06/04/2026
We hadn’t been on a Carnival cruise since 2004 and decided to give it a try. We just returned home from a cruise on the Carnival Mardi Gras and were pleasantly surprised to discover that Carnival has become a great option for all ages!
The ship offers an impressive variety of dining choices, including two restaurants by Guy Fieri — Guy’s Burger Joint and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse. We went on a brewery tour – yes, a brewery at sea! - and it was one of the best tours we have ever been on! The BrewMaster gave an excellent presentation – and the beers he brewed were amazing!
Guests can enjoy a ride on “Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster” - yes, a roller coaster at sea! - the “Waterworks” with three spiraling water slides and twin racing slides, movies by the pool, a basketball court, ropes course, and much more.
The options for nightly entertainment were numerous as well. The Carnival Grand Central atrium features Center Stage which transforms at night into a high-tech entertainment venue. The performances here were exceptional with great props and entertainers who performed both on stage and throughout the audience area among the guests.
As well, there is the Mardi Gras Theater which hosts comedy acts, live music, interactive game shows and large-scale productions. And let’s not forget the many bars and lounges to relax at, watch sports, get together with new and old friends or just have a drink.
Carnival also features an exclusive destination on Grand Bahama called Celebration Key. There, guests can relax on a mile-long white sand beach, swim in the largest freshwater lagoon in the Caribbean, enjoy Starfish Lagoon designed for families with kids of all ages, or unwind at the adults-only Calypso Lagoon. There is also the Lokono Cove which is a great place to shop for souvenirs, listen to live music and discover the history and culture of the Bahamas.
Overall, the Mardi Gras delivered a fun-filled vacation experience with plenty to do for both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for families, couples and groups looking for an exciting cruise getaway.