145 Highlights 100 Differences 6 Reactions 0 Likes

Carnival Freedom vs Carnival Mardi Gras: 145 Highlights & 100 Differences — So, Which Cruise Ship Actually Works Better

Two Carnival ships, very different in size and design. Find out which offers better value for your next cruise adventure. Still not sure which cruise ship is your travel match? Our Carnival Freedom vs Carnival Mardi Gras comparison covers comfort, convenience, and top length overall, passenger capacity at double occupancy, propulsion type & safety certification standard.

Supermod

Venanda F. Rasti

39 Products

Moderator

Ineke C. S.

1997 Products

66 Points

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Freedom

75 Points

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Mardi Gras

162 Facts
4 Guides
0 Reviews
0 Discuss
2 Awards
38 Compare

Highlights ¹⁶²

No extras. Just what matters.

                                
                                                66
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        Carnival Freedom
                                    
                                        vs
                                    
                                                75
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        Carnival Mardi Gras

Why is Carnival Freedom better than Carnival Mardi Gras ?

General Information Dimensions & Tonnage Capacity Propulsion & Performance Safety & Regulations Recreation & Wellness Entertainment & Excursions Technology & Connectivity Service & Operations

General Information

Built in Finland Country where the ship was built. with 14 points higher
Registered in Bahamas Legal flag state of the ship. with 7 points higher
In Service Date: July 31, 2021 Date when the cruise ship became available for use. with 1 points higher
Christened Date: October 23, 2021 The date the cruise ship was officially named and introduced. with 2 points higher
Refurbished in 2025 Year of the last refurbishment. with 12 points higher
Released in 2020 Year when the ship entered service. with 28 points higher
Yard Number: NB 1396 Shipyard identifier used during the construction phase of the cruise ship. with 18 points higher
Service Status: Active Current operational status of the ship. with 2 points higher
Operated by Carnival Company operating the ship. with 2 points higher
Ship Class: XL Class Classification or family grouping of the ship. with 8 points higher
Model Name: Mardi Gras The commercial or marketing name of the ship. with 1 points higher
Ship Type: Cruise Ship Defines the category of the ship. with 2 points higher

Technology & Connectivity

Includes Digital Cabin Assistant Whether the cruise ship includes a digital assistant for easier navigation. with a difference of 4 points
Includes Smart Cabin Controls Smart features like app-based lighting, temperature, or keyless entry. with a difference of 4 points
Provides Satellite TV Indicates if passenger areas have satellite television. with a difference of 4 points
WiFi is Available Whether WiFi is available onboard. with a difference of 4 points
Provides Onboard Digital Services Availability of apps for bookings, schedules, or activities. with a difference of 4 points
High Automation Level Degree of automation onboard. with 52 points higher
Uses Fully Automated Bridge Control Level of bridge control automation. with 52 points higher
Has Dynamic Positioning Ability to maintain position using thrusterspropellers. with a difference of 44 points
GPS Integrated Indicates whether GPS is integrated into ship navigation. with a difference of 4 points
Uses X-band,S-band,ARPA Radar Systems Radar technologies available. with 5 points higher

Scroll down for more facts

Recaptor

Summary served fresh by

Andini E. U.

Carnival Freedom vs. Carnival Mardi Gras: Clash of Carnival Icons

When it comes to choosing between Carnival Freedom and Carnival Mardi Gras, both ships offer rich cruising experiences under the trusted Carnival banner. Still, they cater to very different traveler expectations. Both vessels share core amenities like multiple dining venues, robust entertainment options, and essential safety certifications (SOLAS compliant), ensuring a high standard of cruise comfort and security. However, they differ dramatically in their size, propulsion systems, passenger capacity, and the overall scope of features available onboard. Freedom, a Conquest-class ship launched in 2007 and recently refurbished in 2023, is a more traditional, moderately sized cruise ship with diesel-electric propulsion that prioritizes intimate service and classic onboard experiences. Mardi Gras, Carnival's revolutionary XL class flagship, which debuted in 2021, is a mega-ship powered by cutting-edge LNG technology offering unprecedented scale, innovative entertainment, and modern sustainability features. Whether you seek personalized hospitality or a sprawling, tech-forward cruise adventure, understanding these distinctions can help steer your decision.

Bold And Classic: Exploring The Strengths Of Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom excels as a smaller, more accessible option perfect for travelers who appreciate a cozy, intimate setting with a strong focus on personalized service. It offers a better passenger-to-crew ratio of 2.56:1, meaning there could be more attentive service onboard. This Conquest-class ship is 952 feet long with 110,000 GT gross tonnage, offering ample space for comfort without soaring into the mega-ship category.

Powered by a reliable diesel-electric system and a total power output of 75,600 kW, Freedom cruises steadily at 22 knots and boasts a slightly longer 3,000 nautical miles cruising range. Its classic features include a large 1,400-seat theater, multiple live music venues, and a library fostering more traditional onboard entertainment.

In terms of recreation, Freedom offers exciting features such as a water coaster, a rock climbing wall, mini golf, and abundant pools and jacuzzis, blending fun and relaxation effectively. The fact that it departs from the Port of Galveston adds appeal for travelers from the southern U.S. region.

Dining offers a more classic Carnival experience, with four main dining venues and seven specialty restaurants featuring celebrity chefs like Guy Fieri and Emeril Lagasse. Dietary accommodations are broad, and beverage packages and culinary classes enrich the onboard experience.

Next-Gen Luxury: Highlighting The Carnival Mardi Gras Experience

The Carnival Mardi Gras is a massive leap into the future of cruising, boasting an impressive 1,130-foot length and a colossal 180,800 GT, making it one of the largest ships in the Carnival fleet. With a maximum passenger capacity of over 6,600, it dwarfs Freedom's 3,754, emphasizing scale and variety.

Propelled by an advanced LNG-powered system with azipods and bow thrusters, Mardi Gras boasts dynamic positioning and high automation, remarkable for efficiency and environmental responsibility. Although its service speed is a more leisurely 17 knots, the ship offers an eco-friendly A-rated energy efficiency thanks to technology like catalytic converters and shore power capability.

Mardi Gras outshines with a stunning array of 18 dining venues, including specialty restaurants (eight in total), casual cafés, and bars. Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse headlines partnerships, complementing the rich culinary diversity. Foodies will appreciate the extensive dietary options and culinary classes on board.

Recreationally, Mardi Gras is a destination unto itself; boasting five pools, ten jacuzzis, the first-ever onboard roller coaster ("Bolt"), yoga and pilates studios, a beauty salon, and even a nursery for families traveling with little ones. Entertainment includes Broadway shows, ice shows, live DJs, a virtual reality experience, and cinema, offering a broad spectrum of activities for all ages and tastes.

Advanced navigation systems like ECDIS and fully automated bridge control enhance safety and efficiency. At the same time, the ship's sustainability credentials are impressive with features like LEED certification and shore power, a significant step forward in environmental responsibility. Mardi Gras sails primarily from Port Canaveral, Florida, convenient for many East Coast travelers.

