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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
Sep 6, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Sep 11, 2027 at 8:00 AM
CaribbeanFamiliesShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

Prepare for an unforgettable 5-day escape to The Bahamas aboard Carnival Cruise Line's magnificent Mardi Gras! Your adventure begins in Port Canaveral, Florida, where the magic of Orlando is just a stone's throw away. From there, set sail for Celebration Key™, Carnival's exclusive Bahamian paradise, designed to immerse you in vibrant island culture and endless fun. Discover the captivating allure of Nassau, the Bahamian capital, with its colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches. This delightful blend of history and modernity offers a true taste of island life.Experience pure bliss at Half Moon Cay™, Carnival's idyllic private island oasis. Sink your toes into the crescent-shaped beach, swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters, and marvel at the vibrant marine life around you. It's the perfect setting for relaxation or exhilarating water activities. A glorious day at sea allows you to indulge in all the Mardi Gras has to offer before returning to Port Canaveral, refreshed and rejuvenated from your Bahamian dream. This cruise promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, all wrapped in the unparalleled comfort and excitement of a Carnival cruise.

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 choice for first-timers with a short duration, popular destinations, private islands, and a modern ship offering abundant amenities and easy boarding.

Is a 5-day cruise a good length for a first-time cruiser?
Yes, a 5-day cruise is an ideal duration for first-timers, providing enough time to experience cruising without being overly long, making it perfect for getting a taste of ship life and visiting interesting destinations.
Are the ports of call easy to navigate for someone new to cruising?
The itinerary includes popular Bahamian destinations and private islands like Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™ which are often well-organized and easy to navigate, providing a stress-free experience for first-time cruisers.
What kind of ship is the Mardi Gras and is it good for beginners?
The Mardi Gras is a large, modern Carnival ship, packed with amenities, dining options, and entertainment. This makes it an excellent choice for first-time cruisers, as there's always something to do and explore, accommodating various interests.

Families

Fit 90

Excellent fit for families with a short duration, private islands, and a large, amenity-rich ship like Mardi Gras, departing from a family-friendly port.

Is this cruise suitable for families with young children?
Yes, this 5-day cruise is very suitable for families. The Mardi Gras is a large, modern Carnival ship known for extensive family-friendly amenities, and the itinerary includes private islands like Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™ which are great for kids.
What activities are there for kids on the ship or at the destinations?
Mardi Gras is packed with activities, and the private island stops, Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™, are designed for fun with beaches, swimming, and water activities. Nassau also offers various family excursions.
Are there kid-friendly food options onboard?
Carnival ships, including Mardi Gras, are well-known for their diverse and extensive food options, including casual eateries and main dining room choices that cater to all ages and tastes, making it easy to find kid-friendly meals.

Groups

Fit 85

Excellent for groups with a fun-filled itinerary and a large, amenity-rich ship, offering diverse activities and dining options for everyone.

Is there enough variety on board and in port to keep a diverse group entertained?
Yes, the Mardi Gras is a large, modern ship known for its extensive array of activities, entertainment, and dining options catering to diverse tastes. The itinerary includes vibrant cities and private islands, ensuring something for everyone in the group.
Can we arrange group dining together on the ship?
Carnival Cruise Line is generally accommodating for group dining arrangements. It's advisable to inform them of your group booking in advance or upon boarding to request reserved tables for your group in the main dining rooms.
Are there spaces on the ship where our group can gather privately?
While the ship is bustling, Mardi Gras features numerous lounges, bars, and deck areas that can serve as gathering points. For more private experiences, booking specialty restaurants or meeting rooms (if available) might be possible upon inquiry with the cruise line.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a lively atmosphere and private island stops, but might be less ideal for couples seeking a truly intimate or upscale romantic escape.

Will there be romantic dining options on board?
The Mardi Gras offers a variety of dining venues, and while specific 'intimate' options are not detailed, Carnival ships typically have specialty restaurants that can provide a more romantic setting than the main dining rooms.
What kind of activities are available for couples?
You can enjoy the private island experiences at Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™, offering opportunities for relaxation on the beach, swimming in clear waters, and exploring together. The ship itself provides extensive entertainment options.
Are there adults-only areas on the ship where we can relax?
While the description doesn't explicitly highlight adults-only areas, Carnival ships usually feature 'Serenity Adult-Only Retreats' or similar spaces, providing a quieter environment for couples to relax away from family-focused activities.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

Reasonable for solo travelers due to the lively atmosphere and many activities, but specific solo cabin options or dedicated social events are not highlighted.

Are there any solo traveler meet-ups or social events on this cruise?
While the cruise description doesn't explicitly mention solo traveler specific meet-ups, Carnival ships generally offer a range of activities and venues where solo travelers can easily socialize and meet other guests, especially on a vibrant ship like Mardi Gras.
Will I feel out of place traveling alone on this ship?
The Mardi Gras is a large, energetic ship with diverse passengers. There are ample opportunities to engage in activities or find quiet spots, so you are unlikely to feel out of place, even traveling solo.
Are there solo cabins available or single supplements for this cruise?
The cruise details do not specify solo cabins or mention single supplements. You would need to inquire directly with Carnival Cruise Line regarding pricing for solo occupancy, as standard cabins are typically priced for double occupancy.

Accessible travelers

Fit 60

The modern ship likely offers accessible features and the itinerary includes docked ports and private islands, but specifics on tender ports or shore excursion accessibility are important to verify.

Does the Mardi Gras ship offer accessible cabins and public areas?
As a modern ship, Mardi Gras is expected to have a good selection of accessible cabins and public areas designed for wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges. It's recommended to confirm specific cabin availability and features when booking.
Are the ports of call easily accessible for someone with mobility issues?
Port Canaveral and Nassau are typically docked ports. Celebration Key™ and Half Moon Cay™ are private islands with beach access; accessibility for mobility issues on land and water activities would need specific confirmation before booking.
Will I be able to fully participate in shore excursions with a wheelchair or mobility aid?
While the ship itself should be accessible, participation in shore excursions depends on the specific tour operator and destination infrastructure. It's crucial to contact Carnival's accessibility department or the excursion provider to ensure tours meet your specific needs.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What is the departure port for this 5-day Bahamas cruise?
This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
Which destinations are included on this 5-day Bahamas cruise?
This cruise visits Celebration Key™, Nassau, and Half Moon Cay™ in The Bahamas.
What ship is used for this Bahamas itinerary?
This 5-night Bahamas cruise is on the Mardi Gras ship.
When does this particular 5-day Bahamas cruise depart?
This specific cruise departs on September 6, 2027.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival's exclusive Bahamian destination, designed for immersive island culture and activities.
What can I expect at Half Moon Cay™?
Half Moon Cay™ is Carnival's private island with a crescent-shaped beach, clear waters for swimming, and marine life, offering both relaxation and water activities.
Is there a day at sea on this itinerary?
Yes, this itinerary includes a glorious day at sea to enjoy the amenities of the Mardi Gras ship.
What type of experience does Nassau offer?
Nassau, the Bahamian capital, offers colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches, blending history and modern island life.