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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 29, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Dec 4, 2027 at 8:00 AM
CaribbeanFamiliesShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

Embark on a captivating 5-day Bahamian adventure aboard the magnificent Mardi Gras, setting sail from Port Canaveral. Your journey begins with the allure of Orlando, a vibrant prelude to the tropical wonders that await. The true gem of this itinerary is the highly anticipated Celebration Key™, Carnival Corporation's private island oasis designed exclusively for an immersive Bahamian experience, promising excitement and relaxation in equal measure. Continue your exploration in Nassau, the Bahamas' lively capital, where colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches beckon. Delight in the vibrant culture and rich history of this charming city, offering a perfect blend of modern amenities and timeless appeal. The idyllic Half Moon Cay™ provides the ultimate escape for relaxation and aquatic pursuits, with its crescent-shaped beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. As your extraordinary voyage draws to a close, enjoy a blissful day at sea, savoring the ship's amenities and reflecting on the unforgettable moments of your Bahamian escape before returning to Port Canaveral, refreshed and rejuvenated. This cruise promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and pure relaxation in the heart of the Caribbean.

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 90

An excellent choice for first-timers, offering a short duration, popular Bahamian itinerary featuring private islands, and a large, reputable ship.

Is a 5-day cruise a good length for a first-time cruiser?
Yes, a 5-day duration is perfect for first-time cruisers, offering a taste of the cruise experience without a long commitment, balancing relaxation with exciting port visits.
Are the ports easy to navigate for someone new to cruising?
The itinerary includes familiar destinations like Nassau and private islands like Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™, which are often designed for easy guest experience, making them excellent choices for first-timers.
Will I feel overwhelmed by the ship or the process?
The 'Mardi Gras' is a modern ship with ample amenities, and the cruise departs from Port Canaveral, making onboarding straightforward. The cruise is designed for an 'unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and pure relaxation,' making it an inviting first experience.

Families

Fit 85

This cruise is a strong fit for families with its private island experiences, short duration, and a large ship like Mardi Gras, known for family amenities.

Is this a good cruise for kids and teens?
Yes, with stops at Celebration Key™, Carnival's private island designed for an immersive Bahamian experience, and Half Moon Cay™ for aquatic pursuits, along with the family-friendly Mardi Gras ship, it's very suitable for kids and teens.
Are there enough activities to keep everyone entertained on board and off?
The itinerary includes vibrant port visits like Nassau for culture, and private islands like Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™ for activities. The Mardi Gras is a large ship known for numerous onboard amenities, ensuring entertainment throughout.
What kind of shore excursions are available for all ages?
Shore excursions would likely include beach activities at Half Moon Cay, cultural explorations in Nassau, and various immersive experiences at Celebration Key™, catering to a wide range of ages and interests.

Groups

Fit 80

This cruise offers diverse activities and private island destinations, making it a strong option for group travel seeking fun and relaxation.

Are there dining options that can accommodate large groups?
The large ship Mardi Gras typically features multiple dining venues, including main dining rooms that can accommodate groups, as well as specialty restaurants, though specific group dining arrangements are not detailed.
Are there group activities or excursions available in the ports?
The itinerary includes exploring Nassau, and enjoying activities on the private islands of Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™, providing ample opportunities for groups to participate in shared experiences or excursions.
Is there enough variety on board and off to satisfy different interests within a group?
With a large ship like Mardi Gras and diverse port calls ranging from cultural Nassau to the relaxation and activities of private islands, there should be enough variety to appeal to different interests within a group.

Seniors

Fit 70

This cruise offers a good balance of relaxation and exploration with convenient ports and appealing private islands, suitable for some seniors.

Is this cruise too active or fast-paced for seniors?
The cruise offers opportunities for relaxation at Half Moon Cay™ and a day at sea, balancing exploration in Nassau and Celebration Key™. It appears to offer a moderate pace adaptable to individual preferences.
Are the ports of call easily accessible for older travelers?
Nassau is a bustling capital, and Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™ are private island destinations; accessibility would depend on whether tenders are used and the level of development at Celebration Key™.
Will there be suitable activities for seniors on board and in port?
In ports, seniors can explore cultural sites in Nassau or relax on beaches at private islands. Onboard amenities on a large ship like Mardi Gras typically cater to diverse interests, including more relaxed options.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a good balance of relaxation and activities with private island stops, suitable for couples looking for a quick getaway.

Are there romantic dining options available on this cruise?
The cruise description highlights enjoyment of the ship's amenities, which typically include specialty dining on a large ship like Mardi Gras, though specific romantic venues aren't detailed.
Will we find quiet places for relaxation away from crowds?
While Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™ offer pristine beaches for relaxation, the Mardi Gras is a large ship, so securing quiet spots might depend on the specific amenities onboard which are not described in detail here.
Are there excursions suited for couples?
You'll have opportunities to explore Nassau's culture, enjoy pristine beaches at Half Moon Cay™, and experience the immersive offerings at Celebration Key™, which can be enjoyed by couples seeking adventure or relaxation.

Honeymooners

Fit 60

This cruise offers beautiful private island stops and a fun atmosphere, but generally lacks specific details on premium romantic amenities for honeymooners.

Are there private or exclusive experiences for honeymooners?
While the private islands of Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™ offer beautiful settings, the cruise description does not detail any specific exclusive or private amenities tailored for honeymooners.
Is the ship suitable for a romantic getaway?
The Mardi Gras is a large ship with many amenities, which can be fun, but might not be as intimate or luxury-focused as some honeymooners prefer, though the private island stops offer romantic backdrops.
Will we be able to find quiet, intimate dining experiences?
The description highlights enjoying the ship's amenities. While there might be specialty dining, the cruise doesn't specifically mention intimate or premium dining packages often sought by honeymooners.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What cruise ship will I be sailing on for this 5-day Bahamas trip?
You will be sailing on the Mardi Gras ship for this 5-day Bahamian adventure.
Where does this 5-day Bahamas cruise depart from?
This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What destinations will this 5-day Bahamas cruise visit?
This cruise will visit Celebration Key™, Nassau, and Half Moon Cay™.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival Corporation's private island oasis in The Bahamas, designed for an immersive Bahamian experience.
What can I expect in Nassau?
Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas, offers colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches, blending modern amenities with rich history.
What activities are available at Half Moon Cay™?
Half Moon Cay™ is ideal for relaxation and aquatic pursuits with its crescent-shaped beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life.
How many nights is this cruise?
This is a 5-night cruise.
When does this particular cruise depart?
This cruise departs on November 29, 2027.