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

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

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

The Bahamas 5 days Mardi Gras
Departs
Aug 28, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Sep 2, 2027 at 8:00 AM

From the moment you depart Port Canaveral, your unforgettable Bahamian adventure begins. Spend a relaxing day at sea before discovering the pristine beauty of Half Moon Cay, Carnival's private island oasis. Here, powdery white sands meet crystal-clear waters, offering the perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding under the Caribbean sun.The journey continues to Nassau, the vibrant capital of the Bahamas. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture as you explore colorful colonial architecture, browse bustling markets for local crafts, or relax on its stunning white-sand beaches. This delightful blend of old-world charm and modern amenities ensures there's something for everyone.Conclude your escape at Celebration Key, Carnival's newest private island destination. Designed with Carnival guests in mind, Celebration Key promises an immersive Bahamian experience filled with lively activities, unique entertainment, and endless opportunities for fun and relaxation before returning to Port Canaveral.

Mardi Gras cruise ship
About the ship
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
    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
    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
    Nassau, the vibrant capital of the Bahamas, offers a delightful blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Explore its colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches.
  5. 5
    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.
  6. 6
    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 cruise is ideal for first-timers with its short duration, easy-to-navigate Bahamian ports, and clear itinerary from Port Canaveral.

Is this a good cruise for first-time cruisers?
This 5-day Bahamas cruise is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers due to its shorter duration, manageable itinerary, departure from a well-known port (Port Canaveral), and visits to popular, easy-to-navigate Bahamian destinations including private islands.
Are the ports of call easy to manage for someone new to cruising?
Yes, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands exclusively for Carnival guests, making exploration straightforward and convenient. Nassau offers clear attractions like markets and beaches, providing easy options for new cruisers.
Is the ship easy to navigate for someone unfamiliar with cruising?
While the Mardi Gras is a large ship, Carnival ships are generally designed with user-friendly layouts and plenty of staff to assist. The cruise's short duration and focused itinerary to the Bahamas make it a less overwhelming introduction to cruising.

Families

Fit 90

This cruise is an excellent fit for families with its short duration, private island beaches, and the lively atmosphere of a Carnival ship.

Is this a good cruise for families with children?
Yes, this 5-day cruise to the Bahamas on Mardi Gras is an excellent fit for families, offering a short duration, private island experiences at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, and the vibrant atmosphere of Nassau which are great for all ages.
Are there kid-friendly activities or facilities on the cruise or at the destinations?
Carnival's private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, are designed for fun with 'lively activities' and 'endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.' The Mardi Gras ship is also known for its family-friendly amenities, and Nassau offers beaches for family enjoyment.
What kind of cabins are available for families?
While specific cabin types aren't detailed, Carnival's Mardi Gras generally offers a variety of cabin configurations, including options suitable for families, though connecting cabins or specific family suites are not explicitly mentioned in this description.

Groups

Fit 85

This 5-day Bahamian cruise on the Mardi Gras is excellent for groups, offering a fun itinerary and ample opportunities for shared experiences.

Is this cruise suitable for a group booking?
Yes, this 5-day Bahamian cruise on the Mardi Gras is very well-suited for group bookings. Its short duration, lively atmosphere, and stops at private islands and Nassau offer a wide range of activities for diverse group interests.
Will there be opportunities for group dining or activities?
Carnival ships like the Mardi Gras offer numerous dining venues, making it easy to arrange group meals. The private islands (Half Moon Cay, Celebration Key) and Nassau provide excellent opportunities for group excursions, beach days, and shared experiences.
Are there special amenities or discounts for groups?
The description does not specify group discounts or special amenities for groups. However, cruise lines generally offer benefits for group bookings, so it would be advisable to inquire directly about any such programs during the booking process.

Solo travelers

Fit 70

This short, lively cruise offers potential for socializing at private islands and Nassau, though solo cabin specifics aren't detailed.