Quick Take

Carnival Freedom stands out for its intimate vibe and reliable performance with classic cruising luxuries in a manageable size, perfect for those who appreciate personal touches and traditional entertainment. On the other hand, Carnival Mardi Gras redefines the cruise ship landscape with groundbreaking technology, larger-than-life amenities, and an eco-conscious design that enhances every aspect of the voyage.

Bottom Line

For travelers seeking the pinnacle of modern cruising innovation, expansiveness, and environmental awareness, Carnival Mardi Gras is the clear frontrunner with its vast capacity and cutting-edge features. However, if you desire a more intimate fleet experience with a time-tested feel and slightly faster speeds for the price, Carnival Freedom remains a smart and affordable choice, blending comfort with classic fun.

Verdict

Winner: Carnival Mardi Gras - For unmatched scale, innovation, and superior sustainability features delivering an extraordinary cruise adventure.
Runner-up: Carnival Freedom - For travelers preferring a smaller ship with personalized service, a faster cruising speed, and a traditional Carnival experience at a more accessible price.

Comparisons ³⁸

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Price comparisons

Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom - Indulge in Unforgettable Dining and Entertainment on Your Next Cruise Carnival Freedom - Embark on a Journey of Freedom and Fun Across the Open Seas Book affordable Carnival Freedom at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream Carnival Freedom with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated Carnival Freedom at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book Carnival Freedom Trips on Tripadvisor Find amazing Carnival Freedom offers at iTravel2000 USA

Check prices in other stores, maybe you'll find a cheaper Carnival Freedom

Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras - Celebrate the Spirit of Fun and Adventure on the High Seas Carnival Mardi Gras - Experience the Ultimate Celebration on a Vibrant and Festive Cruise Book affordable Carnival Mardi Gras at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream Carnival Mardi Gras with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated Carnival Mardi Gras at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book Carnival Mardi Gras Trips on Tripadvisor Find amazing Carnival Mardi Gras offers at iTravel2000 USA

Check prices in other stores, maybe you'll find a cheaper Carnival Mardi Gras

^(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

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Comparisons & Facts ¹⁶²

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

Compare Carnival Freedom and Carnival Mardi Gras in this traveler-focused guide. From length overall, passenger capacity at double occupancy, propulsion type & safety certification standard to budget and reliability, we’ve laid it all out clearly.

General Information ²²

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Ship Class

What is the ship class?

58 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Conquest Class

66 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes XL Class

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Ship Class

Carnival Freedom belongs to the Conquest Class launched in 2007, while Carnival Mardi Gras is an XL Class ship that debuted in 2021, reflecting Mardi Gras's more modern design and advanced features typical of newer ships.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Ship Class' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Ship Class' on the following:

Classification or family grouping of the ship.

Keel Laid Date

When was the keel laid?

66 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes April 28, 2006

63 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes June 18, 2019

Carnival Freedom

The keel laying is a significant milestone in shipbuilding, marking the beginning of the ship's construction. It's the stage when the ship's backbone is placed in the drydock, and the vessel starts to take shape.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Keel Laid Date' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Keel Laid Date' on the following:

Year when keel was laid, marking start of construction.

Ship Type

What type of ship is this?

87 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Cruise Ship

89 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Cruise Ship

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Ship Type' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Ship Type' on the following:

Defines the category of the ship.

Model Name

What is the model name of the ship?

57 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

58 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Mardi Gras

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Model Name' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Model Name' on the following:

The commercial or marketing name of the ship.

Model Number

What is the model number?

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Freedom (Help us out by suggesting one!)

24 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 3600

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Model Number' on the following:

Internal or builder-assigned number.

Cruise Line

Which cruise line operates this ship?

92 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Carnival

94 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Carnival

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Cruise Line' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Cruise Line' on the following:

Company operating the ship.

Previous Name

What was the previous name?

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Freedom (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras (Help us out by suggesting one!)

The previous name of the cruise ship before it was rebranded or renamed.

Former Operator

Who was the former operator?

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Freedom (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras (Help us out by suggesting one!)

The former company that operated the cruise ship.

IMO Number

What is the IMO number?

68 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 9333149

61 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 9837444

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'IMO Number' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'IMO Number' on the following:

Unique international maritime identifier.

Shipbuilder

Where was the ship built?

70 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Fincantieri

61 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Meyer Turku

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Shipbuilder' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Shipbuilder' on the following:

The shipyard or manufacturer that constructed the vessel.

Service Status

What is the ship’s service status?

97 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Active

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Active

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Service Status' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Service Status' on the following:

Current operational status of the ship.

Call Sign

What is the call sign?

67 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 3EBL5

62 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes C6FA2

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Call Sign' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Call Sign' on the following:

Identifies the cruise ship with a specific maritime communication call sign.

MMSI Number

What is the MMSI number?

371,154,000 0 Votes

352,049,000 0 Votes

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'MMSI Number' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'MMSI Number' on the following:

Maritime Mobile Service Identity for ship identification.

Yard Number

What is the yard number?

52 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 6129

70 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes NB 1396

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Yard Number' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Yard Number' on the following:

Shipyard identifier used during the construction phase of the cruise ship.

Release Year

What year was the ship released?

66 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 2007

94 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2020

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Release Year' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Release Year' on the following:

Year when the ship entered service.

Refurbishment Year

When was the ship last refurbished?

87 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 2023

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2025

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Refurbishment Year' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Refurbishment Year' on the following:

Year of the last refurbishment.

Christened Date

When was the cruise ship christened?

70 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes March 4, 2007

72 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes October 23, 2021

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Christened Date' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Christened Date' on the following:

The date the cruise ship was officially named and introduced.

In Service Date

When did the cruise ship enter service?

64 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes March 5, 2007

65 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes July 31, 2021

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'In Service Date' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'In Service Date' on the following:

Date when the cruise ship became available for use.

Notable Event

What notable events have occurred with this cruise ship?

80 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Inaugural Cruise, The Fire Incident, Notable Caribbean & Mexican Itineraries, COVID-19 Impact

77 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Maiden Voyage, Inaugural Sailing with the "Excel Class", First Cruise Ship Powered by LNG, The Debut of the "Bolt" Roller Coaster, Partnership with Guy Fieri

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Notable Event' on the following:

Significant event associated with the cruise ship.

Flag State

What is the ship’s flag state?

52 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Panama

59 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Bahamas

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Flag State' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Flag State' on the following:

Legal flag state of the ship.

Sister Ships

What are this ship’s sister ships?

68 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Valor

87 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, AIDA Nova,Costa Smeralda, P&O Iona, Costa Toscana

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Sister Ships' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Sister Ships' on the following:

Ships built to the same classdesign.

Country of Manufacture

In which country was the ship built?

77 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Italy

91 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Finland

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Country of Manufacture' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Country of Manufacture' on the following:

Country where the ship was built.

Dimensions & Tonnage ¹⁵

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Length Overall

What is the ship’s length overall?

952 ft 0 Votes

1,130 ft 1 Votes

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Length Overall

Mardi Gras is significantly larger with a length overall of 1,130 ft compared to Freedom's 952 ft, providing more space onboard—this 178 ft (54 m) difference delivers a more expansive cruising experience.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Length Overall' on the following:

Total ship length from bow to stern.

