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7-Day Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL cruise ship
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Carnival Cruise Line

7-Day Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

7-Day Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

Western Caribbean 7 days Mardi Gras
Departs
Jan 9, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Jan 16, 2027 at 8:00 AM
7 Day CruiseCaribbeanFamiliesWestern CaribbeanBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseWarm Weather

From the sun-kissed shores of Port Canaveral, embark on a 7-day Western Caribbean adventure aboard Carnival's Mardi Gras. Your journey begins with two serene days at sea, allowing you to indulge in the ship's world-class amenities as you anticipate the tropical wonders ahead. Discover the secluded paradise of Isla Tropicale, Roatan, where pristine beaches and lush foliage offer a tranquil escape. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Cozumel, a diver's dream with its spectacular coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and lively atmosphere. The adventure culminates at Celebration Key™, an exclusive Bahamian oasis designed for ultimate fun and relaxation, featuring thrilling water activities and authentic island experiences for all ages. As you return to Port Canaveral, carry with you cherished memories of sun-drenched days and unforgettable discoveries.

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: Jul 1, 2026

Itinerary

  1. 1
    Port Canaveral (Orlando)
    This bustling port is the gateway to Orlando's theme parks and Kennedy Space Center, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
  2. 2
    At Sea
  3. 3
    At Sea
  4. 4
    Isla Tropicale, Roatan
    Isla Tropicale is a secluded paradise nestled in the Western Caribbean, offering pristine beaches and lush tropical foliage perfect for a tranquil escape.
  5. 5
    Cozumel
    Cozumel is a vibrant island paradise off the coast of Mexico, renowned for its spectacular coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures. White-sand beaches and a lively atmosphere complete this idyllic Caribbean escape.
  6. 6
    At Sea
  7. 7
    Celebration Key™
    Celebration Key™ is an exclusive Bahamian destination, crafted for ultimate fun and relaxation, featuring pristine beaches, thrilling water activities, and authentic island experiences for all ages.
  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

This cruise is an excellent choice for families, offering a large ship with many activities, family-friendly ports, and a dedicated private island experience.

Is the Mardi Gras ship good for kids and teens?
Yes, sailing on the Mardi Gras, a large and modern Carnival ship, means access to numerous family-friendly amenities, including thrilling water activities and diverse entertainment options for all ages.
Are there enough activities for different age groups at the port stops?
The port itinerary includes Isla Tropicale for relaxed beach time, Cozumel for snorkeling and lively exploration, and Celebration Key™ which is specifically designed as an exclusive Bahamian oasis with thrilling water activities and island experiences for all ages.
Will there be good options for family suites or connecting cabins?
Large ships like the Mardi Gras typically offer a variety of cabin categories, including options for connecting cabins or family-sized staterooms, though availability should be confirmed when booking.

First-time cruisers

Fit 85

An excellent choice for first-timers with a popular ship, manageable duration, easy-to-understand itinerary, and a well-known cruise line.

Is a 7-day cruise a good duration for a first-time cruiser?
Yes, a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise is an ideal length for first-time cruisers, offering enough time to experience ship life and several destinations without being too long.
Are the ports easy to navigate and enjoyable for someone new to cruising?
The itinerary includes popular and generally easy-to-explore ports like Isla Tropicale, Cozumel, and the private destination of Celebration Key™, which are excellent for first-time visitors who want a mix of relaxation and engaging activities.
Is the Carnival Mardi Gras welcoming and easy to understand for beginners?
Carnival is known for being a fun and accessible cruise line, making the Mardi Gras a great choice for first-timers. Its variety of amenities and lively atmosphere ensure there's always something to do, and staff are accustomed to guiding new cruisers.

Groups

Fit 80

This cruise is a strong option for groups with its large ship, diverse activities, and a dedicated private island destination.

