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Carnival Mardi Gras

Cruise line Carnival Cruise Line

• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)

Carnival Mardi Gras current position

Carnival Mardi Gras current location is at North West Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 24.42950 N / -74.13665 W) cruising at speed of 18 kn (33 km/h | 21 mph) en route to TC GTD > US PC. The AIS position was reported 58 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras current cruise is 6 days, round-trip Eastern Caribbean . Prices start from USD 1069 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 14 Jul, 2024 and ends on 20 Jul, 2024 .

Specifications of Carnival Mardi Gras

•   Itineraries
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Carnival Mardi Gras Itineraries

Carnival mardi gras review, review of carnival mardi gras.

The 2021-built Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship is CCL-fleet 's first newest and largest liner of the Carnival XL-Class. All the three units in this series are from the German shipbuilder Meyer Werft (shipyard Turku Finland ). As with all other "Fun Ships", the shipowner is Carnival Corporation - the world's largest passenger shipping company .

The XL-Class is similar in design and facilities to Helios-Class ships produced for Carnival Corporation's brands Costa and AIDA by Meyer Werft in Papenburg Germany . Other Excellence-Class liners (Mardi Gras sisterships) are Carnival Celebration (2022), Carnival Jubilee (2023), P&O Iona (2020), P&O Arvia (2022), Costa Smeralda (2019), Costa Toscana (2021), AIDAnova (2018), AIDAcosma (2021).

The vessel (IMO number 9837444) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311001049) and registered in Nassau .

Carnival XL-Class ship design features a new (red-white-navy blue) hull and was created by the NYC-based naval architecture firm "Bluarch Architecture". Among the world's largest passenger ships , the new liner has length 1130 ft (344 m), passenger capacity 5200 (lower berths) and boasts the most advanced maritime technologies as well as various fleet-first and industry-first innovations.

On December 14, 2018, Carnival announced that the new Mardi Gras will have the industry's first roller coaster at sea. The facility ("BOLT Ultimate Sea Coaster") will be built by Maurer Rides ( Munich Germany -based company) specializing in roller coaster design and manufacturing. The race track has length 244 m (800 ft), with twists, turns, drops and speeds up to 64 kph (40 mph). Individual speeds are posted after the race. Carnival's roller coaster is all-electric and allows 2 riders to race along in motorbike-like vehicles at height 57 m (187 ft) above the sea. The experience features breathtaking top-deck 360-degree views and ends with a high-speed turn around the funnel/smokestack.

On January 25, 2019, was announced that the new Carnival XL-class vessel will have 6 themed zones (neighborhoods) - Grand Central, French Quarter, Lido-Pool, La Piazza, Summer Landing, The Ultimate Playground.

Decks and Cabins

Carnival Mardi Gras staterooms (a total of 2641 passenger cabins) are divided into 22 different categories, including 2-deck apartments (duplex suites) and 80 wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers). All cabin bathrooms feature the fleet's first glass-door showers and in-shower shaving bar. Over 70% of all staterooms are outside, 300 pairs are connecting/family cabins.

The boat has 18 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 11 with cabins.

Cabin balconies are accessed via sliding floor-ceiling glass doors. The lounge area is furnished with new-type sofabeds (couch bed with footstools opening up for storage), under-bed storage (for suitcases), flexible reading lamps (bedside), mini-refrigerator with transparent glass door, plenty of power outlets, USB ports (on the vanity table and bedside), more shelving (for electronic devices), large wardrobe (with folding shelves, sliding shoe rack, 2 pull-out bins).

Like the Vista-class Carnival liners, Mardi Grass has Havana staterooms with a patio (indoor-outdoor space) with direct access to an exclusive Sundeck area with loungers, Bar and swimming pool. Another Vista-class type of cabins are Family Harbor (clustered near Camp Ocean/kids club) and with direct access to the exclusive Family Harbor Lounge. Cloud 9 Spa staterooms traditionally offer exclusive amenities, including premium bathrobes and slippers and Elemis brand toiletries.

Mardi Gras offers over 180 suites in 11 categories, including company's new premium category "Carnival Excel" suites (32 staterooms in 4 categories) with new VIP amenities and exclusive access to Loft 19 (resort-style, open-air sundeck). All ship suites offer a VIP amenities package including priority boarding/debarkation, bottled water upon arrival, priority MDR (main dining room) seating, plush bathrobes. Passengers in "Carnival Excel" suites receive as additional amenities:

• Dedicated concierge phone line
• Unlimited access to Loft 19
• Guaranteed specialty dining times (except Bonsai Teppanyaki, and Chef's Table)
• Complimentary room service, laundry, and Bottomless Bubbles soda package
• Fresh fruit basket and sparkling wine upon arrival
• Upgraded bathroom amenities

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The 19-decks high new Mardi Gras vessel also features Carnival's largest Atrium and open-deck areas.

• Grand Central (midship on Decks 6-7-8) is an expanded Atrium concept combining day-to-night entertainment complex (including aerial performances) with a bar lounge (overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows. From the Atrium are accessible the restaurants Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki and Punchliner Comedy Club, as well as the intimate Piano Bar 88 (themed venue for sing-a-longs).
• French Quarter (aft on Deck 6) is lined with new eateries and bars. This neighborhood is linked via 2-deck-high Promenade with the traditional New Orleans jazz club lounge "The Brass Magnolia" (offering hand-crafted cocktails and live music).
• La Piazza (midship on Deck 8) is an Italy-themed area housing the 24-hour complimentary Pizzeria del Capitano and Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant). Classic Italian cocktails and live music nightly are offered at the new Bar della Rosa (cafe/patisserie/Lavazza-coffee bar, cocktails) and Piazza Panini (hand-pressed sandwiches/Deli food bar). La Piazza is designed like a courtyard with an interior marked by red brick walls, street lights, murals, ornate iron and tile works, an original Vespa scooter (Piaggio-made) and an original Fiat 126 (rear-engined car, 1972-made/the year when TSS Mardi Gras liner debuted).
• Summer Landing (aft on Deck 8/close to waterline) houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri), The Watering Hole (outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers), ParchedPig (onboard- brewed craft beers), Heroes Tribute Lounge. Also in this neighborhood are located a lunch counter (for the Smokehouse-Brewhouse), an expansive outdoor deck area with two whirlpools and an infinity pool, a stage for live music, a sports bar featuring indoor and outdoor TV screens, hang-out space with trivia, dance classes, arts and crafts.
• Heroes Tribute (bar lounge via partnership with Operation Homefront/USA-based nonprofit organization that provides services and supports military families and veterans) offers comfortable seating (leather armchairs with low tables) and large TVs (for live sporting events).
• Lido (aft on Decks 16-17) houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy's Burger Joint, plus the new venues "Street Eats" (grab-and-go eatery) and "Big Chicken by Shaq" (lunch and dinner take-away food bar).
• The Ultimate Playground (aft on Decks 18-20) is a large family-friendly outdoor playground area highlighted by fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark) and an expanded SportSquare (sports complex). Also here is the "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (first at sea).

The new Mardi Gras ship also has Carnival's signature facilities Serenity (adults-only resort), Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Carnival Mardi Gras main dining rooms feature select items from the onboard steakhouse, available for an additional fee. Mardi Gras also has a Lido buffet. Seafood lovers are pampered with the Seafood Shack - New England-inspired casual eatery. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating and the menu includes steamed lobster, lobster rolls, fried shrimp, fried clams, crab cakes, and other seafood surprises. Seafood Shack serves lunch and dinner and is priced a la carte starting at $4.

The ship has a Japanese specialty restaurant (named Bonsai Teppanyaki) located within the Bonsai Sushi restaurant (on Promenade-Havana Deck). The restaurant offers authentic Far East dishes and a live cooking show performance (by the chefs) at custom-built cooking stations positioned at the center of an 8-seat dining table. Due to the room's limited seating, reservations are required. Each meal at Bonsai Teppanyaki starts with a sampling of 5 appetizers (Miso Soup, Pork Belly Yakitori, Spicy Tuna on Rocks). Combo dinners are also offered. Each meal ends with the specialty desserts "Chocolate Bento Box" and "Green Tea Ice Cream". The restaurant is open for lunch (seadays only) and for dinner (every night of the voyage). Cover charge/price is per person and covers the entire meal.

Available on all Fun Ships is Chef's Table (VIP dining experience / 12-guest capacity) that includes multicourse dinner with ship's Master Chef, private cocktail reception and galley/kitchen tour. This dining option usually takes place in a non-traditional venue (a dedicated room in the galley) and can be booked onboard for USD 75 per person.

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse has a specialty restaurant (located in the French Quarter of Deck 6 / portside). Lagasse is the chef and owner of 11 different restaurants, including 4 in New Orleans . He is a regular guest on Good Morning America (TV show) and has hosted 2000+ shows on Food Network (US pay-TV channel). Lagasse Restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including spicy creole specialties. Menu items include muffuletta sandwiches, oyster and cochon de lait po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12.

New (Mardi Gras only) drinking and dining venues are within the themed zones "Lido" (deck 16) and "Summer Landing" (Lanai/promenade deck 8 aft). These include RedFrog Tiki Bar, The Watering Hole, Street Eats, Big Chicken by Shaq.

• RedFrog Tiki Bar is a South Pacific Island-themed, 2-level bar designed as a variation of Carnival's poolside RedFrog Bar. New is the island-inspired outdoor decoration with floral patterns, vibrant colors, tiki heads. Located close to Guy's Burger Joint, RedFrog Tiki Bar offers refreshing cocktails (like Red's Rum Runner Jumper, Jungle Bird, Polynesian Punch) presented in souvenir glasses and pineapples.
• The Watering Hole (located within The Patio at Summer Landing) is a backyard-like designed outdoor bar with wide selections of cocktails and beers (including Carnival's own brands / canned and draft brews).
• Street Eats is an open-air complimentary eatery located next to Seafood Shack. It offers ready-to-eat street food via 3 themed kiosks (steamed, fried, and plancha food). The new grab-and-go dining venue has a daily rotating menu. Small plates (including falafel or empanadas) are available at the fried food station, siu mai or bao buns - at the steamed food outlet, and satay and kebabs at the plancha food kiosk.

The new Mardi Gras has Carnival fleet's second "Big Chicken" restaurant at sea (by Shaquille O'Neal). Debuting on Carnival Radiance in 2021, Big Chicken by Shaq is located aft on Lido Deck. Many menu items are developed by the basketball player himself, the rest are based on the star's favorite food recipes.

Rudi's Seagrill is another fleet-first dining venue (seafood restaurant by Rudi Sodamin / Holland America Line 's Master Chef). Rudi's Seagrill is a specialty restaurant (at surcharge / reservation fee) located on Deck 8 (between Summer Landing and La Piazza) with indoor (80 seats) and outdoor seating (al fresco dining on The Lanai). The Seagrill offers appetizers, entrees and desserts, with all menu items presented as food faces. Signature dishes include Bigeye Tuna, Lemon-Stuffed Grilled Branzino, Seared Scallops, Salt-Roasted Prawns, Broiled Lobster Tails, Crab Cake, Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Chocolate Truffle Cake. Non-seafood options are also on offer.

