I completely understand the way you are reporting in 2021. Enjoy the experience and the people you are with. You are able to give a more authentic experience. Thank you!
Just returned from Marti Gras. From major design flaws in safety, comfort, form to basic functionality, we are going back to the Vista Class. ❤️Vista, Horizon and Panorama: This ship is nothing more than a large cargo container ship, the economy of scale only benefiting CCL at the passengers expense. Every sing venue or feature simply doesn’t have the capacity to handle the 5300 to 6300 passengers. As a result one ends up waiting, waiting and waiting for everything or so overcrowded it’s simply NOT enjoyable. In fact, 90% of our “awake time” on the ship was waiting or giving up on the venue overcrowding, simply way too many people. As far as food quality; awful compared to our 50 years of Carnival experience. In fact, we all re-named one eating venue to “Sh*tBang”. Pictures, videos and plenty of case numbers with Guest (NO) Services documenting massive shortcomings and horrible treatment by the staff. If this is Carnival’s future, they will not be in ours and the thousands who stated the same aboard the ship. Mardi Gras is a prototype for the Excel class and unfortunately due to the pandemic the November 2022 arrival date of Celebration is a direct carbon copy of the Marti Gras, now 2 horrible dysfunctional prototypes. If there are not major redesigns to the Jubilee, all 3 ships will need major refitting’s to compete with the 3 Vista Class Ships and growing competition in the cruising industry. The CCL Excell class will destroy Carnivals loyal customer base just as it has done with us and thousands aboard our cruise stating “never again Carnival”. Both the ship and the company are NOT the Carnival we grew to ❤️ over our last 50 years with Carnival. As they say, “all good things must come to an end”, Carnival Cruise Line, sadly, is no exception to that rule.
Your conviction to this industry is amazing. You always focus on the positives, more so than the negatives. Your enthusiasm is infectious. I enjoy watching your videos everyday, even though I don't always agree with you. Keep doing what you do.
My wife and I just got off this ship 🚢 today after a 7 day cruise. We went to The Bahamas 🇧🇸, Amber Cove and Grand Yurk. We are both retired and cruise a lot. It was our first time on the M.G. The ship is massive. We had a blast. Out of all the cruise ships we go on. We feel Carnaval has the best entertainment.
We went on the Mardi Gras in September and it was fabulous! We liked it so much that we changed our Carnival Pride on Thanksgiving week and we’re going back on the Mardi Gras again that week, taking my son and his family as well. We sail primarily on Carnival and this ship is the best so far and we’ve been on a dozen different Carnival ships
As someone that recently went on mardi gras. Java blue is definitely nice. The water park was above average to other cruises I've taken. Shaqs big chicken wasn't blow me out of the water good but was a very nice change of pace. The center stage shows were good some of the singing wasnt great but choreographed very well. Family feud was very entertaining. Serenity was amazing the salad bar (can't remember its name) was amazing best salad bar I've had in ages. Comedy was absolutely amazing 10/10. I concur the balcony cabin felt narrower. Even adding a foot would greatly increase comfort. Buffet was really really lack luster. Portability of food was horrendous. I like to eat in peace in my room and moving food was difficult. Specialty dining my wife and I ended up getting to almost everywhere. Unfortunately we didn't make it to chef's table, guy's pig and anchor, bonsai teppanyaki, or blue iguana cantina. Starting at most expensive. The steakhouse atmosphere was nice but they really tried to cram the tables I don't mind close dining but when the servers are almost hitting tables becuase they cant move around it needs a redesign. Food was mediocre at best we both got Australian waygu and were disappointed. Rudi's seagrill i ended up having steak which was significantly better than waygu wife got seafood and it was very good. Chi-bang yes absolute must go to hands down some of the best food I've had on a cruise ship. Cucina del capitano, I always use a chicken parmesan to measure an italian restaurant if they cant get a piece of chicken with some sauce and cheese cooked right they aren't gonna get anything right (yes I realize chicken parm isn't persay italian). Cucina did top 5 chicken parmesans I've had. Bonsai sushi was mediocre at best I'm not like a sushi snob or anything I've eaten at like 10 sushi places and unfortunately the rolls were extremely disappointing. The fish seemed almost like it was old not like unsafe old just sub par quality. Emerils bistro was great a nice rich heat without being overbearing to the level of uncomfortable. We also got the pizza from the 24 hr pizza place the four cheese was really good. The sandwich place piazza next to pizza was also quiet good with a wide variety of options. Guy's burger joint continues to be a place to get a quality burger. The last thing of note was the main dining room. I felt like main dining room food has gone down. I'm not sure if it's because there is so much specialty dining but it felt mediocre compared to when I sailed in the late 2000s. In summary definitely go to chi-bang, cucina, emerils, rudis, and the serenity salad. Other things I wanted to mention. The arcade was typical but we had issues with 3 separate machines which was rectified by staff but was disappointing.
Mardi Gras is the first Carnival ship that has appealed to me. It looks great! They really needed to do something with their atrium. I’m surprised that they didn’t have outlets in the Java Blue area like a Starbucks would. Hmmm. I love Princess’s International Cafe. Maybe they need to add cafeteria trays to the buffet area to carry everything. Sounds like an easy fix for those that would like to use them. Thanks for sharing Tony!
Agree on the Backyard band. They made the cruise for me. Agree on the street eats and strange “plates”. We had a square interior that was thankfully wider than the regular interior rooms that were just “thin”. Our friends had an aft extended balcony and that was also smaller than other Carnival ships. Grand Central area was a favorite of mine as well. Grab a coffee and watch the sea or a rehearsal.
Try going on HAL , you don’t pay for food unless it is one of two pay restaurants and you don’t pay for coffee either unless it is at the special coffee bar. You do pay for soda based drinks though. Our day starts at 6AM and we are in the gym/fitness area riding stationary bikes for at least half an hour and then hit the showers and head to the lido. HAL does have older guests but they cater to their guests very nicely and you don’t get nickeled and dimed every time you want to eat something or drink something.
