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4-Day The Bahamas from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL cruise ship
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Carnival Cruise Line

4-Day The Bahamas from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

4-Day The Bahamas from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

The Bahamas 4 days Mardi Gras
Departs
Jun 24, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Jun 28, 2027 at 8:00 AM
FamiliesRelaxingShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipAdults FriendlyFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

From the sun-kissed shores of Port Canaveral, set sail on an unforgettable 4-day escapade through the azure waters of The Bahamas aboard Carnival Cruise Line's magnificent Mardi Gras. Your journey begins in a port city celebrated for its proximity to Orlando's world-renowned theme parks and attractions, offering a perfect prelude to your tropical adventure. After a relaxing day at sea, prepare to be enchanted by Half Moon Cay, Carnival's private island paradise. Here, pristine white sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, inviting you to bask in the sun, explore vibrant marine life, or simply unwind in this idyllic Bahamian haven.The excitement continues as you discover Celebration Key, an upcoming private island destination exclusively designed for Carnival guests. Anticipate a lively and immersive Bahamian experience, brimming with unique activities and entertainment tailored to delight every traveler. As your cruise draws to a close, you'll return to Port Canaveral, refreshed and rejuvenated, with memories of sun-drenched days and starlit nights in The Bahamas. This 4-day voyage promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and exclusive island experiences.

Mardi Gras cruise ship
About the ship
Mardi Gras
5★
Rating
2020
Launched
5,282
Guests
180,800
Tonnage

When we launched our first ship, 1972's TSS Mardi Gras, we made cruising a lot less stuffy, a bit less fancy, the kind of fun everybody could enjoy. Nobody expected this ship to change the cruise world, but… here we are! Next year we're launching a brand-new ship with a familiar name. You guessed it: Mardi Gras. We aren't just paying homage to our first ship — in cruising circles this name suggests innovation, signals the start of something big. Oh, and this new Mardi Gras shouts “fun!” at the top of its lungs. This ship introduces Zones — six themed areas packed with brand-new experiences for eating, drinking and spectacularly getting down to fun. There's BOLT, the first-ever rollercoaster at sea, Emeril's Bistro 1396 from yes-that-Emeril, Family Feud Live for everybody... plus incredible new bars like The Brass Magnolia and Fortune Teller. Everybody can enjoy Mardi Gras, sailing in 2021. Come on down!

Gallery

Advisor take

Independent notes from a TNW Travel advisor

Best for
First-time cruisers, Families, Groups
Not ideal for
Travelers who need itineraries, cabins, or activities outside what this ship offers — confirm with your advisor.
Cabin recommendation
If pricing allows, compare balcony and midship locations before booking — they tend to offer the best comfort-per-dollar for most travelers.
Booking tip
Ask a TNW Travel advisor to confirm current fare, taxes, fees, cabin availability, and promotions before deposit.

Starting prices are estimates and can change until confirmed by the supplier. Final fare, taxes, fees, promotions, and cabin availability are confirmed by your TNW Travel advisor before booking.

Page last updated: Jun 17, 2026

Itinerary

  1. 1
    Port Canaveral (Orlando)
    This bustling port is your gateway to the magic of Orlando, boasting world-class theme parks and thrilling attractions just a short drive away.
  2. 2
    At Sea
  3. 3
    RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™
    Half Moon Cay is an idyllic private island in the Bahamas, renowned for its crescent-shaped beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, offering a pristine escape for relaxation and water activities.
  4. 4
    Celebration Key™
    Celebration Key™ is an upcoming private island destination owned by Carnival Corporation, promising a lively and immersive Bahamian experience designed specifically for Carnival Cruise Line guests.
  5. 5
    Port Canaveral (Orlando)
    This bustling port is your gateway to the magic of Orlando, boasting world-class theme parks and thrilling attractions just a short drive away.

Who this cruise is for

AI-scored fit by traveler type, grounded in this cruise's itinerary and ship.

First-time cruisers

Fit 90

An excellent choice for first-time cruisers due to its short duration, easy private island ports, and familiar brand experience on a modern ship.

Is this a good cruise for someone new to cruising?
Absolutely, this 4-day cruise is an excellent choice for a first-time cruiser! Its short duration allows you to experience cruising without a long commitment, and the itinerary focuses on two easy-to-navigate private islands.
Are the ports easy to manage for a first-timer?
Yes, with stops at Carnival's private islands, Half Moon Cay and the upcoming Celebration Key, the experience is designed to be seamless and guest-friendly, making them very easy for first-time cruisers to enjoy without complex planning.
What ship features make it easy for new cruisers?
Sailing on the Mardi Gras, a modern Carnival ship, means you'll have a wide array of amenities and activities, plus friendly staff to guide you. Carnival is also a well-known brand, offering a familiar and straightforward cruising experience.

Families

Fit 85

Excellent fit for families due to the short duration, theme park proximity, and two fun-filled private island destinations tailored for diverse activities.

