The short answer
Is Carnival Mardi Gras a good cruise ship for families with kids?
Carnival Mardi Gras is Carnival's newest ship, known for its high-energy atmosphere and innovative attractions. It features BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, a grand multi-deck atrium, and numerous complimentary dining and entertainment venues, ensuring a vibrant experience for all guests.
Quick take for travelers
Carnival Mardi Gras ushers in a new era of fun at sea, living up to its festive name with an abundance of dining and entertainment options. This ship is distinctive for being home to the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, and features a stunning multi-deck Grand Central Atrium. Guests can enjoy a wide array of complimentary dining choices and diverse activities, making it an ideal choice for families and social travelers seeking a high-energy vacation.
A New Era of Fun at Sea on Carnival Mardi Gras
Carnival Mardi Gras truly lives up to its name, promising and delivering a good time for everyone onboard. This newest ship in the Carnival fleet packs a punch with its array of dining and entertainment options, many of which are included in your cruise fare. A standout feature is its own roller coaster, BOLT, which offers an electric thrill high above the sea. The ship also boasts a stunning multi-deck Atrium, known as Grand Central, which serves as a vibrant hub for live music, handcrafted cocktails, and ocean views. The overall atmosphere is high-energy, casual, and social, appealing to a wide range of travelers seeking an engaging vacation experience.
Diverse Accommodations for Every Style
Carnival Mardi Gras offers a broad selection of staterooms and suites designed to cater to various preferences. From the spacious Carnival Excel Presidential Suite, featuring a private tub on a wraparound balcony and exclusive access to Cloud 9 Spa Thermal Suites and the Havana Pool, to more compact interior rooms, comfort and convenience are central. Excel Suites also provide perks like complimentary access to Loft 19 with priority cabana reservations, and a dedicated concierge. Guests can choose themed accommodations such as Havana staterooms with Cuba-inspired decor and exclusive Havana Pool access (for guests 12 and older), Cloud 9 Spa rooms offering priority spa reservations and wellness amenities, or Family Harbor staterooms with access to a dedicated lounge and family-friendly benefits like free babysitting. Every room includes a dedicated attendant, comfortable linens, and climate control.
A World of Culinary Delights
Dining on Carnival Mardi Gras is a journey of flavors, with a mix of included and specialty restaurants. For complimentary options, guests can enjoy Guy's Burger Joint, freshly made Mexican faves at BlueIguana Cantina, and Shaq's Big Chicken for sandwiches and baskets. The Lido Marketplace offers a buffet with diverse stations, while Pizzeria Del Capitano serves pizza late into the evening. For an additional cost, explore Emeril's Bistro 1396 for authentic Creole cuisine, Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse for BBQ and craft brews, or Cucina del Capitano for family-style Italian. Other specialty choices include Bonsai Sushi, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, and the unique Chinese and Mexican fusion at Chibang! The Chef's Table offers an exclusive multicourse dinner and galley tour for a truly memorable experience.
Thrills and Entertainment Around Every Corner
Mardi Gras is designed for non-stop fun, starting with The Ultimate Playground, home to BOLT, the first rollercoaster at sea, and the largest Carnival WaterWorks with three spiraling slides. SportSquare offers mini-golf, basketball, and a ropes course. The Grand Central Atrium is a dynamic space for live music and shows. In the French Quarter zone, guests can enjoy live jazz at The Brass Magnolia or mystically themed cocktails at Fortune Teller bar. Evening entertainment includes the laugh-out-loud Punchliner Comedy Club with family-friendly and adult-only shows, and high-energy Playlist Productions musicals. Guests can also test their luck at the Casino, sing their hearts out at Karaoke, or dance the night away at the Nightclub. Dive-In Movies offer poolside cinematic experiences under the stars.
Engaging Programs for Kids and Teens
Families will find a wealth of activities for younger cruisers on Carnival Mardi Gras. Camp Ocean divides kids into age-based groups: Penguins (2-5), Stingrays (6-8), and Sharks (9-11), offering supervised activities from arts and crafts to games and movies. Teens have their own dedicated spaces: Circle "C" (12-14) for dance parties and outdoor movies, and Club O2 (15-17) for music, sports, and karaoke. The Dr. Seuss at Sea program brings beloved characters to life through interactive story times, parades, and even a special character breakfast. For the youngest guests, Zumbini classes (2-5 years) encourage movement and development, and "Big Fun for Infants & Toddlers" provides age-appropriate activities and care. Night Owls babysitting is available for kids up to 11 for a fee, extending parents' evening enjoyment.
Relaxation and Wellness at Sea
For those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation, Carnival Mardi Gras offers several dedicated spaces. The Cloud 9 Spa is a sanctuary featuring thermal suites with various heat and steam environments, massages, facial treatments, and even acupuncture. Spa staterooms offer exclusive perks like priority reservations and complimentary fitness classes. Guests can maintain their fitness routines at the well-equipped Fitness Centre, which also offers classes like yoga and pilates. For adults aged 21 and over, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat provides a peaceful escape with comfortable loungers and a bar. Loft 19, an exclusive deck area, offers a retreat-style experience with an infinity whirlpool and private cabana rentals, with complimentary access for Excel Suite guests. Hair and beauty salons, along with medi-spa services, are also available for pampering.
Frequently asked questions
What unique features does Carnival Mardi Gras offer?+
Carnival Mardi Gras is notable for having BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, and a stunning multi-deck Grand Central Atrium. It also features the largest Carnival WaterWorks and a variety of dining options, including Emeril's Bistro 1396.
Are there adult-only areas on Carnival Mardi Gras?+
Yes, adults can enjoy the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat for peace and quiet, complete with lounge chairs and a nearby bar. Additionally, the Havana Pool area is exclusive to guests aged 12 and older staying in Havana staterooms and suites.
What are the benefits of staying in a Carnival Excel Suite?+
Guests in Carnival Excel Suites receive complimentary access to Loft 19, including priority cabana reservations, a dedicated concierge line, guaranteed main dining room assignments, and priority specialty dining reservations. They also get a Bottomless Bubbles soft drink package and complimentary room service.
Human-verified data
Full Cabin's concierge team reviews these guides regularly. We cross-reference operator schedules, recent passenger feedback, and live inventory so the cruises we suggest actually match what you'll experience on board.
