Carnival Mardi Gras review: The Excel-Class experience that's redefining family cruising in 2025

When I stepped aboard the Carnival Mardi Gras for what would become one of my most memorable cruise experiences, I honestly wasn't sure what to expect. I'd sailed on Carnival Cruise Line’s original Mardi Gras years ago, and while it held a special place in my heart, I wondered if this newest iteration could live up to the hype. The Mardi Gras Carnival ship had been making waves since its 2021 debut, but could it really be that different from other Carnival ships I'd experienced?

The Carnival Cruise Mardi Gras delivered more than just a fun vacation, it redefined what a family cruise can be. This Carnival Mardi Gras review breaks down what sets it apart from the rest of the fleet.

This Carnival Mardi Gras review goes beyond typical cruise write-ups. I'm diving deep into what makes this ship special, sharing insider tips I picked up during my week aboard, and giving you the honest breakdown of whether this Excel Class experience is worth your vacation dollars.

Related: Discover why Carnival Cruise Line is among the best cruises for first timers.

On this page:

• Why Carnival Mardi Gras is more than just a cruise, it's a game-changer
• The Excel-Class Edge: What sets Mardi Gras apart from other Carnival ships
• Explore the zones: Themed neighborhoods that define Mardi Gras
• Cabin review: Inside a Category 4F interior + Excel Suite insights
• A foodie's dream: Carnival Mardi Gras food reviews & dining secrets
• Action & attractions: Ultimate playground, entertainment, and more
• Bars, lounges & vibe zones for every mood
• Spa, Serenity & Loft 19: Finding quiet in the crowd
• Port Highlights: What to do at each stop
• Technology & Service: Carnival app, Wi-Fi, and friendly staff
• Carnival Mardi Gras FAQ

Explore sailings on the Carnival Mardi Gras:

Why Carnival Mardi Gras is more than just a cruise, it's a game-changer

This was one of the most relaxing cruises I've ever had, and coming from someone who's sailed multiple cruise lines and countless ships, that's not a statement I make lightly. The 2021-built Excel Class ship carries 5,270 passengers but somehow never felt overwhelming or crowded. What sets this ship apart from older Carnival vessels like the Horizon isn't just size, it's an entirely reimagined approach to how guests experience their vacation.

The zones helped organize the space and made exploring more enjoyable and intuitive, something I really noticed after sailing ships where you're constantly wandering around trying to figure out where everything is.

The Excel-Class Edge: What sets Mardi Gras apart from other Carnival ships

Wondering what class ship is Carnival Mardi Gras? It’s the first Excel Class Carnival ship and represents a bold shift in Carnival’s design and onboard experience. As the lead ship in this innovative class, along with Celebration and Jubilee, the Mardi Gras sets a new standard for what family cruising can look like.

At 180,800 gross tons, this isn't just bigger than older Carnival ships, it's smarter. The Carnival Mardi Gras new features start with the ship's revolutionary layout. Gone are the days of wandering aimlessly through endless corridors trying to find what you're looking for. The Excel Class introduces a concept that feels almost obvious in hindsight: themed neighborhoods that organize the ship into intuitive, easy-to-navigate zones.

The zones concept transforms how you experience the ship. Instead of everything feeling like one massive floating mall, each area has its own personality, making the large ship feel surprisingly manageable. Whether you're craving New Orleans jazz vibes, Italian café culture, or high-energy playground fun, you know exactly where to go.

But here's what really sold me on the "worth the upgrade" factor: even when this ship was fully booked, I never felt like I was fighting crowds or waiting in endless lines. The thoughtful design distributes guests naturally throughout the zones, creating multiple gathering spaces instead of one overwhelming central area. When you compare the price difference between sailing Mardi Gras versus older ships like Horizon, often just a few dollars more, the value proposition becomes crystal clear.

Related: Navigating Carnival ship classes? Start here

Explore the zones: Themed neighborhoods that define Mardi Gras

The zones on Carnival Mardi Gras aren't just a marketing gimmick, they're genuinely game-changing for how you navigate and enjoy your cruise. Each zone has its own distinct personality, and honestly, exploring them became one of my favorite parts of the entire trip.

Grand Central Zone - The grand central zone Carnival Mardi Gras serves as the ship's beating heart across three levels. Picture a sophisticated atrium where Piano Bar 88 hosts nightly sing-alongs, Bonsai Sushi offers fresh rolls, and live performances happen throughout the day. The multi-level design means you can catch the action from different vantage points, creating this dynamic energy that draws you back again and again.

French Quarter - This zone transported me straight to New Orleans with live jazz floating through the air. Emeril's Bistro 1396 anchors the area with authentic Creole flavors, while the Fortune Teller Bar serves up cocktails with a side of magic. The french quarter Carnival theming isn't just surface-level, it's woven into everything from the music to the menu selections.

Summer Landing - Here's where I spent most of my time, and I can see why it's such a hit. Summer landing perfectly balances chill vibes with great food options. Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse serves up incredible BBQ, while The Watering Hole became my absolute favorite spot on the ship — an outdoor bar and lounge area with whirlpools where you can soak up sun while sipping cocktails. Hero's Tribute Bar adds a meaningful touch, honoring armed forces personnel and their families.

La Piazza - The Italian-inspired charm here feels authentic and inviting. Piazza Panni serves fresh paninis, Pizza del Capitano delivers some of the best cruise ship pizza I've ever had, and Bar Della Rosa offers both indoor and outdoor seating (with a smoking section outside for those who need it).

Lido - The classic cruise experience gets elevated here with Big Chicken by Shaq, Guy's Burger Joint serving the best burgers at sea, BlueIguana Cantina for Mexican favorites, and the innovative Street Eats concept with three rotating food stations.

Ultimate Playground - This is where families with active kids will spend their days. The Bolt roller coaster dominates the skyline, while WaterWorks provides water slide thrills and the ropes course challenges adventurous spirits. It's positioned perfectly to contain the high-energy fun without overwhelming quieter zones.

These zones made exploring so much more intuitive and enjoyable, each drawing you in with its own personality and keeping you entertained once you arrive.

Cabin review: Inside a Category 4F interior + Excel Suite insights

For this cruise, I stayed in a category 4F interior stateroom, specifically cabin #12493, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well-designed these inside rooms are on Mardi Gras. The Carnival Mardi Gras cabin reviews you'll read online don't always capture the thoughtful details that make these spaces work.

The room featured two lower beds that convert to a king (I kept them separate for extra space), a large vanity desk area that actually felt functional rather than cramped, and surprisingly generous closet space. The bathroom was spacious for an interior cabin, enough so that I never felt claustrophobic, with good water pressure and adequate storage.

Cruisebound tip: You'll need to request bathrobes from housekeeping, they're not automatically provided. The room includes a mini-fridge, and while they provide shampoo and body wash, there's no hair conditioner. Bring your own or prepare to purchase it onboard.

For those considering an upgrade, the Carnival Mardi Gras excel suites offer exclusive access to loft 19, an adults-only VIP retreat area. I had the chance to visit, and honestly, it's stunning. Picture an elevated deck with cabanas, attendant service, a spa pool overlooking the main Serenity area, and a sophisticated atmosphere that feels like a private club. If you're looking to avoid crowds and want a more upscale experience, the suite upgrade cost might be worth it just for Loft 19 access alone.

🛟 Cruisebound tip: Calculate the difference between your intended cabin category and an Excel Suite. If Loft 19 access would cost more as a daily fee than the suite upgrade, the math might work in favor of going premium.

Related: Best cabin on a cruise ship – How to choose the perfect stateroom for your cruise style

A foodie's dream: Carnival Mardi Gras food reviews & dining secrets

The dining scene on Mardi Gras deserves its own cruise, seriously. The Carnival Mardi Gras food reviews I'd read beforehand didn't prepare me for just how much variety and quality awaited. From free dining on Mardi Gras to specialty restaurants that rival land-based establishments, this ship caters to every palate and budget. Let’s break it down:

Free dining on Mardi Gras:

• Big Chicken Carnival Cruise: New favorite! Chicken sandwiches, tenders, and even breakfast, delicious and fast.
• Guy’s Burger Joint: Still the best burger at sea.
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse: BBQ with live music at night and Flavortown bar. Ribs are an upcharge, but worth it.
• BlueIguana Cantina: Great for casual Mexican food.
• Piazza Panni & Pizza del Capitano: Paninis and some of the best pizza I’ve had onboard.
• Fresh Creations: Hidden gem in Serenity—custom salads while lounging by the adult pool.
• Street Eats: Rotating global street food with daily themes—fun and flavorful.
• Sea Day Brunch: Don’t miss it—classic and creative brunch items included on sea days.
• Lido Marketplace: The main buffet onboard. Surprisingly efficient, with shorter lines than expected and a solid range of classic options.

