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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
Nov 1, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Nov 6, 2027 at 8:00 AM
FamiliesRelaxingShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

From the moment you depart Port Canaveral, a vibrant hub offering easy access to Orlando's world-renowned attractions, your Bahamian adventure begins. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Celebration Key™, Carnival's exclusive private island, designed to deliver an unforgettable Bahamian experience with endless excitement and relaxation tailored just for you.Delight in the rich history and modern allure of Nassau, the Bahamian capital, where colorful colonial architecture, bustling local markets, and exquisite white-sand beaches await your discovery. Indulge in pure bliss at Half Moon Cay, an idyllic private island sanctuary famed for its crescent-shaped beach, crystalline turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life – a pristine escape perfect for serene relaxation or exhilarating aquatic activities. Conclude your unforgettable voyage with a rejuvenating day at sea before returning to Port Canaveral, refreshed and enriched by the splendors of the Bahamas.

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
    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.
  3. 3
    Nassau
    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.
  4. 4
    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.
  5. 5
    At Sea
  6. 6
    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 first-time cruise with a short duration, familiar brand (Carnival), easy embarkation, and popular, fun Bahamian destinations.

Is this a good cruise for someone who has never cruised before?
Absolutely! This 5-day cruise is perfect for first-timers, offering a short duration, sailing from a user-friendly port, and visiting popular Bahamian destinations, all on the exciting Mardi Gras ship.
Are the ports easy to navigate for beginners?
Yes, Nassau is a well-known port and the private islands, Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay, are designed for easy enjoyment and relaxation, making navigation simple for first-time cruisers.
What should I expect regarding onboarding and disembarkation?
Departing from Port Canaveral, a major cruise hub, means generally efficient processes. Carnival is a large, experienced cruise line, making onboarding and disembarkation typically smooth for guests.

Families

Fit 90

Excellent fit for families with engaging private island experiences, a lively ship (Mardi Gras), and a convenient Port Canaveral departure.

Are there good activities for kids on board and at the destinations?
Absolutely! The Mardi Gras is known for its family-friendly features, and Celebration Key™ is designed to be an immersive Bahamian experience for all ages, offering endless excitement.
Are the private islands suitable for young children?
Yes, both Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay are private islands known for their calm waters and dedicated activities, making them ideal for families with young children.
What are the accommodation options for families?
The Mardi Gras is a large, modern ship, and typically offers various cabin configurations including connecting rooms and family suites, though specific details would need to be checked with Carnival.

Groups

Fit 85

An excellent choice for groups with a lively ship, engaging private island experiences, and a convenient departure point for a short getaway.

Is this cruise suitable for a large group celebration?
Absolutely, the Mardi Gras is a fantastic ship for groups, offering a vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining, and entertainment options suitable for celebrations with friends or family.
Can we arrange group dining or activities together?
As a large cruise ship, the Mardi Gras can typically accommodate group dining requests and offers many onboard activities that groups can enjoy together. It's advisable to coordinate with Carnival's group services in advance.
Are there good group excursion options at the destinations?
The destinations, including the private islands Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay, offer various activities and excursions that can be enjoyed by groups, from beach relaxation to water sports and cultural tours in Nassau.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a good base for couples with private island stops, but might lack the overtly romantic amenities of some other options.

Are there private or adults-only areas on this ship?
The Mardi Gras ship generally offers adults-only areas like the Serenity Retreat, perfect for enjoying some quiet time away from the general hustle and bustle.
What kind of dining options are available for a romantic dinner?
While specific romantic dining options aren't detailed, the Mardi Gras, a large ship, is likely to have specialty restaurants beyond the main dining room that can offer a more intimate setting for couples.
Will we have enough time to relax together on the private islands?
Yes, the itinerary includes full days at Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay, both private islands, providing ample time for relaxation and activities together.

Accessible travelers

Fit 60

The Mardi Gras is likely accessible, but tender ports like Half Moon Cay could pose challenges, requiring further inquiry.

Are the ship and cabins wheelchair accessible?
The Mardi Gras is a modern ship, so it is expected to have accessible cabins and public areas, but it's always best to confirm specifics directly with Carnival Cruise Line.
Will all ports allow for easy disembarkation for those with mobility issues?
Half Moon Cay typically requires tendering (small boats to shore), which can present challenges for those with significant mobility issues. Nassau and Celebration Key™'s accessibility would need to be verified.
Are there accessible transfer services available from Port Canaveral?
Port Canaveral is a major port, so accessible transfer services to and from the port should be available, though these would need to be booked independently or confirmed with the cruise line.

Honeymooners

Fit 60

While offering relaxing private island stops, the ship and itinerary may be too lively and less exclusive for a truly romantic honeymoon experience.

Is this cruise suitable for a romantic and private honeymoon?
This cruise is on the Mardi Gras, a large and active ship, which might be less private than some honeymoon-specific cruises. However, you can find quieter moments on the private islands like Half Moon Cay.
Are there special packages or amenities for honeymooners?
The cruise description doesn't mention specific honeymoon packages, but Carnival typically offers amenities that can be arranged, such as specialty dining or spa treatments, for an additional cost.
Will the destinations offer romantic experiences?
The private islands, Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay, provide beautiful settings for relaxation and romantic walks on the beach. Nassau offers cultural experiences but can be quite bustling.

Seniors

Fit 60

Offers a balanced pace with relaxing private island days and a day at sea, but the lively Mardi Gras ship might appeal more to an active senior.

Is the pace of this cruise relaxed enough?
The 5-day itinerary includes a full day at sea and two private island stops (Celebration Key™, Half Moon Cay) which can be as relaxed as you choose, balancing exploration with rest.
Are the ports easily accessible or are tenders used?
Half Moon Cay typically uses tenders to get to shore. Information on tendering for Celebration Key™ and Nassau is not specified, but Nassau often has pier access.
Are there enrichment activities or quiet spaces onboard?
The Mardi Gras is a large modern ship, likely offering a variety of activities and dedicated adult-only areas like Serenity Retreat for quieter moments, but it's generally known for a lively atmosphere.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Bahamian destinations will this 5-day cruise visit?
This 5-day cruise from Port Canaveral will visit Celebration Key, Nassau, and Half Moon Cay. One day will be spent at sea.
What is Celebration Key?
Celebration Key is Carnival's exclusive private island in The Bahamas, offering a variety of activities and relaxation options.
What can I expect to do in Nassau?
In Nassau, you can explore colorful colonial architecture, visit bustling local markets, and enjoy white-sand beaches.
Is Half Moon Cay a private island?
Yes, Half Moon Cay is an idyllic private island known for its crescent-shaped beach, clear waters, and marine life.
Where does this cruise depart from?
This cruise departs roundtrip from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What is the ship for this cruise?
This 5-day cruise to The Bahamas will be on the Mardi Gras ship.
When does this cruise depart?
This cruise is scheduled to depart on November 1, 2027.
What type of activities are available on Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay offers options for both serene relaxation and exhilarating aquatic activities.