting from a share reorganization or otherwise would only affect voting rights on a per share basis. In the aggregate, such a change would not affect the relative weighting between our shareholders and the shareholders of Carnival plc.

In the case of class rights actions, the company wishing to carry out the class rights action would require the prior approval of shareholders of both companies, each voting separately as a class. If shareholders of either company do not approve the action, it generally will fail.

Our board and the Carnival plc board may:

The Equalization and Governance Agreement, which was executed on April 17, 2003 by us and Carnival plc in connection with the DLC transaction, governs the equalization ratio, which reflects the relative economic and voting interests represented by an individual share of common equity in each company. As of June 1, 2003, the “equalization ratio” between shares of our common stock and Carnival plc ordinary shares was 1:1, so one share of our common stock is entitled to the same economic and voting interests in Carnival Corporation & plc as one Carnival plc ordinary share.

In order to provide the relative rights of Carnival Corporation shares and Carnival plc shares under the DLC transaction, we and Carnival plc agreed in the Equalization and Governance Agreement that Carnival Corporation & plc would be operated under the following DLC equalization principles:

Any adjustments to the equalization ratio will be communicated to shareholders through a press release.

Our board and the Carnival plc board will be under no obligation to undertake any such matching action or to seek approval of an alternative as a class rights action if any issue or transaction referred to above is not covered by an automatic adjustment to the equalization ratio, and no automatic adjustment to the equalization ratio will then occur, but our board and the Carnival plc board will have the right (in their sole discretion), but not the obligation, to undertake a matching action, or to seek approval of an adjustment to the equalization ratio as a class rights action.

No adjustment to the equalization ratio will be required in respect of:

Under Panamanian law, a corporation may pay dividends to the extent of a corporation’s net earnings or capital surplus.

In giving effect to the principles regarding a liquidation of us, we may:

Under Panamanian law, shareholders of a corporation do not have appraisal rights.

As part of the DLC transaction, Carnival plc issued a special voting share to us, and we transferred such share to the trustee of the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust, a trust established under the laws of the Cayman Islands for the purpose of holding the Carnival plc special voting share. For joint electorate actions, the Carnival plc special voting share represents the number of votes cast at the parallel meeting of our shareholders, as adjusted by the equalization ratio and rounded to the nearest whole number, and will represent “yes” votes, “no” votes and abstentions at the Carnival plc meeting in accordance with votes cast at our meeting.

For class rights actions, the trustee of the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust, as holder of the Carnival plc special voting share, will only vote if the proposed action has not been approved at our parallel meeting. In that event, the Carnival plc special voting share will represent that number of votes equal to the largest whole percentage that is less than the percentage of the number of votes, or, in the case of a special resolution, such percentage less one vote, necessary to defeat the resolution at the Carnival plc meeting if the total number of votes capable of being cast by all outstanding Carnival plc shares, and other Carnival plc shares able to vote, were cast in favor of the resolution. In most cases, this will be 49%. For a majority vote, 49% is the largest whole percentage that is less than the 50% needed to defeat the resolution. As a result, in the case of a majority vote, the Carnival plc special voting share will represent a number of votes equal to 98% of the votes capable of being cast by all Carnival plc shares excluding the votes represented by the Carnival plc special voting share. Therefore, assuming holders of approximately 2% or more of Carnival plc shares do not cast votes on such class rights action, it will fail. If our shareholders approve the proposed action, the Carnival plc special voting share will not represent any votes.

The Carnival plc special voting share will not represent any votes on any procedural resolutions.

In connection with the DLC transaction, trust shares of beneficial interest in the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust were transferred to us. Immediately following this transfer, we distributed such trust shares by way of dividend to our shareholders of record at the close of business on April 17, 2003. Under the Pairing Agreement entered into by us, the trustee of the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust and Computershare Investor Services (formerly SunTrust Bank) on April 17, 2003, and our articles, the trust shares of beneficial interest in the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust are paired with, and evidenced by, certificates representing shares of our common stock on a one-for-one basis.

Our shares trade in units consisting of one share of Carnival Corporation common stock and one trust share of beneficial interest in the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust. Each share of our common stock shall not and cannot be transferred without the corresponding paired trust share. The trust shares of beneficial interest in the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust entitle our shareholders to receive any distributions made by the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust. As the sole purpose of the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust relates to the holding of the Carnival plc special voting share, it is not expected to make any distributions. See “— Description of Trust Shares.”

Our articles authorize one equalization share. The equalization share:

Our by-laws provide that shareholders may not act by written consent.

Panamanian law imposes a general fiduciary duty on directors to act prudently and in the best interests of the company. Among other things, directors are responsible for the authenticity of the payments which appear to have been made on behalf of the company, for the validity of dividends to be paid, general book-keeping and for effecting the operation of the company in accordance with applicable laws, its articles of incorporation, its by-laws, and resolutions of the General Assembly of shareholders.

Our articles provide that our board of directors is authorized to operate and carry into effect the Equalization and Governance Agreement, the SVE Special Voting Deed, which regulates the manner in which the votes attaching to the Carnival Corporation special voting share and the P&O Princess special voting share are exercised, and the Carnival Corporation Deed of Guarantee each of which was entered into on April 17, 2003, and, subject to applicable laws and regulations, nothing done by any director in good faith pursuant to such authority and obligations constitutes a breach of the fiduciary duties of such director to us or our shareholders. In particular, the directors are, in addition to their duties to us, entitled to consider the interests of our shareholders and the Carnival plc shareholders as if we and Carnival plc were a single entity. As a result of and following completion of the DLC transaction, our board of directors and that of Carnival plc are identical.

If we propose to undertake a joint electorate action or class rights action at a meeting of shareholders, we must immediately give notice to Carnival plc of the nature of the joint electorate action or the class rights action it proposes to take. Unless such action is proposed to be taken at the annual meeting of shareholders, the board of directors must convene a special meeting for the purpose of considering a resolution to approve the joint electorate action or class rights action. Such meeting will be held as close in time as practicable with the parallel shareholder meeting convened by Carnival plc for purposes of considering such joint electorate action or class rights action. If we receive notice from Carnival plc that Carnival plc proposes to undertake a joint electorate action or a class rights action, our board of directors must convene a meeting of our shareholders as close in time as practicable to the Carnival plc meeting and must propose an equivalent resolution as that proposed at the Carnival plc meeting. We must cooperate fully with Carnival plc in preparing resolutions, explanatory memoranda or any other information or material required in connection with the proposed joint electorate action or class rights action.

Under Panamanian law, unless the articles of incorporation require a greater vote, an amendment to the articles of incorporation may be made:

Any amendment to the provisions of our articles which entrench the DLC arrangement requires approval as a class rights action. The entrenched provisions of the articles include matters relating to:

Notwithstanding the foregoing, any amendment of the articles (1) to specify or change the location of the office or registered agent of us, or (2) to make, revoke or change the designation of a registered agent, or to specify or change the registered agent, may be approved and effected by the board of directors without the approval of our shareholders or the shareholders of Carnival plc.

Under Panamanian law, the board of directors of a corporation has the power to adopt, amend or repeal the by-laws of the corporation, unless specifically provided to the contrary by the articles of incorporation or in the by-laws approved by the shareholders. Our by-laws provide that the by-laws may be altered, amended, supplemented or repealed or new by-laws may be adopted, by the board of directors or by vote of the holders of the shares entitled to vote in the election of directors. Any by-laws adopted, altered or supplemented by the board of directors may be altered, amended, supplemented or repealed by the shareholders entitled to vote thereon.

Any amendment to or repeal of the provisions of our by-laws which entrench the DLC arrangement will also require approval as a class rights action. Any amendment to or repeal of our by-laws other than any of our entrenched by-laws may be approved and effected by our board of directors without the approval of our shareholders or the shareholders of Carnival plc. The entrenched provisions of the by-laws include matters relating to:

Resolutions relating to the appointment, removal and re-election of directors will be considered as a joint electorate action and voted upon by the shareholders of each company effectively voting together as a single decision-making body. Our articles provide that the number of directors will be no less than three and no more than 25. Within said minimum and maximum, the total number of directors may be fixed from time to time by resolution of the shareholders or by resolution of the board. A change in the minimum and maximum number of directors will require an amendment to the articles. No person may be elected or appointed to serve on our board unless that person is also elected to be a member of the Carnival plc board. Any of our directors who resign from our board must also resign from the Carnival plc board and vice versa.

Our articles provide that no one person or group of related persons, other than some members of the Arison family and various trusts established for their benefit, may own, or be deemed to own by virtue of the attribution provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 4.9% of our common stock, whether measured by vote, value or number. In addition, the articles generally restrict the transfer of any shares of our common stock if such transfer would cause us to be subject to U.S. shipping income tax. In general, the attribution rules under the Internal Revenue Code applicable in determining whether a person is a 5% shareholder under the regulations attribute stock:

For purposes of this 4.9% limit, a “transfer” will include any sale, transfer, gift, assignment, devise or other disposition, whether voluntary or involuntary, whether of record, constructively or beneficially, and whether by operation of law or otherwise. The 4.9% limit does not apply to some members of the Arison family and various trusts established for their benefit. These shareholders will be permitted to transfer their shares of our common stock without complying with the limit so long as the transfer does not cause us to be subject to U.S. income tax on shipping operations.

The articles provide that the board of directors may waive the 4.9% limit or transfer restrictions, in any specific instance, if evidence satisfactory to our board of directors and our tax counsel is presented that such ownership will not jeopardize our status as exempt from U.S. income taxation on gross income from the international operation of a ship or ships, within the meaning of Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code. The board of directors may also terminate the limit and transfer restrictions generally at any time for any reason.

If a purported transfer or other event, including owning shares of common stock in excess of the 4.9% limit on the effective date of the proposed amendment, results in the ownership of common stock by any shareholder in violation of the 4.9% limit, or causes us to be subject to U.S. income tax on shipping operations, such shares of common stock in excess of the 4.9% limit, or which would cause us to be subject to U.S. shipping income tax will automatically be designated as “excess shares” to the extent necessary to ensure that the purported transfer or other event does not result in ownership of common stock in violation of the 4.9% limit or cause us to become subject to U.S. income tax on shipping operations, and any proposed transfer that would result in such an event would be void. Any purported transferee or other purported holder of excess shares will be required to give us written notice of a purported transfer or other event that would result in excess shares. The purported transferee or holders of such excess shares shall have no rights in such excess shares, other than a right to the payments described below.

Excess shares will not be treasury stock but rather will continue to be issued and outstanding shares of our common stock. While outstanding, excess shares will be transferred to a trust. The trustee of such trust will be appointed by us and will be independent of us and the purported holder of the excess shares. The beneficiary of such trust will be one or more charitable organizations selected by the trustee. The trustee will be entitled to vote the excess shares on behalf of the beneficiary. If, after purported transfer or other event resulting in excess shares and prior to the discovery by us of such transfer or other event, dividends or distributions are paid with respect to such excess shares, such dividends or distributions will be repaid to the trustee upon demand for payment to the charitable beneficiary. All dividends received or other income declared by the trust will be paid to the charitable beneficiary. Upon our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the purported transferee or other purported holder will receive a payment that reflects a price per share for such excess shares generally equal to the lesser of: