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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