Basis of Presentation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Adjustment amounts on gross basis in revenues and expenses	$ 126	$ 108	$ 364	$ 311

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