Ship's 2-deck-high Lido zone houses fleet's biggest "Guy's Burger Joint" (by Guy Fieri), the Mexican food bar BlueIguana Cantina, the New England-inspired Seafood Shack, and Lido Marketplace (ship's buffet restaurant). Other signature facilities in the area are Beach Pool (midship) and the infinity swimming pool Tides Pool (aft) with a bar, great stern views and ample seating. Lido-Pool Deck also houses deck parties and Dive-in Movies (at Carnival Seaside Theater/outdoor cinema).

Follows the complete list of Carnival Mardi Gras restaurants and food bars.

• Palm Restaurant (2-level Aft Dining Room)
• Flamingo Restaurant is a dinner-only Dining Room (complimentary) with sit-down waiter service.
• "Emeril’s Bistro 1396" is the first-at-sea restaurant by chef Emeril Lagasse (celebrity chef and owner of 11 different restaurants in the USA). The restaurant was named after the Mardi Gras ship's hull/Turku shipyard number (1396). A-la-carte menu appetizers cost US$2 each, entrees are priced at US$12. The restaurant offers New Orleans cuisine, including muffuletta sandwiches, side dishes (Creole potato salad with diced scallions, red beans, jazz-man rice), desserts (Bananas Foster, lemon icebox pie). For Breakfast are also offered Shrimp & Grits, and Shrimp Creole Omelet. Signature dishes at Emeril’s Bistro 1396 are chef's favorites Slow-Cooked Cochon de Lait Po'Boy (Boston butt pork roast), BBQ-Grilled Shrimp (large shrimp/peeled-deveined, tails attached), Emeril's Classic Seafood Gumbo (shrimp, fish, oysters), Cajun Jambalaya (boneless-skinless chicken thighs).
• Bonsai Sushi restaurant (including Bonsai Teppanyaki) serves Japanese cuisine specialties and drinks (a la carte priced menu).
• Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse (indoor/outdoor seating, open between 6 - 9:30 pm) is a premium steakhouse-seafood restaurant at a surcharge (reservations recommended).
• The Chef's Table (private dining room) is a small room dedicated to the multi-course Chef's Table VIP dinner package (surcharged at $75 per person).
• La Piazza (Italy-themed zone) houses Pizzeria del Capitano (complimentary 24-hour pizzeria restaurant), Cucina del Capitano (seafood restaurant) as well as fleet's first/new venues Bar della Rosa (cafe/patisserie/Lavazza-coffee bar, cocktails) and Piazza Panini (hand-pressed sandwiches/Deli food and desserts bar).
• Summer Landing houses Guy's Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse (Carnival's complimentary smoked-on-board BBQ food by Guy Fieri) and ParchedPig (onboard-brewed craft beers).
• Lido houses Carnival's complimentary Pool Deck eateries Seafood Shack, BlueIguana Cantina (Mexican fast food bar), and Guy's Burger Joint
• BlueIguana Cantina is a complimentary poolside (self-serve) fast-food bar with Mexican cuisine serving the Beach Pool area.
• Lido Marketplace (self-service buffet restaurant)
• Big Chicken by Shaq (specialty restaurant by Shaquille O'Neal)
• Rudi's Seagrill (specialty restaurant by Rudi Sodamin)
• RedFrog Tiki Bar
• The Watering Hole
• Street Eats (grab-and-go eatery)
• (deck 16/Lido) Chibang! is a new (introduced on the ship Mardi Gras) restaurant for signature Chinese and Mexican dishes (a la carte-priced), with two separate food menus plus a beverage menu (including specialty cocktails, like Chibang! Margarit, Smokey Mezcal Negroni, Green Tea Martini). The decor is marked by floor-ceiling windows (wall-to-wall), heavy red and green, with gold accents, a colorful dragon (at the entrance). Dishes include favorites like Kung Pao Chicken, Singapore Chili Shrimp/Prawn, Slow-Braised Pork Belly, Egg Drop Soup, Crispy Pork Carnitas Tacos, Steak Ranchero, Mole de Pollo Mexicano, Pork Lomito, Pescado Frito Crujiente, Camarones a la Diabla (shrimp).

In mid-January 2018, CCL announced 4 new craft beers that will be brewed onboard the Carnival Horizon (and the new Mardi Gras) ship. The brews were developed by brewmaster Colin Presby. They are offered at Guy's Pig and Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse (Brewhouse), The names of the new draft beers are inspired by the BBQ offerings at the Smokehouse/Brewhouse.

• "ParchedPig Farmhouse Ale" is a lightly hopped dry finish beer.
• "ParchedPig Smoked Porter" is brewed with in-house smoked malt, hickory smoke, and molasses.
• "ParchedPig Toasted Amber Ale" has rich amber color and notes of toasted caramel and biscuit.
• "ParchedPig West Coast IPA" is a traditional West Coast India Pale Ale loaded with bitterness and a distinctive aroma of pine and citrus.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The outdoor activity complex on the Mardi Gras ship is named The Ultimate Playground (2-deck high) with SkyCourse, SportSquare, Carnival WaterWorks (fleet's largest aquapark, has 3x spiraling waterslides, 1x 2-lane racing slide, 1x tipping bucket) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's first rollercoaster at sea).

A signature outdoor fun facility is the ropes course SkyCourse (length 600 ft / 183 m). SkyCourse is part of the SportSquare (sports complex) with an indoor hangout, mini-bowling, mini-golf course, The Clubhouse, Ping-Pong area with tables, jogging track, interactive sports gaming, arcade basketball.

Located on the ship's top-deck ( deck 19 ), Loft 19 is a new VIP leisure concept (secluded retreat for adults) designed as an exclusive (Excel Suites-only) premium resort complex. Here are offered full bar service, swimming pool, sunbathing area with cabanas, deckchairs and sun loungers available for rent. The cabanas are fully-stocked with beverages, chilled towels, plush bathrobes and provide dedicated concierge service with lunch delivery and fresh fruits. Carnival Excel Suite passengers enjoy priority cabana reservations.

Grand Central Atrium is a large open-floor-designed space (midship on decks 6-7-8) that combines an entertainment complex with a bar lounge overlooking the ship's starboard side) with 3-decks high floor-ceiling windows.

• Grand Central features 3000-ft2 (280-m2) glass panels (built into the vessel's superstructure) to provide passengers with unobstructed views as they relax in comfortable seating. From the Atrium are accessible 3 dining venues (Bonsai Sushi, Bonsai Teppanyaki, Punchliner Comedy Club) as well as Piano Bar 88 (themed venue for sing-a-longs), Mardi Gras Casino (gaming lounge), The Fun Shops (retail shops).
• During the day, Grand Central Atrium serves as a relaxing space for enjoying beverages, light food, live music performances or participate in trivia contests and leisurely pursuits. At night, the Atrium transforms into an intimate venue with live performances (stand-up comedy acts, dancing, acrobatics) and quality media as guests can interact with 16 individually controlled LED screens (sized 6x14 ft / 1,8x4,3 m each) displaying video and special effects, along with aerial feats and lasers.
• On Atrium's top-level (deck 8) is the Grand View Bar which offers floor-ceiling views and custom-made cocktails amidst new design features - such as a virtual waterfall displayed on translucent panels. The Atrium's mid-level (deck 7) is served by the Center Stage Bar. Both Atrium bar lounges offer specialty cocktails inspired by the theme of the evening's entertainment.
• On Atrium's low-level (deck 6) are JavaBlue Cafe (a coffee bar serving lattes, coffees, cappuccinos, fresh bakery items, salads and light food throughout the day) and Cherry on Top (sweets shop).

Follows the complete list of Carnival Mardi Gras lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Family Harbor Lounge (a dedicated to families space with 24-hour complimentary dining, concierge and babysitting service, movies, video games, board games by Hasbro).
• Mardi Gras Theater is the boat's main show lounge for grand style show productions featuring live performances (tribute acts - singing and dancing) combined with sound and lighting special effects.
• French Quarter's "The Brass Magnolia" is a New Orleans-themed jazz lounge featuring live performances and hand-crafted cocktails.
• Punchliner Comedy Club/brunch (Karaoke, art auctions, nightly shows).
• Piano Bar 88 (cocktail bar) offers themed music nights, a grand piano for live performances by a resident pianist, singalongs, trivia quizzes.
• JavaBlue Cafe (open between 7-10 am, and between 4 pm-12:30 midnight) is a specialty patisserie/coffee bar.
• Havana Bar is an authentic Cuban cafe (cocktail/coffee bar) with live Latin music in the evenings. After midnight, the bar transforms into Latin disco/nightclub.
• Cherry on Top (open between 4-10:30 pm) is a Carnival signature shop selling bulk candies by the oz (mix and match, sugar-free, assortments), confections (lollipops, sweet apples, truffles, chocolate deep cheesecakes and pretzels, cupcakes, fudge, cookies /and sugar-free).
• The Fun Shops is named the shipboard duty-free shopping complex of retail stores (open between 8 am - 12-midnight).
• Special Occasions shop sells Bon Voyage wines/champagnes/liquor, Carnival cruise packages, specialty items, and gifts.
• Mardi Gras Casino is a Vegas-style gambling casino equipped with various slot machines (Coinless Fun Slot Machines) and gaming tables (Craps, Roulette, Black Jack 21, Caribbean Stud Poker, dealer-free poker tables).
• Limelight Lounge offers live evening entertainment by vocalists, musicians, comedians, karaoke.
• Lanai promenade (with outdoor seats, served by Lanai Bar-BQ Bar).
• Alchemy Bar is a vintage-themed cocktail bar (drink pharmacy) where professional mixologists (dressed in lab coats) serve handcrafted cocktails and made-to-order drinks from unique ingredients.
• Dreams Studio (photo sessions studio)
• Pixels Photo Gallery and Shop (professional photo-video services, duty-free equipment, and accessories, photos on display available for purchasing)
• Havana Outside is the Havana complex's pool area (1 swimming pool /Havana Pool, live palm trees).
• Tides Pool (aft) has 1 swimming pool flanked by 2 Whirlpools and a large sunbathing area served with drinks by the Tides Bar.
• Circle C (kids club lounge), Club O2 (teens club lounge)
• Warehouse (Video Arcade)
• Camp Ocean (formerly known as "Camp Carnival" - youth activities program)
• Creative Cove (a dedicated room for kids arts-crafts and workshops)
• Dr Seuss Bookville is a family-themed indoor playground (kids room/library) fitted with all Dr Seuss books (available for reading), fun games, themed decorations and activities (Dr Seuss characters, memorable phrases from the books, character meet-and-greets). Other themed events held on the ship include Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (at Main Dining Rooms), Story Time (at Camp Carnival), Seuss-A-Palooza Parade (Promenade Deck show).
• Carnival Cloud 9 Spa (wellness complex with Thalassotherapy Pool)
• The Fitness Center/Gymnasium (complimentary)
• Loft 19 Retreat offers full bar service and a swimming pool surrounded by cabanas.
• The Ultimate Playground is a large (2-decks high) family-friendly outdoor playground with fleet's largest Carnival WaterWorks (aquapark), expanded SportSquare (sports complex with a basketball court, ropes course, jogging track, mini-golf) and "BOLT - Ultimate Sea Coaster" (world's first rollercoaster at sea).

