Discover the Carnival Mardi Gras: The Ultimate Cruise Ship Experience
Welcome aboard the Carnival Mardi Gras, a groundbreaking vessel that has redefined the modern cruise vacation. Named after Carnival’s very first ship from 1972, the new Mardi Gras (launched in 2021) is a testament to cutting-edge innovation, thrilling entertainment, and world-class dining.
As the first cruise ship in North America powered by eco-friendly Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), the Mardi Gras isn't just massive—it’s a marvel of sustainable maritime engineering. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway or a romantic retreat, here is everything you need to know about the flagship of Carnival's Excel-class.
Technical Specifications
Explore the engineering and operational data of the world's most iconic cruise vessels.
180,800 GT
Gross Tonnage
6,500 maximum
Passenger Capacity
1,745
Crew Size
2021
Year Built
Port Canaveral, Florida
Home Port
Six Unique Themed Zones
To make navigating this massive 180,000-ton vessel a breeze, Carnival designed the Mardi Gras with six distinct themed zones, each offering its own unique vibe, flavors, and entertainment:
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Grand Central: The heart of the ship features a breathtaking three-deck-high atrium with massive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic ocean views, live entertainment, and artisan cocktails.
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The French Quarter: Inspired by New Orleans, this jazz-filled promenade is lined with lively bars, authentic eateries, and the signature Emeril's Bistro 1396.
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Summer Landing: The ultimate chill zone. Grab a craft beer at Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, relax by the infinity pool, or lounge in the sun.
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La Piazza: Experience the charm of Italy with authentic espresso at Bar della Rosa, fresh slices at Pizzeria del Capitano, and roaming musicians.
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Lido: The classic Carnival poolside experience, elevated. Home to the legendary Guy's Burger Joint, the BlueIguana Cantina, and the seafood-focused Seafood Shack.
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The Ultimate Playground: Located on the top decks, this is where the adrenaline lives. It features the massive WaterWorks aqua park, SportSquare, and the ship's most famous attraction—the BOLT roller coaster.
Mardi Gras Grand Central
BOLT: The First Roller Coaster at Sea
Mardi Gras Pool
Thrill-seekers, rejoice! The Mardi Gras is home to BOLT™, the world’s very first shipboard roller coaster. This all-electric thrill ride puts you in the driver’s seat of a motorcycle-style vehicle. You control the speed—hitting up to 40 mph—as you zoom along an 800-foot track suspended 150 feet above the ocean. It delivers breathtaking 360-degree ocean views and a rush you can't find on any other cruise line.
Outstanding Mardi Gras Dining & Restaurants
Mardi Gras Roller Coaster
With over two dozen dining venues, the Carnival Mardi Gras offers culinary adventures for every palate. The ship perfectly balances complimentary favorites with incredible specialty dining options.
Complimentary Highlights:
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Big Chicken by Shaq: Delicious crispy chicken sandwiches and fries created by Carnival's Chief Fun Officer, Shaquille O'Neal.
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Guy's Burger Joint: Carnival's famous poolside burgers, courtesy of Guy Fieri.
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Street Eats: An open-air promenade offering grab-and-go treats like bao buns, kebabs, and loaded fries.
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Chibang!: A vibrant, dual-menu restaurant serving authentic Chinese and Mexican dishes.
Specialty Dining ($):
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Emeril's Bistro 1396: Creole classics like jambalaya and roasted duck from celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse.
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Rudi's Seagrill: Whimsical, elevated seafood creations by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin.
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Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse: A premium, classic American steakhouse experience.
Mardi Gras Big Chicken
Staterooms & Suites: Your Home at Sea
Carnival completely redesigned the stateroom experience for the Mardi Gras, focusing on smart storage, enhanced lighting, and supreme comfort. The ship offers an array of categories to fit every budget and travel style:
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Excel Suites: The ultimate VIP experience. Guests enjoy massive balconies, premium amenities, and exclusive access to Loft 19, a private sun deck featuring luxury cabanas.
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Havana Staterooms: Tropically inspired rooms that grant exclusive access to the private Havana Bar & Pool area.
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Cloud 9 Spa Cabins: Perfect for wellness lovers, offering priority spa reservations, thermal suite access, and soothing in-room decor.
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Family Harbor: Designed for traveling families, these staterooms offer access to the Family Harbor Lounge, complete with breakfast, snacks, games, and a free evening of babysitting.
Mardi Gras Room
Entertainment & Relaxation
When you aren't riding the coaster or eating world-class BBQ, the Mardi Gras keeps the energy going with award-winning entertainment. Enjoy laugh-out-loud sets at the Punchliner Comedy Club, test your luck in the expansive Vegas-style casino, or catch grand-scale stage productions in the Mardi Gras Theater.
If relaxation is your goal, escape to the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat for quiet lounging and hot tubs, or book a restorative massage at the state-of-the-art Cloud 9 Spa.
Mardi Gras
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and Teen Programs
The Carnival Mardi Gras is designed to keep guests of all ages entertained, making it one of the best family cruise ships at sea. Parents can enjoy some alone time while kids participate in award-winning, supervised youth programs:
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Camp Ocean (Ages 2-11): An ocean-themed camp where kids are divided by age group (Penguins, Stingrays, and Sharks) to enjoy arts and crafts, games, and educational marine-focused activities.
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Circle C (Ages 12-14): A dedicated hangout spot for young teens to connect, play video games, watch movies, and enjoy supervised dance parties.
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Club O2 (Ages 15-17): The ultimate older teen lounge featuring karaoke, sports competitions, video games, and prom-style events.
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Dr. Seuss at Sea: The whole family can enjoy character breakfasts featuring Green Eggs and Ham, interactive storytime parades, and Seuss-themed arts and crafts.
Mardi Gras Club O2
Insider Tips for Your Mardi Gras Cruise
To make sure your readers get the absolute most out of their sailing, keep these pro-tips in mind:
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Download the Carnival HUB App: This is essential for navigating the ship. You can use it to check daily schedules, view restaurant menus, join virtual queues for dining, and message friends and family onboard.
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Book the BOLT Roller Coaster Early: The roller coaster requires an additional fee (usually around $15 per ride) and time slots fill up incredibly fast. Book your ride through the app as soon as you board.
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Reserve Specialty Dining in Advance: High-demand restaurants like Rudi's Seagrill and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse often sell out of prime dinner times before the ship even leaves port. Book these online prior to your sail date.
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Explore the Included Dining: Remember that venues like Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, Chibang!, and Big Chicken are entirely free. You don't have to spend extra money to eat incredibly well on this ship.
Mardi Gras
