Carnival Mardi Gras: A New Era of Cruising

Launched in 2020, the Carnival Mardi Gras is a groundbreaking vessel in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, holding the distinction as the first of the Excel-class ships. This ship pays homage to the original Mardi Gras, Carnival’s inaugural ship from the 1970s, but with a modern twist. The new Carnival Mardi Gras redefines cruising, offering innovative features and a blend of entertainment, dining, and relaxation experiences for travelers of all ages.

What Makes the Carnival Mardi Gras Unique?

Carnival Mardi Gras stands out as a ship designed for every type of cruiser, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly fun. It’s also the first ship in North America to be powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), making it one of the most environmentally friendly ships in the Carnival fleet.

Thematic Zones: Six Unique Experiences

The Carnival Mardi Gras is divided into six themed zones, each offering a distinct ambiance, entertainment, and dining experience. Here’s a breakdown of what each zone offers:

Grand Central

• A striking atrium with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic ocean views.
• During the day, it’s a relaxing space for guests to lounge, but in the evening, it transforms into a lively hub of entertainment, featuring live performances and shows.

French Quarter

• Inspired by the vibrant culture of New Orleans, the French Quarter offers an exciting mix of dining, live jazz music, and themed bars.
• Guests can enjoy signature cocktails while tapping their feet to the rhythms of a live jazz band at The Brass Magnolia, or sample the flavors of Louisiana at Emeril’s Bistro 1396, brought to you by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse.

Summer Landing

• A casual, laid-back area perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Summer Landing features a pool, cozy bars, and BBQ dining at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse.
• This zone offers the ultimate relaxation vibe, complete with loungers and a great spot to catch the sunset.

La Piazza

• For guests craving Italian charm, La Piazza is the heart of the ship’s Italian experience. From dining at Cucina del Capitano, known for its family-style Italian dishes, to grabbing a slice at Pizzeria del Capitano, this zone has a little piece of Italy for everyone.
• Complemented by Italian cafés and bars, this zone transports you to the Mediterranean, even while you sail the high seas.

Lido

• This is the quintessential Carnival pool deck. The Lido zone offers a casual atmosphere with outdoor dining options like BlueIguana Cantina and Guy’s Burger Joint, as well as a large pool and RedFrog Tiki Bar, perfect for enjoying a tropical drink by the water.

The Ultimate Playground

• Aptly named, this is where thrill-seekers head for some real fun! The Ultimate Playground houses the ship’s most exciting activities, including the WaterWorks aqua park, mini-golf, and the highlight of the ship: BOLT, the first-ever roller coaster at sea.
• BOLT allows passengers to speed around a track, 187 feet above sea level, at up to 40 miles per hour, all while enjoying stunning ocean views.

Dining Delights Onboard

Dining aboard the Carnival Mardi Gras is a treat for every palate. With a wide array of restaurants offering everything from casual bites to fine dining, passengers can enjoy a culinary journey while cruising. Here are some highlights:

• Emeril’s Bistro 1396: This New Orleans-inspired restaurant is the creation of famed chef Emeril Lagasse, serving up flavorful Cajun and Creole dishes, including jambalaya, po’boys, and seafood gumbo.
• Shaq’s Big Chicken: This casual eatery by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal offers mouthwatering fried chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, and sides.
• Rudi’s Seagrill: Helmed by renowned chef Rudi Sodamin, this fine dining seafood restaurant serves creative and delicious dishes, presented with an artistic flair.
• Cucina del Capitano: A warm, Italian-inspired restaurant serving hearty family-style meals, from classic pasta dishes to flavorful meat and seafood options.
• Chibang!: A unique fusion of Chinese and Mexican cuisine, perfect for cruisers seeking a mix of bold flavors in a fun, relaxed setting.

Entertainment and Activities for All Ages

There’s no shortage of entertainment onboard the Carnival Mardi Gras, ensuring that every member of the family is entertained throughout the trip. Highlights include:

• Family Feud Live: Passengers can join in on the fun with Carnival’s interactive version of the popular game show.
• The Punchliner Comedy Club: This club hosts a variety of comedians, offering both family-friendly and adult-only shows.
• Playhouse Productions: Live musical performances, theatrical productions, and more take place here, making it a hotspot for evening entertainment.
• Serenity Adult-Only Retreat: For adults looking to escape the hustle and bustle, the Serenity Retreat offers a tranquil space with private lounging areas, whirlpools, and bar service.

BOLT: The Ultimate Sea Coaster

One of the most anticipated attractions on the Carnival Mardi Gras is BOLT, the world’s first roller coaster at sea. This state-of-the-art thrill ride allows guests to race around a nearly 800-foot track with stunning views of the ocean from 187 feet in the air. Guests can control their speed, reaching up to 40 mph, for a customizable thrill.

Environmental Leadership: Powered by LNG

The Carnival Mardi Gras takes the lead in environmental sustainability as the first ship in North America powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). This cutting-edge technology significantly reduces emissions and positions the Mardi Gras as one of the greenest ships in the fleet, allowing passengers to enjoy their vacation knowing that their environmental footprint is minimized.

Who Should Cruise on the Carnival Mardi Gras?

The Carnival Mardi Gras caters to a wide variety of cruisers. It’s a fantastic option for:

• Families: With its family-friendly activities like Family Feud Live, water parks, youth programs, and more, families will have plenty to keep them entertained.
• Couples: With adult-only retreats, fine dining options, and romantic spots like La Piazza, couples can enjoy a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
• Thrill-Seekers: Those looking for adventure will love BOLT, as well as the numerous outdoor activities in The Ultimate Playground.
• Food Enthusiasts: With an array of dining options, from Emeril’s Bistro 1396 to Rudi’s Seagrill, food lovers will find plenty to indulge in.

Conclusion

The Carnival Mardi Gras offers a dynamic cruising experience, blending thrills, relaxation, and world-class dining. Whether you’re looking for high-octane excitement on the BOLT roller coaster, serene moments at the Serenity Retreat, or to explore a variety of themed zones, this ship provides something for everyone.