Carnival Celebration vs Mardi Gras

Both are Carnival Excel Class ships with the BOLT roller coaster, but each has unique themed zones. Here's how they stack up.

Last updated: January 8, 2026

Head-to-Head Comparison

Category	🎉 Carnival Celebration	🎭 Mardi Gras
Gross Tonnage	180,800 GT	180,800 GT
Passenger Capacity	5,374 guests	5,282 guests
Year Built	2022✓	2021
BOLT Roller Coaster	Yes	Yes
Themed Zones	6 zones (Miami-inspired)	6 zones (port-inspired)
Shaq's Big Chicken	No	Yes✓
Zone 820 Haunted House	Yes✓	No
Homeport	Miami	Port Canaveral

🎉Choose Carnival Celebration if you...

•Miami-based cruisers
•Want Zone 820 haunted house experience
•Celebrating Carnival's 50th anniversary theme
•Prefer slightly newer ship

🎭Choose Mardi Gras if you...

•Port Canaveral departures
•Want Shaq's Big Chicken restaurant
•Prefer the original Excel Class experience
•Often has lower pricing as the older ship

💡 The Bottom Line

Both ships are nearly identical with the same Excel Class amenities including BOLT roller coaster. Choose based on homeport convenience and whether you prefer Zone 820 (Celebration) or Shaq's Big Chicken (Mardi Gras).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras the same ship?

They are sister ships in the same Excel Class, both at 180,800 GT with roughly 5,300 passengers. The layout and core amenities are identical, including the BOLT roller coaster. The main differences are themed zones and exclusive dining venues.

Which Carnival Excel Class ship has the BOLT roller coaster?

Both Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras have the BOLT roller coaster, which was the first roller coaster at sea. The ride experience is the same on both ships.

What is the difference between Zone 820 and Shaq's Big Chicken?

Zone 820 is a haunted house attraction exclusive to Carnival Celebration, while Shaq's Big Chicken is a fried chicken restaurant exclusive to Mardi Gras. These are the most notable unique features that set the two ships apart.

Which ship sails from Miami and which from Port Canaveral?

Carnival Celebration is homeported in Miami, while Mardi Gras sails from Port Canaveral. If you are visiting Walt Disney World or the Space Coast, Port Canaveral is more convenient. For those flying into Miami, Celebration saves the transfer.

Is Mardi Gras cheaper than Carnival Celebration?

Mardi Gras often has slightly lower pricing as the older of the two Excel Class ships, having launched in 2021 compared to Celebration in 2022. Both offer excellent value for a megaship experience, but keep an eye on Mardi Gras for the best deals.

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