Serenity is the ship's adults-only retreat (complimentary/free entry for passengers 21+ yo) accessible at any time. This is a forward-location outdoor area/sundeck with 2x Jacuzzies/whirlpools (large-size outdoor hot tubs, cantilevered/infinity pool type, with glass walls), 2x massage huts, cabanas, Fresh Creations (complimentary chopped salad station for made-to-order fresh salads), Spritz Bar/Serenity Bar (waiter-served beverages), and an exclusive sundeck for relaxation, sunbathing and evening dance parties. Both bars and the whirlpools are available between 8 am - 10 pm. Hours may vary depending on cruise itinerary, portdays/seadays, weather.

Serenity Deck is furnished with hammocks, premium wicker chaise lounges and clamshell chairs (plush seating, teal cushions), shaded seating areas with double loungers and plush wicker sofas, live trees for decoration. At regular bar prices, Serenity Bar's menu offers drinks and refreshments (cocktails, beer/buckets, wine by the glass, frozens, smoothies, shakes, sodas).

Carnival Cruise Line's entertainment team partnered with celebrity directors from Los Angeles (Broadway) and London (West End) to create 3 new signature shows - part of the onboard "Playlist Productions" revues. The new shows (named "Celestial Strings", "Soulbound", "Vintage Pop") use the full capacity of the interactive LED screens. A 4th show ("Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance") is also available on the Horizon ship. It was introduced in 2017 on Carnival Vista.

• "Celestial Strings" show is themed on classical music mixed with modern pop.
• "Soulbound" is a gothic-inspired, New Orleans-themed show featuring R&B music favorites.
• "Vintage Pop" show is themed on "Gatsby's Cotton Club", featuring modern songs recomposed into classic jazz interpretations performed live by a 6-piece jazz band.
• "Amor Cubano - A Caribbean Dance Romance" show is themed on classic Latin songs mixed with modern music hits. It is held at the Havana Bar and highlighted by a 7-piece Cuban music band.

Itineraries

Mardi Gras ship's itinerary program is based on Caribbean roundtrips leaving from homeport Port Canaveral (Orlando City, Florida USA) , with preferential berthing at the new "Carnival Terminal 3" (CT3). The canceled in early-July "Caribbean 2020" program was planned to start after the Transatlantic repositioning from Europe. Bookings opened on January 30, 2019.

The canceled 2020 program offered a diverse schedule with 6-day to 15-day itineraries in Europe and the Caribbean. The ship's 2020 schedule included:

• (repositioning) 9-day "maiden voyage" from Copenhagen to Southampton UK (August 31-September 9, 2020) visiting Kiel, Gothenburg, Oslo, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre (Paris).
• (repositioning) 14-day Transatlantic crossing from Southampton to NYC New York (September 9-23, 2020) visiting Canary Islands (Las Palmas, Tenerife), Funchal (Madeira Island), Ponta Delgada (Azores).
• 6-day "inaugural Caribbean cruise" (September 24-30, 2020) roundtrip from NYC to Portland ME and Saint John NB
• (repositioning) 15-day "Carnival Journeys" itinerary one-way from NYC to Port Canaveral FL (September 30-October 15, 2020), visiting Amber Cove (Dominicana), San Juan (Puerto Rico), St Thomas (USVI), St Maarten, St Kitts, Aruba, Curacao, Grand Turk.
• Following a special 8-day Caribbean voyage from Port Canaveral (October 16, 2020), the liner had to start a 7-day Caribbean program on October 24, offering two different 3-ports-7-days itineraries (alternating weekly) to Eastern-Western Caribbean ports.

The boat's Maiden Voyage is currently planned to depart on October 2, 2021 (previously scheduled for February 6, April 24, May 29, July 3). The 7-day Western Caribbean itinerary (Port Canaveral roundtrip) visits Mexico ( Cozumel, Costa Maya) and Honduras (Roatan Island's Mahogany Bay).

Photos of Carnival Mardi Gras

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• Carnival Vista

Carnival Mardi Gras Wiki

Like most large -sized newbuilds , the new Carnival ship Mardi Gras is LNG-powered , with 4x Caterpillar Marine LNG engines (model MaK 16M-46DF) generating combined output 57,2 MW. The propulsion system is based on two Azimuting thrusters with combined power output 37 MW. The ship has 3x LNG tanks (cryogenic steel) with total capacity ~3200 m3. Two of the tanks are larger (length 35 m / 115 ft, diameter 8 m / 26 ft, gas capacity 1525 m3), while the 3rd tank has length 28 m (92 ft), diameter 5 m (16 ft) and gas capacity 520 m3. The ship's bunkering takes ~8 hours and her LNG capacity is enough for ~14 days of operation (navigation and onboard electricity production).

The shipbuilding order (Meyer Turku yard number / hull 1396) was placed on September 6, 2016. On November 15, 2018, was held the steel-cutting ceremony, which officially started the vessel's construction by the shipbuilder Meyer Werft ( Turku Shipyard, Finland ). The keel-laying ceremony was on June 18, 2019. The ship was launched (floated out from drydock) on January 24, 2020, and scheduled for delivery in October. The launch ceremony was attended by Ben Clement (Carnival Cruise Line's Senior VP of newbuilds) and Jan Meyer (Meyer Turku's CEO).

The new liner was officially delivered on December 18, 2020, at Meyer Turku Shipyard. The ceremony was attended by Christine Duffy (Carnival Cruise Line's President) and Tim Meyer (Meyer Turku's CEO).

The second liner (Carnival-XL series sistership) Carnival Celebration will be delivered in 2022, with its construction starting in 2020. In March 2022, Carnival Cruise Line celebrates the company's 50th Anniversary.

The name for the newbuild (yard/hull number 1396) was officially revealed on December 6, 2018, at the Puzzleboard of the US TV game show "Wheel of Fortune" - at the very end of the broadcast. Newbuild's name honors Carnival Cruise Line's first-ever "Fun Ship" - MARDI GRAS. The traditional ocean liner was launched in 1961 (under the name "Empress of Canada"). The vessel (last named Apollon) was scrapped in 2003.

For its LNG-bunkering operations in Florida (at homeports PortMiami and Port Canaveral ), CCL-Carnival partnered with Royal Dutch Shell plc as fuel supplier.

In mid-June 2019 were announced ship's senior officers - Giuseppe Giusa (Captain, 31-year of maritime service, former Italian Navy sergeant, with Carnival since 1993, ex-Master of Ecstasy and Breeze), Ferdinando Ruocco (Chief Engineer, former tanker ship officer, with Carnival since 1997, ex-Chief Engineer of Triumph and Valor) and Pierre Camilleri (Hotel Director, with Carnival since 2004, ex-Hotel Director of BreezeVista and Horizon).

The vessel's keel-laying/coin ceremony was held on June 18, 2019, with which officially started ship's construction at Meyer Werft's Turku Shipyard in Finland. During the special event, newly-minted unique coins were placed under the first hull/keel block in the drydock. The coins are traditionally placed to bring luck to the vessel during construction and later at sea.

Mardi Gras was initially Panama- flagged (MMSI 352049000) and started Baltic Sea trials on September 28, 2020, spending 10 days at sea (through October 7) for testing its machinery and navigation equipment. For 5 months in 2021 (January thru May) the boat remained berthed in Barcelona Spain . On May 21st started the Transatlantic repositioning crossing (without passengers) to Florida USA, with scheduled arrival in Port Canaveral on June 4. CCL announced on May 17th that the vessel will change flag-state to Bahamas (MMSI tba) and registered in Nassau .

On May 17, 2021, CCL announced the name of the ship's godmother - Kimberly Jimenez (Kimberly Marie Jimenez Rodriguez, 1997-born in Puerto Rico and raised in Dominicana actress and model, resident of La Romana ).

• Kimberly Jimenez was crowned "Miss Dominican Republic 2020" (the beauty pageant was held in Santo Domingo on August 18, 2019) and also represented the Dominican Republic at "Miss Universe 2020" (ended 4th Runner Up in the beauty pageant held in Hollywood Florida, on May 16, 2021).
• Kimberly Jimenez is a champion for at-risk youth and an advocate for adoption, volunteering at Los Ninos de Cristo - an orphanage in La Romana serving abused and abandoned girls. She is also a founding member of IWC Santo Domingo (Dominicana's International Women's Club) providing services to indigent women suffering from breast cancer.
• CCL also announced that during the Maiden Voyage, Kimberly Jimenez will be joined by Andrea Meza (1994-born Mexican model, crowned "Miss Universe 2020", previously crowned "Mexicana Universal 2020", "Miss Mexico 2017" and 1st Runner-Up at "Miss World 2017").

The christening ceremony was held on October 23, 2021, at Port Canaveral. The official naming ceremony was attended by the Godmother (Kimberly Jimenez) as well as Andrea Meza (Miss Universe 2020), Asya Branch (Miss USA 2020), Arnold Donald (Carnival Corporation's President & CEO), Christine Duffy (CCL's President), Shaquille O'Neal (CCL's Chief Fun Officer), many VIP guests - including Romero Britto (Brazilian painter & sculptor), Emeril Lagasse (restaurateur, celebrity chef), Kathie Lee Gifford (TV presenter, singer), Vanna White (TV personality/film actress), Guy Fieri (restaurateur).

Carnival Mardi Gras refurbishments review

The ship's first drydocking is currently scheduled for 2025 (September 27 through October 16) to be conducted at the Navantia shipyard in Cadiz Spain . The project will include general maintenance works, classification works/safety inspections, machinery overhaul, hull cleaning/repainting.

Inaugural itineraries 2021

Due to construction delays (delayed delivery), the new ship's first 8x cruises in 2020 were canceled. These voyages included the Inaugural Cruise in Europe (Copenhagen to Southampton), the Transatlantic crossing (Southampton to NYC), 2x NYC departures, 4x Port Canaveral roundtrips. You can see the itineraries at the liner's CruiseMinus (accidents) page .

On July 6, 2020, CCL announced that Mardi Gras officially debuts in 2021 (~4 months later), with the inauguration planned for February 6 (Maiden Voyage). A total of 11x itineraries (departures planned for the period November 14 through and including January 30) were canceled.

• On December 3, 2020, CCL canceled additional 11x Caribbean cruises on Mardi Gras - departures February 6-13-20-27, March 6-13-20-27, April 3-10-17. The Maiden Voyage was rescheduled from February 6 to April 24.
• In late-January 2021 were canceled 5x more Caribbean departures (April 24 through May 22). The Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for May 29. In early-April were canceled 2 more Caribbean sailings (June 19 and 26) and the Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for July 3.
• In May 2021 were canceled 10x more Caribbean departures (July 3 through Sept 25) and the Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for October 2.
• Eventually, Carnival canceled a total of 42x Caribbean sailings planned for the new boat.

Next tables show the ship's revised program with the maiden voyages (inaugural itineraries by destination) as call ports (arrival/departure times) and lowest prices per person in USD (Inside cabin fares based on double occupancy).

( MAIDEN VOYAGE 2021 ) 7-day "Western Caribbean" itinerary (from USD 690 pp)

Inaugural 7-day "Eastern Caribbean" itinerary (from USD 720 pp)

The old Mardi Gras ship

TSS Mardi Gras vessel had IMO number 5103936, LOA length 198 m (650 ft), width 26 m (87 ft), draft 9 m (29 ft) and GT tonnage 27,300 tons (originally 18261 GT tons). Liner's capacity was 1240 passengers (originally 1048) plus 470 crew. During its service history, the vessel was named Empress of Canada (1961-1972), TSS Mardi Gras (1972-1993), Olympic (1993), Star of Texas (1994), Lucky Star (1994-1995) and Apollon (1995-2003).