I totally agree about the rooms! We also had a balcony and we felt it was smaller and the setup was opposite of the usual (hallway, couch, bed,then view). But I totally loved the ship as a whole!
Grateful for your lists and discoveries. My cruise wishes are opposite so I wouldn't sail on th Marti Gras because I love comfy cabins and choice of pillows. Its actually really being able to explore ships without spending money. Thinking we're sticking with HAL.
Mardi grais is on my "must sail on" list. We are booking a family trip summer 2023 on the celebration. It's one of those ships that it will take a couple trips to do everything. Thanks for the video Tony. Glad you and Jenny had fun.
I am sailing on Celebration April 2nd for my birthday. Hope they have the Bolt. You will have fun. Got my cardio on Mardi Gras, will do it again on Celebration. LOL
We did a b2b on Mardi Gras in September and still didn’t get everything in. We did take advantage of the specialty restaurants and they are amazing. We also did brunch in the MDR, because I agree, the buffet was just ok. We had a balcony as well, had bruises on my knees because I kept bumping into the corners of the bed coming in and out of the balcony. But overall, wow, what an amazing ship. We’re already booked for Celebration.
I agree about the charging ports outside of the cabin. I’m a student and wanted to catch my classwork. The WiFi was great, but I was sitting at the outer section of Center Stage ordering drinks and making progress…till my battery died 😂
Tony, love your videos. This is my experience on the Carnival Mardi Gras. The elevators are ultra slow and very small and made for an irritating experience. Rooms were small. Entertainment was ok, although my wife didn’t like the 70’s rock opera in the large theatre. Mid level stage on deck 6 was cool. Name that tune style show was super fun with portions of audience participation. Casino (I’m sure all casinos actually) the odds were so bad (worse since Cowvid) and the amount $$$ u have to play to get better odds are are so high u need to really bring your wallet. Drinks 🍺 were hit or miss as far as flavor and strength. Food overall was good, lobsters were the smallest I ever had on lobster night. I would still visit this ship. Other good vibes and experiences made up for slackification in other areas. Crew was superb. One incident of young adult over-the-top rudeness to other passengers was dealt with by swift security team. 8/10 overall. My wife was ok with her lobster 🦞 . Do visit the Mardi Gras. ❤
We're going on the Mardi Gras May 2023, even more excited after listening to your review. This is our 4th cruise with Carnival since 2019(Horizon x1and Panarama x2)
We sail on the Mardi Gras in April 2022. Can't wait!! We have an inside cabin in the Havana area. Will only be using it to sleep off my food and drink coma!!
I pretty much agree with your best and worst lists. To me the bathroom was the worst. I’m not a big person but my husband is 6’5” and 330lbs so needless to say it was tight in there for him. Really enjoyed the Mardi Gras!
The Mardi Gras was an amazing ship. As a handicapped person, the bathroom was awesome. We decided to get a balcony which I loved and spent quite a bit of time on. Being handicapped and a senior, the one thing I hadn't taken into consideration was the size of the ship vs. capacity. We've been on the older Carnival ships and loved them so I wanted to try this new mega ship, not considering the extra people, I was very unhappy. It is a beautiful ship for the young and families, but my hubby and I decided that one and done was sufficient for us. I fulfilled my Mardi Gras Dream.
We were on Mardi Gras a year ago and loved it. We were really impressed as we always traveled on Royal or Norwegian. Carnival has now given us wonderful offers and we have two cruises scheduled. We found the food better than other cruise lines. Royal is now only giving us minor discounts on a cruise where Carnival is comping us Jr. Suites and drinks everywhere on the ship. We are casino players ......not huge......but enough to have attracted the attention of Carnival. Carnival is now a first class cruise line.
I was just talking to someone about how I really enjoyed the cold pool in the Serenity area on the Sunshine! I am glad that the Mardi Gras has one and hopefully something that Carnival will take into consideration for the future!
We just got off the Panorama WOW what a beautiful ship. Decor was awesome and staff was amazing. Cruise director was the best I've ever seen. Towel animals filled the entire pool bar area. I could right a book about how wonderful this ship is. We are going on the Mardi Gras in January can't wait.
You're going to love MG. I had been on the Horizon (same class as Panorama) in July and was blown away by how beautiful she was and MG is so much MORE!!!!
We sailed the Mardi Gras on 21 Aug. loved the ship. Agree with you, we were a bit disappointed with buffet. They seemed to not vary the menu that much. We loved grand central, and spent a lot of time there. Loved the bar staff at grand central.
Thank you for your review of your time on the Mardi Gras..it was also nice see you in person. We are booked on the Mardi Gras for the their SAIL A THON. not sure I I spelled that correctly..it's celebrating carnival's 50 years of sailing, we meet up( sort of) with 3 other carnival ships in the gulf and they doing a throw back to the 80's , I think..
@@judysylvester2479 awesome! We are celebrating our 29th anniversary on the 5th. Come join our Facebook cruise group. Carnival Mardi Gras December 4, 2021 (2.0). Several events: precruise dinner, drinks at Radisson, meeting at a few of the bars on the ship, etc.
We are going on the Mardi Gras 1/29/22 and we can't wait!! Thanks for the heads up.....we were lucky enough to get an aft suite with a wrap around deck....we can t wait!!!
We loved Mardi Gras. The entertainment was fabulous and we loved everywhere we ate except we didn't like the main dining room food. The only other surprise I didn't like was no plug by the bed for my cpap. This surprised me because of how new the ship is. We loved Java Blue. I would get a coffee and then sit and watch the Center Stage shows.
I agree on most of your points. We were on the 3rd sailing in August. We also had a balcony room and it was so tight (with 2 teens). I agree about the buffet being odd. We had most of our lunches at the blue iguana, shaqs chicken, or guys burger. We loved the cover band in pig and anchor. They were amazing.
