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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
May 1, 2027 at 3:30 PM
Returns
May 8, 2027 at 8:00 AM

From the sun-kissed shores of Florida to the vibrant underwater world of Cozumel, this 7-day Western Caribbean cruise aboard Carnival Mardi Gras promises an unforgettable escape. Your journey begins in Port Canaveral, the gateway to Orlando's exhilarating theme parks, setting the stage for adventure. Soon, you'll discover the exclusive pleasures of Celebration Key™, Carnival's private island haven designed for ultimate Bahamian bliss. Days at sea offer endless opportunities to indulge in Mardi Gras's unparalleled amenities, from thrilling roller coasters to serene retreats. As you sail towards Cozumel, prepare to be captivated by its spectacular coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving amid an abundance of marine life. Its white-sand beaches invite relaxation, while the lively atmosphere ensures a truly vibrant Caribbean experience. Your exploration continues to Isla Tropicale, Roatan, a secluded paradise where pristine beaches and lush tropical foliage create an idyllic setting for tranquility. Imagine unwinding amidst breathtaking natural beauty, a truly serene escape from the everyday. This captivating itinerary, blending excitement and relaxation, culminates back in Port Canaveral, leaving you with cherished memories of sun-drenched days and starlit nights.

Mardi Gras cruise ship
About the ship
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
    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
    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.
  3. 3
    At Sea
  4. 4
    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.
  5. 5
    Isla Tropicale is a secluded paradise nestled in the Western Caribbean, offering pristine beaches and lush tropical foliage perfect for a tranquil escape.
  6. 6
    At Sea
  7. 7
    At Sea
  8. 8
    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 with young children and teens, offering a fun-filled ship and family-friendly destinations.

What kind of activities are there for kids and teens on the ship?
The Carnival Mardi Gras is known for its extensive family-friendly amenities, including the first roller coaster at sea, which is perfect for adventurous kids and teens.
Are the ports of call good for families with children?
Yes, Celebration Key is Carnival's private island perfect for families, and Cozumel offers beaches and snorkeling suitable for various ages, making the itinerary family-friendly.
Are there family-friendly cabin options available?
While specific cabin types aren't detailed, large ships like the Mardi Gras typically offer a range of family-friendly cabins, including connecting options, to accommodate different family sizes.

Groups

Fit 88

This cruise on a large, active ship with multiple destinations is ideal for groups seeking a celebratory and fun-filled experience together.

Is this cruise suitable for our group looking for a fun and celebratory trip?
Absolutely, the Mardi Gras is a new and large ship with numerous attractions like a roller coaster and a vibrant atmosphere, making it excellent for groups seeking fun and celebration.
Can our group easily dine together and participate in activities?
Large ships like the Mardi Gras offer various dining venues and ample activity spaces, making it generally easy for groups to coordinate meals and join in onboard fun together.
Are there group-friendly excursions or private island experiences?
With a stop at Celebration Key, Carnival's private island, and other exciting ports like Cozumel, there are many opportunities for groups to enjoy shared excursions and experiences.

First-time cruisers

Fit 85

This cruise is an excellent choice for first-timers, offering a well-known brand, popular destinations, and a large ship with ample activities.

Is this a good cruise for someone who has never cruised before?
Yes, Carnival is a very popular and familiar brand, and the Mardi Gras is a modern, amenity-rich ship with exciting features like a roller coaster, making it a fun and engaging first-time experience.
Are the ports easy to navigate and enjoyable for a first-timer?
The itinerary includes Carnival's private island, Celebration Key, and well-known ports like Cozumel, which are generally easy to navigate and offer diverse activities for first-time cruisers.
What can I expect in terms of onboard activities for a first cruise?
On Mardi Gras, you can expect a wide array of activities including shops, dining, entertainment, and the unique Bolt roller coaster, providing plenty to do on sea days and during evenings.

Solo travelers

Fit 70

With a vibrant atmosphere and many activities on a large ship, this cruise offers good opportunities for solo travelers to socialize and stay entertained.

Will I feel out of place traveling solo on this cruise?
On a large, active ship like the Mardi Gras, there are many activities and diverse passengers, making it easy to blend in and find social opportunities without feeling out of place as a solo traveler.
Are there social events or groups for solo cruisers?
While not explicitly mentioned, large Carnival ships often organize informal meet-ups or activities that can help solo travelers connect with others, leveraging the ship's lively atmosphere.
Will I have to pay a single supplement for my cabin?
Most cruise lines, including Carnival, typically charge a single supplement for solo occupancy in a standard cabin, as specific solo cabins are not generally available on all ships.

Couples

Fit 65

This cruise offers a blend of lively activities and some tranquil spots on a large ship, suitable for couples who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere.

Are there good options for romantic dinners on board?
The Mardi Gras ship, being large, generally offers various specialty dining options beyond the main dining rooms, which can provide a more intimate setting for couples, though specific details aren't provided.
Will we be able to find quiet areas away from crowds?
While the Mardi Gras is a large ship known for its activities like a roller coaster, it typically has adults-only areas like the Serenity Retreat that can offer a more peaceful experience for couples.
Are there excursions that cater to couples?
The itinerary includes destinations like Cozumel with snorkeling and relaxing beaches, and Isla Tropicale for tranquility, offering varied activities couples can enjoy together, depending on personal preference.

Accessible travelers

Fit 60

Modern ships like the Mardi Gras offer good accessibility, but the reliance on tendered ports could be a challenge for some accessible travelers.

How accessible is the ship and its cabins for travelers with mobility needs?
Modern ships like the Mardi Gras are built to be accessible, offering ADA-compliant cabins and public areas, ensuring ease of movement for travelers with mobility needs.
Will I be able to disembark easily at all the ports of call?
While the ship itself is accessible, the cruise description doesn't specify if any ports are tendered (requiring small boats to disembark), which can be challenging for some mobility-impaired guests.
Are there accessible shore excursions available at the destinations?
Most cruise lines sailing to popular destinations like Cozumel offer accessible shore excursion options, though it's best to confirm directly with Carnival regarding specific tours.

Frequently asked about this cruise

What cruise ship will I be sailing on for this 7-Day Western Caribbean itinerary?
You will be sailing aboard the Carnival Mardi Gras for this 7-day Western Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral.
What destinations will this Western Caribbean cruise visit?
This cruise will visit Celebration Key™, Cozumel, Mexico, and Isla Tropicale, Roatan.
Where does this 7-day Western Caribbean cruise depart from?
This cruise departs roundtrip from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
What is Celebration Key™?
Celebration Key™ is Carnival's private island destination in The Bahamas, offering various amenities and experiences.
What activities are available in Cozumel, Mexico?
Cozumel is known for its spectacular coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving, and offers white-sand beaches for relaxation.
What can I expect at Isla Tropicale, Roatan?
Isla Tropicale, Roatan, offers pristine beaches and lush tropical foliage, creating a serene and idyllic setting for relaxation.
What is the duration of this Mardi Gras cruise?
This is a 7-night cruise.
When does this particular 7-Day Western Caribbean cruise depart?
This cruise is scheduled to depart on May 1, 2027.