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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
Nov 11, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Nov 15, 2027 at 8:00 AM
FamiliesShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

Prepare for an unforgettable 4-day escape aboard Carnival Cruise Line's magnificent Mardi Gras, setting sail from the vibrant Port Canaveral, Florida. Your journey begins with a seamless departure from this bustling hub, offering easy access to Orlando's world-class theme parks and attractions, should you wish to extend your adventure. Enjoy a relaxing day at sea, indulging in the Mardi Gras's unparalleled amenities and activities, from thrilling waterslides to gourmet dining. The excitement builds as you approach the idyllic Half Moon Cay™, Carnival's private island paradise in The Bahamas. Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of its crescent-shaped beach, swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters, and discover vibrant marine life during a day of pure relaxation and exhilarating water activities. The adventure continues to Celebration Key™, Carnival Corporation's brand-new private island destination, promising a lively and immersive Bahamian experience crafted exclusively for Carnival guests, with unique cultural immersion, thrilling shore excursions, and sumptuous local flavours awaiting your discovery. As your extraordinary cruise concludes, you'll return to Port Canaveral, filled with cherished memories of Bahamian bliss and the boundless fun of the open sea.

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 95

An excellent choice for first-timers, this 4-day cruise offers a familiar brand, a short duration, and convenient private island stops from a well-known port.

Is a 4-day cruise from Port Canaveral a good option for my first cruise?
Yes, a 4-day cruise is an excellent duration for first-time cruisers to experience cruising without committing to a longer trip. Port Canaveral is a major, easy-to-access port, and the itinerary includes private island stops for a relaxed introduction to the Bahamas.
What kind of activities should I expect on the Mardi Gras as a first-timer?
The Mardi Gras offers "unparalleled amenities and activities" including "thrilling waterslides" and "gourmet dining." This variety ensures there's something for everyone, making it easy for first-timers to find enjoyable experiences.
Are the private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, easy to explore for new cruisers?
Absolutely. Private islands like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are designed specifically for cruise guests, offering clear pathways, readily available amenities, and easy access to beaches and activities, making them very straightforward to enjoy.

Families

Fit 90

This cruise is an excellent fit for families with its short duration, private island stops, and the Mardi Gras's array of family-friendly amenities and activities.

What kind of activities are there for kids on the Mardi Gras?
The Mardi Gras is known for its "unparalleled amenities and activities," including "thrilling waterslides," which are very popular with families and children.
Are the private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, good for families?
Both Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key offer "pristine escape for relaxation and water activities" and a "lively and immersive Bahamian experience," making them great for family fun like swimming and exploring.
Is a 4-day cruise long enough for a family vacation, or too short?
A 4-day cruise is an ideal length for families looking for a fun, manageable getaway without being too long. It offers a good balance of shipboard activities and island exploration.

Groups

Fit 85

This short Carnival cruise on the Mardi Gras to private islands is an excellent option for groups, offering varied activities and easy coordination from Port Canaveral.

Is the Mardi Gras a good ship for a group with varied interests?
Yes, the Mardi Gras boasts "unparalleled amenities and activities," including "thrilling waterslides" and "gourmet dining," catering to a wide range of interests, making it suitable for diverse groups.
Are there options for group dining or specific celebration spaces on this cruise?
The cruise description mentions "gourmet dining" on the Mardi Gras, which implies various dining venues. While specific group dining options aren't detailed, large ships like this typically accommodate group reservations and offer spaces for celebrations.
Are the private island destinations at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key good for group activities?
Both Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands offering "relaxation and water activities" and an "immersive Bahamian experience." These destinations provide ample opportunities for group fun, from beach relaxation to organized excursions.

Seniors

Fit 70

This 4-day cruise offers a relaxed pace with private island visits, suitable for seniors who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation without a demanding itinerary, departing from an accessible port.

Is the pace of this cruise relaxed enough for seniors?
This 4-day itinerary includes a relaxing day at sea and two private island stops focused on relaxation and water activities, offering a balanced and not overly strenuous pace.
Are the private island excursions at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key accessible?
Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are described as private islands offering relaxation and water activities. While specific accessibility is not detailed, private islands are often designed to be guest-friendly with options for different activity levels.
Is the ship Mardi Gras easy to navigate for seniors?
The Mardi Gras is a modern ship described with "unparalleled amenities." While not specifically mentioned for senior accessibility, newer ships generally offer good navigation due to modern design and clear signage.

Couples

Fit 65

This short cruise offers private island stops and onboard amenities, which could be fun for couples looking for a quick getaway, though it's not explicitly romance-focused.

Are there good options for romantic dining on this ship?
The cruise description mentions "gourmet dining" on the Mardi Gras, suggesting there will be elevated dining experiences available that could be suitable for a romantic evening.
Will we find quiet spots for just the two of us on a 4-day cruise?
While the Mardi Gras is a large ship known for its activities, a day at sea and two private island stops at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key could offer opportunities for relaxation and finding quieter areas.
Is this cruise too short to feel like a real vacation for couples?
This is a 4-day cruise, perfect for a quick escape. It includes a relaxing day at sea and two stops at private islands, which can feel like a refreshing break even if brief.

Accessible travelers

Fit 60

While the Mardi Gras is a modern ship, accessibility particulars for tendered ports are not detailed, making it a mixed fit for accessible travelers without further information.

Are the cabins on the Mardi Gras accessible for wheelchair users?
The description highlights the Mardi Gras's modern design and "unparalleled amenities." While not specifically detailed, newer ships like the Mardi Gras typically offer accessible cabin options; it's recommended to confirm directly with the cruise line.
Are the private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, wheelchair accessible?
The description states both Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key offer relaxation and activities. However, it does not specify whether they are tender ports, which can pose challenges for wheelchair users, or if specific accessibility accommodations are available on the islands.
What accessible features does Port Canaveral offer for boarding?
Port Canaveral is a major cruising hub, suggesting it is well-equipped for embarkation and debarkation. While specific accessible features aren't detailed in the cruise description, large ports generally offer accessible facilities.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

A 4-day cruise on the Mardi Gras offers a lively, engaging environment, good for social solo travelers, but specific solo cabins or programs are not highlighted by the description.

Will it be easy to meet other people on this cruise as a solo traveler?
The Mardi Gras is a large ship with "unparalleled amenities and activities," which suggests a lively atmosphere and many opportunities to interact with other guests, making it easier to meet people.
Are there specific activities onboard for solo cruisers?
The description highlights thrilling waterslides and gourmet dining, but does not specifically mention organized solo cruiser events or meet-ups. However, the ship's general activity schedule will offer many social opportunities.
Are there any single supplements for solo travelers on this cruise?
The cruise description does not mention specific pricing for solo travelers or single supplements. It's advisable to check with Carnival Cruise Line directly regarding solo occupancy rates.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What cruise ship will I be sailing on for this 4-day Bahamas trip?
You will be sailing on Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras for this 4-day cruise to The Bahamas.
Where does this 4-day Bahamas cruise depart from?
This 4-day Bahamas cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
Which destinations will this cruise visit in The Bahamas?
This cruise will visit Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™ in The Bahamas.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival Corporation's brand-new private island destination in The Bahamas, offering unique cultural immersion, shore excursions, and local flavors.
What activities are available on Half Moon Cay™?
On Half Moon Cay™, you can enjoy the pristine beach, swim in clear waters, and engage in various water activities.
Is a day at sea included in this itinerary?
Yes, this 4-day cruise includes a relaxing day at sea where you can enjoy the amenities and activities on the Mardi Gras.
When does this cruise depart?
This cruise departs on November 11, 2027.
What is the starting price for this cruise?
The starting price for this cruise is $434.