The ocean liner was built at Vickers-Armstrongs shipyard in Newcastle England UK . The yard was located in the city's Walker suburb. Vickers-Armstrongs Ltd (1927-1977) was an engineering-design and shipbuilding company formed in 1927 as a merger of two British companies - Vickers Ltd (engineering) and Armstrong Whitworth (manufacturing - armaments, ships, locomotives, automobiles, planes). In the 1960-1970s, most of Vickers-Armstrongs was nationalized, with the remainder of the company's private assets divested in 1977 as Vickers plc. In 1999, Vickers plc became defunct and was purchased by Rolls-Royce plc. In 2004, the Vickers brand became defunct.

The vessel's launch (float-out from drydock) was on May 10, 1960. It was delivered to Canadian Pacific in March 1961. The inaugural cruise departed on April 24, 1961, from Liverpool to Montreal . The shipowner Canadian Pacific Steamships Ltd was founded as "Canadian Pacific Steamship Company" in 1887 in Vancouver BC . In 2005, the company (aka CP Ships) was purchased by TUI AG and became part of TUI's subsidiary Hapag-Lloyd Cruises (acquired in 1998).

Empress of Canada offered regularly scheduled Transatlantic crossings between the UK and Quebec Canada (Liverpool - Montreal). Like all CP liners, Empress of Canada was UK-flagged. After 121 Transatlantic crossings ( RepositionCruises.com ) and 82 Canadian cruises, Empress of Canada arrived in Liverpool on November 23, 1971, with which the regular Liverpool-Canada service was terminated. On December 17 (1971) the liner was laid up in Port Tilbury-London .

In January 1972, the vessel was sold to Carnival Cruise Lines and started operations as "TSS Mardi Gras" under flag-state (registry) Panama. The first "Fun Ship" started its maiden voyage on February 26, 1972, leaving from London to Miami . Mardi Gras sailed for Carnival until 1993 when was sold to Epirotiki Line (Greek shipping company founded in 1850).

In 1995 was created Royal Olympic Cruise Lines as a merger of "Epirotiki Line" and "Sun Line". In 2000, all scheduled voyages were canceled and the boat was laid up in Port Piraeus-Athens Greece . In 2001, the ship (renamed "Apollon") re-entered service for short-breaks (3-4-day) roundtrips from homeport Piraeus. In 2003, the 42-years-old liner was laid up again, and soon sold for scrap.

First Look Inside Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras [PHOTOS]

Richard Simms

• December 21, 2020

Although the first sailings of Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship are still several months away, photos of Mardi Gras offer a glimpse into some of what will await us on board.

From the stunningly redesigned atrium to familiar favorites with an updated look, we’ve got your first look at the ship… which will change everything for Carnival and their guests.

Come Aboard… They’re Expecting You

Carnival was one of the first cruise lines to recognize the importance of the atrium, especially since their ships’ design means that this is the first space guests encounter.

While the fleet’s past ships have always provided arriving passengers with a wow factor, Mardi Gras ‘ entirely new atrium concept takes that to a new level. A wall of glass stretching up three stories will offer incredible views of the waters through which the ship sails or the ports on which she calls.

Plus, the atrium will be home to a wide variety of entertainment options, including a unique nighttime show combining music, live performers, and technology.

It wouldn’t be a Carnival ship without an opportunity to chow down in one of Guy Fieri’s restaurants. Of course, Mardi Gras will offer the wildly popular Guy’s Burger Joint, but it will also feature Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse|Brewhouse (aka Flavortown), a concept introduced on the newer Vista-class ships. This is the place to head for a variety of tasty treats, not to mention some amazing beers brewed right on board.

READ MORE: 5 Things To Know About Mardi Gras’ Cruise Director

Because you can never have too many spots offering menus created by celebrity chefs, Mardi Gras will feature Carnival’s first collaboration with Emeril Lagasse. If you know anything about Lagasse, you know he’s big on creole flavors. So look for Bistro 1396 to feature the kind of flavors that spice up your life and put a little pep in your step. Not surprisingly, Emeril’s restaurant will be located in the ship’s French Quarter Zone. As it happens, this is also where you’ll find another new-to-Carnival concept, the Brass Magnolia bar.

You can’t think of New Orleans without thinking of jazz, and the Brass Magnolia’s entire concept is that of an old-school lounge serving up not only great tunes, but also classic regional cocktails like the Sazerac.

Located just a stone’s throw from the Brass Magnolia is another new venue, the Fortune Teller’s Bar. Here, Vice President of Beverage Operations Eddie Allen and his staff have conjured up several unique cocktails with what he calls a “whimsical twist” — perfect for adding a touch of mystery to any evening.

Next on our photo tour of Mardi Gras is, well, another bar! This one’s a great outdoor spot, located in the Summer Landing zone. The Watering Hole was designed to be a bit reminiscent of the coolest backyard hangout spot ever. That is, if your backyard happened to come with views of the ocean.

READ MORE:  7 Stateroom Changes Coming to Carnival’s Mardi Gras

You can’t talk about Carnival cruise ship bars without mentioning our personal favorite, the Alchemy Bar. As you can see in the photo below, the version on board Mardi Gras has been both expanded and updated, allowing it to keep that classic cocktail bar theme while also upping the aesthetic.

While on some Carnival ships this venue can feel as if it was squeezed into a space instead of fitting in organically (which is, in some instances, the case), here the Alchemy Bar was given plenty of room.

As you might expect, Cucina del Capitano — Carnival’s signature Italian restaurant — can be found in the La Piazza zone on board Mardi Gras . What’s special about Mardi Gras’  version of the venue is that it will offer not only indoor, but outdoor dining as well. Want to avoid the madness that can sometimes be the main dining room on the first night of your cruise? Make a reservation here and enjoy a far more relaxed experience. Trust us, you won’t regret it.

When you’re ready for some fun, head to the Ultimate Playground Zone where you’ll find all kinds of ways to entertain yourself including miniature golf and, yes, the much-ballyhooed BOLT roller coaster.

In fact, in the picture below, you can see a section of the coaster’s track and the golf course’s cool landscaping. Good luck keeping the kids focused on their golf game when all they’re going to want to do is jump back on BOLT!

Another Carnival Cruise Line staple? The WaterWorks aqua park, complete with dizzying water slides and a whole lotta other ways to get wet without even having to get into the pool.

That concludes our photo preview of Carnival’s newest ship, which is slowly making its way toward a spring 2021 debut. Which of the six zones are you most excited to explore?

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Carnival Mardi Gras Decks and Cabins

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• Premium Interior
• Deluxe Oceanview
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• Cove Balcony
• Havana Cabana
• Excel Suite
• Cabana Suite
• Ocean Suite
• Excel Aft Suite
• Cabana Corner Suite
• Excel Corner Suite
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Built in 2020, the Carnival Cruise Line Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship weighs 181K tons and has 2641 staterooms for up to 6338 passengers served by 1745 crew . There are 18 passenger decks, 11 with cabins. You can expect a space ratio of 29 gross tons per passenger on this ship. On this page are the current deck plans for Carnival Mardi Gras showing deck plan layouts, public venues and all the types of cabins including pictures and videos.

Carnival Cruise Line Carnival Mardi Gras

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STATEROOM CABINS COMPLETE LIST BELOW

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

Floor Diagram Presidential Suite

Sleeps up to: 2 2 Cabins Cabin: 474 sqft (45 m 2 ) Balcony: 646 sqft (61 m 2 )

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Deck locations, stateroom cabin features, stateroom cabin perks, excel corner suite.

Floor Diagram Excel Corner Suite

Sleeps up to: 4 12 Cabins Cabin: 398 sqft (37 m 2 ) Balcony: 312 sqft (29 m 2 )

CABANA CORNER SUITE

Floor Diagram Cabana Corner Suite

Sleeps up to: 3 2 Cabins Cabin: 350 sqft (33 m 2 ) Balcony: 161 sqft (15 m 2 )

EXCEL AFT SUITE

Floor Diagram Excel Aft Suite

Sleeps up to: 5 12 Cabins Cabin: 350 sqft (33 m 2 ) Balcony: 161 sqft (15 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Important Size Information

Ocean suite.

Floor Diagram Ocean Suite

Sleeps up to: 4 137 Cabins Cabin: 287 sqft (27 m 2 ) Balcony: 54 sqft (5 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

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More diagrams of this cabin type.

CABANA SUITE

Floor Diagram Cabana Suite

Sleeps up to: 2 4 Cabins Cabin: 205 sqft (19 m 2 ) Balcony: 82 sqft (8 m 2 )

EXCEL SUITE

Floor Diagram Excel Suite

Sleeps up to: 5 8 Cabins Cabin: 410 sqft (39 m 2 ) Balcony: 205 sqft (19 m 2 )

HAVANA CABANA

Floor Diagram Havana Cabana

Sleeps up to: 4 52 Cabins Cabin: 205 sqft (19 m 2 ) Balcony: 82 sqft (8 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Floor Diagram Balcony

Sleeps up to: 4 1268 Cabins Cabin: 205 sqft (19 m 2 ) Balcony: 44 sqft (4 m 2 )

COVE BALCONY

Floor Diagram Cove Balcony

Sleeps up to: 4 124 Cabins Cabin: 205 sqft (19 m 2 ) Balcony: 44 sqft (4 m 2 )

JUNIOR BALCONY

Floor Diagram Junior Balcony

Sleeps up to: 4 23 Cabins Cabin: 172 sqft (16 m 2 ) Balcony: 44 sqft (4 m 2 )

DELUXE OCEANVIEW

Floor Diagram Deluxe Oceanview

Sleeps up to: 4 6 Cabins Cabin: 312 sqft (29 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Floor Diagram Oceanview

Sleeps up to: 4 175 Cabins Cabin: 243 sqft (23 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

PREMIUM INTERIOR

Floor Diagram Premium Interior

Sleeps up to: 4 41 Cabins Cabin: 205 sqft (19 m 2 )

Floor Diagram Interior

Sleeps up to: 4 777 Cabins Cabin: 158 sqft (15 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

Carnival Mardi Gras Deck Page Menu

Click deck pictures to go to individual cruise deck plan pages where you can see all the public areas, venues and stateroom cabins categories for each deck.

Carnival Mardi Gras Quick Stats

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Pictures: Inside Carnival’s ‘Mardi Gras’ on…

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Pictures: Inside Carnival’s ‘Mardi Gras’ on embark eve

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Carnival's new ship, Mardi Gras, sets a higher bar for the cruise line: Here's a look at the good, the bad and the interesting

Mardi Gras, the newest ship from Carnival Cruise Line and the most ballyhooed vessel to debut this year, claims several superlatives -- the first ship with a roller coaster , the first ship in North America to run on liquefied natural gas and the first ship to have a side-facing atrium that looks out over the ocean (and converts to a theater at night).

It's easy to get caught up in the hype of flashy firsts, but what's it really like onboard? At the time of this writing, I'm nearing the end of Mardi Gras' first revenue sailing, following a yearlong pandemic-related delay. Here, I'll share what my experience has been like so you can better decide if this 5,282-passenger behemoth -- Carnival's largest so far -- is for you.

