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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
Mar 13, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Mar 20, 2027 at 8:00 AM
7 Day CruiseCaribbeanEastern CaribbeanFamiliesDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseBudgetWarm Weather

From the sun-kissed shores of Florida to the vibrant rhythms of the Caribbean, embark on a 7-day adventure aboard Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras. Your journey begins in Port Canaveral (Orlando), a bustling gateway to world-class theme parks and attractions, setting the stage for an unforgettable escape. Explore Nassau's colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine white-sand beaches before discovering the idyllic private island of Half Moon Cay. Renowned for its crescent-shaped beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it's a pristine escape for relaxation and invigorating water activities. Traverse the turquoise waters to Amber Cove, a popular cruise port in the Dominican Republic. Here, a captivating blend of water sports, cultural experiences, and lush natural beauty awaits your discovery. The vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of the Dominican Republic will enchant you. Delve into local traditions, savor exotic flavors, or simply unwind amidst breathtaking scenery. Prepare for the ultimate Bahamian experience at Celebration Key™, Carnival's upcoming private island destination designed exclusively for its guests. This lively and immersive paradise promises a unique blend of relaxation and exhilaration, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the Caribbean. Prepare for seven days of unparalleled excitement and serenity as you sail through some of the most captivating destinations in the Eastern Caribbean. This is more than a cruise; it's an immersion into the heart of island splendor aboard the magnificent Mardi Gras.

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, Groups, First-time cruisers
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 is an excellent choice for families, offering a modern ship, private island stops, and a vibrant Eastern Caribbean itinerary.

What kind of activities are there for kids on the ship?
The Mardi Gras is a modern Carnival ship, known for extensive family-friendly amenities such as BOLT, the first rollercoaster at sea, a large water park, and dedicated kids' clubs for various age groups, though these are not explicitly detailed in this description.
Are the ports of call suitable for children?
Yes, the itinerary includes private island destinations like Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, which are excellent for families with safe beaches and water activities. Nassau and Amber Cove also offer excursions that can appeal to families, such as beach days or cultural experiences.
Is there enough to keep active teenagers entertained?
Absolutely, the Mardi Gras, being a flagship vessel, offers a wide array of activities that appeal to teens, including a thrilling rollercoaster, sports zones, and dedicated teen clubs, ensuring they won't be bored. The private islands also offer adventure activities.

Groups

Fit 85

The Mardi Gras cruise to the Eastern Caribbean is an excellent choice for groups, offering a vibrant ship, diverse activities, and engaging port calls suitable for shared experiences.

Is there enough to do on this ship for a diverse group with different interests?
Absolutely, the Mardi Gras is known for its wide array of activities and entertainment, from the BOLT rollercoaster to various dining venues and lively public spaces, ensuring there's something to appeal to every member of a diverse group.
Are there good options for group dining or gathering spaces?
The Mardi Gras, as a large, modern ship, offers numerous dining venues, including main dining rooms and specialty restaurants, that can accommodate group reservations. There are also many lounges and public areas perfect for group gatherings and celebrations.
Do the ports offer activities that groups can enjoy together?
Yes, the itinerary includes private islands like Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, which are ideal for groups to enjoy beach activities, water sports, and relaxation together. Nassau and Amber Cove also provide opportunities for group excursions, from historical tours to adventurous outings.

First-time cruisers

Fit 85

This 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Mardi Gras is a great fit for first-time cruisers, offering popular ports, a modern ship, and a good duration.

Is a 7-day cruise a good length for a first-timer?
Yes, a 7-day cruise is an excellent length for a first-time cruiser. It provides enough time to explore the ship, visit several destinations, and get a true feel for the cruise experience without feeling too short or too long.
Are the ports of call easy for first-time cruisers to navigate?
The itinerary includes well-established ports like Nassau and Amber Cove, as well as private islands like Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™. These private islands are particularly easy for first-timers, offering clear beach access and organized activities right off the ship.
Is the Mardi Gras a good ship for someone new to cruising?
Absolutely. The Mardi Gras is a large, modern ship with a wide array of activities, dining options, and public spaces, making it easy to find something for everyone. Its vibrant atmosphere and clear layout are generally welcoming for new cruisers.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers some romantic elements with private island stops and adults-only areas on the Mardi Gras, but it's also a high-energy ship which might not suit all couples seeking intimacy.

Are there good dining options for a romantic dinner?
While the Mardi Gras has many dining venues, specifics for intimate or specialty dining would need confirming beyond the general cruise description. Carnival ships typically offer specialty restaurants that provide a more upscale experience for an additional fee.
What activities are available for couples seeking relaxation?
You can relax on the private islands of Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, both of which are designed for leisure. The ship itself likely has adults-only areas like a Serenity Deck, which is standard on Carnival ships, perfect for unwinding.
Will the ports of call offer romantic excursions?
The itinerary includes Nassau, Half Moon Cay™, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key™. Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™ are ideal for beach relaxation, while Nassau and Amber Cove offer a mix of cultural exploration and activities that can be enjoyed together, depending on your preferences.

Honeymooners

Fit 60

While the Mardi Gras offers energetic fun and beautiful private islands, its lively atmosphere might be less ideal for honeymooners seeking quiet intimacy and luxury.

Will there be private or intimate spaces where we can relax together?
While the Mardi Gras is a large, vibrant ship, it typically features adults-only areas like the Serenity Deck designed for quieter moments. The private islands of Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™ also offer secluded beach areas for relaxation.
Are there special dining experiences suitable for a honeymoon?
Carnival ships often have specialty restaurants that offer a more premium and intimate dining experience for an additional charge, which can be ideal for honeymooners. You'd want to check specific options available on Mardi Gras for romantic dinners.
Do the port stops offer romantic excursions or activities?
The private islands, Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, are perfect for romantic beach days. Nassau and Amber Cove offer opportunities for couples to explore together, from picturesque beaches to cultural sites, depending on your preferences for excursions.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Caribbean islands will we visit on this 7-day cruise from Port Canaveral?
This cruise visits Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key in the Eastern Caribbean.
Which ship operates this 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise?
This 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise is operated by the Mardi Gras ship.
When does this particular Eastern Caribbean cruise depart?
This specific departure for the 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise is on March 13, 2027.
What is unique about the private islands visited on this itinerary?
You will visit Half Moon Cay, known for its crescent-shaped beach, and Celebration Key, Carnival's exclusive new private island destination.
What kind of activities can I expect at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic?
Amber Cove offers a blend of water sports, cultural experiences, and opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and local traditions of the Dominican Republic.
Is Port Canaveral (Orlando) a convenient departure point for this cruise?
Yes, Port Canaveral (Orlando) is a bustling gateway known for its proximity to theme parks and attractions, making it a convenient starting point.