Carnival Mardi Gras: Ship Inspection and Review

An Excel Class ship that Excels

The Carnival Mardi Gras offers an exciting blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. As one of Carnival’s most innovative ships, the Mardi Gras is designed to wow guests with its impressive dining options, diverse accommodations, and endless entertainment. Whether you’re a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or a family looking for fun, this ship has something for everyone. After my recent ship inspection, I can confidently say that the Mardi Gras delivers a vibrant, modern cruise experience that’s sure to impress.

Dining Delights at Every Turn

One of the standout features of the Mardi Gras is its impressive variety of dining options. Whether you’re craving casual bites or gourmet meals, there’s something to suit every palate. Some highlights include:

• Emeril’s Bistro 1396 – Serving up bold Creole flavors inspired by New Orleans.

• Shaq’s Big Chicken – Offering crispy chicken sandwiches, tenders, and fries.

• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse – A dream come true for BBQ lovers.

• Rudi’s Seagrill – A fantastic seafood spot with creative dishes.

• Chibang! – A unique dining experience blending Chinese and Mexican cuisine.

• Carnival Kitchen—A cooking classroom where you enjoy the fruits of your labor.

And that is just a sampling of the eateries on board! With so many choices, you can easily enjoy a new culinary experience each day without feeling repetitive. And for those who prefer to just stick to the schedule, the main dining rooms were well-appointed and spacious.

I personally was able to enjoy Shaq’s Big Chicken and a salad from the buffet while on board. Both items were tasty, and I would have been happy to get these dishes as a quick meal on embarkation day. I would be very tempted to try their steakhouse, Fahrenheit 555, if I had been on board longer. The menu looked scrumptious!

Accommodations for Every Traveler

The Mardi Gras offers a wide variety of staterooms designed to meet different needs and budgets. Families will love the red and blue Family Harbor cabins, which provide exclusive lounge access and convenient amenities. Guests seeking an elevated experience can opt for Excel Suites, which come with VIP perks like concierge service and access to Loft 19, a tranquil, adults-only retreat. For those who prefer a more social vibe, the Havana Cabins, with their blue and brown hues, offer stylish accommodations with access to a private pool area.

Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly comfort or luxurious extras, the Mardi Gras has a cabin to match your travel style. I was able to tour many of the different cabin classes and can honestly say I’d be happy to stay in any one of them.

Endless Entertainment and Activities

The Mardi Gras offers an impressive lineup of activities to keep guests engaged throughout their cruise. Some highlights include:

• BOLT: The Ultimate Sea Coaster – The first-ever rollercoaster at sea, perfect for thrill-seekers. (There is a fee to ride, and reservations are required.)

• WaterWorks – A splash-filled water park the whole family will love.

• Serenity Adult-Only Retreat – A peaceful escape for relaxation and quiet moments. I was impressed by how serene this area was!

• The Punchliner Comedy Club – Featuring hilarious stand-up acts.

• Live Music and Theater Shows – Offering lively performances across various genres. (I’ve been told that Family Feud Live is NOT to be missed!)

• Cloud 9 Spa offers a number of pampering packages to help you relax and restore. I personally found the thermal suite area to be a little on the smaller side, but the heated loungers and salt room both were inviting. I love how the Deck 17 Spa Suites have a dedicated, direct-access elevator to enter into this area.

•The casino is a dream for those who like to try their luck on slots and table games. I was impressed by how well Carnival controlled the smoke smell that can sometimes permeate these spaces on ships.

•There are also several bars and sitting areas to enjoy music and a favorite beverage. The Brass Magnolia was a highlight with its gorgeous reds and brassy motif.

Fun for the Whole Family: Camp Ocean and Club O2

Families will love Camp Ocean, a dedicated space where kids can have a blast while parents enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. Designed for children ages 2 to 11, Camp Ocean offers age-appropriate activities in a fun and engaging environment led by trained staff. I LOVED their Dr. Seuss Bookville, designed for the littles who enjoy reading and colorful, fun areas to play. For those who want to add a sprinkle of extra magic, Carnival partners with Build a Bear, allowing kids to make their own stuffed animal friend for an additional fee.

Kids are grouped into different age categories to ensure activities are tailored to their interests:

• Penguins (Ages 2-5) – Featuring interactive storytime, crafts, and playtime designed for younger cruisers.

• Stingrays (Ages 6-8) – Packed with hands-on activities like arts and crafts, science experiments, and group games.

• Sharks (Ages 9-11) – Offering more independent activities such as scavenger hunts, sports challenges, and video game tournaments.

The ocean-themed décor creates a vibrant, inviting space where kids can feel right at home. Best of all, Camp Ocean is included in your cruise fare, giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are safe and entertained while they explore the ship.

Club O2 will satisfy those teens, ages 15-17, who are looking for a fun, social hangout. Sports, video games, music, and even a “prom” are just some of the ways they make sure everyone is included.

Sensory Inclusive Space: A Calming Retreat for Guests

Speaking of everyone being included, Carnival offers a Sensory Bag, designed to provide a calm and comfortable environment for guests with sensory sensitivities. These sensory-friendly tools help create a relaxing experience for those who may feel overwhelmed by busy or noisy environments and can be checked out for free for the duration of your cruise. Carnival’s partnership with KultureCity, a leading nonprofit focused on sensory accessibility, ensures these bags are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of individuals with autism, ADHD, PTSD, and other sensory-related conditions. Staff on board are also trained to provide support, ensuring every guest can enjoy their cruise experience with comfort and confidence. This thoughtful addition highlights Carnival’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring everyone feels welcome at sea.

Final Thoughts

I’ll be honest — I’ve never personally sailed with Carnival, but my visit to the Carnival Mardi Gras may have been the push I needed to give them a try. From the impressive dining options and diverse accommodations to the exciting activities and thoughtful inclusions like Camp Ocean and Sensory Bags, this ship truly offers something for everyone. After exploring everything the Mardi Gras has to offer, I’d be more than happy to book a sailing on this incredible vessel — or one of her sister ships in the Excel class. Whether you’re chasing adventure or looking to unwind, the Mardi Gras has you covered.

If you’re considering a Carnival cruise, I’d love to help you plan an unforgettable experience!

Family Fun

Adult Relaxation