What Was the Name of the First Carnival Cruise Ship?

By Alice Nichols

The Carnival Cruise Line has been in operation since 1972, and the name of their first cruise ship was the Mardi Gras. The Mardi Gras was built in Finland and originally operated by a company called Flagship Cruises. In 1974, Carnival purchased the ship and renamed it Mardi Gras.

The Mardi Gras was one of the first “mega-ships” of its kind, measuring 893 feet in length and carrying 1,490 passengers at full capacity. It was also the largest passenger ship ever built at the time it was launched in 1972. The ship featured a grand staircase, two swimming pools, five dining rooms, a theater, and multiple bars and lounges.

Carnival refurbished the Mardi Gras in 1992 to make it more modern and attractive to passengers. The refurbishment included interior design changes such as glass elevators replacing the grand staircase, upgraded cabins with private balconies, new restaurants, additional activities for children and teens, and an outdoor movie theatre.

The Mardi Gras remained part of Carnival’s fleet until 1996 when it was sold to Norwegian Cruise Line and renamed as the SS Norway. The ship has since been retired from service but still stands as an important part of Carnival’s history. It is remembered for being the first cruise ship owned by Carnival Cruise Line and introducing many features that are now standard on all their ships today.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the name of Carnival Cruise Line’s first cruise ship was the Mardi Gras which was launched in 1972. This megaship set standards for future ships with its luxurious amenities such as glass elevators replacing a grand staircase, multiple restaurants, theaters, swimming pools amongst other features that are now standard on all Carnival ships today.