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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
May 15, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
May 22, 2027 at 8:00 AM
7 Day CruiseCaribbeanEastern CaribbeanFamiliesDrive To PortBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandWarm 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's theme parks. After a relaxing day at sea, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, where thrilling water sports and serene landscapes await. Another leisurely day at sea prepares you for the Bahamian delights ahead.Discover the captivating charm of Nassau, the Bahamian capital, with its colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and inviting white-sand beaches. Then, surrender to the idyllic paradise of Half Moon Cay™, Carnival's private island oasis, renowned for its crescent-shaped shores, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and abundant marine life. The excitement continues at the eagerly anticipated Celebration Key™, Carnival's new private island destination, promising an immersive Bahamian experience tailored exclusively for Carnival guests, before returning to Port Canaveral, refreshed and enriched.

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
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
    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
    At Sea
  3. 3
    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.
  4. 4
    At Sea
  5. 5
    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.
  6. 6
    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.
  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.

First-time cruisers

Fit 90

This 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on a popular Carnival ship with diverse, easy-to-navigate ports and private islands is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers looking for a fun and engaging ex

Is a 7-day cruise a good duration for a first-time cruiser?
Absolutely, a 7-day cruise is an ideal length for first-timers, offering enough time to experience life at sea and visit multiple destinations without being too long.
Are the ports of call easy for first-timers to navigate and enjoy?
Yes, ports like Amber Cove, Nassau, Half Moon Cay™, and Celebration Key™ are popular cruise destinations. Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™ are private islands specifically designed for cruisers, making them very easy and enjoyable for first-timers.
Is Carnival Cruise Line a good choice for someone new to cruising?
Carnival is known for its lively and fun atmosphere, making it a very popular and welcoming option for first-time cruisers. The Mardi Gras is one of their newest and most amenity-rich ships, offering a great initial cruise experience.

Families

Fit 85

This cruise on the Mardi Gras with multiple private island stops is excellent for families seeking fun, activities, and kid-friendly destinations.

What kind of activities are there for kids and teens on this ship?
The Mardi Gras is a top-tier Carnival ship, packed with attractions suitable for children and teens, and Carnival is well-known for its comprehensive kids' clubs for various age groups. The private islands, Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, are also designed with plenty of family activities.
Are there family-friendly excursions available at the ports?
Yes, ports like Amber Cove, Nassau, Half Moon Cay™, and Celebration Key™ are known for offering various family-friendly excursions, from water sports and beach activities to cultural experiences tailored for all ages.
Can we get connecting cabins or rooms close to each other for our family?
Carnival's Mardi Gras ship generally offers connecting cabin options. It's recommended to book early and specify your need for adjoining rooms or cabins in close proximity to accommodate your family.

Groups

Fit 80

This cruise on the Mardi Gras with multiple private islands and a lively atmosphere offers excellent opportunities for group fun and shared experiences.

Are there good options for group dining or gathering spaces on the ship?
The Mardi Gras is a large ship with numerous dining venues, including main dining rooms that can accommodate groups, as well as specialty restaurants. There are also many lounges and public areas perfect for group gatherings and celebrations.
Can we book a block of cabins together for our group?
Yes, Carnival Cruise Line typically allows groups to book blocks of cabins together, often offering specific group policies or benefits. It's best to inquire directly with Carnival's group sales for detailed arrangements.
Are there group-friendly activities or excursions at the ports?
The ports of call, including Amber Cove, Nassau, and especially the private islands Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™, offer a wide array of activities and excursions suitable for groups, from beach parties to shared water sports and tours.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a lively atmosphere with opportunities for couples to enjoy private islands, decent dining, and time at sea, though it's not explicitly geared for romance.

Are there good options for romantic dinners on board or in port?
While the ship's general dining will be lively, the private islands of Half Moon Cay™ and Celebration Key™ could offer more intimate beachside experiences. Amber Cove and Nassau also provide opportunities for local dining.
Is the ship too focused on families for a couples retreat?
The Mardi Gras is a large ship, often popular with families, but it does offer diverse areas that can appeal to couples looking for a mix of vibrant activities and relaxed moments at sea or on private islands.
Are there quiet spots or adults-only areas to relax?
Large ships like Mardi Gras typically feature adults-only retreats like the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat. Days at sea and private island stops offer opportunities for relaxation away from main crowds.

Honeymooners

Fit 60

While not specifically marketed as a romance cruise, the private islands and opportunities for dining can make it a reasonable honeymoon choice for active couples seeking adventure.

Are there any special honeymoon packages or amenities available?
Carnival may offer general celebration packages, but this cruise isn't explicitly designed for honeymooners. You would need to inquire about specific romantic amenities.
Will we be able to find privacy on this cruise?
The Mardi Gras is a large, lively ship, so while there are quiet spots like the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat, complete privacy during peak times might be challenging. However, private balconies (if booked) and private island beaches offer more secluded moments.
Are there premium dining experiences for a special night out?
Carnival's Mardi Gras typically offers specialty dining venues for an additional charge that can provide a more upscale and intimate dining experience, ideal for a special honeymoon evening.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What Caribbean ports will the Mardi Gras visit on this 7-day cruise?
This itinerary includes stops at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, Nassau in the Bahamas, Half Moon Cay (a private island), and Celebration Key (Carnival's new private island destination).
What distinguishes Celebration Key from Half Moon Cay on this itinerary?
Half Moon Cay is Carnival's established private island known for its natural beauty and crescent-shaped beaches. Celebration Key is described as Carnival's new private island destination offering an immersive Bahamian experience exclusively for Carnival guests.
Is this cruise suitable for families with children?
While the description highlights private islands with water activities and beaches, specific family-focused amenities are not detailed. Mardi Gras is a large ship, generally catering to a wide audience including families.
When does this 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise depart?
This specific cruise departs on May 15, 2027.
What activities are available at Amber Cove?
Amber Cove offers options for thrilling water sports and serene landscapes, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty.
What can I expect in Nassau, Bahamas?
Nassau, the Bahamian capital, is known for its colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and inviting white-sand beaches.
Are there any 'at sea' days on this Eastern Caribbean cruise?
Yes, the itinerary includes two relaxing days at sea before reaching Amber Cove and before the Bahamian stops, respectively.
Does this cruise offer any pre- or post-cruise opportunities in Florida?
The cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), making it convenient for travelers who wish to combine their cruise with visits to Orlando's theme parks.