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July 26.2025

2 Minutes Read

Mardi Gras Sets Sail as Largest Ship to Enter Carnival’s Celebration Key

Largest cruise ship to visit Celebration Key docked with another ship, turquoise waters.

Celebration Key Welcomes a Giant

On July 25, 2025, the Mardi Gras made history as it docked at the newly opened Celebration Key, becoming the largest cruise ship to ever call at this popular private destination in Grand Bahama. This moment marks a significant milestone not only for Carnival Cruise Line but also for the cruise industry as a whole.

A New Era for Cruising

The Mardi Gras, designed to accommodate 5,200 guests, is part of Carnival's Excel-class fleet and boasts an impressive weight of 183,900 tons. This visit symbolizes a new era in cruising, as Carnival continues to elevate its offerings and destination experiences. The ship arrived in Celebration Key at 8 AM for a nine-hour stay, following a week-long itinerary that included stops at Amber Cove, Grand Turk, and Nassau.

Future Visits and Enhancements

This historic docking is the first of many for Mardi Gras, which is set for regular visits to Celebration Key as part of its annual itinerary. In total, the ship will return 18 times through the year, with the first two calls having taken place earlier in the week. Looking ahead, Carnival plans to utilize its Ace Class vessels, projected to be even larger at 230,000 tons, welcoming them to Celebration Key between 2029 and 2033.

The Role of Celebration Key

Celebration Key was developed over 25 years, and its opening represented a strategic expansion for Carnival Cruise Line. It aims to further enhance the cruising experience amid a competitive market. The inaugural ceremony hosted by Carnival executives, including President Christine Duffy and CEO Josh Weinstein, underscored the port's significance and the company's commitment to innovative cruise tourism.

Why These Developments Matter

For cruise enthusiasts and travelers alike, these enhancements promise more destinations and increased capacity for future voyages. The arrival of larger vessels indicates a shift toward accommodating greater numbers of passengers and offering diverse experiences, which can drive tourism in the region considerably. More ports with unique offerings can also enhance the appeal of cruise vacations, drawing in new customers eager for adventure.

Join the Celebration

As Carnival ushers in this new era of cruising with the Mardi Gras and its planned expansion into Celebration Key, travelers are encouraged to explore what’s next on the horizon. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or considering your first voyage, the future of cruise travel is filled with exciting opportunities you won't want to miss!

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Mardi Gras Sets Sail as Largest Ship to Enter Carnival’s Celebration Key

Celebration Key Welcomes a Giant

A New Era for Cruising

Future Visits and Enhancements

The Role of Celebration Key

Why These Developments Matter

Join the Celebration

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