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Mardi Gras is a throwback to Carnival's first cruise ship ever, which shared the name. Throughout the vessel, you'll find nods to the original, from inaugural sailing dates on license plates to the font on the ship's new livery.

The first thing I noticed -- and a theme that has carried through the voyage -- is that Mardi Gras lives up to its moniker. The ship is bustling. Shows and activities are well attended, often to the point that they're standing room only, and there are near-constant lines for coffee at JavaBlue Cafe.

As expected, there have been some hiccups, given that this is the ship's first revenue sailing. On the first two nights, waits to get into the main dining rooms were up to 90 minutes at times, and the Bolt roller coaster proved so popular that rides had to be cut from two laps around the track to one. (The jury is still out on whether that will continue on subsequent sailings and whether or not the $15 price tag will be adjusted accordingly.)

Crew members seem to have worked out some of the kinks, particularly as passengers have taken to exploring the vessel's other dining options (many of which are included in the price) and utilizing the line's Hub app for reservations and virtual queuing.

Also notable is the fact that the ship is divided into six neighborhoods, a concept the line borrowed from Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class, which debuted in 2009. Splitting of the onboard space into themed areas has created several nuclei of activity. One of the most unique is Grand Central, comprising shops, restaurants and a side-facing atrium that features a three-deck wall of windows and a stage for activities and secondary shows.

I'll highlight some of the others in the sections below.

Entertainment

Another of the neighborhoods is the Ultimate Playground. Found on the top decks, the space encompasses the Bolt Sea Coaster, a ropes course and a water park, complete with slides. The ropes course -- which includes a mini-zipline -- and watery fun are free, but Bolt requires reservations and comes with an added fee.

New in the theater is an at-sea version of the well-known "Family Feud" game show, where two families try to predict the most popular answers to survey questions for a chance to win prizes, such as onboard credit. Because the theater is tiny, three show times were necessary to accommodate all passengers. If you plan to go -- and, honestly, you should because it's worth it -- be sure to arrive early for a good seat.

Other new entertainment, featuring singers, dancers and acrobats, is set to debut on Mardi Gras, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, the line was not able to get some of its performers into the U.S. and onto the ship in time for this first cruise. Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line's president, said in a media interview that she expects all shows to be fully staffed and running onboard by the end of November.

On this sailing, entertainment options have included impressive electric violin performances, magicians, comedians, live jazz music and rock performances by cruise director Chris Williams, known to many Carnival fans as The Flying Scotsman. (Trust me when I say he's more than just a funny guy in a kilt. He nearly blew the roof off of the shiny, new atrium with his covers of songs by Queen and AC/DC.)

Food and drinks

The other four neighborhoods are heavy on bars and restaurants. My personal favorite is The French Quarter , where passengers can order fun drinks and have their palms read at the mystical Fortune Teller Bar, snag some cheap but tasty seafood eats at extra-fee Emeril's Bisto 1396 or take their chances with a Hurricane (the strongest drink on the ship, we're told) at the Brass Magnolia bar, which often has live music.

A close second is the Summer Landing neighborhood, where Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse combines phenomenal barbecue with Carnival's own ParchedPig rotating craft beer selections, brewed right onboard the ship. The space is rounded out with free 24-hour soft-serve ice cream, a special lounge dedicated to military personnel and a stage where a live band plays some of the best music I've ever heard on a cruise.

You can't ever go wrong with free 24/7 pizza, which is exactly what you'll find at Pizzeria del Capitano in the La Piazza neighborhood, along with free paninis at Piazza Panini and free Italian food and main dining room fare at Cucina del Capitano. (On other ships, Cucina levies a surcharge.) In the same area, Bar Della Rosa is a perfect place to grab for-fee specialty coffee when the line at Grand Central's JavaBlue is too long.

If you're someone who enjoys spending hours swimming or sunbathing, you'll be a fan of the Lido neighborhood, where two pools and an outdoor movie screen are complemented by several dining options. Among them are Street Eats street food; burritos and tacos from Carnival staple BlueIguana Cantina; Guy's Burger Joint, which offers artery-clogging selections from Guy Fieri; the Lido Marketplace buffet; and newcomer Big Chicken , developed in partnership with former basketball player Shaquille O'Neal, the line's chief fun officer. For drinks, check out the new RedFrog Tiki Bar, a fresh two-deck take on the RedFrog Rum Bar found on other Carnival vessels.

Not tied to any neighborhood but absolutely worth mentioning is Rudi's Seagrill, a fantastic new added-fee seafood restaurant developed by Chef Rudi Sodamin, the food pop artist responsible for "Food Faces." Sodamin, who also has restaurants on ships in the fleet of Holland America, one of Carnival's sister brands, brings a menu with something for just about everyone (including people, like me, who don't normally like seafood).

I'd also be remiss if I didn't mention the impressive free dining options in the ship's main dining rooms (MDRs). There are two -- Flamingo and Palm -- that offer either set seating times or Your Time Dining (YTD), which allows you to dine at any time between set hours. Passengers with YTD can also opt to order from the MDR menu in either Cucina del Capitano or Chibang! (a complimentary eatery that offers both Mexican and Chinese cuisine). Tip: If you don't mind a bit of spice, try the Indian dishes on the MDR menu.

No new-ship write-up would be complete without at least a mention of the cabins. New to Mardi Gras are Excel Suites, which offer exclusive access to Loft 19, a dedicated space for suite passengers that includes top-deck loungers and added-fee cabana rentals.

Standard stateroom categories are also abundant, including insides, outsides and balcony cabins, including ones that are recessed, meaning their views are blocked by larger balconies on either side of the recessed alcove. Eighty-two of the accommodations are accessible.

Some wonderful new features that all accommodations have in common are multiple USB ports for charging electronics, plexiglass shower doors (instead of the infuriating clingy curtains of yore) and closets with plentiful bars and drawers, as well as shelves that can be lowered for use or tucked away, depending on your needs.

The color schemes in the rooms vary by type, but they're generally neutral with some pops of color -- likely to become dated less quickly than on some of the fleet's other ships.

Quirks and tidbits

There are a few small but interesting things I've discovered about the ship that I feel are worth covering. First, the elevators onboard are tiny, and they take forever to show up. If you're able to do so, taking the stairs will almost always get you where you're going more quickly.

Additionally, there's currently a small glitch (we're told it's being fixed) where some elevators are set up so only three buttons can be pushed at any given time. If you push a fourth, they all reset. We're guessing it was designed to keep children from pressing every single one and slowing down operations, but it's frustrating when there are several people inside who all are headed to different decks.

The app is another key piece of technology that's worth discussing here. In addition to e-mustering (you'll still have to go to your muster station at your leisure for a life jacket demonstration on embarkation day), Carnival's Hub app is also how you'll view your daily schedule; book and keep track of reservations for dining, spa treatments, shore excursions and Bolt rides; and monitor your onboard bill. It also allows for virtual queueing so you won't waste time waiting in long lines.

Further, Mardi Gras is the first ship in North America to run partially on liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel, which burns more cleanly and is better for the environment than the diesel fuels primarily used by most other vessels. Carnival is also the only cruise line to use special "food digesters" -- stainless steel machines that use a combination of bacteria and aeration to break down leftover food, resulting in less overall waste.

Bottom line

There are still some kinks that need to be worked out before I can give my definitive opinion on Mardi Gras. As with any new piece of hardware, the ship has nuances, and some adjustments will have to be made to help things flow more smoothly.

That said, although the ship is large, busy and sometimes crowded, it's fun and innovative. There's always something going on, and crew go out of their way to make sure you've got everything you need to have a great time onboard.

Cabins are comfortable, entertainment is exceptional, and the food is some of the best I've ever had at sea. For the price I paid to sail, it's a terrific value for the money, but it might not be the best fit for someone who prefers a quieter experience or smaller ships. Ultimately, that's up to each cruiser to decide.

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First Look at the Inside of Carnival Mardi Gras

Last Updated on October 1, 2023

Today, the Carnival Mardi Gras was turned over to the company by the shipbuilders, Meyer Turku. With that transfer, we got some of the first real looks inside of the Mardi Gras. It looks like it’s going to be an impressive ship, but let’s go over some of our first impressions.

Let’s take a look at what we see and how we think it differs from Carnival’s other ships.

Update : July 15th – we have some better looks at the pool in the Serenity area and a first look at the Street Eats section. This will be the last update to this post. The ship will launch in 2 weeks and we’ll have full coverage at that point. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Facebook if you want to be notified.

Alchemy Bar on the Mardi Gras

The Alchemy Bar is a staple on every Carnival Cruise ship, delivering delicious cocktails like the Cucumber Sunrise . Traditionally, the Alchemy Bar is more subdued with dark woods and gray, stone countertops, but it looks like they went with a more modern vibe on the Mardi Gras. The bar also has a colorful LED backdrop, similar to the LED funnels you see on the Vista , Horizon , and Panorama , but it looks like they just change color rather than have full-on video effects.

You can see how the bar overlooks the French Quarter, a new story “zone,” as Carnival calls it, that replaces the popular Promenade area on their other ships. The colorful LED funnels appear to be used throughout that space, which should create a great atmosphere at night.

Waterslides on the Mardi Gras

Carnival was the first cruise line to introduce a water slide on their ships. Since then, every ship they’ve introduced has had at least one water slide. Here we see the three slides on the Mardi Gras.

To be honest, with other cruise lines stepping up their game on water slides, these seem to be pretty lackluster. They look very similar to the slides I rode on the Horizon. They weren’t bad, but they can’t compare to things like Aqua Coasters and looping waterslides available with some other cruise lines.

Update: The new picture of the top of slide tower gets my hopes up a bit. It looks like the red slide has a drop-style entrance where you get in and the floor drops out beneath you. I’ve been on several and even if the slide itself isn’t that unique, the anticipation of the floor dropping out beneath you is really thrilling. The view from the top of the slides looks amazing! You can see the Bolt Roller Coaster track against the beautiful blue ocean. It’s going to be amazing to experience in person while cruising through the Caribbean.

Emeril’s Bistro

When you think of New Orleans cuisine, you think of celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. It made sense that Carnival tapped him to create a brand new specialty restaurant on the Mardi Gras. We haven’t seen a menu for the restaurant yet, but you can expect traditional Creole and New Orleans.

You can see how the new two-story French Quarter creates a feeling of grandeur here. It feels much more open and less claustrophobic than single-story designs. It looks like the venue even has a second story which will overlook the French Quarter through windows.

Fortune Teller Bar

I’m excited to see what the Fortune Teller Bar will end up being. It’s a unique venue that’s debuting on the Mardi Gras, and we’ll see if it pops up on Carnival’s new ships after that. The lush red colors and Victorian-inspired mirrors really make the place seem inviting.

It seems like Carnival is pushing innovative and exciting drinks here. According to their website, Carnival said this bar will offer “all-black  New Moon , the changes-color-before-your-eyes  Abracadabra , plus the  Golden Galaxy … this drink is actually made with a bit of authentic gold.” It sounds like it’s creating exciting, Instagram worth cocktails like you would see in Olga’s at Galaxy Edge in Disney Studios; drinks that use molecular gastronomy to create a unique look or taste.

The Mardi Gras Theater

It’s too early to know for sure, but it really looks like Carnival has learned from their mistakes on the Vista, Horizon, and Panorama. The theater’s on those ships were horrible ( see why ). Bad site lines, uncomfortable seating, no drink holders on many seats; you really wonder what the designers were thinking.

