Carnival Mardi Gras Review

Mardi Gras is a beautiful ship with an outstanding crew

Review for the Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Carnival Mardi Gras
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PJMGD
10+ Cruises • Age 50s

Rating by category

Cabin
Family
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service

Additional details

Sail Date: Feb 2023
Cabin: Interior
Serenity deck
Serenity pool and water feature
Serenity sun bed

We are Platinum level with Carnival. Prior to this trip the experience on Carnival has been very consistent, it didn’t matter what ship you sailed, there was always familiarity. Post-pandemic we booked the Mardi Gras to experience something different, and it didn’t disappoint.

Embarkation, muster drill and disembarkation have never been easier. The innovation of new processes is likely a result of the pandemic.

Embarkation/Muster: Prior to going through the security checkpoint you are directed to a representative that will handle everything from a cellphone; scan boarding pass, take your headshot, verify passport. You walk on at your scheduled time. Keys are waiting for you at your room. Rooms are available after 1-2p. You enter the ship on floor 6, and I highly recommend walking straight to your muster station to check-in to get this out of the way before crowds. Muster location is on your boarding pass and can also be scanned if you want drinks before getting your room key.

Cabin Review

Interior

Guelmar, cabin steward for 4246 was outstanding. Very efficient layout for a tiny space. I like the addition of a glass shower door and closet organizers. Room was quiet. Floor 4 was ideal for Embarkation (access from floor 6), port days (access to floor 3) and disembarkation (access to floor 6) without needing an elevator.

Port Reviews

Amber Cove (Puerto Plata)

I wish we would have went to the free cruise port pool area, I think I would have rated this higher. We went on our own and bought a day pass at a hotel 30 minutes from port. Taxi service cost $80, and felt sketchy the entire time. Also they wanted to charge $41 USD for a sun screen at the port, not cool.

My cousin did the dolphin excursion through Carnival and loved it.

Grand Turk

It’s absolutely beautiful when you pull up. We went to Margaritaville which was very very loud, crowded and overpriced. I may try an excursion next time.

Nassau

We took a cab ($5 per person each way) to the RIU hotel. bought a day pass for $100 per person, that included food and drinks. Beach was absolutely beautiful. I don’t think we ate and drank $100 worth but the beach made up for it.

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