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

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
Mar 6, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
Mar 13, 2027 at 8:00 AM
7 Day CruiseCaribbeanFamiliesDrive To PortWestern CaribbeanBahamasBeach FocusedFirst Time FriendlyGroupsKid Friendly ShipFamily FunFirst TimePrivate IslandValue CruiseCelebrationBudgetWarm Weather

Embark on a magnificent 7-day Western Caribbean adventure aboard Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras, departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. Begin your journey with the magic of Orlando readily accessible, offering world-class theme parks and attractions just a short drive away before setting sail. After two relaxing days at sea, discover Isla Tropicale, Roatan, a secluded paradise of pristine beaches and lush foliage. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant island of Cozumel, Mexico, renowned for its spectacular coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Conclude your voyage at Celebration Key™, Carnival Corporation's exclusive private island, promising an unforgettable Bahamian experience tailored for Carnival guests before returning to Port Canaveral.

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
    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 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

This cruise on the Mardi Gras is an excellent fit for families, offering an exciting ship, engaging ports, and a Carnival private island experience.

Are there enough activities for kids on the Mardi Gras?
The Mardi Gras is Carnival's newest and largest ship, packed with innovative family-friendly amenities like Bolt, the first roller coaster at sea, and various pools and Kids Clubs, ensuring plenty of activities for all ages.
What ports of call are good for families?
The itinerary includes Cozumel, excellent for snorkeling and diving, and Celebration Key™, Carnival's private island, which will be tailored with family-friendly activities and experiences.
Is the ship very crowded with kids?
As a large Carnival ship sailing during what might be school break season (early March), it is likely to have many families and children on board, contributing to a lively and energetic atmosphere.

First-time cruisers

Fit 85

This 7-day Carnival cruise from a major port is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers, offering a balanced itinerary and a fun experience.

Is 7 days a good duration for a first cruise?
Yes, a 7-day cruise is an ideal length for a first-timer, providing enough time to experience the ship and several destinations without being too long.
Are the ports easy to navigate for someone new to cruising?
The itinerary includes well-established Western Caribbean ports like Cozumel and Celebration Key™, Carnival's private island, which are generally very easy for first-time cruisers to navigate and enjoy.
Will I understand how everything works on the ship?
Carnival Cruise Line is known for being very welcoming and having clear information for guests. The crew is readily available to assist with any questions, making the onboarding and ship experience smooth for first-timers.

Groups

Fit 85

This cruise on the Mardi Gras provides a fantastic setting for groups with its large size, diverse amenities, and engaging itinerary.

Does Carnival offer group discounts or amenities?
While not explicitly stated in the cruise description, Carnival Cruise Line is well-known for offering group booking incentives, including potential discounts, onboard credit, or complimentary cabins for groups meeting certain size requirements.
Are there enough activities to keep a diverse group entertained?
Absolutely. The Mardi Gras is packed with a wide array of activities and entertainment options, from dining and shows to the Bolt roller coaster and various lounges, ensuring there's something for every member of a diverse group.
Can we arrange group dining or private events?
Yes, Carnival ships like the Mardi Gras typically offer options for group dining in the main dining rooms and may have private venues or specialty dining options that can accommodate group celebrations, though advance arrangements would be necessary.

Accessible travelers

Fit 70

The Mardi Gras as a newer ship offers good accessibility, but port tendering and specific excursion accessibility should be confirmed.

Is the Mardi Gras ship accessible for mobility devices?
As a newer and large ship, the Mardi Gras is designed with modern accessibility standards, including accessible cabins and public areas that should accommodate mobility devices.
Are any of the ports tendered, which might be an issue for accessibility?
The itinerary does not specify if any of the ports—Isla Tropicale, Roatan, Cozumel, or Celebration Key™—will be tendered or docked. It's crucial to confirm this with the cruise line, as tendering can pose challenges for guests with mobility devices.
What accessible shore excursions are available in the Western Caribbean?
The availability of accessible shore excursions will vary by port (Isla Tropicale, Roatan, Cozumel, Celebration Key™). It's recommended to contact Carnival's accessibility department or consult their shore excursion descriptions for detailed information on the specific accessibility of each tour.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a lively atmosphere and some relaxation but might lack the intimate, high-end romance many couples seek.

What romantic dining options are available on the Mardi Gras?
The cruise aboard the Mardi Gras is known for its variety of dining, but specific intimate or premium romantic dining options are not detailed in the itinerary. Carnival ships generally offer specialty restaurants that might suit a romantic dinner.
Are there adults-only areas for relaxation?
While not explicitly mentioned, Carnival's Mardi Gras typically features adults-only areas like Serenity Retreat, which could provide a quiet escape for couples.
Will we have enough private time on this cruise?
The itinerary includes two relaxing days at sea early in the trip, and a visit to a secluded paradise at Isla Tropicale, Roatan, which could offer opportunities for private moments. However, the Carnival brand is often known for a more bustling, family-friendly atmosphere.

Solo travelers

Fit 60

This cruise offers a lively atmosphere for solo travelers to socialize, but it's important to consider potential single supplements.

Are there opportunities to meet other solo travelers?
Carnival ships, especially the Mardi Gras, are known for their vibrant atmosphere and numerous activities, making it easy to meet other travelers, including solo cruisers, through organized events or casual interactions.
Does this cruise offer solo cabins or waive single supplements?
The cruise description does not specify solo cabins or mention any waive of single supplements. Solo travelers typically pay a single supplement for a cabin designed for two.
Are the excursions good for solo travelers?
The ports of call like Isla Tropicale, Roatan, and Cozumel offer a variety of excursions, including snorkeling and beach time, which can be enjoyed individually or as part of a group tour, making them suitable for solo travelers.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What is the departure port for the 7-day Western Caribbean cruise on Mardi Gras?
This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What destinations will this Western Caribbean cruise visit?
This cruise will visit Isla Tropicale, Roatan; Cozumel, Mexico; and Celebration Key™.
How many days at sea are included in this itinerary?
This 7-day cruise includes two relaxing days at sea before the first port of call.
What activities are available at Cozumel, Mexico?
Cozumel is renowned for its spectacular coral reefs, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and diving.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival Corporation's exclusive private island designed to offer a unique Bahamian experience for Carnival guests.
Is transportation from Orlando attractions to Port Canaveral included?
The cruise departs from Port Canaveral, which is accessible from Orlando, but specific transportation is not mentioned as included in the cruise fare itself.
When does this particular Mardi Gras Western Caribbean cruise depart?
This specific cruise departs on March 6, 2027.
What makes Isla Tropicale, Roatan a unique stop?
Isla Tropicale, Roatan is described as a secluded paradise featuring pristine beaches and lush foliage.