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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
Jan 23, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Jan 30, 2027 at 8:00 AM
7 Day CruiseCaribbeanEastern CaribbeanFamiliesRelaxingAdventure ExpDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipNightlifeFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm WeatherEasy Getaway

Prepare for an unforgettable 7-day Eastern Caribbean adventure aboard Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras, departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. From the moment you set sail, you'll be immersed in a world of excitement and relaxation, with captivating destinations and thrilling experiences at every turn.Your journey begins in the vibrant capital of the Bahamas, Nassau, where colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches await your exploration. Then, discover the idyllic private island paradise of Half Moon Cay, renowned for its crescent-shaped beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life – a perfect escape for relaxation and water activities. As you cruise towards the Dominican Republic, you'll find yourself in Amber Cove, a popular port offering a delightful mix of water sports, cultural experiences, and lush natural beauty. Finally, prepare for the grand unveiling of Celebration Key™, Carnival's exciting new private island destination, promising a lively and immersive Bahamian experience designed exclusively for Carnival Cruise Line guests.Indulge in two relaxing days at sea aboard the Mardi Gras, where you can savor gourmet dining, enjoy world-class entertainment, and unwind by the pool. With a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, this Eastern Caribbean cruise offers an unparalleled escape for all.

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 90

The Mardi Gras and its itinerary to private islands and active ports are a strong fit for families seeking fun and diverse activities.

What kind of activities are available for kids on the Mardi Gras?
The Mardi Gras is a top-tier ship for families, known for its extensive kids' clubs, the first roller coaster at sea (BOLT), and water park features providing plenty of entertainment for all ages.
Are the port stops family-friendly with things for children to do?
Yes, ports like Nassau offer beaches and excursions, while Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key™ are private islands designed with activities for all, including water sports and dedicated family areas.
Are there connecting cabins or good options for families to stay together?
Carnival's Mardi Gras offers various cabin configurations, including options for connecting rooms or larger family staterooms to accommodate families traveling together comfortably.

First-time cruisers

Fit 85

An ideal first-time cruise, offering a popular brand, moderate duration, and exciting Caribbean ports from a convenient Florida departure.

Is this a good cruise for someone who has never cruised before?
Yes, this is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers. Carnival is a well-known brand, the 7-day duration is perfect, and the Eastern Caribbean itinerary with popular ports is very appealing.
Are the port stops easy to navigate for a first-timer?
The ports like Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key™ are well-equipped for cruisers, making them easy to explore independently or through organized excursions.
What's the atmosphere like on the Mardi Gras for a first-time cruiser?
The Mardi Gras has a vibrant, fun, and easygoing atmosphere, making it very welcoming for first-time cruisers. With plenty of activities and dining options, there's always something to do.

Groups

Fit 85

With a large ship, diverse activities, and popular Caribbean ports, this cruise is a great option for various types of groups.

Is the Mardi Gras a suitable ship for a large group gathering?
Yes, the Mardi Gras is a mega-ship with numerous dining venues, bars, and entertainment spaces, making it very suitable for large groups to find activities together or explore independently.
Are there options for group dining or reserving spaces for special events?
Carnival Cruise Line often caters to groups, offering options for group dining arrangements and potentially private event spaces, which would need to be coordinated directly with their group events team.
Are the port excursions suitable for groups with diverse interests?
The itinerary includes diverse ports like Nassau, Half Moon Cay, and Amber Cove, offering a wide range of activities from relaxation on beaches to adventurous water sports and cultural experiences, catering to varied group interests.

Accessible travelers

Fit 70

The Mardi Gras is a modern ship with accessible features, and the itinerary primarily features docked ports, enhancing accessibility.

Does the Mardi Gras offer accessible cabins for guests with disabilities?
As a modern ship, the Mardi Gras is equipped with a variety of accessible staterooms designed to accommodate guests with various mobility needs, including wider doorways and accessible bathrooms.
Are the ports of call accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues?
The itinerary includes ports like Nassau, Amber Cove, and the private islands which are typically dock-based or offer accessible tenders, making them generally easier to navigate for guests with mobility challenges.
What support is available on the ship for guests with accessibility needs?
Carnival Cruise Line provides various services and facilities for guests with disabilities, including accessible restrooms, elevators, and staff trained to assist, though specific needs should always be communicated in advance.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers some romantic spots and dining but might be a bit lively for couples seeking a very quiet, exclusive experience.

Are there good options for a romantic dinner on this ship?
The Carnival Mardi Gras is known for its diverse dining options, including specialty restaurants that offer a more intimate experience than the main dining halls, perfect for a romantic evening.
Will we be able to find quiet spots away from crowds on this cruise?
While the Mardi Gras is a large, lively ship, there are adults-only areas like Serenity Retreat, which can provide a more peaceful atmosphere for couples to relax away from the main activities.
Are there any private romantic excursions available at the ports?
Ports like Half Moon Cay are private islands offering beautiful beaches, which can be lovely for couples. Excursion options would need to be checked closer to booking for private romantic experiences in Nassau, Amber Cove, or Celebration Key.

Seniors

Fit 65

This cruise offers a relaxing pace with sea days and accessible ports, but the large, active ship might be overwhelming for some seniors.

Is this cruise itinerary too active or does it offer a relaxed pace?
This 7-day cruise includes two full days at sea, offering a relaxed pace with time to enjoy the ship. The port days are balanced with opportunities for both activity and leisure depending on your preference.
Are the ports easily accessible from the ship, or will there be tenders?
All listed ports (Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove, Celebration Key™) are typically docked or easily accessible for cruise ship passengers, minimizing the need for tenders and ensuring easier access.
Does the Mardi Gras offer quiet areas or enrichment activities for seniors?
While Mardi Gras is a very active ship, it does feature quieter zones like the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat. Enrichment activities or lectures specifically tailored for seniors may be limited, but entertainment is varied.

Honeymooners

Fit 60

While the Mardi Gras offers fun and dining, it's a large, lively ship that might lack the intimate, exclusive feel some honeymooners desire.

Is this cruise more of a party atmosphere or relaxing for honeymooners?
The Mardi Gras tends to have a lively, fun atmosphere with many activities, which might appeal to honeymooners looking for excitement, but it might not be the most tranquil or private option for those seeking a quiet escape.
What kind of dining options are there for a special romantic meal?
The Mardi Gras offers specialty dining venues beyond the main dining rooms, which provide a more exclusive and romantic setting for a special honeymoon dinner.
Are there private balconies or suites that offer a romantic experience?
Yes, the Mardi Gras offers a range of cabins, including balcony staterooms and suites, which can provide a more private and romantic space for honeymooners to enjoy together.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Caribbean islands will this 7-day cruise visit?
This cruise visits Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, and Carnival's new private island destination, Celebration Key™.
Where does this Eastern Caribbean cruise depart from?
The cruise departs roundtrip from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What ship will I be sailing on for this itinerary?
You will be sailing aboard Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras ship.
How long is this Mardi Gras cruise?
This is a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise.
When does this particular cruise depart?
This cruise is scheduled to depart on January 23, 2027.
What can families expect on Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay offers a crescent-shaped beach, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, suitable for relaxation and water activities.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival's new private island destination, designed to offer a lively and immersive Bahamian experience exclusively for Carnival guests.
How many days at sea are included in this itinerary?
The itinerary includes two relaxing days at sea.