Basis of Presentation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
May 31, 2012	May 31, 2011	May 31, 2012	May 31, 2011
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Adjustment amounts on gross basis in revenues and expenses	$ 110	$ 95	$ 237	$ 203

Change in classification of port costs that vary with guest head counts to a gross presentation from a net presentation.

No definition available.

Name:	ccl_ChangeInAccountingPrinciple
Namespace Prefix:	ccl_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration