Carnival Cruise Line is offering a sneak peek of Mardi Gras, featuring an array of festivities and events.
Carnival Cruise Line is offering a sneak peek of their Mardi Gras celebration this year.
They are delaying the event again, which makes it difficult for people to plan their trip.
It’s fair to say that the new flagship of Carnival Cruise Line, Mardi Gras is a carnival that takes place every year in New Orleans., has been eagerly awaited… and not only by those who are excited to sail on her. Brand Ambassador John Heald has been waiting weeks for the opportunity to take himself (and, by extension, his fans) on a trip… and he finally got his chance this weekend.
Heald took out his phone and started examining the ship, still fresh from the trip that had brought him there. Even the seasoned vet had to learn his way around the ship since Mardi Gras is such a departure for the line. Because not only are there new venues on board, but some old favorites aren’t where you’d expect them to be.
As Heald toured the ship, it became apparent how different it truly is… even when things are exactly where you expect them to be. While the gangway does unload passengers into the atrium like it does on most other Carnival ships, the area that serves as the throbbing heart of the Mardi Gras is unlike any other Carnival atrium.
We haven’t seen the three-story windows yet, but Heald’s tour gave us a glimpse of how the area would be used at night. Giant displays flashed images intended to suit whatever artist or event was planned, covering the windows that offer awe-inspiring vistas during the day. And the area known as Grand Central is filled with a range of sitting choices, ranging from solitary seats to plush sofas.
The French Quarter, which included the gorgeous Brass Magnolia (where jazz bands would perform in the evening) and the enigmatic Fortune Teller’s Bar, where, as one bartender informed viewers, “Anything can happen,” was another place we’d heard a much about but were just now getting our first sight of.
Heald also led visitors on a tour of the ship’s numerous drinking establishments, including pools and bars. The infinity pool on Deck 16 aft, the two-story RedFrog Tiki Bar conveniently located near the main pool on the Lido Deck, and the Alchemy Bar, which on Mardi Gras has a colorful, vibrant, and modern look while still managing to maintain the classic feel the venue has always had, were among the highlights.
We got sneak peeks of Emeril’s Bistro 1396, Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken, and ChiBang as the trip progressed (the last two of which are currently complimentary eateries). Menus from different locations, as well as tours of the staterooms and Loft 19, the new-to-Carnival private retreat area, were yet to come, according to Heald (and its available-for-rent cabanas).
What are your first impressions? Mardi Gras is difficult not to be impressed with. This is obviously a somewhat more upmarket ship than previous Carnival boats, as shown by her livery and general appearance. Guests will want to stay in order to have a closer look at almost every area, which includes unique touches and gorgeous decorations.
At the same time, the ship is not so different as to alienate the cruise line’s core audience. Guy’s Burger Joint is still there, just not where you might expect to find it. The Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse expands across the promenade, its seating seeming to blend with that of the Heroes Tribute Bar (a relatively new concept for a line which has long been respectful of veterans).
Despite Heald’s comprehensive tour, which includes many films, one gets the impression that there’s still a lot to learn. Of course, when our own Doug Parker joins the ship on its first trip, we’ll be doing just that, giving you a boatload (pun intended) of information on the fascinating new ship.
Meanwhile, keep an eye on John Heald’s Facebook page for updates as he continues to explore Mardi Gras in the coming days.
Carnival Cruise Line offers a sneak peek of the when is carnival mardi gras inaugural cruise on its website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are free on Carnival Mardi Gras?
There are no restaurants on Carnival Mardi Gras, so youll have to bring your own food.
Is Carnival Mardi Gras delayed?
Carnival Mardi Gras is not delayed.
Will Carnival cruise sail in 2024?
No, Carnival Cruise Line does not offer cruises in 2024.
