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Bahamian Bliss Awaits on Mardi Gras cruise ship
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Carnival Cruise Line

Bahamian Bliss Awaits on Mardi Gras

Bahamian Bliss Awaits on Mardi Gras

The Bahamas 5 days Mardi Gras
Departs
Jul 17, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Jul 22, 2027 at 8:00 AM
CaribbeanFamiliesRelaxingShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipNightlifeAdults FriendlyFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandAccessibleCelebrationWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

Set sail from Port Canaveral (Orlando) aboard the spectacular Carnival Mardi Gras for an unforgettable 5-day Bahamian cruise. This journey promises an exhilarating blend of sun-kissed relaxation and vibrant island exploration, all wrapped in Carnival's signature festive atmosphere. Your adventure begins with a day at sea, allowing you to indulge in Mardi Gras's world-class amenities. From thrilling waterslides to delectable dining, every moment onboard is a celebration. The rhythm of the islands then beckons you to RelaxAway and Half Moon Cay™, Carnival's private island paradise. Picture yourself sinking your toes into pristine white sands, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and savoring the laid-back Caribbean vibe. Next, immerse yourself in the rich history and bustling charm of Nassau. Explore colorful markets, discover colonial architecture, and embrace the lively Bahamian culture. The grand finale awaits at Celebration Key™, Carnival's brand-new exclusive destination designed for ultimate fun and relaxation. Whether you're seeking thrilling water sports, serene beachfront relaxation, or vibrant entertainment, Celebration Key™ offers something for everyone before you return to Port Canaveral, refreshed and invigorated.

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: Jul 1, 2026

Itinerary

  1. 1
    Port Canaveral (Orlando)
    Gateway to the stars and the magic of Orlando, Port Canaveral offers a blend of sun-soaked beaches and thrilling theme park adventures.
  2. 2
    At Sea
  3. 3
    RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™
    Half Moon Cay is a pristine slice of paradise in the Bahamas, a private island where turquoise waters meet powdery white sand.
  4. 4
    Nassau
    Nassau is a vibrant Bahamian capital, boasting pastel-colored colonial buildings, bustling markets, and stunning white-sand beaches perfect for sun-drenched relaxation.
  5. 5
    Celebration Key™
    Celebration Key™ is an exclusive new private island destination in The Bahamas, offering pristine beaches, thrilling activities, and a vibrant Bahamian atmosphere.
  6. 6
    Port Canaveral (Orlando)
    This bustling Florida port is your gateway to Orlando's theme parks and Kennedy Space Center, blending sunshine with space-age wonder.

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 with a short duration, popular Bahamian itinerary, and a highly recognized brand.

Is this a good cruise for someone new to cruising?
Yes, this 5-day Bahamian cruise aboard the Mardi Gras is ideal for first-time cruisers due to its shorter duration, popular and accessible Bahamian ports, and Carnival's reputation for a fun, easy-to-navigate experience.
Are the ports of call easy for first-time visitors?
The itinerary includes popular Bahamian destinations like Half Moon Cay™, Nassau, and Celebration Key™, which are well-developed for tourists and offer a clear and enjoyable introduction to island exploration.
Will the onboarding process be complicated at Port Canaveral?
Departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), a major cruise hub, the onboarding process is typically streamlined and well-organized, making it easy for first-time cruisers to embark on their journey.

Families

Fit 90

Excellent fit for families due to Mardi Gras's fun-filled amenities, private islands with activities, and a manageable duration.

Is the Mardi Gras ship suitable for kids?
Yes, the Mardi Gras is known for its 'thrilling waterslides' and 'vibrant island exploration,' making it highly suitable for families looking for fun and excitement.
What kind of activities are available for children and teens at Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is described as having 'thrilling water sports' and 'vibrant entertainment,' offering something for everyone, including children and teens, at Carnival's brand-new exclusive destination.
Does this cruise offer family-friendly itineraries and amenities?
The 5-day Bahamian cruise includes private island stops like Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, which are typically designed with extensive family-friendly activities and relaxation options.

Groups

Fit 85

Excellent for groups seeking a lively, fun atmosphere with diverse activities and private island experiences.

Is the Mardi Gras a good ship for group travel and celebrations?
The Mardi Gras offers a 'signature festive atmosphere' and 'world-class amenities,' making it an excellent choice for groups looking for a lively and celebratory cruise experience.
Are there options for group dining or gathering spaces onboard?
With 'delectable dining' and numerous activity areas, the Mardi Gras likely offers various dining venues and common spaces perfect for groups to dine together and socialize.
What activities can a group enjoy together at the private islands?
At Half Moon Cay™ and the new Celebration Key™, groups can enjoy 'pristine white sands,' 'crystal-clear waters,' 'thrilling water sports,' and 'vibrant entertainment,' offering diverse activities for collective enjoyment.