Are there suitable dining arrangements for large groups on the Mardi Gras?
The Mardi Gras, being a large Carnival ship, offers multiple dining venues, including main dining rooms that can accommodate group seating, and a variety of specialty restaurants for more intimate group experiences.
Are there enough activities onboard and at ports to keep a group entertained?
The ship itself has numerous amenities and activities, and the itinerary includes diverse ports like Cozumel for adventure and Celebration Key™ designed with activities for all ages, offering plenty to keep any group entertained.
Can we easily book a block of cabins or adjacent rooms for our group?
Booking a block of cabins or adjacent rooms for a group is generally possible on a large ship like the Mardi Gras, but it's best to arrange this well in advance to ensure availability, especially for specific cabin types.

Honeymooners

Fit 70

The cruise offers good value with interesting ports and a large ship, but may not have the exclusive, high-end romantic focus some honeymooners desire.

Is there enough privacy and romantic experiences on this ship?
The Mardi Gras is a large, vibrant ship, which might mean less emphasis on intimate, secluded experiences. However, it likely has specialty dining and quieter adults-only areas that can provide some romantic settings for honeymooners.
What kind of dining options are available for a special honeymoon dinner?
While exact specialty dining details aren't listed, Carnival's Mardi Gras is known for offering a range of diverse dining venues beyond the main dining room, which could provide a special meal experience for honeymooners.
Are the destinations suitable for a romantic honeymoon getaway?
The itinerary includes a secluded paradise in Isla Tropicale for a tranquil escape, vibrant Cozumel for adventure, and Celebration Key™ for fun and relaxation, offering a good mix for a honeymoon.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a good blend of ship amenities and relaxing port stops, though it might lack truly intimate, adults-only focus for some couples.

Are there enough romantic dining options onboard for us?
The Mardi Gras is a large ship, so while specific details on romantic, intimate dining aren't provided, it generally offers a variety of specialty restaurants beyond the main dining rooms that can provide a nicer experience.
Will we find quiet places or adults-only areas to relax?
While the Mardi Gras is a family-friendly ship, most large cruise ships like it have adults-only areas such as a Serenity Deck or specific lounges, which could provide a quieter escape for couples seeking relaxation.
Are the port stops suitable for couples looking for relaxation or adventure?
The itinerary includes Isla Tropicale, Roatan for a tranquil escape, and Cozumel for snorkeling/diving and lively atmosphere, offering a mix of relaxation and soft adventure suitable for many couples.

Seniors

Fit 60

This cruise offers a good balance of sea days and active ports, but the large, modern ship might be more geared towards a younger, active crowd.

Is the pace of this cruise too fast or is it relaxing enough for seniors?
The cruise features two initial sea days, followed by several port days with early morning arrivals, which provides a balance. The pace might be active on port days but offers relaxation onboard.
Are the port excursions physically demanding or are there easier options?
Ports like Isla Tropicale offer tranquil beach escapes, while Cozumel is good for snorkeling, and Celebration Key™ offers various activities. Most ports will have varying levels of excursions, including less strenuous options, though this would need to be booked separately.
Is the Mardi Gras ship easy to navigate for seniors?
As a large, modern ship, the Mardi Gras generally has accessible design and amenities. However, its sheer size may require more walking, and it caters to a broad demographic, including families and younger travelers.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What ship is sailing on the 7-Day Western Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral?
This 7-day Western Caribbean cruise will be sailed aboard the Mardi Gras.
When does the 7-Day Western Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral depart?
The cruise departs on January 9, 2027.
What Caribbean islands will this cruise visit?
This cruise will visit Isla Tropicale (Roatan), Cozumel, and Celebration Key™.
Are there days at sea on this Western Caribbean itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary includes two days at sea at the beginning of the cruise.
What can I expect at Isla Tropicale, Roatan?
Isla Tropicale, Roatan is described as a secluded paradise with pristine beaches and lush foliage, offering a tranquil escape.
What activities are available in Cozumel?
Cozumel is ideal for divers due to its spectacular coral reefs, and also offers white-sand beaches and a lively atmosphere.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is an exclusive Bahamian oasis designed for fun and relaxation, featuring water activities and island experiences for all ages.
Is this a roundtrip cruise?
Yes, this is a roundtrip cruise departing from and returning to Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL.