TNW TravelTNW Travel
4-Day The Bahamas from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL cruise ship
Back to search
Carnival Cruise Line cruise line logo

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 25, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Nov 29, 2027 at 8:00 AM
CaribbeanFamiliesRelaxingShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipNightlifeFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseAccessibleCelebrationBudgetWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

From the bustling hub of Port Canaveral, your gateway to the magic of Orlando, embark on an unforgettable 4-day escape aboard Carnival Cruise Line's magnificent Mardi Gras. This journey promises sun-drenched days and starlit nights as you sail towards the idyllic islands of the Bahamas. Indulge in a tranquil day at sea, relishing the ship's world-class amenities and captivating entertainment before discovering the pristine beauty that awaits. Your first Bahamian paradise is Half Moon Cay™, Carnival's private island sanctuary. Here, crescent-shaped beaches beckon with their powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Dive into vibrant marine life, unwind under swaying palms, or partake in thrilling water sports, all within this untouched haven of relaxation. Next, prepare to be dazzled by Celebration Key™, an exciting new private island destination designed exclusively for Carnival guests, promising an immersive Bahamian experience filled with lively entertainment, authentic flavors, and unique cultural encounters. As your Bahamian adventure draws to a close, you'll return to Port Canaveral, refreshed and invigorated by the vibrant experiences of the islands. This 4-day cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories, all while enjoying the exceptional service and thrilling atmosphere that only Carnival Cruise Line can provide.

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, Accessible travelers
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

This 4-day Carnival cruise to private islands from Port Canaveral on Mardi Gras is nearly perfect for first-time cruisers looking for a fun, easy, and affordable introduction to cruising.

Is this a good first cruise experience?
Absolutely, this 4-day cruise on the Mardi Gras to private islands is an excellent choice for first-timers. It's short, sails from an accessible port, and offers a fun, introductory experience to cruising without being overwhelming.
Are the ports easy to manage for a first-timer?
The itinerary features private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, which are designed for easy enjoyment by cruise guests, making port visits simple and stress-free for first-time cruisers.
Will I feel overwhelmed on a large ship like Mardi Gras?
While Mardi Gras is a large ship, it's designed with clear navigation and intuitive amenities. Its many offerings mean there's always something to do, but you can also find quieter spaces if you prefer, making it manageable for first-timers.

Families

Fit 90

This 4-day Carnival cruise on Mardi Gras to private islands is an excellent fit for families looking for fun, entertainment, and easy-to-manage itinerary.

Does this cruise have a lot for kids to do?
Yes, sailing on the Mardi Gras, a newer Carnival ship, means access to a wide array of family-friendly amenities, including water parks, kids clubs, and various entertainment options designed for all ages.
Are the private islands good for families?
Both Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands with activities and amenities suitable for families, offering beaches, water sports, and planned entertainment to keep everyone engaged.
Is there enough to keep teenagers entertained?
The Mardi Gras is well-equipped with activities for teenagers, from thrill rides and sports facilities to dedicated teen lounges and evening entertainment, ensuring they have plenty to do during the cruise and at sea.

Groups

Fit 90

This 4-day Carnival cruise on Mardi Gras is ideal for groups seeking a fun, short, and dynamic getaway with diverse activities and private island experiences.

Is this cruise good for a group trip?
Yes, this 4-day Carnival cruise on the Mardi Gras is very well-suited for groups. The ship's vast array of activities, dining options, and entertainment venues can accommodate diverse interests within a group, and the private island stops offer shared experiences.
Can groups easily dine together on this ship?
The Mardi Gras offers numerous dining choices, including large main dining rooms and specialty restaurants, providing ample opportunity for groups to request tables together and enjoy meals as a collective.
Are there group activities or spaces available for us?
With a full day at sea and stops at two private islands, groups will find plenty of activities to do together, from enjoying ship amenities and entertainment to relaxing on the beaches. Carnival also offers group coordination services that can arrange specific activities or meeting spaces.

Accessible travelers

Fit 75

This cruise offers dedicated facilities on a new ship and private island stops that are generally well-equipped for accessibility, making it a good option.

How accessible is the ship to guests with mobility challenges?
Sailing on the Mardi Gras, a modern Carnival ship, means it is designed with current accessibility standards, offering accessible cabins and public areas. You should confirm specific needs directly with Carnival.
Are the private island destinations accessible for everyone?
Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands developed by Carnival, which typically means they offer some level of accessibility, including beach wheelchairs or paved paths. It's best to confirm specifics with the cruise line.
Are the activities onboard suitable for guests with disabilities?
The Mardi Gras offers a wide range of activities and entertainment, many of which can be enjoyed by guests with various abilities. Carnival's website or customer service can provide details on specific activity accessibility.

Couples

Fit 65

This short Bahamas cruise offers a reasonable, budget-friendly escape for couples, with private island stops and ship amenities for relaxation, though it might lack high-end romance.

Is this cruise good for a romantic getaway?
The cruise offers private island destinations like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key for relaxing together. While the ship, Mardi Gras, is large and lively, it features various dining options and areas that couples can enjoy.
Are there good dining options for couples?
The Mardi Gras ship offers numerous dining options, from casual to specialty restaurants, catering to a range of tastes for couples looking to enjoy meals together during their cruise.
Will we be able to find quiet spots or adults-only areas?
As a large Carnival ship, the Mardi Gras typically features adults-only areas such as Serenity Retreat, providing a quieter environment for couples to relax away from the general family-friendly atmosphere.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

This cruise offers opportunities for social engagement on a large ship and interesting private island stops, making it a reasonable option for solo travelers seeking a short getaway.

Is this a good cruise for meeting other solo travelers?
A large and active ship like the Mardi Gras typically has many social opportunities and communal spaces where solo travelers can meet others, especially on a shorter, more party-oriented itinerary to the Bahamas.
Are there solo cabins or discounts for solo travelers?
The cruise description does not specify solo cabins or single supplements. It's advisable to check with Carnival directly regarding specific pricing and accommodation options for solo travelers on the Mardi Gras.
What activities are available for solo cruisers to enjoy?
With a day at sea and stops at two private islands (Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key), solo travelers will have plenty of options for activities ranging from relaxing on the beach to participating in shipboard entertainment and excursions.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Bahamian islands will this cruise visit?
This cruise will visit Half Moon Cay, Carnival's private island, and Celebration Key, another new private island destination exclusively for Carnival guests.
Where does this 4-day Bahamas cruise depart from?
This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What ship will I be sailing on for this 4-night Bahamas itinerary?
You will be sailing on the Mardi Gras ship for this 4-night Bahamas cruise.
What can I expect at Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay offers powdery white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, relaxing, or water sports.
What is unique about Celebration Key?
Celebration Key is a new private island destination for Carnival guests, offering lively entertainment, authentic flavors, and unique cultural encounters.
Is there a day at sea on this itinerary?
Yes, this itinerary includes a tranquil day at sea where you can enjoy the ship's amenities and entertainment.
When does this particular 4-day Bahamas cruise depart?
This specific 4-day Bahamas cruise departs on November 25, 2027.
What is the starting price for this cruise?
The starting price for this cruise is 584.