Street Eats revolutionizes casual dining with three rotating stations: Stream Dream (steamed favorites like potstickers), Mad Sizzle (skillet specialties like kabobs), and Time Fries (creative fry combinations). The concept keeps things fresh and interesting throughout the week.

The Carnival Mardi Gras sea day brunch deserves special mention because it's completely complimentary on sea days. While other cruise lines charge for this elevated brunch experience, Carnival includes it as a delightful bonus that feels genuinely special.

Dining strategy tips

Use the Carnival app for My Time Dining reservations, but book early in the day or you'll be stuck with 5:30 PM or 9:30 PM slots. I learned this the hard way on day two.

Here's a money-saving secret many guests miss: Cucina del Capitano (Italian) and Chibang (Chinese-Mexican fusion) offer your first visit completely free, then charge just $8 per person for subsequent visits. That's incredible value for specialty dining that rivals much more expensive restaurants.

The hidden gem? Fresh Creations salad bar in the adults-only Serenity area. An attendant makes custom salads to order, and it's perfect when you want something fresh and light without leaving the pool area.

Specialty dining worth the splurge

Emeril's Bistro 1396 brings authentic New Orleans flavors that taste like they came straight from the French Quarter. Rudi's Seagrill offers an upscale seafood experience with both indoor and outdoor dining options that feel more like a high-end coastal restaurant than cruise ship dining.

Action & attractions: Ultimate playground, entertainment, and more

The bolt roller coaster Carnival isn't just a gimmick, it's genuinely thrilling and holds the distinction of being the first roller coaster at sea. Riding it while surrounded by ocean views creates a surreal experience that's worth the wait, even when lines get long.

Things to do on Carnival Mardi Gras extend far beyond the headline attractions. The Carnival Mardi Gras entertainment program impressed me with its variety and quality. Family Feud brings game show excitement with audience participation that had everyone laughing. Dive-In Movies on the pool deck create magical evenings under the stars. Tribute bands throughout the week, covering everyone from The Beatles to Johnny Cash, perform with surprising authenticity.

But the real standout is center stage Carnival Mardi Gras. This three-level open-view theater in the Grand Central zone hosts nightly acrobatic performances that rival what you'd see in Las Vegas. The multi-level viewing means you can catch shows from different angles, and the open design integrates the performances into the ship's social flow rather than hiding them away in a traditional theater.

For families, the kids' programming excels across age groups. Camp Ocean keeps younger children engaged with age-appropriate activities, while Club O2 gives teens their own space to socialize. The arcade offers both classic and modern games, though expect typical cruise ship pricing.

The Wave Morning Show deserves mention as an innovative addition — the cruise director hosts a live broadcast about the ship and ports that you can attend as a studio audience member or listen to on channel 15. It's a fun way to start your day with useful information.

Bars, lounges & vibe zones for every mood

The bar scene on Mardi Gras caters to every mood and preference, with each venue offering its own distinct personality. The fortune teller bar Carnival creates a mysticalan mystical atmosphere where talented bartenders craft cocktails with theatrical flair — think dry ice, color-changing drinks, and surprising flavor combinations that taste as good as they look.

Hero's tribute bar provides one of the most meaningful drinking experiences at sea. Dedicated to armed forces personnel and their families, this venue combines patriotic theming with quality drinks and often draws veterans who share stories and camaraderie. It's both emotionally moving and genuinely welcoming.

Alchemy bar Carnival Mardi Gras continues Carnival's tradition of craft cocktails with expert mixologists who take drink-making seriously. Whether you want a classic Manhattan or something completely custom, these bartenders deliver quality that rivals high-end land-based cocktail bars.

Brass magnolia Carnival transports you to New Orleans with live jazz music and cocktails inspired by the Big Easy. The ambiance here perfectly complements the French Quarter zone theming, making it an ideal spot for romantic evenings or sophisticated conversations.

But my personal favorite became The Watering Hole, an outdoor bar and lounge area with integrated whirlpools where you can literally soak while you sip. It's casual, fun, and offers some of the best people-watching on the ship. The combination of poolside service, comfortable seating, and that perfect cruise ship atmosphere made this my default afternoon hangout.

RedFrog Tiki Bar spans two stories and brings tropical vibes with rum-forward cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere. Havana Bar offers Cuban-inspired drinks and coffee, while Piano Bar 88 provides that classic cruise ship sing-along experience that somehow never gets old.

Spa, Serenity & Loft 19: Finding quiet in the crowd

Even with over 5,000 guests aboard, Mardi Gras offers multiple ways to find peace and relaxation. Loft 19 Carnival Mardi Gras stands out as the premium option, an exclusive adults-only area available complimentary to Excel Suite guests or for a daily fee to others.

Loft 19 feels like a private resort within the ship. Elevated above the main pool decks, it features comfortable cabanas, attentive service, a spa pool with ocean views, and a sophisticated atmosphere that attracts guests seeking a more upscale experience. The space never feels crowded, staff members remember your drink preferences, and the elevated position provides stunning ocean views.

Cloud 9 spa Carnival Mardi Gras offers the full spa experience with thermal suites, salon services, and fitness facilities. The thermal suite provides a peaceful escape with heated loungers, aromatic steam rooms, and relaxation areas that help you decompress from vacation excitement.

The adult only serenity deck provides a middle ground between the main pool areas and premium Loft 19. Here you'll find comfortable seating, bar service, and the Fresh Creations salad bar. It's included with your cruise fare and offers a more mature atmosphere without the upcharge.

🛟 Cruisebound tip: When purchasing Wi-Fi, buy it by the day rather than for the entire cruise. If you purchase at 3 PM, for example, you have access until 3 PM the next day. This 24-hour rolling access means you can strategically buy only the days you really need connectivity, potentially saving significant money on a week-long cruise.

Port Highlights: What to do at each stop

Grand Turk Carnival excursions aren't necessary if you're content with beach time, as everything you need sits right at the pier. The Margaritaville Resort pool is complimentary for cruise passengers, providing an alternative to beach lounging. The beach itself offers free lounge chairs, though you can upgrade to cabanas and water mats for a fee.

The Grand Turk FlowRider surf simulator costs extra but provides unique thrills. Pro tip: book this through the ship's shore excursion desk rather than trying to purchase on the island, they require a minimum of six people for walk-up purchases.

Cruisebound tips: Bring your own snorkeling gear and floating mat to maximize beach enjoyment. Water shoes are recommended as some beach areas can be rocky.

Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

While there's a small shopping area within walking distance of the pier, I highly recommend booking an excursion here. I chose the Amber Cove shore excursions, Monkeyland & Dominican Flavors for Families tour ($89.99 per adult) and ratedrate it five stars.

The experience includes a city tour with shopping stops, visits to historical sites, and the highlight: Monkeyland rescue center where friendly spider monkeys interact with visitors while guides feed them. You'll also enjoy coffee and Mamajuana tastings. The monkeys are incredibly gentle and social, just avoid wearing any jewelry or earrings as they're naturally curious about shiny objects.

San Juan, Puerto Rico Mardi Gras cruise San Juan port

San Juan benefits from an ideal location that puts Old San Juan within easy walking distance. The historic forts, cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and excellent restaurants are all accessible on foot. San Juan feels remarkably safe and clean, making it perfect for independent exploration.

We spent our day strolling through the city, shopping for local crafts, enjoying authentic Puerto Rican lunch, and touring the historic sites. No excursion necessary unless you want to venture beyond the historic district.

St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Docking at Havensight puts you within walking distance of Havensight Mall and easy taxi access to famous beaches. Megan's Bay St Thomas requires about a 15-minute taxi ride and charges a $7 per person entrance fee, but the crystal-clear water and beautiful setting make it worthwhile. In fact, when water clarity here rivals anything in the Caribbean, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

🛟 Cruisebound tip: bring cash (they don't accept cards), pack your own snorkeling gear and towels from the ship, and consider renting beach chairs for added comfort.