The Miracle has a great Serenity deck. We loved the Mardi Gras! I agree the cabin was smaller. The bathroom was smaller, loved the shower! We barely ate in the buffet and did not make the MDR even once. So many bar and food options! We found embarkation was crowded but moved very quickly. The one area that was a huge disappointment was the Havana area. So small and only a tiny pool and no jacuzzi’s. We are sailing on her again in 2022……can’t wait. Sailing Panorama this Saturday. Thanks for all you do for the cruising community. 🛳💯
Carnival Fantasy was our first cruise in 1997. Honeymoon cruise! Still our best memories of any cruise. We liked the ship so much, we cruised in it 3 times! Heading on the Mardi Gras in 13 days. Did the Havana cabin on the Vista. That was awesome.
Great review, we went on Marti Gras a few weeks ago. I agree with your take on the cabin door and bathroom. Loved Center Stage .The entertainment was fantastic. We totally enjoyed the ship .Hope to sail on her again ,there was so much we missed.
I got back from the Mardi Gras last Saturday with my family. I agree about the buffet being weird. They would only have like one of the buffet stations open at a time. When it got crowded, I would have to find a different station to get my food. I also could never find when the street eats was open. Every time I would walk by, it would be closed. My sister didn't like the central stage because unless we left dinner early, you couldn't find a good seat that wasn't obstructed. The cabins did seem smaller, and with 3 people it was hard to get around. I do like the extra plugs they added, which meant everyone could charge their devices. We are taking the Carnival Spirit a year from now, so it will be vastly different from the Mardi Gras.
They changed the menu when I was there on August 19. Most of the food served in main dining room were also served in the buffet. Special types like lobster, chocolate lava cake etc were still only served in dining room. I think that is cost cutting measure done by the ship.
Hey Tony Vic and Desiree here , going on the Majestic Princess in March on the West Coast…. Would love for you and Jenny to come…💕💕🌴 March 12th…..would LOVE to you to come….asked Don also!!
I went on my very first cruise in April (I’m 63). We were on a 7day Eastern Caribbean on the Mardi Gras. Having nothing to compare it to I was in love. I’m in agreement on both your pros and your cons lists. The shows were phenomenal. I didn’t care for the buffet either. There was no variety. I think I would add the elevators to the cons list. They were always crowded and as a scooter user it would take an eternity to get anywhere.
I find myself watching this type of reviews more then the vlogs. I can turn this on while I work in the background or why I'm playing a game. If its the vlog type coverage I need to be sitting in front of my TV to really get everything out of it. Plus at this point I've already watched countless of videos of the ship.
We like how you give us a synopsis of things you like and things you're don't and how things have changed. It would be great if you did this for each cruise.
Doing our second cruise on Mardi Gras next week. We really loved the ship especially Grand Central. The one negative for me was bingo. It was not in the theater but grand central & too many people to deal with and not enough seating.
I've gotta wait until 2023 to board her but I so appreciate hearing the pros and cons of Mardi Gras. Overall the food options, entertainment and sections like Summer Landings and Grand Central and New Orleans is enough alone for me to book her.. Loved your feedback though.
Tony, the bed in our cabin on Mardi Gras was not comfortable! I had to get our cabin steward to add a couple of mattress toppers for us to be able to sleep! We stayed in a forward facing balcony cabin and the space on the balcony was fantastic. Windy, but fantastic!
Hey Tony,,,, once had to look for outlets myself and found one after watching an employee vacuuming carpet and waited for him to get done. If that helps. Great review!
Thank you so much you’re cruising in the Mardi Gras.. pro’s and con’s. My wife and I are looking forward to our cruise in the Mardi Gras. This really helps us. My wife just booked our reservation for 555. I’m looking forward for my coffee everyday. Where going to celebrate for my wife’s nursing graduation and our Christmas gift together
I agree the room was smaller, the bathroom tiny. Center Stage was always so crowed there were no seats, on my cruise in August there wasn’t all the shows you mentioned. Big ship, difficult to walk the length of the ship, enjoyed the cruise but would opt for a smaller ship
I do agree with the toilets in the rooms. As a big guy it is super tight to go. If you want larger facilities the spa areas has huge showers and bathrooms. I took several showers there just to have more room. Overall amazing ship. We really enjoyed the Mardi Gras.
We enjoyed center stage quite a bit, great place to grab a coffee and chill! We also enjoyed the show with the greatest showman music, some incredible talent! The costume party with the La Lido Loca Fam was definitely a highlight!💗
Oh Tony, Tony, Tony...you make me very happy with your list! My husband is a Craps player and this sounds fabulous! And, yes...we are the kind of folks who actually do book our cruises with internet performance on the table. We both work while at sea (sometimes with the drink of the day at hand) and reliable internet is a big deal for us. We've taken our laptops ashore and spent hours in port bars with internet service "working".
I missed the option of being able to wash my clothes on the ship as I have been able to do on every other Carnival ship that I have been on. The Mardi Gras has no self service laundry and only a few ironing rooms
We got on the Mardi Gras casino special for $0 a few weeks ago. Fantastic ship. Yes, the buffet layout was a bit weird, but food all over the ship was awesome. Never made it to the main dining room. We had a square inside cabin, it was huge! Loved it all so we're going back in a few weeks. Didn't hurt that the $0 casino special was still running.
Just got off the Mardi Gras on the 13th. I agree with a lot of your takes except the street eats. After a long day in port it is a great place for an awesome snack that doesn't kill your dinner.
Street eats was great. Triedthings I never would have. French fries were different everyday. Seafood Shack at Street was fresh and awesome. You get a pager after you order. Make it super fresh. Wife said it was best fried shrimp she ever had!
I love Mardi Gras. Was on inaugural and will be on sailabration. I agree with you Tony. The rooms are tight. Theres a you tube video explaining how the rooms were designed (not by Carnival) They fit like a puzzle piece which allows for more cabins. It's really a beautiful ship. Next time you go be sure to eat at Rudy's Seagrill and Chabang. They're awesome!
