The Mardi Gras has something to offer everyone. We have two small children. They loved the unlimited ice cream, pools, waterpark and slides. The rooms were comfortable, quiet. There were a variety of activities. We were busy the whole time. I cannot say enough about the staff on the ship - THE BEST! They were welcoming and thoughtful. They were happy and friendly.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Easy
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
We enjoyed the food in the main dining room for breakfast and dinner. We also loved Emeril's, Cucina del Capitano, Guys Burgers. We felt like ChiBang and Shaq's big chicken were overhyped. Big Chicken was good but not great. Our experience at ChiBang was not good. The food was salty, lacking flavor and came cold. The servers in the restaurant had too many tables. It was extremely loud in the restaurant and not a great ambiance. The Lido buffet was limited and food there was hit or miss. We we recommend the MDR for food and amazing service. And, Emerils and Cucina also for really good food and amazing service!
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
We loved Bolt, the ropes course, and the waterpark on board.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
We liked a few of the shows - Family Feud was really fun and the Vegas show and We are One shows were very good. We enjoyed the PG comedy, especially Happy Cole's shows.
Children's Programs
2 out of 5
Ours kids didn't like Camp Ocean. It was really crowded, long lines for drop off. They felt like there were too many kids there and they didn't get to do the activities they wanted to.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Every Carnival crew member we encountered was so helpful and friendly. We so appreciated everyone who took care of us from our steward to dining room staff, to fun squad, and cruise director. All were fantastic!
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Very clean and well maintained ship.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
It was very spacious for our family of 4.
Ship tip
Get on Bolt ASAP if you want to ride it. It was closed our last sea day. We were happy we reserved to ride it early in the cruise.
The port is disorganized. There were only 3 customs agents processing thousands of passengers on debarkation. Not Carnivals' fault. It made for a rough return from our cruise.
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