First-time cruisers
Fit 90An excellent choice for first-timers; short duration, popular ports, and a large, modern ship ensure a fun and easy introduction to cruising.

5-Day The Bahamas from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL
Prepare for an unforgettable 5-day escape to the dazzling Bahamas aboard the magnificent Mardi Gras, departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), your gateway to adventure. This journey promises an enchanting blend of vibrant culture, thrilling new experiences, and serene island relaxation. Your first stop takes you to the highly anticipated Celebration Key™, Carnival Corporation's private island oasis, where Bahamian charm meets exhilarating custom-designed activities exclusively for Carnival guests. Get ready to immerse yourself in a lively atmosphere and discover the heart of the Bahamas. Next, explore the captivating capital of Nassau, a harmonious blend of historical grandeur and contemporary allure. Wander through charming colonial streets, browse bustling local markets for unique treasures, and unwind on pristine white-sand beaches. As your adventure continues, discover the secluded paradise of Half Moon Cay, a private island renowned for its breathtaking crescent-shaped shore, translucent turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. Here, you can indulge in ultimate relaxation or dive into exciting water sports. Before returning to Port Canaveral, enjoy a full day at sea, savoring the Mardi Gras's world-class amenities and endless entertainment. This cruise is a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility, offering something for every traveler seeking Caribbean bliss.

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!
Independent notes from a TNW Travel advisor
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
AI-scored fit by traveler type, grounded in this cruise's itinerary and ship.
An excellent choice for first-timers; short duration, popular ports, and a large, modern ship ensure a fun and easy introduction to cruising.
Excellent fit for families with lively private islands, a short duration, and a large ship like Mardi Gras known for family-friendly activities.
This cruise is a good fit for groups, offering a fun ship, diverse activities, and enjoyable destinations, with multiple dining and gathering options.
This cruise offers a relaxed pace with private island days and a large ship, suitable for seniors looking for relaxation and easy exploration.
A large, modern ship offers good accessibility, and some ports are docked, but specific details on accessible cabins or tender vs. docked for Half Moon Cay are missing.
This cruise offers a balance of activities and relaxation, which can appeal to couples, but might lack truly intimate, romance-focused amenities.
A large ship and popular ports mean opportunities to socialize, but solo-specific cabins or programs are not highlighted by the cruise details.