The Mardi Gras theater seems to have traditional theater type seating again with a nice incline. We’ll see to see how big it is and how the stage compares, but it already looks so much better than the Vista-class ships.

The theater itself seems a lot more subdued than their other ships, with neutral colors and warm tones, much different from the neon on Carnival’s older ships and the chrome and LED flashiness of the newer ships.

Mardi Gras Grand Central Atrium

One of the main places to visit on Carnival ships is their atrium. On their older ships, it’s a grand space with a glass ceiling and golden elevators that go all the way up to the top of the ship. On the newer Vista-class ships, they were replaced with a 3 story space that used an LED funnel to create a visual focal point. While the funnel was nice to look at, the space felt much smaller, and it was much less visually impressive.

Carnival changed that up with the Grand Central Atrium. The space is 3 stories tall still, but this time overlooks the ocean with huge windows. It has seating set up for quiet get-togethers and drinks, while at night, there’s a stage for exciting performances and music. I imagine this is also where the cruise director will lead things like 90’s trivia and the White Hot Dance Party.

As part of the night time shows, they said they will have up to 16 controllable LED displays that can be used for performances. It sounds very similar to the Two70 venues that Royal Caribbean has on their Quantum Class ships. See how they’ll look below.

The Java Blue Coffee Shop and Cherry on Top store are right at the back of Grand Central, so we can definitely see this becoming a central hub for many people. The seating looks a little awkward, as benches are hard to congregate around and get in and out of quickly. It really depends on how Carnival tends to use this space.

With the new overview picture below, I’m not sure how this place will function during non-show times. Unlike the Atrium Bars on it’s other ships, the seating seems to be much more suited to shows here than meeting up with friends and having a drink. That being said, Carnival has added several new bar areas to this ship, so maybe this function will really be more of a secondary theater space.

Mardi Gras Fitness Center

Carnival usually has their fitness center on the front of their ships, with the treadmills and ellipticals overlooking the horizon. I always love spending some time there, running along while looking out on the ocean.

On the Mardi Gras, they moved the fitness center to the side of the ship. It looks like they kept the windows though, so you’ll still have nice views, but you won’t be facing head-on. The room itself does look a bit narrow, but there are certainly quite a bit of treadmills available.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that the elevators on Carnival’s Vista-class ships (Vista, Horizon, and Panorama) are universally disliked ( see why here ). They’re confusing for many passengers, which leads to long wait times and overcrowded elevator cars. 

This photo of the mid-ship elevator lobby gives hope that they’ve come up with a better system. The Hotel Director, Pierre B. Camilleri , indicated that it’s a smart elevator system, but not the same as the other ships. As you can see here, there seem to be no individual buttons call an elevator, but there are large display screens on both sides of the lobby. We assume that they will be to input the floor. 

There’s nothing inherently wrong with smart elevator systems, large skyrises in major cities use them all the time, but Carnival’s implementation was severely lacking previously. Seeing that the Mardi Gras can hold up to 30% more passengers than the Horizon, I sincerely hope they worked out a better system. 

Lido and Red Frog Tiki Bar

Lido Deck is always a happening area on a Carnival ship. In this picture, we see how it’ll look on the Mardi Gras. Overall, it doesn’t look much different from the Lido areas on the newer Carnival ships. The pool looks a bit bigger than the Vista-class ships, and the hut/cabanas on the side of the pool appear to be gone.

The screen looks absolutely massive, and it will be great to watch their Dive-in movies at night here. With the Red Frog Tiki Bar being right under it though, I worry about its lighting and noise taking away from the movie experience at night.

The area also shows their new 2-story Red Frog Tiki Bar; an upgrade from the Red Frog Rum Bar on the rest of their fleet. On the other ships, while the Red Frog Rum Bar has a similar theme, it’s much smaller, and during sea days, the line for drinks snakes all through the area, making sitting there unpleasant.

This new venue has expanded seating and a second floor to alleviate some of this congestion, hopefully. Personally, I never understand why Carnival hasn’t put in a to go / walk up window for drinks. Trying to get a drink on a sea day is so frustrating because people sit at the bar, making it impossible to get to a bartender.

Tides Pool and Hot Tubs

I was always jealous of the Havana area on the Vista, Horizon, and Panorama. While the area was small, it offered an amazing view off the back of the ship with pools overlooking the ocean. The Mardi Gras expands on this concept and makes it available to everyone in two areas, the Tides Pool and Summer Landing.

This picture shows the Tides Pool and two hot tubs. It’s the rear of Lido Deck (Deck 16) and will be close to the new restaurant Big Chicken (see the menu) and the Tides Pool Bar. The pool doesn’t seem that large, but the two hot tubs look spacious. It looks like it’ll be an amazing view.

BOLT – the First Roller Coaster at Sea

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BOLT is going to be the first roller coaster at sea. While we’ve seen several renderings and computer-generated ride-throughs, this is the first footage we’ve seen of a live-person riding the BOLT. The roller coaster cars will whip around an 800-foot track at up to 40 MPH. Users will be able to choose how quickly to use using controls on the vehicles.

Seeing actual footage, the ride itself seems more intense than I thought. Originally, I thought it would be closer to a motorized version of the SkyRide, found on the Vista-class ships, than a real roller coaster. Looking at the footage, though, the car really whips around pretty quickly. Even though 40 MPH doesn’t sound like roller-coaster speeds, hitting that speed while being suspended 187 feet over the sea has to make it feel even more extreme.

Unfortunately, Carnival has said they plan to charge to ride the BOLTs. We don’t yet know how much it’ll be, but it’s a move in the wrong direction for Carnival, who usually doesn’t charge for on-board activities (with the exception of IMAX movie theaters or the SkyZone on the Panorama.

Piazza Panini

Carnival recently told us more about a new food venue on the Mardi Gras, Piazza Panini. This restaurant is replacing the Carnival Deli that’s found on almost every other Carnival ship. Here you’ll find fresh-made, pressed sandwiches like Ruebens, Meatball Sandwiches, and Caprese Paninis. At night, you’ll be able to get a variety of dessert paninis, which is a treat because Carnival’s late night dessert game is rather lacking.

The restaurant is located in the new “Piazza” zone on Deck 8 of the ship, along with Pizzeria del Capitano . I’m not sure how I feel about moving these two staples from the Carnival Lido deck to a lower deck. You used to be able to get a slice of pizza, a Rueben, a Guy’s Burger, and something from the Buffet and sit right in the Lido Restaurant. It was a one stop place where a whole family could find something that would appeal to them. Now you’ll have to choose which deck to go to and your food choices will be limited by that.

This strategy makes sense from a people flow perspective, because it divides the large number of passengers into separate areas to keep things from getting crowded and having long lines. It’s what Royal Caribbean has successfully done on their Oasis-Class ships, so it makes sense Carnival is trying it here. That being said, on Royal Caribbean Ships, I’ve always hated that the pizza was so far away from the regular buffet.

Rudi’s Seagrill

I’ll admit, of all the new restaurants Carnival is debuting on the Mardi Gras, I was least interested in Rudi’s Seagrill . I’ve never heard of Rudi Sodamin previously and all Carnival’s PR just talked about his seafood plates that look like faces.

Today, Carnival released a picture of the dining room and the menu for the venue. The dining room has a beautiful blue and cream color scheme with really interesting curved walls that lend a feel of being at sea. It really screams fresh seafood. The menu also looks like it has more mainstream dishes as well, not just the face plates they were promoting. Still, does this food stand out enough to get people to pay extra to eat here? The Mardi Gras has more for-fee dining venues than any other ship in the fleet; it’ll be interesting to see which ones passengers are drawn to.

Serenity Area Pool

The Serenity Area on any of the Carnival ships is one of the most relaxing areas you can find. It’s adults only and has a bunch of cool lighting, comfy chairs, soft music, and a dedicated bar. This area is open to passengers 21 and older, and it often a great place to escape the crowds and the noise. Unlike some other cruise lines, like some Norwegian ships, Carnival doesn’t charge for this private child-free area.

On many of its older ships, Carnival had both a pool and hot tubs in these areas, but on the newest Carnival ships, the Vista, Horizon, and Panorama, they downgraded it to just two hot tubs. On the Mardi Gras it’ll be going back to a pool and hot tub design. It’s much needed considering there can be almost 6,000 people on this ship at one time, and because it’s Carnival, a good chunk of them will be children. I love the blue LED lighting by the pool, it’s reminiscent of the Serenity areas you see on the Sunshine-class ships, which just feel more elegant.

Street Eats

We got a first look at the new Street Eats dining venue on the Mardi Gras. It’s meant to bring back the feeling of street food vendors you’d find in other countries, or food trucks in the US. Street Eats serves small plates, or tastings almost, which makes it great for a quick snack. It’s located right on the main lido pool area. The colors are very big and bold, hopefully they flavors can match it. I love their red and white checkered dishes they’re using. They remind you of what you’re typically get at a food track, but they’re reusable so you’re not polluting more.

Overall Impressions

Overall, the ship looks like a great evolution from the Vista-class ships. It’s elegant and contemporary, yet still full of Carnival’s signature energetic vibes. It will be interesting to see how a cruise on this ship is. It’s Carnival’s first time attempting a ship this large, and will they have enough to manage the flow of the nearly 6,500 people on board. The new venues and dining options are nice, but it will be interesting to see if people will be willing to pay for them. Carnival’s one of the lines with the fewest additional fee restaurants, and it might be a shock to their average guests.

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Related posts:

• Carnival Pride 7-Day Winter Cruise: Day 7 (Sea Day Home)
• 4 Hits and 4 Misses on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas

Randy Young

Randy Young is the founder and editor-in-chief at Cruise Spotlight. He has been in marketing for 20 years and has been cruising for just as long. Over the years, he's worked with products like TVs, copiers, light bulbs, and EV chargers, but cruising has always been his passion. There's nothing Randy likes more than the first couple of hours on a ship, exploring every nook and cranny and seeing how it's different from everything else out there. He's known for providing detailed and analytical coverage of cruising to help cruisers get a comprehensive picture of a ship's offerings.

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Mardi Gras Staterooms

MARDI GRAS ® OFFERS A FULL RANGE OF SUITES WITH OPTIONS FOR SUPERIOR COMFORT AND BRAND-NEW PERKS

LOFT 19™ ON MARDI GRAS ® INVITES YOU TO INDULGENT DAYS AT SEA

STYLE, SUBSTANCE AND SURPRISES COME TOGETHER IN YOUR MARDI GRAS ® STATEROOM

STATEROOM DESIGN

Design is more than just the way things look — it’s as much about how they work. And staterooms aboard Mardi Gras are packed with innovative changes to both. It’s the way the ring-lit vanity mirror lights you evenly and shadow-free as you get ready. How the ottoman cushion flips over to serve as an extra table. And even those reading lights, recessed into the wall so you can read in bed without waking anyone! These details are really more than just details. Better comfort, lighting and storage all spring from a deep understanding we’ve developed around how people actually use their staterooms… and how small changes to the room add up to make the experience that much better. (Enough USB charging ports for everybody’s stuff? Oh yes!) Thoughtful, guest-centric design is how we do it… and all this in-room convenience comes paired with a fresh new look.