Glad to see you trying to strike a balance between cruise vlogger and just plain cruiser. I was always curious how cruise vloggers could both enjoy the cruise and basically work the whole time too. One quick question, how often are you recognized by other cruisers? Is it only seldom or is it more like every time you are out of your cabin? Keep up the great work Tony!
@@LaLidoLoca I saw you on the last full day walking on deck 6 towards Center Stage. I called out to you, but you didn't hear me. I was surprised that it's the only time I caught sight of you. Glad you enjoyed the cruise, and thanks for your review.
We agree tiny cabin and we hated the buffet, well not much in choices of food and we only found on ac outlet out of your room . beside the punch liners club on the wall very odd. But LOVES the entertainment. We had a blast, but will not book that ship again.
I agree with you about the cabin doors, they would not open all the way. I somewhat disagree with the Center Stage, I was difficult to find a seat unless you were an hour or more early. Also there was too much going on and the activities of passengers roaming around looking for a seat or just passing through was a distraction. The entertainers were absolutely first class and the shows were great. The ship is beautiful.
I agree Shaqs was so good. The cabins door was to small. The ship is beautiful. The center stage and all the entertainment was top notch. The company on board was the best part . I has a blast sailing with the Local Fam...and most especially the Locadores!! We love you and Miss Jenny B 💜💜💜!!
Was on b2b 23rd & 30 best thing by far was variety and quality of entertainment. 2nd great thing was the variety of area where you could relax outside in shade.
I worked on the carnival Mardi Gras and you're right the Internet was totally awesome When I need to plug in I usually go to the library to plug-in and work. . On the Mardi Gras in addition to the library the barbecue venue had some plugs. I went on the Mardi Gras third cruise and I found the ship to be quite large and took me awhile to find everything, none the less I really loved it. I am also a craps player I very much enjoyed the fact that there were two crap tables, and is my cruise. I am not a Pepsi guy, I wish carnival would bring back the Coke again, that’s individual choice I guess . I did not find the rooms too small and I'm a relatively large guy our cabin was mid 7 balcony.
The "few available AC outlets" issue is something people who use mobility scooters (like my wife) would need to consider. Running a scooter through the carpeting eats battery power, and if you can't easily recharge around the ship, you can get stuck in place.
I agree with the AC outlet, I started on the pride bring a british outlet covertet with me, wish ac plugs by the bed, I’m a cpap user. I like stret eat fries, can’t wait for Celebration for 2 weeks
Great list. Considering a cruise on Mardi Gras soon. Interestingly, and I kept thinking it was me (and still may be), on the Panorama in the Fall, there never seemed to be much in the buffet. I often went at weird hours (end of a meal) and also thought maybe stuff was closed/offerings were limited as passengers were limited, but one lunch, the deli was open and one other station. It was just weird. Having just gotten off RC, their buffet no matter what time, always had multiple stations/areas open - lots to choose from. It was just something that surprised me on my first Carnival cruise!
agree. Shaq’s big chicken was awesome. Great entertainment. Enjoyed the tides pool and bar. Yes Java blue was a favorite. And can’t beat Guy’s burgers .
Well Tony I heard a lot of people say they loved the Mardi Gras Ship! However, many agreed with you about the room and how small the room is. I will be on the Mardi Gras in August and I will let you know. Thank you sharing the Pros and Cons!
My wife and I sailed on carnival 7 year’s ago for our 25 th anniversary on a Oder ship. Ugly carpet everywhere. Yeah there was some things closed. Pizza was open some nights
If you haven’t already you should do this exact format/show for every ship you sail on. Very informative and balanced viewpoints. Thank you Tony !
Ya I like it too. I may do that.
Ooh, yes, agree!
I agree!
Yep, you've become my Trusted-go-to. Leaving on the Panorama next week. Would love one of this format for that one. Keep up the great work T&J.
I completely understand the way you are reporting in 2021. Enjoy the experience and the people you are with. You are able to give a more authentic experience. Thank you!
Just returned from Marti Gras. From major design flaws in safety, comfort, form to basic functionality, we are going back to the Vista Class. ❤️Vista, Horizon and Panorama:
This ship is nothing more than a large cargo container ship, the economy of scale only benefiting CCL at the passengers expense.
Every sing venue or feature simply doesn’t have the capacity to handle the 5300 to 6300 passengers. As a result one ends up waiting, waiting and waiting for everything or so overcrowded it’s simply NOT enjoyable.
In fact, 90% of our “awake time” on the ship was waiting or giving up on the venue overcrowding, simply way too many people.
As far as food quality; awful compared to our 50 years of Carnival experience.
In fact, we all re-named one eating venue to “Sh*tBang”.
Pictures, videos and plenty of case numbers with Guest (NO) Services documenting massive shortcomings and horrible treatment by the staff.
If this is Carnival’s future, they will not be in ours and the thousands who stated the same aboard the ship.
Mardi Gras is a prototype for the Excel class and unfortunately due to the pandemic the November 2022 arrival date of Celebration is a direct carbon copy of the Marti Gras, now 2 horrible dysfunctional prototypes.
If there are not major redesigns to the Jubilee, all 3 ships will need major refitting’s to compete with the 3 Vista Class Ships and growing competition in the cruising industry.
The CCL Excell class will destroy Carnivals loyal customer base just as it has done with us and thousands aboard our cruise stating “never again Carnival”.
Both the ship and the company are NOT the Carnival we grew to ❤️ over our last 50 years with Carnival. As they say, “all good things must come to an end”, Carnival Cruise Line, sadly, is no exception to that rule.
Your conviction to this industry is amazing. You always focus on the positives, more so than the negatives. Your enthusiasm is infectious. I enjoy watching your videos everyday, even though I don't always agree with you. Keep doing what you do.
Thanks!
I really miss the old La Lido Loca cruise videos, but I’m still still here for y’all.
I love Mardi Gras I’m taking my 3rd cruise on the In june
My wife and I just got off this ship 🚢 today after a 7 day cruise. We went to The Bahamas 🇧🇸, Amber Cove and Grand Yurk. We are both retired and cruise a lot. It was our first time on the M.G. The ship is massive. We had a blast. Out of all the cruise ships we go on. We feel Carnaval has the best entertainment.
We went on the Mardi Gras in September and it was fabulous! We liked it so much that we changed our Carnival Pride on Thanksgiving week and we’re going back on the Mardi Gras again that week, taking my son and his family as well. We sail primarily on Carnival and this ship is the best so far and we’ve been on a dozen different Carnival ships
Nice to hear about your favorite typical cruise day. We all go on a cruise to relax. But we all have a ritual that makes us happy.
As someone that recently went on mardi gras. Java blue is definitely nice. The water park was above average to other cruises I've taken. Shaqs big chicken wasn't blow me out of the water good but was a very nice change of pace. The center stage shows were good some of the singing wasnt great but choreographed very well. Family feud was very entertaining. Serenity was amazing the salad bar (can't remember its name) was amazing best salad bar I've had in ages. Comedy was absolutely amazing 10/10. I concur the balcony cabin felt narrower. Even adding a foot would greatly increase comfort. Buffet was really really lack luster. Portability of food was horrendous. I like to eat in peace in my room and moving food was difficult.
Specialty dining my wife and I ended up getting to almost everywhere. Unfortunately we didn't make it to chef's table, guy's pig and anchor, bonsai teppanyaki, or blue iguana cantina. Starting at most expensive. The steakhouse atmosphere was nice but they really tried to cram the tables I don't mind close dining but when the servers are almost hitting tables becuase they cant move around it needs a redesign. Food was mediocre at best we both got Australian waygu and were disappointed. Rudi's seagrill i ended up having steak which was significantly better than waygu wife got seafood and it was very good. Chi-bang yes absolute must go to hands down some of the best food I've had on a cruise ship. Cucina del capitano, I always use a chicken parmesan to measure an italian restaurant if they cant get a piece of chicken with some sauce and cheese cooked right they aren't gonna get anything right (yes I realize chicken parm isn't persay italian). Cucina did top 5 chicken parmesans I've had. Bonsai sushi was mediocre at best I'm not like a sushi snob or anything I've eaten at like 10 sushi places and unfortunately the rolls were extremely disappointing. The fish seemed almost like it was old not like unsafe old just sub par quality. Emerils bistro was great a nice rich heat without being overbearing to the level of uncomfortable. We also got the pizza from the 24 hr pizza place the four cheese was really good. The sandwich place piazza next to pizza was also quiet good with a wide variety of options. Guy's burger joint continues to be a place to get a quality burger. The last thing of note was the main dining room. I felt like main dining room food has gone down. I'm not sure if it's because there is so much specialty dining but it felt mediocre compared to when I sailed in the late 2000s.
In summary definitely go to chi-bang, cucina, emerils, rudis, and the serenity salad.
Other things I wanted to mention. The arcade was typical but we had issues with 3 separate machines which was rectified by staff but was disappointing.
Mardi Gras is the first Carnival ship that has appealed to me. It looks great! They really needed to do something with their atrium. I’m surprised that they didn’t have outlets in the Java Blue area like a Starbucks would. Hmmm. I love Princess’s International Cafe. Maybe they need to add cafeteria trays to the buffet area to carry everything. Sounds like an easy fix for those that would like to use them. Thanks for sharing Tony!
Completely agree with your buffet review. On a ship that will hold 6K passengers someday… that buffet was inadequate.
Agree on the Backyard band. They made the cruise for me. Agree on the street eats and strange “plates”. We had a square interior that was thankfully wider than the regular interior rooms that were just “thin”. Our friends had an aft extended balcony and that was also smaller than other Carnival ships. Grand Central area was a favorite of mine as well. Grab a coffee and watch the sea or a rehearsal.
Try going on HAL , you don’t pay for food unless it is one of two pay restaurants and you don’t pay for coffee either unless it is at the special coffee bar. You do pay for soda based drinks though. Our day starts at 6AM and we are in the gym/fitness area riding stationary bikes for at least half an hour and then hit the showers and head to the lido. HAL does have older guests but they cater to their guests very nicely and you don’t get nickeled and dimed every time you want to eat something or drink something.
I totally agree about the rooms! We also had a balcony and we felt it was smaller and the setup was opposite of the usual (hallway, couch, bed,then view). But I totally loved the ship as a whole!
Going on this cruise the 17th of august. We love watching you ! Come on this Cruise again with us !! Lol
How was your experience? I'm going on this cruise for Christmas.
Grateful for your lists and discoveries. My cruise wishes are opposite so I wouldn't sail on th Marti Gras because I love comfy cabins and choice of pillows. Its actually really being able to explore ships without spending money. Thinking we're sticking with HAL.
Mardi grais is on my "must sail on" list. We are booking a family trip summer 2023 on the celebration. It's one of those ships that it will take a couple trips to do everything. Thanks for the video Tony. Glad you and Jenny had fun.
I am sailing on Celebration April 2nd for my birthday. Hope they have the Bolt. You will have fun. Got my cardio on Mardi Gras, will do it again on Celebration. LOL
@@michelebegg5073 I can't wait. We are going July 2023.
We did a b2b on Mardi Gras in September and still didn’t get everything in. We did take advantage of the specialty restaurants and they are amazing. We also did brunch in the MDR, because I agree, the buffet was just ok. We had a balcony as well, had bruises on my knees because I kept bumping into the corners of the bed coming in and out of the balcony. But overall, wow, what an amazing ship. We’re already booked for Celebration.
You will love Virgin, there are outlets everywhere. You can work/charge just about anywhere on the ship.
Love the sunshine because of the pool. So excited for MG!
I agree about the charging ports outside of the cabin. I’m a student and wanted to catch my classwork. The WiFi was great, but I was sitting at the outer section of Center Stage ordering drinks and making progress…till my battery died 😂
You will LOVE NCL!! They are the best! The buffet is the best and the entertainment and the cabins ! Just everything!🛳
Tony, love your videos. This is my experience on the Carnival Mardi Gras. The elevators are ultra slow and very small and made for an irritating experience. Rooms were small. Entertainment was ok, although my wife didn’t like the 70’s rock opera in the large theatre. Mid level stage on deck 6 was cool. Name that tune style show was super fun with portions of audience participation. Casino (I’m sure all casinos actually) the odds were so bad (worse since Cowvid) and the amount $$$ u have to play to get better odds are are so high u need to really bring your wallet. Drinks 🍺 were hit or miss as far as flavor and strength. Food overall was good, lobsters were the smallest I ever had on lobster night. I would still visit this ship. Other good vibes and experiences made up for slackification in other areas. Crew was superb. One incident of young adult over-the-top rudeness to other passengers was dealt with by swift security team. 8/10 overall. My wife was ok with her lobster 🦞 .
Do visit the Mardi Gras. ❤
We're going on the Mardi Gras May 2023, even more excited after listening to your review. This is our 4th cruise with Carnival since 2019(Horizon x1and Panarama x2)
I cruise mostly RCL, using this brand for comparison....I love you...but when I was on Mardi Gras ..not so much. Glad you had a great time.
We sail on the Mardi Gras in April 2022. Can't wait!! We have an inside cabin in the Havana area. Will only be using it to sleep off my food and drink coma!!
I pretty much agree with your best and worst lists. To me the bathroom was the worst. I’m not a big person but my husband is 6’5” and 330lbs so needless to say it was tight in there for him. Really enjoyed the Mardi Gras!
February 5th 2022 . Can't wait!
The Mardi Gras was an amazing ship. As a handicapped person, the bathroom was awesome. We decided to get a balcony which I loved and spent quite a bit of time on. Being handicapped and a senior, the one thing I hadn't taken into consideration was the size of the ship vs. capacity. We've been on the older Carnival ships and loved them so I wanted to try this new mega ship, not considering the extra people, I was very unhappy. It is a beautiful ship for the young and families, but my hubby and I decided that one and done was sufficient for us. I fulfilled my Mardi Gras Dream.
I love that they have two quieter pools in the rear of the ship. Plus they moved the restricted Havana pool to the side.
We were on Mardi Gras a year ago and loved it. We were really impressed as we always traveled on Royal or Norwegian. Carnival has now given us wonderful offers and we have two cruises scheduled. We found the food better than other cruise lines. Royal is now only giving us minor discounts on a cruise where Carnival is comping us Jr. Suites and drinks everywhere on the ship. We are casino players ......not huge......but enough to have attracted the attention of Carnival. Carnival is now a first class cruise line.
I was just talking to someone about how I really enjoyed the cold pool in the Serenity area on the Sunshine! I am glad that the Mardi Gras has one and hopefully something that Carnival will take into consideration for the future!
I never really enjoyed the Serenity areas because they lacked a pool. I was happy to see this addition on Mardi Gras. Sailing on her December 2022x
We just got off the Panorama WOW what a beautiful ship. Decor was awesome and staff was amazing. Cruise director was the best I've ever seen. Towel animals filled the entire pool bar area. I could right a book about how wonderful this ship is. We are going on the Mardi Gras in January can't wait.
I to just got off the Panorama. And I agree. We where in the Havana suites and it was outstanding
CD Lee Mason! The BEST CD!
You're going to love MG. I had been on the Horizon (same class as Panorama) in July and was blown away by how beautiful she was and MG is so much MORE!!!!
Thanks. I go Jan 22 w a friend who is a virgin cruiser. Excited!!
We sailed the Mardi Gras on 21 Aug. loved the ship. Agree with you, we were a bit disappointed with buffet. They seemed to not vary the menu that much. We loved grand central, and spent a lot of time there. Loved the bar staff at grand central.
We sail on her February 26! Love this post! Thank you! Now I'm even more excited!
What could be better,Mardi Gras on Mardi Gras😀
I'll be there!
Taking the family for our first family cruise, on the Carnival Mardi Gras June 2023. Thanks for the info- I’ll be binging on your videos tonight!
Loved meeting you and Jenny. You guys were so nice.
Have been waiting for this…..
The real review of the Mardi Gras on all of TH-cam.
Thank you for your review of your time on the Mardi Gras..it was also nice see you in person. We are booked on the Mardi Gras for the their SAIL A THON. not sure I I spelled that correctly..it's celebrating carnival's 50 years of sailing, we meet up( sort of) with 3 other carnival ships in the gulf and they doing a throw back to the 80's , I think..
The serenity pool sounds awesome!
Thanks for the reviews/suggestions...we will be on the Mardi Gras December 4th.
Dec.4-11 for me and hubby also,have fun!
@@judysylvester2479 awesome! We are celebrating our 29th anniversary on the 5th. Come join our Facebook cruise group. Carnival Mardi Gras December 4, 2021 (2.0). Several events: precruise dinner, drinks at Radisson, meeting at a few of the bars on the ship, etc.
We are going on the Mardi Gras 1/29/22 and we can't wait!! Thanks for the heads up.....we were lucky enough to get an aft suite with a wrap around deck....we can t wait!!!
We loved Mardi Gras. The entertainment was fabulous and we loved everywhere we ate except we didn't like the main dining room food. The only other surprise I didn't like was no plug by the bed for my cpap. This surprised me because of how new the ship is. We loved Java Blue. I would get a coffee and then sit and watch the Center Stage shows.
I was also surprised that there was no electric outlet by the beds. We used the twin bed configuration and couldn't find a plug.
So were you able to use your CPAP??? I can not sleep without it, this could be a deal breaker. Please let us know. Thanks.
Yes. I had to get an extension cord but I was able to use my cpap.
