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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 11, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Sep 16, 2027 at 8:00 AM
FamiliesShort CruiseDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

From the moment you depart Port Canaveral, your escape aboard the magnificent Mardi Gras begins. Days at sea are yours to fill with endless possibilities, from thrilling activities curated by Carnival Cruise Line to simply basking in the sun on deck. Let the ocean breeze sweep you away as you anticipate the Bahamian delights ahead.Your journey into paradise truly unfolds at Half Moon Cay™, Carnival's idyllic private island oasis. Sink your toes into the soft, white sands of the crescent-shaped beach, dive into crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with vibrant marine life, or simply relax in a secluded cabana. This pristine haven offers the perfect blend of tranquility and exhilarating water sports.Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Nassau, the Bahamian capital. Explore its rich history through colorful colonial architecture, browse bustling markets for local treasures, or unwind on its pristine white-sand beaches. To conclude your unforgettable voyage, experience the lively and immersive Celebration Key™, Carnival Corporation's upcoming private island destination designed exclusively for Carnival Cruise Line guests. Return to Port Canaveral refreshed and rejuvenated, with memories of sun-drenched days and Bahamian dreams.

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
Groups, First-time cruisers, Families
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
    At Sea
  3. 3
    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.
  4. 4
    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.
  5. 5
    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.
  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.

Groups

Fit 90

This lively, 5-day Bahamas cruise on Mardi Gras with private island stops is excellent for groups looking for fun and shared experiences.

Is this cruise suitable for large groups looking to celebrate or travel together?
Yes, this cruise is highly suitable for groups. The Mardi Gras is a large, modern ship known for its array of activities and entertainment, providing plenty of options for groups to enjoy together. The 5-day duration and Bahamian itinerary are also very appealing for group travel.
Are there good options for group dining and activities on board?
Carnival ships like the Mardi Gras typically offer numerous dining venues and activities that can accommodate groups, from large main dining rooms to various specialty restaurants and lively entertainment spaces. It's ideal for shared dining and fun.
Can we get cabins close together or special group rates?
While the description doesn't explicitly state group rates or adjacent cabin options, cruise lines like Carnival frequently offer perks and booking assistance for groups. It is advisable to contact the cruise line directly about group bookings for cabin blocks and potential discounts.

First-time cruisers

Fit 90

This short, affordable Bahamian cruise with popular private island stops on a modern Carnival ship is ideal for first-time cruisers.

Is this a good cruise for someone who has never cruised before?
Absolutely! This 5-day cruise is an excellent choice for first-timers due to its shorter duration, affordable estimated price, and popular Bahamian destinations, including two private islands which are easy to navigate for a first-time port experience.
Are the ports of call easy for a first-time cruiser to enjoy?
Yes, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands owned by Carnival, making port visits very straightforward and relaxing with managed activities and amenities. Nassau is a vibrant capital with easily accessible beaches and markets.
Is Carnival Cruise Line a good choice for a first cruise experience?
Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its fun, energetic atmosphere and generally caters well to a broad audience, making it a very popular and approachable choice for first-time cruisers looking for an enjoyable and easy vacation.

Families

Fit 85

This 5-day Bahamas cruise on Mardi Gras is excellent for families with its private island stops and a ship known for family-friendly amenities.

Are there enough activities to keep my children entertained on board?
The Mardi Gras is known for being extremely family-friendly with a wide array of activities curated by Carnival Cruise Line, though specific details like water parks or kids clubs are not listed in this description. Days at sea will be full of options.
Are the shore excursions family-friendly at the port stops?
Both Half Moon Cay and the upcoming Celebration Key are private islands owned by Carnival, designed with various activities for families, including beaches and water sports. Nassau also offers beaches and cultural sites suitable for families.
What kind of dining options are available for kids?
While specific dining options aren't detailed, Carnival cruises generally offer a range of casual and buffet options that cater well to children's preferences, alongside main dining rooms.

Accessible travelers

Fit 70

This cruise offers good ship accessibility on a modern vessel and private island experiences, but tender ports require checking specific accessibility.

What is the accessibility like on the Mardi Gras ship?
The Mardi Gras is a modern ship, suggesting it likely has good general accessibility including ramps, elevators, and accessible cabins. However, specific ADA cabin details and ship-wide accessibility features would need to be confirmed with Carnival.
Are the port stops accessible for someone with mobility challenges?
Half Moon Cay is typically a tender port, which means guests use smaller boats to get to the island, and this can sometimes be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. Nassau is often docked, offering easier access. Celebration Key is an upcoming private destination, so its accessibility details would need to be verified.
Are accessible shore excursions typically offered at these destinations?
Carnival usually offers accessible shore excursions, but their availability can vary by port and specific tour. Guests requiring accessible excursions should contact Carnival's accessibility services in advance to arrange suitable options for Half Moon Cay, Nassau, and Celebration Key.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a lively, short escape to the Bahamas, potentially fitting for couples looking for fun, but may lack significant intimate experiences.

Will there be enough romantic activities or quiet spaces for couples?
The Mardi Gras is a large, vibrant ship, so while it has many amenities, genuinely quiet or intimate spaces might be limited. The private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, offer opportunities for relaxing on beaches away from the main ship crowd.
Are there any special dining experiences for a romantic evening?
The cruise description focuses more on general amenities and destinations rather than specific premium or intimate dining experiences. You'd need to check Carnival's Mardi Gras ship details for specialty restaurants that might offer a more romantic setting.
What kind of cabin would be best for a couple seeking privacy?
A balcony cabin would provide a private outdoor space for couples to enjoy the ocean views. For maximum privacy, a suite could be considered, although the cruise does not detail specific cabin types.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

This cruise offers a lively atmosphere and engaging destinations on a modern ship, making it a reasonable option for social solo travelers.

Does this cruise have options for solo travelers to meet others?
The Mardi Gras is a large, active ship, and Carnival generally offers a lively atmosphere with many opportunities for socializing, though specific solo traveler meet-ups aren't mentioned in the description.
Are there any single cabins or is there a single supplement?
The cruise description does not specify single occupancy cabins or details regarding single supplements. Solo travelers should inquire directly about pricing for cabins booked by one person.
Will I feel out of place traveling alone on this cruise?
The vibrant atmosphere of a Carnival cruise like the Mardi Gras tends to be inclusive, and the short duration combined with enticing private island stops makes it an approachable option for solo travelers seeking fun and relaxation.

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 Bahamas cruise from Port Canaveral.
Where does this cruise depart from and what date?
This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL, on September 11, 2027.
What destinations will this 5-day Bahamas cruise visit?
This cruise will visit Half Moon Cay™, Nassau, and Carnival's new private island destination, Celebration Key™.
What can I expect to do during a 'day at sea' on the Mardi Gras?
Days at sea offer endless possibilities, including thrilling activities curated by Carnival Cruise Line or relaxing on deck, as mentioned in the description.
Is Half Moon Cay™ a private island, and what activities are available there?
Yes, Half Moon Cay™ is Carnival's private island. You can relax on white sands, swim in clear waters, or enjoy exhilarating water sports.
What kind of experience can I expect at Nassau, Bahamas?
In Nassau, you can explore colorful colonial architecture, browse bustling markets for local treasures, or relax on its pristine white-sand beaches.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival Corporation's upcoming private island destination designed exclusively for Carnival Cruise Line guests.
Who would this 5-day Bahamas cruise be good for?
This cruise would be ideal for travelers looking for a mix of relaxation on private islands, vibrant city exploration, and a refreshing escape from Port Canaveral.