Is this cruise good for solo travelers looking to meet people?
This 5-day Bahamian cruise includes stops at vibrant private islands and Nassau, providing ample opportunities for social interaction during shore excursions and on the lively Mardi Gras ship, making it a good option for meeting other travelers.
Are there solo cabins or single occupancy rates?
The cruise description does not specify the availability of solo cabins or mention any single supplement promotions. Travelers would need to inquire directly with Carnival for solo traveler pricing and cabin options on the Mardi Gras.
Will there be organized activities for solo travelers?
While the description doesn't explicitly mention dedicated solo traveler events, Carnival cruises typically feature a wide array of activities on board and at their private islands that encourage participation and social engagement, which is beneficial for solo adventurers.

Couples

Fit 65

This short Bahamian cruise offers private island stops and Nassau for exploration, but might lack the extensive romance-focused amenities for some couples.

Is this cruise good for couples looking for a romantic getaway?
The cruise includes stops at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, private islands known for their beautiful beaches which can be romantic. However, as a 5-day Bahamian cruise, it may attract a lively crowd, and more explicit romance amenities are not detailed.
Will there be opportunities for intimate dining experiences?
The description does not specify intimate dining options but focuses on general activities. The Mardi Gras ship typically offers various dining venues, but specifics on specialty, more romantic options are not provided here.
Are there adults-only areas on the ship or during excursions?
The cruise highlights private islands like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key which offer varied activities, but it does not specifically mention adults-only areas either on the ship or during the island excursions in the provided description.

Accessible travelers

Fit 60

The cruise visits private islands which often have good accessibility, but specific details on ship and port accessibility are not provided.

Does this cruise offer accessible cabins?
The cruise description does not explicitly mention the availability of ADA-compliant or accessible cabins on the Mardi Gras ship. Travelers requiring accessible accommodations would need to confirm directly with the cruise line.
Are the ports of call accessible for guests with mobility challenges?
Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands, and often have infrastructure to accommodate guests, although the extent of accessibility isn't detailed. Nassau offers various types of terrain. It's important to verify specific accessibility provisions for each port and excursion.
Is the ship generally accessible for people with disabilities?
While large, modern ships like Mardi Gras typically have accessibility features, the description does not provide specific details on overall ship accessibility, such as ramp access, elevator availability, or accessible public areas. Further inquiry would be necessary.

Seniors

Fit 60

This cruise offers a relaxed pace with private island stops, but could be lively, and specific accessibility details aren't included.

Is this a relaxed-pace cruise suitable for seniors?
The cruise offers a good balance with one day at sea and three port calls, including relaxing private islands like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, allowing for a generally relaxed pace. However, the Carnival Mardi Gras ship itself can be quite lively.
Are the ports of call easily accessible for seniors?
Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands designed for guest enjoyment, likely making them relatively easy to navigate for most. Nassau offers a mix of urban exploration and beaches. Further details on shore excursion accessibility would need to be checked.
Will there be enriching activities on board or at the destinations?
Nassau offers historical and cultural exploration, and the private islands provide opportunities for relaxation. While the cruise description doesn't highlight explicit enrichment programs, the focus is more on fun and relaxation, with no specific mention of lectures or educational activities.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Bahamian islands will this 5-day cruise visit?
This cruise visits Half Moon Cay, Nassau, and Celebration Key in The Bahamas.
Where does this 5-day Bahamas cruise depart from?
This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL.
What activities are available at Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on its powdery white sands.
What can I do in Nassau, Bahamas?
In Nassau, you can explore colonial architecture, browse local markets, or relax on the white-sand beaches.
What is Celebration Key?
Celebration Key is Carnival's newest private island destination designed with activities and entertainment for Carnival guests.
Is this cruise suitable for families with children?
Yes, with destinations like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, this cruise offers activities and entertainment suitable for families.
What ship will I be sailing on for this cruise?
This cruise will be on the Mardi Gras ship.
When does this particular 5-day Bahamas cruise depart?
This cruise departs on August 28, 2027.