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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 24, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
May 1, 2027 at 8:00 AM
Mardi Gras cruise ship
About the ship
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
    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, 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
    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 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™ 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
    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

This cruise is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers, offering a well-known ship and a classic, fun Caribbean itinerary.

Is this a good cruise for a first-timer?
Yes, this is an excellent choice for a first-time cruiser! The Mardi Gras is a new, large Carnival ship known for its user-friendly experience and abundant activities. The 7-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary is a classic and popular choice, offering a balanced mix of ports and sea days.
Are the ports easy to manage for someone new to cruising?
The itinerary includes familiar and well-developed ports like Nassau and Amber Cove, plus private islands (Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key) that are specifically designed for cruise guests, making shore excursions and activities very accessible and straightforward for first-timers.
Will I get bored on the ship if I'm new to cruising?
Absolutely not! The Mardi Gras is packed with entertainment, dining, and activities, including the first roller coaster at sea. With three sea days, you'll have plenty of time to explore everything the ship has to offer, eliminating any chance of boredom.

Families

Fit 85

The Mardi Gras is an excellent choice for families, offering a fun itinerary with private islands and a ship designed for family entertainment.

Is this cruise good for kids and teens?
The Mardi Gras is known for its family-friendly amenities, including the first roller coaster at sea (Bolt). The itinerary includes two private islands, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, which are excellent for families with beaches, water activities, and dedicated spaces for fun.
Are there enough activities to keep everyone entertained?
With three sea days and calls to diverse ports and private islands, there's a good mix of ship-based entertainment and shore excursions. Mardi Gras typically offers extensive kids' clubs programs and onboard activities for all ages.
What kind of family-friendly ports does this cruise visit?
The cruise visits Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key. Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands known for their family-friendly beaches and activities, making them ideal for kids of all ages.

Groups

Fit 80

This cruise offers a highly appealing option for groups with diverse interests, balancing activities and relaxation on a new, large ship.

Is this cruise suitable for a large group with varied interests?
Absolutely. The Mardi Gras is a very large ship with a vast array of activities, dining options, and entertainment venues that can cater to diverse interests within a group, from thrill-seekers to those looking for relaxation. The itinerary also includes both lively ports and relaxing private islands.
Are there good options for group dining or gathering spaces?
The Mardi Gras, being a large ship, will have multiple dining rooms and specialty restaurants, making it feasible to arrange group dining. Numerous lounges, bars, and public spaces provide ample opportunities for groups to gather and socialize together.
How easy is it to book multiple cabins together for a group?
Booking multiple cabins together is generally straightforward, and cruise lines often have group booking specialists or incentives. Early booking is recommended for groups to secure preferred cabin locations and types close to each other.

Accessible travelers

Fit 70

The Mardi Gras is a modern ship likely offering good accessibility; however, specific port tendering details are crucial for accessible travelers.

Are there accessible cabins on this ship?
As a modern ship, the Mardi Gras is expected to have a good number of ADA-compliant accessible cabins designed for guests with mobility needs, though specific cabin availability would need to be confirmed directly with the cruise line.
Are the ports of call wheelchair friendly?
Nassau and Amber Cove are generally accessible with proper planning for excursions. Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are private islands with beaches, which might pose challenges for some mobility devices if not specifically equipped for beach access, and tendering (boat transfer) might be required, which can limit accessibility.
How accessible is the ship itself?
Being a new and large ship, the Mardi Gras should offer good accessibility throughout its public areas, including elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. It's recommended to contact Carnival directly for detailed information on the ship's specific accessibility features.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise on the Mardi Gras offers a balance of activities and relaxation, with some opportunities for couples to find romance and private moments.

Are there good dining options for a romantic evening?
The Mardi Gras is a large, modern ship, and typically offers a variety of dining options from casual to more upscale, which could include specialty restaurants suitable for a romantic dinner. However, specific details about romantic dining are not provided in the itinerary.
What activities are available for couples looking for relaxation?
With three sea days and stops at private islands like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, there will be ample opportunities for couples to relax on beaches, by pools, or enjoy the ship's amenities together. The Mardi Gras as a large ship likely has adults-only areas.
Will we feel overwhelmed by crowds or is there a chance for privacy?
As the Mardi Gras is a large ship, there will be many other guests. While quieter spots may be available, the general atmosphere can be lively. Consider a balcony cabin for more private moments.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

This cruise offers a good opportunity for solo travelers to socialize and explore, but specific solo cabin options are not detailed.

Are there opportunities to meet other solo travelers?
Larger ships like the Mardi Gras often have various activities and common areas where solo travelers can meet others. While specific solo traveler events are not listed, the general atmosphere of a Carnival ship is usually social.
Are there single cabins or single supplement waivers available?
The provided data does not specify whether Mardi Gras has dedicated single cabins or offers waivers for solo travelers. Typically, cabins are priced for double occupancy, so a single supplement might apply.
Is the itinerary suitable for exploring alone?
Yes, the itinerary visits ports like Nassau and Amber Cove, and private islands where group excursions are available, or you can explore on your own if preferred. The three sea days also offer ample time to enjoy ship amenities at your own pace.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Caribbean islands does the 7-day Mardi Gras cruise from Port Canaveral visit?
This 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Mardi Gras visits Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key.
What is 'RelaxAway' listed on the itinerary?
RelaxAway, also known as 'Fun Day At Sea,' indicates days spent cruising with access to all the ship's amenities and activities.
Where does this 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise embark from?
This 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise embarks roundtrip from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What is the duration of this Mardi Gras cruise?
This Mardi Gras cruise is 7 nights long.
When does the 7-day Eastern Caribbean Mardi Gras cruise depart?
This specific 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise departs on April 24, 2027.
Is this cruise suitable for families with children?
Cruises on the Mardi Gras generally offer a wide range of activities and amenities designed for all ages, making it suitable for families.