INTERIOR STATEROOMS

The most affordable way to experience all the Carnival excitement, without cutting corners on comfort.

HAVANA INTERIOR

For a stateroom with extra sabor — for not a lot of dinero — check out a Havana Interior stateroom. You’ll find yours all flavorfully decked out in Old Havana style… taking its cues from a place and time that certainly weren’t lacking in style. And like we said, you’ll find all this for a great price! (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older… and don’t forget that all Havana staterooms feature exclusive perks!)

CLOUD 9 SPA INTERIOR

We’ve taken the warm essence of our Cloud 9 Spas and infused it into spa staterooms on Mardi Gras. Your room is the perfect place to do less, actually: just relax and take some you-time, anytime. (Don’t forget: all Cloud 9 Spa staterooms feature exclusive spa perks.)

FAMILY HARBOR INTERIOR

To truly experience the cozy sanctuary that a harbor provides, check out a Family Harbor Interior stateroom. These rooms are not only an affordable way to keep the family close, but feature a unique nautical décor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. (Don’t forget: all Family Harbor staterooms feature exclusive perks.)

PREMIUM INTERIOR

When picking a stateroom on a budget, you have to think about what matters to you. Priorities, right? So if you’re more about the comfort than you are the view, we’d recommend you go with a Premium Interior stateroom. This room actually has the same floorplan as some higher-priced rooms (just without the balcony) so you’re definitely getting a nice step up from a standard Interior room. Your room features a sitting area with a sofa, so hang out and lounge in comfort!

An Interior stateroom is the most affordable way to cruise, and Mardi Gras’ interiors don’t leave out the comfort! This room is great for curling up after a long day’s fun.

OCEAN VIEW STATEROOMS

These comfy rooms with a view let you sail along to beautiful destinations while gazing at the sort of vistas you simply won't find anywhere on land.

CLOUD 9 SPA OCEAN VIEW

The best way to enjoy the relaxing, invigorating Cloud 9 Spa while on a cruise is in a spa stateroom… and this one fits the bill, pairing comfy accommodations with a great view. (Don’t forget: all Cloud 9 Spa staterooms feature exclusive spa perks.)

FAMILY HARBOR OCEAN VIEW

Let the whole family — especially the little ones — experience the wide-eyed wonder of sailing in a room with a view: a Family Harbor Ocean View stateroom. Not only could a vacation with a view like this help cultivate a lifelong love of the ocean, but Family Harbor staterooms feature a unique nautical décor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. (Don’t forget: all Family Harbor staterooms feature exclusive perks.)

Catch a glimpse of what’s going by from your Ocean View stateroom aboard Mardi Gras, where you’ll get views you won’t find anywhere on land. Don’t miss sunrise and sunset at sea —your comfy stateroom is a great way to experience these two special times of day!

BALCONY STATEROOMS

Relax in your own personal outdoor oasis… designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views.

Havana Extended Cabana

Folks love staterooms like this for the Old Havana flavor… but that’s only the beginning. Right outside your Havana Extended Cabana lies a large outdoor patio complete with your own loungy deck chairs. Back inside the room you’ll also enjoy loads of sunlight courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling window. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older… and don’t forget: all Havana staterooms feature exclusive perks!)

HAVANA CABANA

There are great amenities by the handful in this Havana-flavored stateroom, but the most exciting one is likely to be this: Havana Cabana staterooms come with an outdoor patio, complete with your own loungy deck chairs, all right outside your room. These rooms also feature Cuba-inspired décor, plus loads of sunlight courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling window, but like we said… your very own deck chairs! (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older… and don’t forget that all Havana staterooms feature exclusive perks!)

CLOUD 9 SPA FORWARD-VIEW EXTENDED BALCONY

Folks love staterooms like this because they were designed for relaxing, right down to the custom linens. But this room has something nobody’s ever seen in a Cloud 9 Spa stateroom before — the balcony faces forward, so you’re getting a view of what’s up ahead of the ship, sort of like the captain’s view! Sit out on your balcony, which by the way is larger than the standard one, and watch destinations appear on the horizon as we approach them. And don’t forget to breathe in… hold it, hold it… and now out. (Note that rooms of this type have partially obstructed views… but don’t forget: all Cloud 9 Spa staterooms feature exclusive spa perks.)

CLOUD 9 SPA BALCONY

Whether you’re warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there’s no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important — take in the ocean breeze, then let it out — you’re already getting the hang of spa life! (Don’t forget: all Cloud 9 Spa staterooms feature exclusive spa perks.)

CLOUD 9 SPA COVE BALCONY

Nobody books a Cloud 9 Spa stateroom unless they love relaxation and want more. If this sounds like you, here’s a room with a little extra. It’s not just the custom décor… the secret here’s the balcony. A Cloud 9 Spa Cove Balcony stateroom sits closer to the waterline than most rooms, which means that your balcony puts you in a prime position to chill and check out those waves. There’s no way to get closer! (Don’t forget: all Cloud 9 Spa staterooms feature exclusive spa perks.)

PREMIUM-VIEW EXTENDED BALCONY

Book a stateroom with a balcony — any balcony — and you’re going to enjoy your vacation with an extra dose of sea breeze. But book one of these and there’s even more in store: these balconies face forward or backward (most balconies face left or right), so you’ll get a unique view of your vacation featuring what’s up ahead or behind the ship! (Note that forward-facing rooms have partially obstructed views.)

Extended Balcony

Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony with more outdoor lounge-around room, more open-air kick-back space… and back inside the room itself, all the comfort you expect with a great view and plenty of sunlight.

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you’re looking to cruise with a view aboard Mardi Gras. Any time you’re in your room, you’re just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

JUNIOR BALCONY

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you’re looking to cruise with a view aboard Mardi Gras. A Junior Balcony stateroom features the same size balcony as standard Balcony rooms, just with a little less interior space. Any time you’re in your room, you’re just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

COVE BALCONY

Love the sea? Mardi Gras Cove Balcony staterooms are the best way to see the sea — these rooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location. Enjoy things from a whole new perspective: one amazing up-close view of the wake and seafoam as the ship cruises along.

A stateroom featuring the most indoor space, a balcony and some of the best perks on the ship.

CARNIVAL EXCEL PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

If you’re looking for the largest stateroom and best view on the ship — one practically the same as what the captain sees — then your search stops here, Junior Captain. But there’s more to know: for one thing, the Carnival Excel Presidential Suite features a separate living room and bedroom, and these spaces are packing two TVs, a walk-in closet, a lighted vanity and sectional sofa. There’s a dining area, and of course a wet bar. You’ll find truly deluxe extras like the bathroom with large shower and two sinks, plus we put the toilet and an extra sink in a separate room for convenience and privacy. Did we forget the hot tub? Of course not — it’s outside on the wraparound balcony, which is so large that “balcony” might not even be the right word, since it features seating from lounge chairs to loveseats, rocking chair to daybed, for over a dozen of your closest friends, plus an al fresco dining table.

Carnival Excel Aft Suite

A Carnival Excel Aft Suite is one of the most spacious staterooms on the ship… and if we’re talking square-footage, let’s just say the wraparound balcony is made for entertaining. (Okay, let’s also say it has a private hot tub, dining area, daybed, plus plenty of loungy seating. Wow!) But back inside the room, which features a separate living room and bedroom, you’ll find some nice perks that make this room truly deluxe. For instance, how about an ample bathroom with large shower and double sink, plus a separate private room for the toilet and an extra sink? You’ve got it all. Or two TVs, a walk-in closet, a lighted vanity and sectional sofa? All of those — check!

CARNIVAL EXCEL CORNER SUITE

A Carnival Excel Corner Suite aboard Mardi Gras features tons of indoor space, plus a large wraparound balcony with lounge chairs and an al fresco dining table, for when you need a little more space. Back inside this impressive room you’ll find a king-size bed, deluxe bathroom, plus a living room featuring a wet bar.

CARNIVAL EXCEL SUITE

A Carnival Excel Suite aboard Mardi Gras is the kind of room that proves that vacation and comfort go hand-in-hand. In this large room you’ll find not only a bathroom with a spacious shower and a double sink, but a good amount of room for living and lounging. Plus there’s truly nice-to-haves like a dining area and two TVs — one in the sleeping area and one in the living space. Your room also features extra space for kicking back, ocean-breeze-style, on your balcony featuring lounge chairs and an al fresco dining table.

HAVANA CABANA CORNER SUITE

In a Havana Cabana Corner Suite you’ll find all the comforts of a normal suite… decked out in Cuba-inspired décor! Inside the room are separate living room and bedroom areas, with a TV in each, plus convenient extras like a sectional sofa and walk-in closet. Outside your amazing room lies a private lanai with your own swinging chair. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older… and don’t forget that all Havana staterooms feature exclusive perks!)

HAVANA CABANA SUITE

In this room you’ll find all the comfort of a suite, all decked out in Cuba-inspired décor. Outside your Havana Cabana Suite lies a luxurious lounging area with your own deck chairs and swinging chair. (All Havana stateroom guests must be 12 or older… and don’t forget that all Havana staterooms feature exclusive perks!)

FAMILY HARBOR OCEAN VIEW SUITE

Let the whole family — especially the little ones — experience the wide-eyed wonder of a great room with an amazing view: a Family Harbor Ocean View Suite stateroom. Not only are the sky, the sea and the sights beautiful to behold from your window, but Family Harbor staterooms feature a unique nautical décor inspired by the craft of seafaring itself. This room sleeps five, by the way, and features a separate bedroom and living room area, with a TV in each. These rooms aren’t just fun, but are practical — you get a walk-in closet, plus a convenient full bathroom and a separate washroom. (Don’t forget: all Family Harbor staterooms feature exclusive perks.)

CLOUD 9 SPA SUITE

A Cloud 9 Spa Suite is the ultimate in spa-style accommodations. This is more than a large room with a unique, soothing décor… but there’s also plenty of convenience here, like the vanity featuring an illuminated mirror. Oh, and those aren’t the only upgrades from other Cloud 9 Spa staterooms — this room has just the large balcony you’d expect. (Don’t forget: all Cloud 9 Spa staterooms feature exclusive spa perks.)

OCEAN SUITE

A Mardi Gras Ocean Suite offers more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors. Try an Ocean Suite to experience private, spacious relaxation… and a deluxe bathroom!

Loft 19™ was designed to afford you a unique opportunity for relaxation and indulgence. This retreat-style space invites you to soak up the sun all day from the comfort of a lounge chair or infinity whirlpool. This pairs so perfectly with Carnival Excel suites that staying in one actually gets you Loft 19™ access! Drink service is always close at hand, plus you can even opt for a little private time — renting a cabana gets you more than just a place in the shade, but extras like fresh fruit, chilled towels, lunch delivery and concierge service. (Cabana rentals are open to everyone, though guests in Carnival Excel-level suites enjoy priority reservations.)

STATEROOMS GOT YOU FEELING ALL COMFY?

Ultimate Guide to Carnival’s Mardi Gras Cruise Ship

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Carnival Cruise’s much-awaited Mardi Gras cruise ship is finally here, and it’s packed with all the bells, whistles, and thrills you can expect from a modern mega-ship.

The ship is the first of Carnival’s Excel class to debut and is currently the largest in Carnival’s fleet. The vessel features LNG (liquid natural gas) technology, six themed zones, and the first roller coaster at sea.