Traci Crouch

118 Reactions

7 months ago

Carnival Mardi Gras is way bigger at 1130 ft compared to Carnival Freedom's 952 ft. If you want massive ship vibes, Mardi Gras is the clear winner.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Beam

What is the ship’s beam (width)?

116 ft 0 Votes

137 ft 0 Votes

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Beam

With a beam of 137 ft versus 116 ft on Freedom, Mardi Gras offers a wider ship width by 21 ft (6.4 m), translating into roomier public spaces and accommodations.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Beam' on the following:

Maximum beam (width) of the ship.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Draft Depth

What is the ship’s draft depth?

26.24 ft 0 Votes

39 ft 0 Votes

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Draft Depth

Mardi Gras has a draft depth of 39 ft, deeper by 12.76 ft (3.9 m) compared to Freedom, enabling greater stability but potentially limiting port access compared to Freedom.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Draft Depth' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Draft Depth' on the following:

Vertical distance between waterline and keel.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Height

What is the ship’s height from keel to mast?

208 ft 0 Votes

227.4 ft 0 Votes

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Height

The height difference is notable with Mardi Gras standing at 227.4 ft versus Freedom's 208 ft, adding 19.4 ft (5.9 m) that may contribute to more decks and better views.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Height' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Height' on the following:

Overall vertical measurement from keel bottom to mast top.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Gross Tonnage

What is the gross tonnage?

110,000 GT 0 Votes

180,800 GT 0 Votes

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Gross Tonnage

Gross tonnage shows Mardi Gras at 180,800 GT dwarfs Freedom's 110,000 GT by over 70%, signaling a much larger ship volume and onboard capacity.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Gross Tonnage' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Gross Tonnage' on the following:

Volume of enclosed spaces, measure of overall ship size.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Deadweight Tonnage

What is the deadweight tonnage?

13,000 DWT 0 Votes

22,000 DWT 0 Votes

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Deadweight Tonnage

Deadweight tonnage of Mardi Gras is 22,000 tons, significantly heavier than Freedom's 13,000 tons, indicating Mardi Gras's capacity to carry more passengers and supplies.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Deadweight Tonnage' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Deadweight Tonnage' on the following:

Weight the ship can safely carry including cargo, fuel, crew, and passengers.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Maximum Air Draft

What is the maximum air draft?

62 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 184

57 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 230

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Maximum Air Draft

Mardi Gras has a maximum air draft of 230 ft, taller by 46 ft (14 m) than Freedom's 184 ft, impacting which ports it can access but allowing for taller onboard structures.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Air Draft' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Air Draft' on the following:

Distance from waterline to highest point of the ship.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Displacement

What is the ship’s displacement?

56 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 115000

73 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 222000

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Displacement

Displacement of Mardi Gras is 222,000 tons versus Freedom's 115,000 tons, nearly double, reflecting Mardi Gras's substantial size and capability to accommodate more guests comfortably.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Displacement' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Displacement' on the following:

Actual weight of the ship including contents.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Total Decks

How many decks does the ship have?

77 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 13

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 20

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Total Decks

Mardi Gras features 20 total decks compared to Freedom's 13, offering far more areas for dining, entertainment, and activities, ideal for travelers seeking a variety of amenities.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Total Decks' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Total Decks' on the following:

Total number of decks on the ship.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Passenger Decks

How many passenger decks are there?

63 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 13

90 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 17

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Passenger Decks

Passenger decks count at 17 for Mardi Gras, 4 decks more than Freedom's 13, providing visitors with expanded deck space and a broader range of venues.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Decks' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Decks' on the following:

Number of decks accessible to passengers.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Crew Decks

How many crew decks does the ship have?

60 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 7

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 12

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Crew Decks

Crew decks are 12 on Mardi Gras versus 7 on Freedom, meaning Mardi Gras supports a larger crew often translating to enhanced service and operational efficiency.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Decks' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Decks' on the following:

Decks reserved for crew use.

Net Tonnage

What is the net tonnage?

110,000 NT 0 Votes

180,000 NT 0 Votes

Carnival Mardi Gras

Net tonnage (180,000 NT) measures the usable space inside the ship. While close to the gross tonnage, it excludes areas like the engine room.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Net Tonnage' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Net Tonnage' on the following:

Revenue-earning volume of the ship.

Hull Material

What is the hull material?

77 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Steel

79 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Steel

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Hull Material' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Hull Material' on the following:

Material used to build the hull.

LED Dome Length

What is the LED dome length?

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Freedom (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras (Help us out by suggesting one!)

The length of the LED dome in inches for added lighting features.

Indoor Promenade Length

What is the indoor promenade length?

5,904 inch 0 Votes

15,748 inch 0 Votes

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Indoor Promenade Length' on the following:

Length of the indoor promenade on the cruise ship unit.

Capacity ¹⁴

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Maximum Passenger Capacity

What is the maximum passenger capacity?

54 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 3754

56 Carnival Mardi Gras 1 Votes 6631

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Maximum Passenger Capacity

Maximum passenger capacity on Mardi Gras reaches 6,631, nearly double Freedom's 3,754, facilitating larger groups and more onboard social opportunities for guests.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Passenger Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Passenger Capacity' on the following:

Maximum passengers with all berths filled.

Kareen Skyler

112 Reactions

7 months ago

Carnival Mardi Gras offers way more cabins with 2641 versus Carnival Freedom's 1490. More cabins mean more options for your stay onboard.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Crew Capacity

What is the crew capacity?

58 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 1150

68 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 1745

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Crew Capacity

Crew capacity is higher on Mardi Gras at 1,745 compared to Freedom's 1,150, implying more staff to enhance guest services but also requiring larger operational logistics.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Capacity' on the following:

Maximum number of crew the ship can house.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio

What is the passenger-to-crew ratio?

52 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 2.56:1

70 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 3.02:1

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Passenger-to-Crew Ratio

Passenger-to-crew ratio favors Freedom at 2.56:1, compared to 3.02:1 on Mardi Gras, meaning Freedom may offer slightly more personalized service.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger-to-Crew Ratio' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger-to-Crew Ratio' on the following:

Ratio of passengers to crew members.

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Wheelchair Accessible Cabins

How many wheelchair accessible cabins are available?

37 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 26

94 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 82

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Wheelchair Accessible Cabins

Wheelchair accessible cabins are 82 on Mardi Gras versus 26 on Freedom, significantly improving accessibility for travelers with mobility needs.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Wheelchair Accessible Cabins' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Wheelchair Accessible Cabins' on the following:

Cabins designed for accessibility.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Average Cabin Size

What is the average cabin size?

61 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 185-220

64 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 200-225

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Average Cabin Size

Average cabin size ranges from 200-225 sq ft on Mardi Gras, larger than Freedom's 185-220 sq ft, offering more comfortable living spaces during your cruise.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Average Cabin Size' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Average Cabin Size' on the following:

Average square footage of passenger cabins.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Public Space Ratio

What is the public space ratio?

65 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 3.53:1

65 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 1.76:1

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Public Space Ratio

Public space ratio is 1.76:1 on Mardi Gras versus 3.53:1 on Freedom, indicating that while Freedom provides more space per passenger, Mardi Gras maximizes overall capacity with varied amenities.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Public Space Ratio' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Public Space Ratio' on the following:

Ratio of gross tonnage to passengers, indicator of space per guest.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy

What is the passenger capacity at double occupancy?

55 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 2980

72 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 5270

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Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy

Passenger capacity at double occupancy is 5,270 on Mardi Gras compared to 2,980 on Freedom, highlighting Mardi Gras's suitability for families or groups traveling together.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy' on the following:

Number of passengers based on two per cabin.

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Number of Cabins

How many cabins does the ship have?

56 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 1490

55 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2641

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Number of Cabins

Mardi Gras has 2,641 cabins, substantially more than Freedom's 1,490, offering travelers greater variety and availability in room choices.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Number of Cabins' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Number of Cabins' on the following:

Total number of cabins onboard.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Suite Count

How many suites are onboard?

52 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 44

97 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 175

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Suite Count

Suite counts are 175 on Mardi Gras against 44 on Freedom, providing luxurious accommodations for travelers seeking premium cruise experiences.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Suite Count' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Suite Count' on the following:

Number of suites onboard.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Balcony Cabin

How many balcony cabins are onboard?

71 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 489

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 1486

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Balcony Cabin

Balcony cabins are much more abundant on Mardi Gras with 1,486 compared to Freedom's 489, providing a superior number of scenic ocean-view staterooms.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Balcony Cabin' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Balcony Cabin' on the following:

Number of cabins with private balconies.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Oceanview Cabin

How many oceanview cabins are there?

59 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 340

74 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 1622

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Oceanview Cabin

Oceanview cabins count 1,622 for Mardi Gras whereas Freedom offers only 340, expanding options for travelers wanting natural light without a balcony.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Oceanview Cabin' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Oceanview Cabin' on the following:

Number of cabins with outside ocean views.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Inside Cabin

How many inside cabins are onboard?

8 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 575

2 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 818

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Inside Cabin

Inside cabins on Mardi Gras number 818, more than Freedom's 575, giving budget-conscious guests more availability.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Inside Cabin' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Inside Cabin' on the following:

Number of interior cabins with no outside view.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Max Occupancy per Cabin

What is the max occupancy per cabin?

37 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 4

59 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 5

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Max Occupancy per Cabin

Maximum occupancy per cabin is higher on Mardi Gras at 5 people, compared to 4 on Freedom, making Mardi Gras better suited for larger families or groups sharing rooms.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Max Occupancy per Cabin' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Max Occupancy per Cabin' on the following:

Maximum number of people per cabin.

Lifeboat Capacity

What is the lifeboat capacity?

57 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 150

59 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 150

Carnival Freedom

This refers to the number of passengers the lifeboats can carry in case of emergency. Given the ship's large passenger capacity, this number might seem low but is consistent with maritime safety standards for this class of ship.

Carnival Mardi Gras

The lifeboat capacity of 150 ensures that the ship is equipped with adequate safety measures, surpassing the minimum regulatory requirements for passenger safety.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Lifeboat Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Lifeboat Capacity' on the following:

Number of passengers that lifeboats can support.

Propulsion & Performance ¹⁴

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Fuel Capacity

What is the fuel capacity?

4,000,000 gal 0 Votes

4,500,000 gal 0 Votes

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Fuel Capacity

Fuel capacity is larger on Mardi Gras at 4,500,000 gallons compared to Freedom's 4,000,000 gallons, supporting longer journeys without refueling despite Mardi Gras's lower cruising range.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Fuel Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Fuel Capacity' on the following:

Maximum fuel storage capacity.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Propulsion Type

What is the propulsion type?

47 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Diesel-Electric

29 Carnival Mardi Gras 1 Votes LNG

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Propulsion Type

Carnival Mardi Gras runs on cleaner LNG propulsion, unlike Freedom's diesel-electric system, enhancing environmental friendliness and reducing emissions significantly.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Propulsion Type' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Propulsion Type' on the following:

Type of propulsion system used.

Russell Ford

143 Reactions

7 months ago

I'm impressed by Mardi Gras's eco-friendly LNG propulsion versus Freedom's diesel-electric system. Sustainable cruising is the future!

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Total Power Output

What is the total power output?

75,600 kW 0 Votes

37,000 kW 0 Votes

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Total Power Output

Total power output is 75,600 kW on Freedom, more than double Mardi Gras's 37,000 kW, suggesting Freedom might deliver greater raw engine power despite Mardi Gras's efficiency.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Total Power Output' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Total Power Output' on the following:

Combined engine output.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Maximum Speed

What is the maximum speed?

22 knots 0 Votes

23 knots 0 Votes

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Maximum Speed

Mardi Gras has a slightly higher maximum speed of 23 knots compared to Freedom's 22 knots, potentially shortening travel time between destinations by a small margin.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Speed' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Speed' on the following:

Top attainable speed.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Cruising Range

What is the cruising range?

54 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 3000

51 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2500

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Cruising Range

Cruising range is longer on Freedom at 3,000 nautical miles compared to Mardi Gras's 2,500, supporting longer legs without refueling that may add flexibility to routing.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Cruising Range' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Cruising Range' on the following:

Maximum range without refueling.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Stabilizers

Does the ship have stabilizers?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

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Stabilizers

Both ships have stabilizers for smoother sailing, improving onboard comfort during rough seas.

Whether stabilizers are present to reduce motion.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Bow Thrusters

Does the ship have bow thrusters?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

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Bow Thrusters

Mardi Gras features bow thrusters for excellent maneuvering in ports, whereas Freedom does not, offering Mardi Gras an advantage in tight docking situations.

Whether bow thrusters are fitted for maneuverability.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Service Speed

What is the service speed?

22 knots 1 Votes

17 knots 0 Votes

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Service Speed

Freedom maintains a service speed of 22 knots versus Mardi Gras's 17 knots, so Freedom travels faster under normal cruising conditions, which could be an advantage in itinerary timing.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Service Speed' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Service Speed' on the following:

Typical cruising speed.

Elizabeth Pendleton

147 Reactions

7 months ago

If speed is your thing, Carnival Freedom cruises at 22 knots while Mardi Gras is slower at 17 knots. Faster sailing could mean more destinations!

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Number of Engines

How many engines does the ship have?

97 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 6

39 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2

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Number of Engines

Freedom uses 6 engines whereas Mardi Gras uses only 2, reflecting Mardi Gras's advanced, efficient engineering design.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Number of Engines' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Number of Engines' on the following:

Total count of engines onboard.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Engine Manufacturer

Who is the engine manufacturer?

92 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Wärtsilä

82 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes MaK, Caterpillar

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Engine Manufacturer

Engine manufacturers differ: Freedom is powered by Wärtsilä engines while Mardi Gras employs MaK and Caterpillar, highlighting different technology and maintenance approaches.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Engine Manufacturer' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Engine Manufacturer' on the following:

Company producing the engines.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Propellers Count

How many propellers are there?

2 propellers 0 Votes

4 propellers 0 Votes

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Propellers Count

Mardi Gras has 4 propellers compared to Freedom's 2, which can contribute to improved maneuverability and smoother cruising.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Propellers Count' on the following:

Number of propellers installed.

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Propeller Type

What type of propellers are used?

67 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Controllable Pitch

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Azipod

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Propeller Type

Mardi Gras uses azipod propellers allowing 360-degree rotation for enhanced handling, unlike Freedom's controllable pitch propellers.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Propeller Type' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Propeller Type' on the following:

Style of propeller system.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Fuel Type

What fuel does the ship use?

52 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes MDO

84 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes LNG

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Fuel Type

Fuel types differ: Freedom uses marine diesel oil whereas Mardi Gras uses LNG, reflecting Mardi Gras's advanced green propulsion focus.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Fuel Type' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Fuel Type' on the following:

Type of fuel used.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Azipod Propulsion

Does the ship use Azipod propulsion?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

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Azipod Propulsion

Azipod propulsion is present only on Mardi Gras, enhancing agility and fuel efficiency, which indicates Mardi Gras is built with modern maritime technology.

Indicates if ship uses podded propulsion.

Safety & Regulations ¹¹

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Environmental Compliance

What environmental standards are met?

17 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes MARPOL

46 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes MARPOL, Green Passport, ISO 14001

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Environmental Compliance

Mardi Gras complies with additional environmental standards such as Green Passport and ISO 14001 beyond Freedom's MARPOL compliance, demonstrating a stronger commitment to eco-friendly operations.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Environmental Compliance' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Environmental Compliance' on the following:

Compliance with environmental regulations.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Safety Certification Standard

What safety certification standard is met?

67 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes SOLAS

74 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes SOLAS, ISM, ISPS

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Safety Certification Standard

Mardi Gras exceeds Freedom with multiple safety certifications including ISM and ISPS in addition to SOLAS, reflecting rigorous safety and security standards for passenger peace of mind.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Safety Certification Standard' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Safety Certification Standard' on the following:

Standard certifications the ship complies with.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Lifeboats Count

How many lifeboats are there?

88 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 20

82 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 18

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Lifeboats Count

Freedom has 20 lifeboats while Mardi Gras has 18, a minor difference ensuring full capacity evacuation but showing slightly different lifeboat arrangements.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Lifeboats Count' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Lifeboats Count' on the following:

Total number of lifeboats available onboard.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Life Rafts Count

How many life rafts are onboard?

61 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 20

43 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 12

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Life Rafts Count

Freedom provides more life rafts with 20 compared to Mardi Gras's 12, which may affect emergency evacuation protocols.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Life Rafts Count' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Life Rafts Count' on the following:

Number of inflatable life rafts.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Fire Safety Systems

What fire safety systems are installed?

47 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Sprinklers, Fire Doors, Smoke Detectors, Water Mist

49 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Sprinklers, Fire Doors, Smoke Detectors, Water Mist

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Fire Safety Systems

Both ships feature comprehensive fire safety systems including sprinklers, fire doors, smoke detectors, and water mist, ensuring high safety standards for guests.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Fire Safety Systems' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Fire Safety Systems' on the following:

Fire prevention and response systems onboard.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Medical Facilities

What medical facilities are available?

22 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Clinic, Pharmacy

49 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Clinic, ICU, Pharmacy

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Medical Facilities

Mardi Gras offers more advanced medical facilities including an ICU in addition to clinic and pharmacy, compared to Freedom's clinic and pharmacy only, ideal for passengers desiring heightened medical support.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Medical Facilities' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Medical Facilities' on the following:

Onboard medical services and equipment.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Muster Stations

How many muster stations are there?

57 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 12

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 18

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Muster Stations

Mardi Gras has 18 muster stations, 6 more than Freedom's 12, facilitating efficient passenger assembly during emergencies.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Muster Stations' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Muster Stations' on the following:

Passenger assembly points for evacuation.

Evacuation Time Compliance

Does the ship meet evacuation time compliance?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Compliance with evacuation time regulations.

SOLAS Compliance

Is the ship SOLAS compliant?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Indicates compliance with SOLAS convention.

Ice Class Rating

What is the ice class rating?

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Freedom (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Ice navigation certification for polar cruising.

Security Screening Facilities

What security screening facilities are present?

57 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

59 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Security Screening Facilities' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Security Screening Facilities' on the following:

Passenger and crew security systems at embarkation.

Dining & Cuisine ¹³

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Dining Venues Count

How many dining venues are there?

15 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 4

69 Carnival Mardi Gras 1 Votes 18

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Dining Venues Count

Mardi Gras boasts 18 dining venues compared to Freedom's 4, drastically multiplying guests' culinary choices and onboard dining experiences.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Dining Venues Count' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Dining Venues Count' on the following:

Total number of dining venues available onboard.

Atlas Jace

128 Reactions

7 months ago

Carnival Mardi Gras has a whopping 18 dining venues compared to Freedom's 4. Foodies will really love the dining variety on Mardi Gras.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Specialty Restaurants

How many specialty restaurants are there?

67 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 7

79 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 8

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Specialty Restaurants

Mardi Gras has 8 specialty restaurants, slightly more than Freedom's 7, giving foodie travelers more options for unique dining.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Specialty Restaurants' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Specialty Restaurants' on the following:

Number of themed or à la carte specialty restaurants.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Cafés & Casual Dining

How many cafés and casual dining venues are onboard?

7 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 1

19 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2

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Cafés & Casual Dining

Casual dining options are richer on Mardi Gras with 2 cafés versus one on Freedom, adding relaxed food venues for guests.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Cafés & Casual Dining' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Cafés & Casual Dining' on the following:

Informal dining areas such as cafés and snack bars.

Restaurants Count

How many restaurants are included?

17 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 4

69 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 18

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Restaurants Count' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Restaurants Count' on the following:

Total number of restaurants available on the cruise ship.

Buffet Restaurants

How many buffet restaurants are there?

37 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 1

39 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 1

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Buffet Restaurants' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Buffet Restaurants' on the following:

Number of self-service buffet-style restaurants.

Bars & Lounges Count

How many bars and lounges are there?

22 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 4

24 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 4

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Bars & Lounges Count' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Bars & Lounges Count' on the following:

Number of bars and lounges onboard.

Room Service Availability

Is room service available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether room service is available for passengers.

Beverage Packages

Are beverage packages available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of pre-paid beverage packages.

Dietary Options

What dietary options are available?

34 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher, Halal, Gluten-Free

36 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher, Halal, Gluten-Free

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Dietary Options' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Dietary Options' on the following:

Special dietary accommodations offered.

Gala Nights

Are there gala nights or formal dining events?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether formal dining events are organized.

Chef Partnerships

Does the ship feature chef partnerships?

82 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Guy Fieri, Emeril Lagasse

84 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Emeril Lagasse

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Chef Partnerships' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Chef Partnerships' on the following:

Partnerships with celebrity or Michelin-star chefs.

Culinary Classes

Are culinary classes offered?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Onboard cooking classes or demonstrations.

Wine Cellar

Is sommelier service or a wine cellar available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of curated wine cellars and sommelier service.

Recreation & Wellness ¹⁵

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Swimming Pools

How many swimming pools are there?

67 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 4

84 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 5

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Swimming Pools

Swimming pools count is higher on Mardi Gras with 5 pools compared to Freedom's 4, offering more aquatic spaces for relaxation or fun.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Swimming Pools' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Swimming Pools' on the following:

Total number of swimming pools onboard.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Jacuzzis

How many jacuzzis are there?

