Carnival Mardi Gras
Debut 2021 · Up to 5,282 guests
Life aboard Carnival Mardi Gras
Shore Day
Caribbean Bay
Sunset at Sea
Carnival Mardi Gras introduced the Excel class and the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, alongside a zone-based ship design that organizes the vessel into themed areas rather than anonymous decks. Vanessa recommends Mardi Gras for families who want maximum fun-factor without Royal Caribbean's price tier, and for groups who appreciate Carnival's laid-back atmosphere where formal nights feel optional rather than obligatory.
Homeported at Port Canaveral, Mardi Gras serves seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries accessible to Missouri travelers via Orlando flights, a natural pairing with theme park pre-stays Vanessa coordinates regularly. The ship's zones include the French Quarter with New Orleans-inspired dining, Summerland's water attractions, and Ultimate Playground featuring BOLT and the SkyZone ropes course.
Vanessa helps clients decode Carnival's fare types (Fun, Early Saver, Premium) and cabin categories spread across Excel-class layouts that differ significantly from older Carnival ships. Her Mardi Gras clients receive deck-plan guidance emphasizing which zones stay quietest at night and how to maximize included dining while reserving specialty venues like Fahrenheit 555 and Rudi's Seaside Grill.
Ship highlights
- BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea with customizable speed
- Excel-class zone design with French Quarter and Summerland themes
- SkyZone ropes course and expanded WaterWorks aqua park
- Loft 19 exclusive retreat for suite guests
- Port Canaveral departures ideal for Orlando fly-in travelers
Best for
- Families wanting high-energy fun at Carnival pricing
- First-time cruisers seeking approachable, casual atmosphere
- Groups from the Ozarks flying to Orlando for Port Canaveral embarkation
- Travelers who prioritize onboard thrills over formal cruise traditions
Popular itineraries
- 7-night Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral
- 7-night Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral
- Bahamas itineraries with Celebration Key
Cabin categories
Cloud 9 Spa Stateroom
Proximity to the Cloud 9 Spa with priority reservations and thermal suite access. Vanessa recommends for adults seeking wellness-focused cruising.
Havana Cabana
Exclusive access to the Havana Bar & Pool adults-only enclave, popular with couples and friend groups wanting a ship-within-a-ship feel.
Extended Balcony
Larger balcony space than standard Carnival balconies, worth the upgrade on sea days when you want outdoor living room comfort.
Interior
Budget entry to Excel-class experience. Vanessa selects locations away from elevator banks and crew service areas for quieter nights.
Planning tips from Vanessa
- Book BOLT coaster rides early through the Carnival Hub app, complimentary but timed reservations fill quickly.
- Port Canaveral parking fills on Saturday embarkation. Vanessa arranges off-site parking or hotel packages with shuttle service.
- Carnival's Cheers beverage package math depends on consumption. Vanessa calculates whether it saves money for your group.
- The French Quarter zone offers some of the ship's best live music, plan evening entertainment around performances.
- Mardi Gras is large but smaller than Royal Caribbean megaships, still plan walking routes for mobility-limited guests.
- Celebration Key private port days require early excursion booking for best beach cabana locations.
Plan This Getaway
Tell Vanessa about your dream trip. She personally handles every itinerary.
From
Springfield, MO
To
Carnival Mardi Gras
Advisor
Vanessa G.
Class
White Glove
Carnival Mardi Gras FAQs
Is Mardi Gras good for first-time cruisers?
Excellent. Carnival's casual approach, included dining variety, and approachable pricing make Mardi Gras ideal for cruise newcomers from Missouri.
How scary is the BOLT roller coaster?
Riders control speed up to 40 mph around the ship's deck. It is visible from many areas but optional, non-riders enjoy the ship fully without it.
Mardi Gras vs Celebration, which should I choose?
Nearly identical Excel-class sisters. Vanessa compares pricing and itinerary for your dates, choose based on sailing schedule and fare, not ship differences.
Does Mardi Gras require formal nights?
Carnival has relaxed dress codes. Elegant night suggestions exist but tuxedos are rare. Casual attire dominates, pack one slightly dressier outfit for photos.
Can you book adjoining cabins on Mardi Gras?
Yes. Vanessa requests connecting rooms for families and holds group blocks for milestone celebrations with payment tracking per guest.
What is included in Mardi Gras fares?
Accommodation, main dining, Lido buffet, select entertainment, and most activities including WaterWorks. Alcohol, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and gratuities cost extra unless bundled.
How far ahead should Ozarks travelers book Mardi Gras?
Six to nine months for spring break and summer. Mardi Gras is Carnival's flagship, popular sailings sell preferred cabin categories early.
Ready to sail? Call 504-250-8108