If you plan to book a cruise vacation aboard Carnival’s Mardi Gras or just want to see what all the excitement is about, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Carnival’s mega-ship.

Table of Contents

Mardi Gras Ship Stats

Mardi Gras is the largest-ever ship built by Carnival and, at the time of this publishing, is the ninth-largest cruise ship in the world. There is no shortage of activities, entertainment, dining, and cabin options onboard this innovative ship. 

This mega-ship can accommodate up to 6,338 passengers (sailing at full capacity) in 2,641 rooms with a crew of 1,745 members. If that’s not enough, Mardi Gras features revolutionary new amenities, including BOLT, the first-ever roller coaster at sea.

Check out some of Mardi Gras stats below:

• Gross Tonnage: 180,000
• Length: 1,130 feet (340 meters)
• Beam: 137 feet (41.7 meters)
• Cruising Speed: 17 knots
• Passenger Decks: 17
• Normal Guest Occupancy: 5,282 (based on 2 per cabin)
• Maximum Guest Capacity: 6,500
• Crew Capacity: 1,745
• Number of Staterooms: 2,641

Construction 

On September 6, 2016, Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku first announced that it had signed an agreement with Carnival Cruise Line to build two 180,000 gross-ton ships. The delivery of the first ship, which would be named Mardi Gras, was planned for 2020. 

The ship is powered by liquid natural gas (LNG), making it the first LNG-powered cruise ship based in North America. Carnival explained that the pivot towards LNG was lower greenhouse gas emissions than traditional diesel engines.

In addition to the LNG technology, the ship’s design incorporates the latest technology and thrills. As previously mentioned, the ship has 19 decks and six themed zones. The “Ultimate Playground” zone on the upper decks features BOLT, the world’s first roller coaster at sea. BOLT’s self-propelled cars take passengers on high thrill rides of up to 40 mph (64 kph) on an 800-foot track with a stunning view of the ocean.

On November 15, 2018, Carnival held the steel-cutting ceremony at Meyer Turku for the still-unnamed vessel. Carnival unveiled the new ship’s livery at the ceremony, which features a predominantly blue hull with red and white accents. Carnival commissioned the new design to promote the brand as “America’s Cruise Line.”

On Wheel of Fortune, hosts Pat Sajak and Vanna White revealed the ship’s name as Carnival Mardi Gras. The name is a callback to Carnival’s first ship, TSS Mardi Gras . After the episode aired, Carnival issued a press release clarifying that the ship’s name would be simply Mari Gras .

Delays caused by the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and a small shipyard fire, resulted in the late final delivery of the new Mardi Gras. Meyer Turku delivered the ship to Carnival on December 18, 2020, but a pause in cruise ship operations during the pandemic meant nearly a year would pass before her maiden voyage.

Port Canaveral Homeport

To accommodate Mardi Gras in her new homeport, Port Canaveral in Florida needed to build a new terminal. The new Terminal 3 became the largest project in the port’s history, at an estimated cost of US$163 million. In the summer of 2020, the two-story, 188,000 square foot terminal was completed and ready for Mari Gras .

During the Miss Universe 2021 contest, Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line’s President, presented the “Spirit of Carnival” award to Miss Dominican Republic Kimberly Jiménez. The award celebrates Jiménez for embodying the company’s fun and friendship values in addition to diversity and inclusion. In addition, Jiménez was bestowed the honor of godmother to Mardi Gras.

As the ship’s godmother, Jiménez played a vital role in Mardi Gras’ naming ceremony .

“Kimberly is a role model for female empowerment and has a passion for so many worthwhile causes, particularly those that assist women, children and families.  It is such an honor to present Kimberly with the ‘Spirit of Carnival’ award and an even bigger thrill to announce that she’s going to be the godmother of our newest ship, Mardi Gras,” Christine Duffy – President of Carnival Cruise Line 

Jiménez was born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Dominican Republic. She champions at-risk youth and is a strong advocate for adoption.

She has spent time volunteering at Los Niños de Cristo orphanage, a non-profit foundation for abused and abandoned girls. She serves as a founding member of the Woman’s Club, which serves to provide services to disadvantaged women with breast cancer.

Staterooms and Suites  

With more than 2,500 guest staterooms aboard the ship, cruisers have plenty of options to choose from. The vessel has over 1,400 balcony staterooms, 181 suites, and 82 handicap-accessible staterooms.

Carnival has added plenty of new features aboard Mardi Gras’ staterooms to provide guests with comfort and style no matter which cabin category they choose. The new features include:

• Pull-out storage bins and baskets from
• Storage ottoman with a top that transforms into a tray or table
• Large lighted mirror for multiple people to use at once
• Multiple USB ports and plugs to accommodate all devices
• Flexible recessed bedside reading lights that won’t disturb others sleeping in the stateroom
• New bath design details include a shaving bar in the shower
• The sofa transforms into a comfortable bed with the quick flip of your wrist

Many staterooms will feel familiar to long-time Carnival Cruisers with the traditional comfort and ambiance you expect from Carnival’s fleet. However, debuting on the Mardi Gras is a new luxury suite concept with luxury and exclusivity at its core. The Excel Suites offer passengers a resort-style concept, concierge phone line, access to the exclusive Loft 19, and more.

The new Carnival Excel suites are some of the largest cabins available on the ship and include:

• Two Carnival Excel presidential suites complete with separate living, dining, and sleeping areas, a walk-in closet, spacious balconies, a private hot tub, and access to the spa and Havana pool.
• 12 Carnival Excel aft suites complete with separate living, dining, and sleeping areas, a walk-in closet, wraparound balcony, and a private hot tub.
• 12 Carnival Excel corner suites also with separate living and sleeping areas, as well as a wraparound balcony and spacious interior
• 6 Carnival Excel basic suites with separate sleeping, dining, and living spaces

Guests who book a suite aboard Mardi Gras will enjoy extra perks and amenities well worth the upgrade. They include:

• Access to the new Loft 19 – The VIP space consists of a full bar, private pool, and cabanas.
• A dedicated concierge phone line
• Guaranteed specialty dining times (with some exceptions)
• Complimentary soda packages, room service, and laundry service
• A welcome gift of sparkling wine and a fruit basket

No matter which stateroom you book on Mardi Gras, you can expect modern and calming decor, plenty of storage space, and all the comforts you expect when you sail with Carnival Cruise Line.

Dining Venues 

When dining on Mardi Gras , guests will find a tasty variety of new dining options and Carnival classics. 

Complimentary Dining Options:

• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse (by Guy Fieri)
• Cucina Del Capitano
• Big Chicken
• Street Eats
• BlueIguana Cantina
• Guy’s Burger Joint
• Lido Marketplace (Buffet)
• Pizzeria Del Capitano
• Room Service
• Main Dining Room

Specialty Restaurants:

• Emeril’s Bistro 1396
• Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse
• Rudi’s Seagrill
• Bonsai Teppanyaki
• Bonsai Sushi
• Seafood Shack
• Carnival Kitchen
• JavaBlue Cafe
• Chef’s Table
• Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast
• Pizza Delivery
• JiJi Asian Kitchen

Among the newcomers is The Big Chicken, brought to you by none other than Carnival’s Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal. The restaurant is located on the Lido Deck with a menu developed by Shaq in partnership with his mom.

New dining options include the seafood restaurant Rudi’s Seagrill, Emeril Lagasse’s Creole cuisine restaurant Emeril’s Bistro 1396, The food truck-inspired Street Eats, and the Chinese and Mexican cuisines from Chibang!

BOLT – The First Roller Coaster at Sea

One of Carnival’s proudest achievements on Mardi Gras is the first-ever roller coaster at sea.

BOLT features self-propelled, all-electric, motorcycle-style vehicles that propel thrill-seekers to 40 mph (64 kph) along its 800-foot track. At its peak, passengers will get a view as high as 187 feet above the ocean as the ride climbs, dips, and swings around the track. 

One unique feature of the roller coaster allows passengers to choose the ride’s speed, allowing for greater personalization.

Located directly below BOLT is the “Ultimate Playground” – one of six themed zones around the ship. The Ultimate Playground features Carnival’s fleet’s largest WaterWorks water park, complete with three water slides, including the 312-foot Blue Lightning. 

This zone also includes a SportSquare sports complex for active-minded passengers . The SportSquare features a 600-foot ropes course, mini-golf course, outdoor fitness area, and a basketball court. This section of the ship is great for staying active, meeting new people, and engaging in a little friendly competition.

Six Distinct Themed Zones

But, the Ultimate Playground is only one of six themed areas found on Mardi Gras. In Carnival’s words, the “ship is our first with distinctive zones that offer mini-onboard excursions to different “worlds” and experiences.”

Mardi Gras ’ six zones include:

• Grand Central , the mid-ship atrium with expansive views and plenty of activity, regardless of the hour
• French Quarter , a New Orleans-inspired zone with live music and plenty of restaurants, including the all-new Emeril’s Bistro 1396.
• La Piazza , the Italian-inspired zone, with more restaurants and live music
• Summer Landing , your spot for outdoor summer fun, including al fresco dining, pools, hot tubs, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse|Brewhouse, The Watering Hole, and Swirls soft serve.
• Lido , the place to go for all of your classic Carnival restaurants and the debuting RedFrog Tiki Bar
• The Ultimate Playground , spanning decks 18-20, will find the ropes course, WaterWorks, SportsSquare, and the BOLT Roller Coaster.

Onboard Activities

Mardi Gras offers passengers a host of brand new activities and thrills and signature Carnival favorites. Onboard highlights include the SportSquare, BOLT, the adults-only Serenity retreat, Waterworld Water park, Cloud 9 Spa, and a casino. 

Mardi Gras continues Carnival’s trend of family focus and includes numerous kid-friendly activities, including Dr. Seuss Bookville and Camp Ocean.

Staying connected is easy aboard Mardi Gras, thanks to the surprisingly fast Wi-Fi on the ship. Although Wi-Fi tends to be slow on cruise ships, the Wi-Fi speed aboard Mardi Gras is fast enough that passengers can take part in video calls and even stream Peloton workouts from your cabin or the fitness center.

Adults looking for a night out will find several bars and entertainment options along with a wine bar and Alchemy Bar for martinis. And if you are in the mood for a laugh, check out the Punchliner Comedy Club for live stand-up comedy.

How Big is Carnival’s Mardi Gras Cruise Ship?

At the time of writing,  Mardi Gras  is the ninth-largest cruise ship in the world. The vessel is over 180,000 gross tons with a length of 1,130 feet, a beam of 137 feet, and a height of 19 decks. The 2,641 onboard staterooms can carry a maximum of 6,500 passengers at maximum capacity and a crew of 1,745 individuals.

When Did Mardi Gras Enter Service?

Mardi Gras  entered service on July 31, 2020, from her homeport of Port Canaveral. She is the first North American vessel to be powered by LNG technology.

What happened to the original Mardi Gras cruise ship?

Originally named the  RMS Empress of Canada , the ship began service in 1960 as an ocean liner, regularly traversing the transatlantic route between Liverpool and Canada for more than a decade. Carnival Cruise Lines purchased the ship in 1972 and, after a few modifications and a change of color scheme, renamed her  Mardi Gras.  Carnival sold the vessel in 1993, and it was scrapped in 2003.

Marcello De Lio

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