Technology & Service: Carnival app, Wi-Fi, and friendly staff

The Carnival cruise app review deserves praise for functionality and ease of use. The app serves as your digital cruise director, allowing you to browse daily activities, add events to your personal planner, make dining reservations, and monitor your onboard account charges. It updates in real-time and works reliably even with basic Wi-Fi packages.

Carnival Mardi Gras wifi tips from my experience: purchase Wi-Fi in 24-hour increments rather than weekly packages if you don't need constant connectivity. The rolling 24-hour access gives you flexibility to go offline during port days or sea days when you'd rather disconnect. The signal strength throughout the ship impressed me, I had reliable connection in both public areas and my interior cabin.

The staff across all departments consistently delivered friendly, helpful service that enhanced the entire experience. From housekeeping to restaurant servers to guest services, everyone seemed genuinely happy to assist. Embarkation and disembarkation processes moved smoothly without the chaos or confusion that sometimes plagues large ships.

Carnival Mardi Gras FAQ

1. How big is Carnival Mardi Gras?

Carnival Mardi Gras measures 180,800 gross tons and carries 5,270 passengers with a crew of 1,400. Despite its large capacity, the innovative zones design prevents the ship from feeling overcrowded.

2. What is Loft 19 on Carnival Mardi Gras?

Loft 19 is an exclusive adults-only VIP area featuring cabanas, spa pool, elevated ocean views, and premium service. It's complimentary for Excel Suite guests and available for a daily fee to other passengers.

3. What restaurants are free on Mardi Gras?

Free dining options include Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Street Eats, Lido Marketplace, Pizza del Capitano, Guy's Pig & Anchor, Fresh Creations salad bar, and complimentary Sea Day Brunch.

4. What port does Mardi Gras sail from?

Carnival Mardi Gras primarily sails from Port Canaveral, Florida, offering Caribbean itineraries including Eastern and Western Caribbean routes with popular stops like Grand Turk, St. Thomas, and Amber Cove.

5. Is Carnival Mardi Gras worth it?

For families and couples seeking variety, innovation, and excellent value, Mardi Gras delivers exceptional cruise experiences. The zones concept, diverse dining, and entertainment options justify the often minimal price difference over older ships.

6. Carnival Mardi Gras vs Horizon — which is better?

Mardi Gras significantly outperforms Horizon with its zones design, innovative dining concepts like Big Chicken and Street Eats, the Bolt roller coaster, enhanced entertainment venues, and more spacious public areas despite higher passenger capacity.

Final verdict: Is Carnival Mardi Gras right for you?

After a full week exploring every corner of this ship, I can confidently say that Carnival Mardi Gras guest reviews highlighting its family-friendly excellence are spot-on. is Carnival Mardi Gras a good ship? For most travelers, absolutely, but let me break down who will love it most.

Family-oriented travelers will find this ship hits every mark: spacious public areas that don't feel crowded, diverse dining options that please picky eaters and adventurous palates alike, activities for every age group, and excellent value for money. The zones concept makes navigation easy even for first-time cruisers, while the variety ensures everyone finds their favorite spots.

Adventure-seeking couples will appreciate the sophisticated bar scene, adult-only areas like Serenity and Loft 19, innovative dining concepts like Street Eats and Emeril's Bistro, and unique experiences like the Bolt roller coaster. The zones provide natural gathering places for meeting other travelers while offering quiet retreats when you want privacy.

Who might want to look elsewhere: Travelers seeking intimate, small-ship experiences or ultra-luxury amenities won't find what they're looking for here. While Mardi Gras feels surprisingly uncrowded for its size, it's still a large ship with thousands of guests.

The Mardi Gras Carnival cruise reviews 2025 consensus proves accurate: this ship represents Carnival's best effort at balancing innovation, value, and guest satisfaction. The Excel Class design philosophy works brilliantly, creating a cruise experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly modern.

Book Mardi Gras if you value variety, energy, and innovation in your cruise experience. The zones concept alone makes this ship worth choosing over older Carnival vessels, while the dining program and entertainment options rival much more expensive cruise lines.

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