37 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 4

89 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 10

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Jacuzzis

Mardi Gras features 10 jacuzzis, significantly more than Freedom's 4, enhancing relaxation opportunities at sea.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Jacuzzis' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Jacuzzis' on the following:

Number of hot tubs or whirlpools available.

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Spa Facilities

What spa facilities are available?

47 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Massages, Thermal Suite

49 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Massages, Thermal Suite, Beauty Salon

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Spa Facilities

Mardi Gras adds a beauty salon to the spa facilities found on Freedom, enriching wellness options onboard.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Spa Facilities' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Spa Facilities' on the following:

Types of spa services offered.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Yoga & Pilates Studios

Are yoga or pilates studios offered?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

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Yoga & Pilates Studios

Only Mardi Gras offers dedicated Yoga & Pilates studios, catering to health-conscious travelers.

Dedicated studios for yoga, pilates, or similar.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Rock Climbing Wall

Does the ship have a rock climbing wall?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

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Rock Climbing Wall

Both ships have rock climbing walls, perfect for those seeking adventure and activity on board.

Presence of a rock climbing wall facility.

Water Park Type

What type of water park is available?

71 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Water Coaster

73 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Aqua Park, Water Coaster

Carnival Freedom

The water park features a "Water Coaster," a type of ride that combines a water slide with a roller coaster's ups and downs, offering an exciting and unique water attraction onboard for all ages.

Carnival Mardi Gras

The ship's water park features thrilling slides, including a water coaster. This is one of Mardi Gras' top attractions, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Water Park Type' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Water Park Type' on the following:

Type of water park or water features available.

Kids & Teens Facilities

What kids and teens facilities are offered?

74 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Kids Club, Teen Lounge

75 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Kids Club, Teen Lounge, Nursery

Carnival Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras offers dedicated spaces for children and teens, such as a kids' club and teen lounge, along with a nursery for younger children, ensuring all age groups are entertained.

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Kids & Teens Facilities' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Kids & Teens Facilities' on the following:

Dedicated spaces for children and teenagers.

Show Lounge Capacity

What is the show lounge capacity?

72 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 1400

64 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 900

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Show Lounge Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Show Lounge Capacity' on the following:

Capacity of the show lounge on the cruise ship for guests.

Sauna & Steam Rooms

Are saunas or steam rooms available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of saunas and steam rooms.

Fitness Center

Is there a fitness center?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of a passenger fitness center.

Sports Courts

How many sports courts are there?

97 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 2

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2

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Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Sports Courts' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Sports Courts' on the following:

Number of courts for basketball, tennis, etc.

Running Track

Is there a running track?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether an outdoor runningjogging track is available.

Mini Golf

Is mini golf available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether a mini golf course is available.

Water Slides

Are water slides available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of water slides or aqua park features.

Adult-Only Areas

Are there adult-only areas onboard?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Areas restricted to adults for relaxation.

Entertainment & Excursions ¹⁴

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Show Productions

What show productions are offered?

80 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Broadway Shows, Musicals

72 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Broadway Shows, Musicals, Ice Shows, Theater, Live DJ, Live Band

vs

Show Productions

Mardi Gras includes a wider variety of show productions such as ice shows and live DJ sets, compared to Freedom's Broadway shows and musicals, appealing to a broader entertainment taste.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Show Productions' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Show Productions' on the following:

Large-scale entertainment shows.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Theater Capacity

What is the theater’s seating capacity?

88 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 1400

84 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 900

vs

Theater Capacity

Theater capacity on Freedom is larger at 1,400 seats versus Mardi Gras's 900, offering more ample venue space for large-scale performances.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Theater Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Theater Capacity' on the following:

Seating capacity of the main theater.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Cinema

Is there a cinema or IMAX onboard?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

Cinema

Mardi Gras features a cinema onboard, a unique entertainment option not available on Freedom.

Whether the ship has a cinema or IMAX.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Virtual Reality

Is there a VR or arcade onboard?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality experiences are available exclusively on Mardi Gras, adding cutting-edge entertainment for tech-savvy passengers.

Whether VR or arcade facilities are available.

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Zodiac Boats

How many zodiac or tender boats are available?

97 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 12

0 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 0

vs

Zodiac Boats

Freedom carries 12 Zodiac boats for excursions, whereas Mardi Gras has none, implying Freedom might offer more adventure or tender options in certain destinations.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Zodiac Boats' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Zodiac Boats' on the following:

Number of small boats for landingsexcursions.

Live Music Venues

How many live music venues are there?

68 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 5

56 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 4

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Live Music Venues' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Live Music Venues' on the following:

Number of venues dedicated to live music.

Casino Presence

Is there a casino onboard?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of a casino facility.

Ice Rink

Is there an ice rink onboard?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Mardi Gras~~

Whether there is an ice skating rink.

Library

Is there a library onboard?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Mardi Gras~~

Availability of a library or reading lounge.

Shore Excursion Options

What shore excursions are available?

54 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Cultural Tours, Adventure Sports, City Sightseeing

56 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Cultural Tours, Adventure Sports, Wildlife Watching, City Sightseeing, Architectural Tours

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Shore Excursion Options' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Shore Excursion Options' on the following:

Types of shore excursions offered.

Expedition Gear Storage

Is there expedition gear storage?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Mardi Gras~~

Facilities to store gear for expeditionactive travel.

Expedition Team

Is there an expedition team or naturalists onboard?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Mardi Gras~~

Whether trained experts guide excursions.

Private Island Access

Does this ship offer private island access?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether the cruise line provides access to a private island.

Simulators & Lanes

How many simulators and lanes are available?

14 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 2

16 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 2

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Simulators & Lanes' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Simulators & Lanes' on the following:

Number of simulators or lanes for recreational activities.

Technology & Connectivity ¹²

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Dynamic Positioning

Does the ship have dynamic positioning?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

Dynamic Positioning

Dynamic positioning technology is implemented only on Mardi Gras, allowing it to maintain precise station-keeping without anchors, useful in protected or sensitive marine environments.

Ability to maintain position using thrusterspropellers.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Bridge Control Type

What bridge control type is used?

47 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Semi-Automated

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Fully Automated

vs

Bridge Control Type

Mardi Gras operates with a fully automated bridge control system versus Freedom's semi-automated, indicating higher technological sophistication and efficiency in navigation.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Bridge Control Type' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Bridge Control Type' on the following:

Level of bridge control automation.

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Automation Level

What is the ship’s automation level?

47 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Medium

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes High

vs

Automation Level

Automation level on Mardi Gras is high compared to Freedom's medium, reflecting newer technologies and operational advancements.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Automation Level' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Automation Level' on the following:

Degree of automation onboard.

Satellite TV

Is satellite TV available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Freedom

Onboard satellite TV means guests can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, including live events and news, enhancing the vacation experience, especially on long sea days.

Indicates if passenger areas have satellite television.

Smart Cabin Controls

Are smart cabin controls provided?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras

Smart cabin controls allow guests to adjust their room's settings (temperature, lighting, etc.) through an app or voice commands, enhancing convenience and comfort.