Is this a good cruise for kids?
Yes, this 4-day cruise aboard the Mardi Gras is very family-friendly, especially with stops at Half Moon Cay and the upcoming Celebration Key, which are designed for diverse activities and fun for all ages.
What kind of activities are there for children on the ship or islands?
On the private islands like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, families can expect a lively and immersive Bahamian experience with unique activities, exploration of marine life, and pristine beaches designed for enjoyment.
Are there family-friendly dining options and accommodations?
The Mardi Gras is a large, modern ship, and Carnival is known for its family-friendly dining and cabin options. The private islands also offer various culinary choices suitable for families.

Groups

Fit 80

This cruise is a great option for groups due to its lively ship, two private island destinations for various activities, and short, manageable duration.

Is this cruise suitable for a group trip?
Yes, this 4-day Bahamas cruise on the Mardi Gras is very suitable for groups. Carnival ships are known for their lively atmosphere, and the stops at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key offer a wide range of activities for group enjoyment.
Are there group activities or dining options?
Carnival ships typically offer diverse dining venues and plenty of onboard activities that cater well to groups. The private islands also provide ample opportunities for groups to enjoy beach activities, water sports, and shared experiences.
Can we get cabins close together for our group?
While the description doesn't explicitly state cabin block options, group bookings with cruise lines like Carnival often allow for requesting cabins in close proximity or connecting cabins, making it easier for groups to stay together.

Couples

Fit 65

This short Bahamas cruise offers a relaxing escape for couples, with private island stops and activities, though it might lack intimate, premium romance options.

Are there romantic dining options on this cruise?
The cruise features two private island stops, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, which offer a range of dining experiences. While specific romantic dining isn't highlighted, private islands often provide unique, relaxed culinary settings.
Will we be able to find quiet spots away from crowds?
The Mardi Gras is a large ship, but with two dedicated private island days, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, you can find opportunities for relaxation and quiet on the beaches. The ship's description doesn't specifically mention adults-only quiet zones.
Are there balcony cabins available for a more private experience?
The Mardi Gras offers a variety of cabin types, and it's highly likely balcony cabins are available, providing a private outdoor space for couples to enjoy the ocean views on this Bahamian itinerary.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

A short, lively cruise and private island experiences offer social opportunities, but the lack of specific solo cabin or program mentions could mean single supplements.

Is this cruise good for solo travelers?
This 4-day cruise on the Mardi Gras to private islands like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key offers a fun, social environment. While not explicitly marketed for solos, the lively atmosphere can be good for meeting new people.
Will I have to pay a single supplement?
The cruise description does not mention specific solo cabins or waiving single supplements. It is common for cruises to charge a single supplement if you occupy a cabin designed for two.
Are there activities where I can easily meet other solo travelers?
Carnival cruises are known for their social atmosphere, and the private island destinations like Celebration Key are designed for lively experiences. This provides opportunities to mingle, though no specific solo traveler programs are detailed.

Accessible travelers

Fit 60

While details on ship accessibility are missing, private islands are generally well-equipped, though tendering at Half Moon Cay could be a consideration for some.

Is this cruise accessible for travelers with mobility limitations?
The Mardi Gras is a modern ship, which generally means it would have accessible cabins and onboard features. The private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, are typically designed with accessibility in mind, though specific details vary.
Are the ports tendered or docked?
Half Moon Cay is typically a tendered port, meaning guests transfer from the ship to the island by smaller boat. Celebration Key is an upcoming private island destination, and most private islands are designed for direct docking, but this isn't explicitly stated for all stops.
What accessibility features are on the ship or at the private islands?
Specific accessibility features for the Mardi Gras are not detailed in the description, but modern ships usually have accessible restrooms, elevators, and cabins. Private islands are also generally designed with paths and beach access for various mobility needs.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What unique features does the Mardi Gras ship offer for a 4-day Bahamas cruise?
The Mardi Gras features BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, along with several themed zones offering diverse dining, entertainment, and activities for all ages.
What is Celebration Key, and what can I expect there during my cruise?
Celebration Key is Carnival's new private island destination in The Bahamas. You can expect a lively Bahamian experience with unique activities, entertainment, and amenities exclusively for Carnival guests.
What activities are available at Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay offers pristine white sand beaches, opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters, and various beach-focused relaxation and recreational activities.
Is this 4-day cruise suitable for families with young children?
Yes, with the Mardi Gras's diverse offerings and private island stops like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, this cruise is well-suited for families with young children, providing entertainment and relaxation options for all ages.
What is the best time to book this 2027 Bahamas cruise?
It's advisable to book as early as possible, especially for specific cabin types or travel dates, to secure preferred pricing and availability.
What types of cabins are available on the Mardi Gras for this itinerary?
The Mardi Gras offers a range of cabin options, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and various suite categories to accommodate different preferences and budgets.
What is included in the 'from price' of $684 for this cruise?
The 'from price' typically includes your cabin accommodation, most meals onboard, and access to many of the ship's entertainment and activities. It usually excludes port expenses, gratuities, drinks packages, shore excursions, and specialty dining.
How can I get to Port Canaveral from Orlando International Airport (MCO)?
Port Canaveral is approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive from MCO. You can arrange shuttle services, taxis, or ride-sharing options, or rent a car for transportation.