I agree on most of your points. We were on the 3rd sailing in August. We also had a balcony room and it was so tight (with 2 teens). I agree about the buffet being odd. We had most of our lunches at the blue iguana, shaqs chicken, or guys burger. We loved the cover band in pig and anchor. They were amazing.
The Miracle has a great Serenity deck. We loved the Mardi Gras! I agree the cabin was smaller. The bathroom was smaller, loved the shower! We barely ate in the buffet and did not make the MDR even once. So many bar and food options! We found embarkation was crowded but moved very quickly. The one area that was a huge disappointment was the Havana area. So small and only a tiny pool and no jacuzzi’s. We are sailing on her again in 2022……can’t wait. Sailing Panorama this Saturday. Thanks for all you do for the cruising community. 🛳💯
You are so correct about cabin and buffet.
Carnival Fantasy was our first cruise in 1997. Honeymoon cruise! Still our best memories of any cruise. We liked the ship so much, we cruised in it 3 times! Heading on the Mardi Gras in 13 days. Did the Havana cabin on the Vista. That was awesome.
Great review, we went on Marti Gras a few weeks ago. I agree with your take on the cabin door and bathroom. Loved Center Stage .The entertainment was fantastic. We totally enjoyed the ship .Hope to sail on her again ,there was so much we missed.
I got back from the Mardi Gras last Saturday with my family. I agree about the buffet being weird. They would only have like one of the buffet stations open at a time. When it got crowded, I would have to find a different station to get my food. I also could never find when the street eats was open. Every time I would walk by, it would be closed.
My sister didn't like the central stage because unless we left dinner early, you couldn't find a good seat that wasn't obstructed. The cabins did seem smaller, and with 3 people it was hard to get around. I do like the extra plugs they added, which meant everyone could charge their devices.
We are taking the Carnival Spirit a year from now, so it will be vastly different from the Mardi Gras.
They changed the menu when I was there on August 19. Most of the food served in main dining room were also served in the buffet. Special types like lobster, chocolate lava cake etc were still only served in dining room. I think that is cost cutting measure done by the ship.
So glad you gave the live music acts some love.
Hey Tony
Vic and Desiree here , going on the Majestic Princess in March on the West Coast…. Would love for you and Jenny to come…💕💕🌴 March 12th…..would LOVE to you to come….asked Don also!!
I went on my very first cruise in April (I’m 63). We were on a 7day Eastern Caribbean on the Mardi Gras. Having nothing to compare it to I was in love. I’m in agreement on both your pros and your cons lists. The shows were phenomenal. I didn’t care for the buffet either. There was no variety. I think I would add the elevators to the cons list. They were always crowded and as a scooter user it would take an eternity to get anywhere.
I find myself watching this type of reviews more then the vlogs. I can turn this on while I work in the background or why I'm playing a game. If its the vlog type coverage I need to be sitting in front of my TV to really get everything out of it. Plus at this point I've already watched countless of videos of the ship.
We like how you give us a synopsis of things you like and things you're don't and how things have changed. It would be great if you did this for each cruise.
Doing our second cruise on Mardi Gras next week. We really loved the ship especially Grand Central. The one negative for me was bingo. It was not in the theater but grand central & too many people to deal with and not enough seating.
So true about the room
I've gotta wait until 2023 to board her but I so appreciate hearing the pros and cons of Mardi Gras. Overall the food options, entertainment and sections like Summer Landings and Grand Central and New Orleans is enough alone for me to book her.. Loved your feedback though.
Tony, the bed in our cabin on Mardi Gras was not comfortable! I had to get our cabin steward to add a couple of mattress toppers for us to be able to sleep! We stayed in a forward facing balcony cabin and the space on the balcony was fantastic. Windy, but fantastic!
Hey Tony,,,, once had to look for outlets myself and found one after watching an employee vacuuming carpet and waited for him to get done. If that helps. Great review!
Thank you so much you’re cruising in the Mardi Gras.. pro’s and con’s. My wife and I are looking forward to our cruise in the Mardi Gras. This really helps us. My wife just booked our reservation for 555. I’m looking forward for my coffee everyday. Where going to celebrate for my wife’s nursing graduation and our Christmas gift together
I agree the room was smaller, the bathroom tiny. Center Stage was always so crowed there were no seats, on my cruise in August there wasn’t all the shows you mentioned. Big ship, difficult to walk the length of the ship, enjoyed the cruise but would opt for a smaller ship
I do agree with the toilets in the rooms. As a big guy it is super tight to go. If you want larger facilities the spa areas has huge showers and bathrooms. I took several showers there just to have more room.
Overall amazing ship. We really enjoyed the Mardi Gras.
We enjoyed center stage quite a bit, great place to grab a coffee and chill! We also enjoyed the show with the greatest showman music, some incredible talent! The costume party with the La Lido Loca Fam was definitely a highlight!💗
Tony
Listening to you about the Mardi Grais I may have to try Carnival again!
I promise you will have a ball!This is Carnival at it's finest❤
Mardi Gras is absolutely beautiful and my new favorite ship!! Definitely getting back on this ship before March.
My wife and I loved the buffet. Unique layout. Food was great and never had to wait. A refreshing change.
I loved this ship, my only complaint was the bed was small and the buffet/drink section closed down to early. Hope to sail on it again next year.
Oh Tony, Tony, Tony...you make me very happy with your list! My husband is a Craps player and this sounds fabulous! And, yes...we are the kind of folks who actually do book our cruises with internet performance on the table. We both work while at sea (sometimes with the drink of the day at hand) and reliable internet is a big deal for us. We've taken our laptops ashore and spent hours in port bars with internet service "working".
I missed the option of being able to wash my clothes on the ship as I have been able to do on every other Carnival ship that I have been on. The Mardi Gras has no self service laundry and only a few ironing rooms
We got on the Mardi Gras casino special for $0 a few weeks ago. Fantastic ship. Yes, the buffet layout was a bit weird, but food all over the ship was awesome. Never made it to the main dining room. We had a square inside cabin, it was huge! Loved it all so we're going back in a few weeks. Didn't hurt that the $0 casino special was still running.