Smart features like app-based lighting, temperature, or keyless entry.

Navigation System Type

What navigation system type is onboard?

87 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Integrated Bridge System

79 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes ECDIS

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Navigation System Type' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Navigation System Type' on the following:

Main type of navigation system used.

Radar Systems

What radar systems are installed?

57 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes X-band, S-band

62 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes X-band, S-band, ARPA

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Radar Systems' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Radar Systems' on the following:

Radar technologies available.

GPS Integration

Does the ship have GPS integration?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Indicates whether GPS is integrated into ship navigation.

Communication Systems

What communication systems are installed?

82 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Satellite, GMDSS

60 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes VHF, UHF, Satellite, GMDSS

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Communication Systems' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Communication Systems' on the following:

Ship-to-shore and onboard communication technologies.

Onboard App

Is there an onboard app or digital service?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of apps for bookings, schedules, or activities.

WiFi Availability

Is WiFi available onboard?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether WiFi is available onboard.

Digital Cabin Assistant

Does it feature a digital cabin assistant?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether the cruise ship includes a digital assistant for easier navigation.

Sustainability & Environmental ¹¹

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Shore Power Capability

Does the ship support shore power?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

Shore Power Capability

Shore power capability is available on Mardi Gras, allowing it to plug into shore electricity and reduce emissions while docked, unlike Freedom.

Ability to connect to shore-based electrical power.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Solar Panel Usage

Does the ship use solar panels?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

Solar Panel Usage

Mardi Gras utilizes solar panels contributing renewable energy onboard, a feature absent on Freedom, enhancing its green credentials.

Whether solar panels supplement onboard energy.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Emission Reduction Tech

What emission reduction technologies are used?

37 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Scrubbers

49 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Scrubbers, Catalytic Converters

vs

Emission Reduction Tech

Mardi Gras features advanced emission reduction with both scrubbers and catalytic converters, improving air quality more than Freedom's scrubbers alone.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Emission Reduction Tech' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Emission Reduction Tech' on the following:

Systems to minimize exhaust emissions.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Energy Efficiency Rating

What is the ship’s energy efficiency rating?

63 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes B

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes A

vs

Energy Efficiency Rating

Energy efficiency rating is higher on Mardi Gras at A compared to Freedom's B, reflecting Mardi Gras's superior environmental performance.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Energy Efficiency Rating' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Energy Efficiency Rating' on the following:

Overall efficiency class based on design index.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

LNG

Is the ship LNG or hybrid ready?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

LNG

Only Mardi Gras operates on LNG fuel, making it the more environmentally friendly option and the first of its kind on the Carnival fleet.

Capability of using LNG or hybrid propulsion.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Green Building Certification

What green certifications are held?

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Freedom (Help us out by suggesting one!)

89 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes LEED

vs

Green Building Certification

Mardi Gras holds a LEED green building certification, confirming its design meets stringent sustainability standards, which Freedom lacks.

Certifications showing sustainable design.

Ballast Water Treatment

Does the ship have ballast water treatment?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Freedom

The ballast water treatment system ensures that water taken on at one port doesn't introduce invasive species into another port. This technology is part of Carnival Freedom's efforts to preserve marine ecosystems.

Indicates if ballast water is treated to prevent invasive species.

Wastewater Treatment System

Does the ship have a wastewater treatment system?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Indicates if advanced wastewater treatment is installed.

Recycling Facilities

Are there recycling facilities onboard?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Onboard systems for recycling waste.

Single-Use Plastic Reduction

Does the ship reduce single-use plastics?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Policies to reduce single-use plastics.

Carbon Offset Program

Is there a carbon offset program?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Indicates if carbon offsetting is offered for passenger travel.

Service & Operations ¹¹

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Home Port

What is the ship’s home port?

67 Carnival Freedom 1 Votes Port of Galveston (Galveston)

63 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Port Canaveral (Florida)

vs

Home Port

Home port for Mardi Gras is Port Canaveral, Florida, while Freedom is based in Port of Galveston, Texas, which affects cruise departure locations and itinerary options.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Home Port' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Home Port' on the following:

Main registered home port of the ship.

Rafe Vaughn

113 Reactions

7 months ago

Depending on your location, port matters! Freedom sails from Port of Galveston while Mardi Gras calls Port Canaveral home. East vs. South convenience.

Curated by Okthapian I. M.

Maintenance Interval

What is the maintenance interval?

24 Months 0 Votes

12 Months 0 Votes

vs

Maintenance Interval

Mardi Gras has a 12-month maintenance interval, half of Freedom's 24 months, allowing it to maintain peak condition with more frequent upkeep.

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Maintenance Interval' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Maintenance Interval' on the following:

Interval between scheduled maintenance.

Crew Nationalities Diversity

What is the crew nationality mix?

27 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes European, Asian, Latin American

99 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Mixed

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Nationalities Diversity' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Nationalities Diversity' on the following:

Diversity of crew nationalities onboard.

Crew Training Standard

What is the crew training standard?

67 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes STCW

79 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes STCW, ISO Certified

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Training Standard' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Training Standard' on the following:

Standard to which crew are trained.

Language Availability

What languages are available onboard?

78 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes English, Spanish, German, Mandarin, Portuguese

75 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes English, Spanish, German, French, Mandarin, Portuguese, Italian, Norwegian

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Language Availability' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Language Availability' on the following:

Languages spoken onboard.

Customer Service Desk

Is there a customer service desk?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Availability of a 247 guest services desk.

Medical Team Size

How large is the medical team?

62 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 6-10 medical staff

59 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 5-10 medical staff

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Medical Team Size' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Medical Team Size' on the following:

Number of doctors and nurses onboard.

Housekeeping Frequency

How often is housekeeping provided?

67 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes Daily

69 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes Daily

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Housekeeping Frequency' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Housekeeping Frequency' on the following:

Frequency of cabin housekeeping.

Turnaround Time at Port

What is the turnaround time at port?

17 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes 4-6 Hours

19 Carnival Mardi Gras 0 Votes 4-6 Hours

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Turnaround Time at Port' on the following:

Score info for Carnival Mardi Gras:

We base our scoring on 'Turnaround Time at Port' on the following:

Average time required for disembarkationembarkation at port.

Dry Dock Schedule

What is the dry dock schedule?

34 Carnival Freedom 0 Votes September 1 to October 8, 2026

Who knows? 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras (Help us out by suggesting one!)

vs

Score History

Score info for Carnival Freedom:

We base our scoring on 'Dry Dock Schedule' on the following:

Years between mandatory dry dockings.

Concierge Service

Is concierge service offered?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether a concierge service is available for passengers.

Pricing & Value-Add ¹⁰

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Gratuities

Are gratuities included?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

Gratuities

Gratuities are included on Freedom but required on Mardi Gras, an important consideration for budgeting your cruise costs.

Whether tips and gratuities are included.

Curated by Venanda F. Rasti

Excursions

Are excursions included?

No 0 Votes ~~Carnival Freedom~~

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

vs

Excursions

Excursions are included on Mardi Gras but not on Freedom, potentially adding value and convenience for travelers preferring packaged shore experiences.

