Two Carnival Cruise Line ships, head to head — specs, amenities, and what each one is genuinely better at.
Carnival Mardi Gras (2020) is the newer ship by 12 years versus Carnival Splendor (2008). Carnival Mardi Gras is the larger hull at 180,000 GT (~58% bigger). Carnival Splendor sails with fewer guests at double occupancy (3,012 vs 5,282).
| Spec | Carnival Mardi Gras | Carnival Splendor |
|---|---|---|
| Year built | 2020 | 2008 |
| Tonnage | 180,000 GT | 113,573 GT |
| Guests (double occupancy) | 5,282 | 3,012 |
| Guests (max) | 6,500 | 3,700 |
Trophy marks the ship that wins each row. Smaller capacity = more space per guest.
Distinct ports each ship visits in the next 12 months.
No ports in common in the next 12 months.
None unique — everywhere this ship goes, the other does too.