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7-Day Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL cruise ship
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Carnival Cruise Line

7-Day Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

7-Day Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

Eastern Caribbean 7 days Mardi Gras
Departs
Apr 10, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Apr 17, 2027 at 8:00 AM
7 Day CruiseCaribbeanEastern CaribbeanFamiliesDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipAdults FriendlyFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm Weather

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day Eastern Caribbean adventure aboard Carnival Cruise Line's magnificent Mardi Gras, departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. Your journey begins with the excitement of Orlando, a vibrant city brimming with world-class theme parks and attractions, just a short drive from your embarkation point. After a day of exploration, set sail for the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean. Discover the colorful charm of Nassau, the Bahamian capital, where colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches await. Indulge in the serene paradise of Half Moon Cay™, Carnival's private island oasis, renowned for its crescent-shaped beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life – perfect for relaxation and exhilarating water activities. As you sail towards the Dominican Republic, enjoy the invigorating sea days before arriving at Amber Cove, a captivating port offering a delightful blend of water sports, cultural experiences, and lush natural beauty. Conclude your extraordinary voyage with a visit to Celebration Key™, Carnival's exclusive upcoming private island destination in the Bahamas, promising an immersive and lively experience tailored just for Carnival guests, before returning to Port Canaveral (Orlando).

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
Families, First-time cruisers, 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
    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.
  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
    At Sea
  5. 5
    Amber Cove
    Amber Cove is a popular cruise port located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, offering a mix of water sports, cultural experiences, and lush natural beauty.
  6. 6
    At Sea
  7. 7
    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.
  8. 8
    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.

Families

Fit 85

Strong fit for families with lively private island destinations and a diverse itinerary that balances adventure with relaxation.

Are there enough activities to keep kids of all ages entertained?
This Carnival cruise aboard the Mardi Gras is an excellent choice for families. It features two private island destinations, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, which are designed with a variety of activities for all ages, including water sports and beach fun.
What kind of family-friendly destinations will we visit?
The itinerary includes Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key. Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands known for their family-friendly amenities and activities, offering pristine beaches and various excursions. Amber Cove also offers water sports and cultural experiences.
Is the ship itself family-friendly, with things like water parks or special kids' areas?
The Mardi Gras is a large, modern Carnival ship, widely known for its extensive family-friendly features, though specific amenities like water parks or dedicated kids' clubs are not detailed in this description, they are standard on Carnival's newest ships.

First-time cruisers

Fit 85

Strong fit for first-time cruisers due to its popular itinerary, well-known brand, and accessible departure port.

Is this a good cruise for someone who has never cruised before?
Yes, this is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers. It's a 7-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary, a very popular and enjoyable region, and it sails on Carnival's Mardi Gras, a well-known ship with many amenities. The departure from Port Canaveral (Orlando) is also convenient and easy to access.
Are the destinations easy to navigate for a first-timer?
The itinerary includes familiar and welcoming ports like Nassau, along with two private island experiences, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key. Private islands are particularly easy for first-timers as they are designed by the cruise line for guest convenience, offering readily available activities and services.
Will I understand how everything works on the ship, or is it complicated?
Carnival ships are designed with a focus on fun and approachability, making them ideal for first-timers. The Mardi Gras, being a large modern ship, will have clear signage, numerous crew members to assist, and likely introductory sessions to help you get acquainted with ship life and amenities.

Groups

Fit 80

Strong fit for groups, offering varied activities across multiple destinations, with a lively ship atmosphere.

Is this cruise suitable for a group celebration or reunion?
Yes, this cruise is very suitable for groups. The Mardi Gras is a large, vibrant ship, and the itinerary includes three distinct port stops plus two private islands, offering a variety of activities for different interests within a group, from relaxation to active excursions.
Are there special group booking rates or amenities offered?
The description doesn't specify group booking rates, but Carnival Cruise Line generally offers incentives and specialized services for groups. Booking as a group would likely grant access to dedicated group coordinators and potentially special amenities or pricing.
Will there be enough dining and entertainment options to please everyone in a group?
Aboard the magnificent Mardi Gras, a large Carnival ship, you can expect a wide array of dining venues, bars, and entertainment options that cater to diverse tastes. This ensures that everyone in your group will find something enjoyable, including shared experiences and individual preferences.

Couples

Fit 65

Reasonable for couples seeking an active and value-oriented adventure with private island stops; may lack specific romantic luxuries.

Will there be enough romantic activities or quiet spaces for just the two of us?
While the Mardi Gras is a large, energetic ship, its private island stops at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key offer opportunities for beach relaxation away from the main crowds. For specific romantic amenities, you'd need to research the ship amenities further as the itinerary focuses on active exploration over intimate experiences.
Are there good dining options for couples looking for a special evening out?
The cruise description highlights the ship's magnificence and port experiences, suggesting a wide range of dining, but doesn't specify premium or intimate dining unique to couples. Carnival typically offers specialty restaurants that could provide a more exclusive experience for an extra cost.
Are the cabins suitable for a romantic getaway, perhaps with a balcony?
The Mardi Gras is a modern ship, and while the cruise details don't specify cabin types, balcony cabins are generally available on ships like this, offering private outdoor space. You would need to check specific cabin availability and pricing when booking.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

Reasonable for solo travelers seeking a social and active group atmosphere, but may not offer dedicated solo cabins or programming.

Will I feel out of place as a solo traveler on this cruise?
Carnival cruises are known for their lively and social atmosphere, making it generally easy to meet other travelers. The itinerary also includes active port days and private islands, offering many opportunities for group activities, so you are unlikely to feel out of place.
Are there specific social events or groups for solo travelers?
The cruise description does not specify dedicated social programs or meet-ups for solo travelers. However, the energetic environment of a Carnival ship like the Mardi Gras naturally fosters camaraderie, especially during port excursions and on the private islands.
Are there special cabins or pricing for solo travelers?
The cruise details do not mention studio cabins or single-supplement waivers. Solo travelers would likely book a standard cabin, which typically incurs a higher per-person cost. It's recommended to check Carnival's specific solo traveler policies.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Caribbean islands will this 7-day cruise from Port Canaveral visit?
This cruise will visit Nassau, Half Moon Cay™ in the Bahamas, Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, and Celebration Key™, Carnival's private island in the Bahamas.
Which ship operates this Eastern Caribbean itinerary departing April 10, 2027?
This Eastern Caribbean cruise will be on Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras ship.
What is unique about the private islands visited on this cruise?
Half Moon Cay™ is known for its crescent-shaped beach and clear waters, while Celebration Key™ is Carnival's new exclusive private island destination.
What activities are available at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic?
Amber Cove offers a blend of water sports, cultural experiences, and opportunities to enjoy its lush natural beauty.
How long is this Mardi Gras cruise and where does it depart from?
This is a 7-night cruise departing roundtrip from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What should I expect when visiting Nassau, Bahamas?
In Nassau, you can explore colonial architecture, bustling markets, and enjoy pristine white-sand beaches.