Whether shore excursions are part of the fare.

Beverages

Are beverages included in the fare?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether standard beverages are included in fare.

WiFi

Is WiFi included?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether WiFi is included without extra charge.

Loyalty Program Availability

Is a loyalty program available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Indicates if passengers can join a loyalty program.

Onboard Credit Offers

Are onboard credit offers available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether onboard credit is offered as part of booking promotions.

Cabin Upgrade Options

Are cabin upgrade options offered?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether complimentary or discounted upgrades are available.

Kids Sail Free Promotions

Are there kids sail free promotions?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Indicates if kids can sail free under special promotions.

Seasonal Discounts

Are seasonal discounts available?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Indicates if fares are discounted seasonally.

Early Booking Benefits

Are there early booking benefits?

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Freedom

Yes 0 Votes Carnival Mardi Gras

Whether passengers receive benefits for booking early.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Travel Comfort Levels

How comfortable is this cruise ship during long journeys?

Extremely comfortable — Feels like a floating luxury hotel

0 Votes

Very comfortable — Spacious and relaxing experience

0 Votes

Comfortable — Good seating and sleeping arrangements

0 Votes

Decent — Some comfort but not ideal for long trips

0 Votes

Uncomfortable — Feels cramped and hard to relax

0 Votes

Speed and Travel Time

How fast is this cruise ship for long-distance travel?

Super fast — Less than 5 hours for long routes

0 Votes

Very fast — 5 to 10 hours for long routes

0 Votes

Fast — 10 to 15 hours for long routes

0 Votes

Moderate — 15 to 20 hours for long routes

0 Votes

Very slow — Over 20 hours for long routes

0 Votes

Cabin Space

How spacious are the cabins on this cruise ship?

Very large — Over 300 square feet

0 Votes

Large — 200 to 300 square feet

0 Votes

Moderate — 150 to 200 square feet

0 Votes

Small — 100 to 150 square feet

0 Votes

Very tight — Under 100 square feet

0 Votes

Dining Experience

How enjoyable is the dining experience on this cruise ship?

Outstanding — Gourmet-level dining every time

0 Votes

Great — Wide selection with high-quality dishes

0 Votes

Good — Tasty meals with decent variety

0 Votes

Average — Basic meals with some options

0 Votes

Disappointing — Limited food variety and taste

0 Votes

Entertainment and Activities

How entertaining is this cruise ship during the journey?

Nonstop fun — Endless entertainment options

0 Votes

Very fun — Many engaging activities

0 Votes

Decent fun — Several activities to enjoy

0 Votes

Somewhat dull — Few options available

0 Votes

Very boring — Hardly any activities

0 Votes

Noise Levels

How quiet is this cruise ship during travel?

Peacefully quiet — Silent and calm everywhere

0 Votes

Quiet — Rarely noticeable

0 Votes

Moderate noise — Manageable but present

0 Votes

Quite noisy — Noticeable in most areas

0 Votes

Extremely noisy — Hard to relax anywhere

0 Votes

Service and Staff Friendliness

How friendly and helpful is the staff on this cruise ship?

Exceptional — Staff make the trip feel special

0 Votes

Very nice — Attentive and welcoming service

0 Votes

Nice — Friendly staff, decent service

0 Votes

Okay — Basic service but not warm

0 Votes

Unpleasant — Rude and unhelpful staff

0 Votes

Cleanliness and Maintenance

How clean and well-maintained is this cruise ship?

Spotless — Perfectly clean and fresh everywhere

0 Votes

Very clean — Well-maintained in most areas

0 Votes

Clean — Acceptable cleanliness

0 Votes

Somewhat messy — Needs better cleaning

0 Votes

Very dirty — Feels neglected

0 Votes

Boarding and Check-in Experience

How smooth is the boarding and check-in process on this cruise ship?

Seamless — Feels effortless and stress-free

0 Votes

Smooth — Quick and easy boarding

0 Votes

Decent — Manageable but not fast

0 Votes

Frustrating — Too much waiting and delays

0 Votes

Terrible — Long lines and confusing process

0 Votes

Pricing and Value

How fairly priced is this cruise ship experience?

Great value for money

0 Votes

Pretty good price

0 Votes

Fair deal

0 Votes

Kinda pricey

0 Votes

Crazy expensive

0 Votes

Guides ⁴

Videos ¹

Explore Carnival Freedom Cruise Ship Now!

youtube.com

8 months ago

Files ¹

Carnival Freedom Accessible Cruiseing Deck Plan

carnival.com

8 months ago

Videos ¹

Carnival Mardi Gras Cruise Ship Overview

youtube.com

8 months ago

Files ¹

Everything You Need to Know About Carnival Mardi Gras Ship

carnival.com

8 months ago

Reviews ⁰

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Freedom

0 / 5 0 Reviews

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Mardi Gras

0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions ⁰

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards ²

Only the best made it here.

Peep the Winners

Best Cruise Ships for First Time Cruisers

10 Champs & 8 Wannabes — How do these cruise ships ensure a smooth first-time experience?

Collections ⁰

Treasures You’ve picked. No fluff, all fun.

More Cruise Ships ⁰

Unlock more awesome finds.

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61 Points

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69 Points

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Other Carnival Cruise Line Cruise Ships ²⁸

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Carnival Freedom

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Carnival Mardi Gras

Highlights 162

Why is Carnival Freedom better than Carnival Mardi Gras ?

General Information

Dimensions & Tonnage

Capacity

Propulsion & Performance

Safety & Regulations

Recreation & Wellness

Entertainment & Excursions

Technology & Connectivity

Service & Operations

Why is Carnival Mardi Gras better than Carnival Freedom ?

General Information

Dimensions & Tonnage

Capacity

Propulsion & Performance

Safety & Regulations

Dining & Cuisine

Recreation & Wellness

Entertainment & Excursions

Technology & Connectivity

Sustainability & Environmental

Service & Operations

Pricing & Value-Add

Carnival Freedom vs. Carnival Mardi Gras: Clash of Carnival Icons

Bold And Classic: Exploring The Strengths Of Carnival Freedom

Next-Gen Luxury: Highlighting The Carnival Mardi Gras Experience

Quick Take

Bottom Line

Verdict

Comparisons 38

Price comparisons

Carnival Freedom

Carnival Mardi Gras

Related comparisons 38

Margaritaville at Sea Islander vs Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom vs Celebrity Reflection

Carnival Freedom vs Valor

Carnival Mardi Gras vs Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady

Celebrity Beyond vs Carnival Mardi Gras

MSC Seaside vs Carnival Mardi Gras

Comparisons & Facts 162

General Information 22

Ship Class

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Keel Laid Date

Carnival Freedom

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Ship Type

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Model Name

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Cruise Line

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Previous Name

Former Operator

IMO Number

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Shipbuilder

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Call Sign

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MMSI Number

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Yard Number

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Release Year

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Refurbishment Year

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Christened Date

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In Service Date

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Notable Event

Highlights ¹⁶²

Comparisons ³⁸

Related comparisons ³⁸

Comparisons & Facts ¹⁶²

General Information ²²

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Average Cabin Size

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Score History

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Public Space Ratio

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Score History