Mardi Gras: The Ultimate Carnival Experience
In 1972, Carnival Cruise Line introduced its first ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, which revolutionized the cruise industry. Fast forward to the present, and Carnival has unleashed a brand-new vessel with the same iconic name, Mardi Gras 2.0. But this ship is not just a tribute to its predecessor; it represents innovation and sets the stage for an exciting new era of cruising.
Unleash the Fun: Mardi Gras 2.0 embodies the spirit of Carnival – it’s all about fun, relaxation, and adventure. The ship features six themed zones that offer a multitude of brand-new experiences for dining, drinking, and reveling in the joy of togetherness.
- BOLT® – The First Rollercoaster at Sea: Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey on the first-ever rollercoaster at sea. Named “BOLT,” it offers a heart-pounding ride with speeds of up to 40 mph.
- Emeril’s Bistro 1396™: Yes, you read that right. The famous chef Emeril Lagasse has a presence on board, offering exquisite culinary experiences.
- Family Feud™ Live: Bring your competitive spirit to life with the live version of the popular game show Family Feud™.
- Sensational Bars: Mardi Gras 2.0 presents a range of incredible bars like The Brass Magnolia and Fortune Teller, where you can enjoy your favorite drinks in unique settings.
- Fun for All Ages: From the youngest travelers to the young at heart, there’s something for everyone. Engage in thrilling experiences and unforgettable moments.
A Ship of Grandeur: Mardi Gras is part of Carnival’s Excellence class and is one of the fleet’s flagship vessels. With a gross tonnage of 181,808 and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,500, the ship offers a magnificent setting for your cruise adventure.
Innovative Features: The ship is divided into six zones, each with its unique theme and attractions. The top decks are home to the “Ultimate Playground” zone, which hosts the world’s first shipboard roller coaster, “BOLT.” Designed by Maurer AG, this self-propelled coaster provides an incredible ride experience.
The Journey to Mardi Gras: The journey of Mardi Gras 2.0 was marked by delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and construction challenges, but it finally became a reality. Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku partnered with Carnival to build this magnificent vessel. With its delivery on December 18, 2020, the ship was ready to set sail on new adventures.
Christening and Homeport: Miss Dominican Republic 2020 Kimberly Jiménez had the honor of christening the ship at Port Canaveral on October 23, 2021. The ship, originally registered in Panama, transitioned to the Bahamian flag.
Port Canaveral’s Transformation: In preparation for Mardi Gras, Port Canaveral invested in Terminal 3, a state-of-the-art cruise terminal, making it the largest project in the port’s history. This innovative facility is designed to welcome the ship and ensure an excellent passenger experience.
A Journey Delayed but Not Denied: Mardi Gras 2.0’s debut was delayed multiple times due to construction and the impact of the pandemic. However, after overcoming these challenges, the ship finally embarked on her maiden voyage from Port Canaveral on July 31, 2021.
Mardi Gras 2.0 is a ship of grandeur and excitement. It embodies Carnival’s commitment to fun, adventure, and unforgettable moments. As it sails the seas, it continues the legacy of the TSS Mardi Gras while embracing the future of cruising.
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General Characteristics and Layout
General characteristics | |
Class and type | |
Tonnage | |
Length | 1,130 ft (344.5m) |
Beam | 42 m (138 ft)[3] |
Depth | 11.8 m (39 ft)[3] |
Decks | 19 |
Propulsion | 2 × 18.5MW Azimuth Electric Propulsion Drive[3] |
Speed | 23 knots (43 km/h; 26 mph) (projected) |
Capacity |
|
Crew | 2,000 |
