Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is Carnival Cruise Line's first Excel-class ship, introduced in 2021 as the line's largest and most ambitious vessel to date. It's best known for BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, along with a lineup of themed zones spread across the ship.
Ship class
Excel Class
Experience
Flagship ship
Year built
2021
Guest capacity
6,500
Ship specifics here (cabin categories, deck features) are general and illustrative, not sourced from a live cruise-line data feed. Deck plans and verified sailing data can be added once that integration exists — see SHIP_CONTENT_MODEL.md.
Onboard highlights
- BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea
- Six distinct themed zones, including French Quarter and Lido
- Multi-level open-air aft area with dining and entertainment venues
- Wide variety of dining venues, many at an additional cost
Passenger experience
As Carnival's flagship-style vessel, Mardi Gras delivers a high-energy, activity-packed atmosphere geared toward families, groups, and travelers who want a lot to do onboard. The ship is large enough that guests can expect a resort-like pace with plenty of choices, rather than a quiet or intimate feel. It tends to suit first-time cruisers and multi-generational groups looking for variety over relaxation.
Cabin categories
Interior Stateroom
A budget-friendly windowless cabin, a good option for guests who plan to spend most of their time exploring the ship.
Ocean View Stateroom
A standard cabin with a window or porthole offering natural light and sea views.
Balcony Stateroom
A cabin with a private balcony, popular for guests who want fresh air and a view from their room.
Suite
A larger cabin with additional living space and often a bigger balcony, generally offering more amenities than standard categories.
Excel Suite
A top-tier suite category on Excel-class ships with extra space and premium positioning, typically located in a more private area of the ship.
Dining
Mardi Gras offers a large number of dining venues spanning included main dining rooms and casual eateries alongside numerous specialty restaurants that carry an additional charge. The variety spans different cuisines and styles, from quick bites to sit-down dinners, giving guests many choices throughout the day.
Entertainment
Entertainment includes Broadway-style production shows, live music venues, comedy performances, and themed bars and lounges spread throughout the ship's different zones. BOLT, the roller coaster, is a signature attraction alongside other active and social entertainment options.
Pools & outdoor areas
The ship features multiple pools and whirlpools, along with an expansive multi-level open-air aft area featuring dining, bars, and entertainment with ocean views. Outdoor space is spread across several zones rather than concentrated in one central pool deck.
Family facilities
Mardi Gras includes dedicated kids' and teens' club spaces with age-based programming, along with family-friendly pools and water play areas. The ship is generally well suited to multi-generational travel given its range of activities for different age groups.
Adult spaces
The ship includes an adults-only retreat area with its own pool and loungers, along with a spa offering treatments and relaxation spaces. These areas provide a quieter alternative to the ship's more energetic family zones.
Accessibility considerations
Accessible staterooms and general mobility accommodations are typically available on ships of this size, and public areas are generally designed with elevators and ramps. Travelers with specific accessibility needs should confirm exact accommodations directly with Carnival before booking.
Common traveler questions
Is Mardi Gras a good fit for families with kids?
Yes, generally speaking — the ship has extensive kids' and teens' programming along with a wide range of activities, though families should review specific age groupings and offerings when planning.
Do I need to pay extra to ride BOLT?
Onboard attractions like BOLT may carry an additional fee or require a reservation; guests should check current policies with Carnival before sailing.
How large is Mardi Gras compared to other Carnival ships?
Mardi Gras is among Carnival's largest ships, introducing the Excel class as a notably bigger vessel than most of the line's earlier ships.
Are all the restaurants included in the cruise fare?
No — Mardi Gras has a mix of included dining venues and specialty restaurants that carry an additional charge; guests should check current offerings and pricing directly with Carnival.
Is there an adults-only area on Mardi Gras?
Yes, the ship includes an adults-only retreat space with its own pool and lounging area separate from the main family pool decks.
Where this ship sails
Departure ports
Related guides
How to Plan a Family Cruise Everyone Will Enjoy
A practical framework for choosing the right ship, balancing group time with downtime, and budgeting for a multi-generational family cruise.
The Complete First-Time Cruiser Guide
New to cruising? Here's a broad orientation to how it works, what's different from a resort vacation, and what tends to surprise first-timers.