TNW TravelTNW Travel
7-Day Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL cruise ship
Back to search
Carnival Cruise Line cruise line logo

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
Jan 2, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Jan 9, 2027 at 8:00 AM
7 Day CruiseCaribbeanEastern CaribbeanFamiliesRelaxingDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipNightlifeFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm Weather

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day Eastern Caribbean adventure aboard Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras, departing from Port Canaveral, your gateway to the magic of Orlando. Your journey begins with a splash in Nassau, the vibrant Bahamian capital, where colonial charm meets modern luxury. Explore colorful markets, discover historical gems, and unwind on pristine white-sand beaches. The idyllic Half Moon Cay™ awaits, offering a serene escape to crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or a leisurely horseback ride along the shore. As you sail, enjoy two relaxing days at sea, indulging in the Mardi Gras's world-class amenities. Next, discover Amber Cove, a Dominican Republic jewel, blending natural beauty with thrilling activities, from watersports to vibrant local culture. The grand finale is Celebration Key™, Carnival's exclusive new private destination, promising a perfect fusion of relaxation and adventure amidst the stunning turquoise waters of the Eastern Caribbean before returning to Port Canaveral, refreshed and rejuvenated.

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 a pristine sanctuary of white sand beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and horseback riding along the shore.
  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 blend of natural beauty and exciting activities. Guests can enjoy pristine beaches, watersports, and explore the vibrant local culture.
  6. 6
    At Sea
  7. 7
    Celebration Key™
    This new private destination, exclusively for guests of Carnival Cruise Line, promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure amidst the stunning turquoise waters of the Eastern Caribbean.
  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 88

The Mardi Gras is a highly family-friendly ship with ample activities, and the itinerary includes exciting private islands and accessible ports, making it ideal for families.

What kind of activities are available for children on the Mardi Gras?
The Mardi Gras is Carnival's newest and largest ship, known for its extensive family amenities including BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, huge water parks, and dedicated kids' clubs like Camp Ocean for various age groups.
Are the ports of call suitable for families with young children?
Yes, ports like Nassau, Half Moon Cay™, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key™ offer beaches, snorkeling, and family-friendly shore excursions. The private islands, Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, are especially convenient with direct beach access and organized activities.
Are there connecting cabins available for larger families?
Carnival's Mardi Gras ship generally offers a variety of cabin configurations, including options for connecting staterooms, which can be ideal for families needing more space or multiple rooms. It's best to confirm specific availability when booking.

First-time cruisers

Fit 85

This 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Mardi Gras from Port Canaveral is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers due to its popular itinerary, well-known brand, and modern ship amenities.

Is a 7-day cruise a good duration for a first-time cruiser?
Yes, a 7-day cruise is often considered an ideal length for first-time cruisers. It's long enough to experience a variety of ports and ship amenities without feeling too short or too long.
Are the destinations easy to navigate for someone new to cruising?
Absolutely. Destinations like Nassau, Half Moon Cay™, Amber Cove, and Carnival's new Celebration Key™ are well-developed for cruisers, offering clear excursion options and beautiful settings, making them easy and enjoyable to explore.
What makes the Mardi Gras a good ship for a first-time cruise experience?
The Mardi Gras is Carnival's newest and largest ship, offering a vast array of dining, entertainment, and activities from a roller coaster to multiple pool deck areas, ensuring there's something exciting for everyone to enjoy and explore throughout the week.

Groups

Fit 82

The Mardi Gras, with its vast array of dining and entertainment options, and family-friendly Eastern Caribbean itinerary, is an excellent choice for groups looking for a fun and engaging cruise experi

Can our group easily dine together on the Mardi Gras?
Yes, the Mardi Gras offers multiple main dining rooms and buffet options, making it feasible for groups to dine together. For larger groups, it's often advisable to request early seating or make reservations for specialty restaurants and inform the cruise line of your group's needs in advance.
Are there dedicated spaces for group gatherings or activities?
The Mardi Gras is a large ship with numerous lounges, bars, and public areas that can accommodate various group sizes. Depending on the type of group and specific needs, you may be able to reserve private spaces or simply find suitable meeting points on board for your planned activities.
What kind of activities does the Mardi Gras offer that are suitable for a diverse group?
The Mardi Gras boasts a wide range of activities to appeal to diverse interests, from the BOLT roller coaster and water parks to live music, shows, casinos, and numerous dining venues. The private island stops also offer group-friendly excursions like beach days and watersports.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a blend of port activities and sea days, with private island stops and amenities on the Mardi Gras that can appeal to couples, though it's a larger, family-oriented ship.

What romantic dining options are available on this cruise?
While the Mardi Gras is a large ship, it offers various dining venues. For a more intimate experience, look for specialty restaurants onboard, which typically come with an additional charge and provide a more refined atmosphere away from the main dining rooms.
Are there any adults-only areas on the Mardi Gras ship?
Yes, Carnival ships typically feature adults-only areas like the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat, which can provide a quieter space for couples to relax away from the general crowds and family activities.
Will we be constantly surrounded by families and children?
As the Mardi Gras is a large, family-friendly ship, there will be many families onboard. However, the cruise provides two sea days and visits to private islands like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, offering varied experiences where you can find both lively and more secluded spots.

Honeymooners

Fit 60

This cruise offers beautiful Caribbean destinations and private islands, but the large, family-oriented Mardi Gras ship might not provide the intimate, luxurious experience some honeymooners seek, tho

Is the Mardi Gras ship suitable for a romantic honeymoon?
While the Mardi Gras is a large, vibrant ship known for family fun, it does offer amenities like specialty dining and adults-only areas such as the Serenity Retreat where honeymooners can find more private and romantic experiences. The destinations like Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key are also beautiful.
What kind of shore excursions would be good for a romantic honeymoon?
The itinerary includes stops at private islands like Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, which are perfect for relaxing on secluded beaches or enjoying activities like snorkeling in clear waters. In Nassau and Amber Cove, you could look for private beach day packages or cultural tours.
Are there any special packages or amenities for honeymooners on Carnival?
Carnival Cruise Line often offers packages for special occasions, which might include amenities like sparkling wine, chocolate-covered strawberries, or in-cabin decorations. It's advised to inquire directly with Carnival or your travel advisor about specific honeymoon packages.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What dates are available for this 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on Mardi Gras?
This specific 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise departs on January 2, 2027.
Which ports does the 7-day Eastern Caribbean Mardi Gras cruise visit?
This cruise visits Nassau, Half Moon Cay™, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key™, in addition to two days at sea.
Where does the 7-day Mardi Gras Eastern Caribbean cruise depart from and return to?
The cruise departs from and returns to Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What activities can I expect at Half Moon Cay™?
Half Moon Cay™ offers activities like swimming, snorkeling, and horseback riding along the shore.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival's exclusive new private destination, offering both relaxation and adventure.
What is the starting price for this 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise?
The starting price for this cruise is $634.
Are there relaxing days at sea on this itinerary?
Yes, this itinerary includes two relaxing days at sea.
What kind of experience does Amber Cove offer?
Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic offers a blend of natural beauty, watersports, and local culture.