To a nationwide television audience, Carnival Cruise Line announced their largest ship to date on Wheel of Fortune. The Mardi Gras will be part of Carnival’s new XL-class ship collection, set to be delivered in 2020. Its name pays homage to the first ship that entered service in 1972 and that kickstarted the cruise vacation business in the United States.
Currently under construction at Meyer Turku in Finland, the 5,200-plus lower berth vessel will offer a variety of never-before-seen innovations and attractions.
As of now little is known about the itineraries that Mardi Gras will provide cruises guests, but we have word those will be out in January, and go on sale later the same month. If you’re an avid Carnival Cruise Line fan or just looking to be part of the first XL-class ship in their fleet, I recommend registering online to be on their “first to know” alert for special promotions and updates on what itineraries are available.
“Our first ship Mardi Gras was a historic vessel, introducing a brand new style of cruising to the vacationing public. What better way to pay tribute to our company’s nearly 50-year history of creating wonderful vacation memories than by naming this groundbreaking vessel after our original and beloved ‘Fun Ship. The new Mardi Gras will follow the trailblazing lead of her predecessor, introducing features and technological innovations that have never been seen before on a cruise ship while setting a new standard for seagoing vacations.”
– Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line
The Mardi Gras will be based in Port Canaveral, FL, which will feature a new state-of-the-art terminal. A second XL ship will start construction in 2020 and be delivered in 2022 to mark the 50th anniversary of Carnival Cruise Line’s founding.