Would you share the exact inside cabin room # that you had?
Just got off the Mardi Gras on the 13th. I agree with a lot of your takes except the street eats. After a long day in port it is a great place for an awesome snack that doesn't kill your dinner.
Tony at the booths in the Brass Magnolia they had some 110 outlets that you could use
Thanks Doug!
Street eats was great. Triedthings I never would have. French fries were different everyday. Seafood Shack at Street was fresh and awesome. You get a pager after you order. Make it super fresh. Wife said it was best fried shrimp she ever had!
I love Mardi Gras. Was on inaugural and will be on sailabration. I agree with you Tony. The rooms are tight. Theres a you tube video explaining how the rooms were designed (not by Carnival) They fit like a puzzle piece which allows for more cabins. It's really a beautiful ship. Next time you go be sure to eat at Rudy's Seagrill and Chabang. They're awesome!
Glad to see you trying to strike a balance between cruise vlogger and just plain cruiser. I was always curious how cruise vloggers could both enjoy the cruise and basically work the whole time too. One quick question, how often are you recognized by other cruisers? Is it only seldom or is it more like every time you are out of your cabin? Keep up the great work Tony!
Every time I am out of the cabin has been the norm. It’s wild.
@@LaLidoLoca I saw you on the last full day walking on deck 6 towards Center Stage. I called out to you, but you didn't hear me. I was surprised that it's the only time I caught sight of you. Glad you enjoyed the cruise, and thanks for your review.
We agree tiny cabin and we hated the buffet, well not much in choices of food and we only found on ac outlet out of your room . beside the punch liners club on the wall very odd. But LOVES the entertainment. We had a blast, but will not book that ship again.
I enjoyed the Mardi Gras and agree with your assessment. I hope the fix the public lavatory door also. Great specialty restaurants, so delicious 😋
I agree with you about the cabin doors, they would not open all the way. I somewhat disagree with the Center Stage, I was difficult to find a seat unless you were an hour or more early. Also there was too much going on and the activities of passengers roaming around looking for a seat or just passing through was a distraction. The entertainers were absolutely first class and the shows were great. The ship is beautiful.
My husband and I did Carnival Kitchen on the Panorama and we loved it. He said he didn't want to do it, but he was glad he did it when it was over.
Didn't care for the buffet or the street eats area. The entertainment was amazing!!!!
I agree Shaqs was so good. The cabins door was to small. The ship is beautiful. The center stage and all the entertainment was top notch. The company on board was the best part . I has a blast sailing with the Local Fam...and most especially the Locadores!! We love you and Miss Jenny B 💜💜💜!!
Love you too Layla!
I'm just subscribed...I appreciate your thoughtfulness for the friends with you...loving your channel!
Thanks and welcome
We love the Mardi Gras and plan to take more cruises on it.
Watching your video from the lido on the Mardi Gras in San Juan right now!
Was on b2b 23rd & 30 best thing by far was variety and quality of entertainment. 2nd great thing was the variety of area where you could relax outside in shade.
I worked on the carnival Mardi Gras and you're right the Internet was totally awesome When I need to plug in I usually go to the library to plug-in and work. . On the Mardi Gras in addition to the library the barbecue venue had some plugs. I went on the Mardi Gras third cruise and I found the ship to be quite large and took me awhile to find everything, none the less I really loved it. I am also a craps player I very much enjoyed the fact that there were two crap tables, and is my cruise. I am not a Pepsi guy, I wish carnival would bring back the Coke again, that’s individual choice I guess . I did not find the rooms too small and I'm a relatively large guy our cabin was mid 7 balcony.
I actually think Mardi Gras' internet would be fast enough for Netflix if they didn't still block it :p
The "few available AC outlets" issue is something people who use mobility scooters (like my wife) would need to consider. Running a scooter through the carpeting eats battery power, and if you can't easily recharge around the ship, you can get stuck in place.
Thanks for the update on none smoking Casino, how did they do that? I'm on her in September 2022.
Loved your hold bolog . Stay safe
My family of 5 are booked for the Mardi Gras on January 22! Cannot wait!
I agree with the AC outlet, I started on the pride bring a british outlet covertet with me, wish ac plugs by the bed, I’m a cpap user. I like stret eat fries, can’t wait for Celebration for 2 weeks
Thank you for this video we cruise on the Mardi gras March 2022
Completely agree with the size or lack of the balcony room and bathroom we had a little disappointing
Great list. Considering a cruise on Mardi Gras soon. Interestingly, and I kept thinking it was me (and still may be), on the Panorama in the Fall, there never seemed to be much in the buffet. I often went at weird hours (end of a meal) and also thought maybe stuff was closed/offerings were limited as passengers were limited, but one lunch, the deli was open and one other station. It was just weird. Having just gotten off RC, their buffet no matter what time, always had multiple stations/areas open - lots to choose from. It was just something that surprised me on my first Carnival cruise!
Going on the Mardi Gras in January - can’t wait! By the way the Pride has a pool and hot tub in the serinity area
great times were had...glad we were part of that cruise..mardi gras baby...
So great to hang with you!
agree. Shaq’s big chicken was awesome. Great entertainment. Enjoyed the tides pool and bar. Yes Java blue was a favorite. And can’t beat Guy’s burgers .
Ill be on the MardiGra in 4 days! Thanks for the overview...always informative. We have been on 12 cruises in 2021... looking forward to MardiGra
Well Tony I heard a lot of people say they loved the Mardi Gras Ship! However, many agreed with you about the room and how small the room is. I will be on the Mardi Gras in August and I will let you know. Thank you sharing the Pros and Cons!
Booked in late 2022. Looking forward to trying it. Only been on Royal.
My wife and I sailed on carnival 7 year’s ago for our 25 th anniversary on a Oder ship. Ugly carpet everywhere. Yeah there was some things closed. Pizza was open some nights