Carnival Mardi Gras 7-Day Western Caribbean Cruise Review
Carnival Mardi Gras, the first of the Excel-class ships in the Carnival fleet, made its debut in November 2022 and swiftly assumed the role of the fleet’s flagship. It was followed by the second ship in the class, Carnival Celebration, and the newest vessel and now the line’s flagship, Carnival Jubilee.
Boasting an impressive capacity, Carnival Mardi Gras can comfortably accommodate 6,600 guests along with a dedicated crew of over 1,700. Spread across 20 expansive decks, the ship is a floating haven of entertainment and leisure. It features an array of 19 culinary delights, 7 vibrant bars, and numerous attractions including a thrilling roller coaster, an expansive water park, a miniature golf course, a challenging ropes course, several inviting swimming pools, and relaxing hot tubs.
Presently, the ship sets sail from Port Canaveral, offering an array of captivating eastern and western Caribbean routes.
Date: December 9 – December 16, 2023
Itinerary:
Port Canaveral, FL: Port Canaveral, located in the heart of Florida’s Space Coast, stands as a dynamic and multifaceted port, renowned for its strategic positioning and versatility. It’s not just a gateway to the enthralling world of space exploration at the nearby Kennedy Space Center, but also a vibrant maritime hub that plays a significant role in both the cruise industry and cargo trade. As one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, Port Canaveral serves as a popular embarkation point for numerous cruise lines, offering a gateway to a variety of destinations, including the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Mexico. The port’s modern facilities and its proximity to Orlando’s world-famous theme parks add to its appeal, making it an ideal starting point for tourists seeking a multifaceted vacation experience.
Cozumel, Mexico:. The Cozumel cruise port, nestled in the Caribbean Sea off Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is a vibrant and well-equipped destination. It provides cruise passengers with modern amenities, including shopping, dining, and shore excursions, along with cultural experiences and beach clubs. Renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Cozumel is a sought-after destination for those eager to experience the Western Caribbean’s sun, sand, and adventure.
Costa Maya, Mexico:. Situated along Mexico’s Caribbean coast near Mahahual, the Costa Maya cruise port offers a variety of amenities for passengers, including shopping, dining, and beach relaxation. Known for its lively marine life and cultural richness, it’s a favored stop for those wishing to experience Mexico’s Caribbean allure.
Mahogany Bay, Roatan: Exclusively used by Carnival Cruise Line and its affiliates, Mahogany Bay in Roatan, Honduras, is a private cruise port. Its picturesque beach, crystal-clear waters, and modern facilities offer an idyllic setting for shopping, dining, and beach activities. The port also provides a range of shore excursions for exploring the island’s beauty.
Carnival Mardi Gras Accommodations:
This time around, I booked an interior stateroom (10214) on Deck 10, forward as part of a casino promotion. This particular stateroom could accommodate up to four people, with two twin beds that can be converted to a king and two upper berths.