Accessible travelers

Fit 75

Modern ship implies good accessibility, but port tendering could be a consideration for some accessible travelers.

Does the Mardi Gras ship have ADA-compliant cabins?
As a modern ship, the Mardi Gras is expected to have a range of ADA-compliant accessible cabins, though specific details are not provided in the cruise description.
Are all the ports of call easily accessible for wheelchair users?
Nassau is a docked port, which is generally accessible. However, Half Moon Cay™ is Carnival's private island, and access often involves tendering, which can sometimes pose challenges for wheelchair users depending on specific needs.
Is the ship generally accessible for guests with mobility challenges?
The Mardi Gras is a modern, large vessel, which typically means wide hallways, elevators, and accessible common areas, making it generally suitable for guests with mobility challenges.

Seniors

Fit 65

A 5-day cruise with private island relaxation, but the ship's high energy might not appeal to all seniors seeking a quiet pace.

Is the pace of this 5-day cruise relaxed or fast-paced?
This 5-day Bahamian cruise includes a day at sea and visits to three different ports. While the private islands offer 'serene beachfront relaxation,' the overall pace, especially with excursions, might be considered moderate rather than very slow.
Are the ports like Half Moon Cay and Nassau easy to navigate for seniors?
Half Moon Cay™ is a private island, generally well-equipped for visitors. Nassau involves exploring 'colorful markets' and 'colonial architecture,' which can be walked, or taxis/tours can be used for ease of movement.
Does the Mardi Gras offer accessible options and easy boarding?
While specific details aren't provided, modern ships like Mardi Gras generally have good accessibility. Embarkation from Port Canaveral is typically straightforward, and the description mentions 'world-class amenities' that should include ease of movement onboard.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a lively atmosphere and private island stops, but might lack the intimate romance some couples seek.

Are there romantic dining options for couples?
The description highlights 'delectable dining' on the Mardi Gras, which could include specialty restaurants suitable for a romantic evening, though specifics on intimate dining experiences aren't detailed.
Will we find adults-only areas for relaxation?
Carnival ships typically offer adults-only areas like Serenity Deck, providing a calmer escape from the ship's generally festive atmosphere, which would be suitable for couples.
What kind of activities can couples enjoy together on Half Moon Cay?
At Half Moon Cay, couples can enjoy relaxing on pristine white sands, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and savoring a laid-back Caribbean vibe together, perfect for a romantic day ashore.

Honeymooners

Fit 60

Offers a lively atmosphere and beautiful private islands, but might lack the deep intimacy some honeymooners seek.

Are there private or secluded areas for honeymooners?
While the Mardi Gras has a festive atmosphere, most Carnival ships offer 'Serenity' adults-only areas which could provide a more secluded space for honeymooners. The private islands also offer serene beachfront relaxation.
What premium dining options are available for a special honeymoon meal?
The cruise promises 'delectable dining' onboard Mardi Gras. Specific premium dining options aren't mentioned, but Carnival ships often have specialty restaurants perfect for a honeymoon celebration.
Are there balcony cabins or suites available for honeymooners?
The description highlights the ship's amenities but doesn't detail cabin types. However, Mardi Gras, being a modern ship, would certainly offer various balcony and suite options ideal for honeymooners.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What cruise ship will I be sailing on for this Bahamian Bliss Awaits itinerary?
You will be sailing aboard the Carnival Mardi Gras for this 5-night Bahamian cruise.
Where does this 5-night Bahamian cruise depart from?
This cruise departs from Port Canaveral, which is located near Orlando, Florida.
What destinations will I visit on this Mardi Gras Bahamian cruise?
This cruise visits Half Moon Cay, Nassau, and Celebration Key, which is Carnival's new exclusive destination.
What is Celebration Key and what can I expect there?
Celebration Key is Carnival's brand-new exclusive destination designed for various activities, including thrilling water sports, serene beachfront relaxation, and vibrant entertainment.
What kind of experience can I expect on the Carnival Mardi Gras?
The Mardi Gras offers world-class amenities including thrilling waterslides and delectable dining, all within Carnival's signature festive atmosphere.
Is there a day at sea included in this 5-night Bahamian cruise?
Yes, your adventure begins with a day at sea, allowing you to enjoy the ship's amenities.
When does this particular 5-night Bahamian cruise depart?
This specific itinerary departs on July 17, 2027.