The Ship That Started It All
TSS Mardi Gras wasn't just Carnival's first ship—she was the vessel that proved cruising could be fun, affordable, and accessible to ordinary Americans. When Ted Arison purchased the former RMS Empress of Canada in 1972, he wasn't just buying a ship; he was launching a revolution that would transform the cruise industry forever.
Service Timeline
1961: Built as RMS Empress of Canada by Vickers-Armstrongs, UK, for Canadian Pacific
1972: Purchased by Ted Arison, renamed TSS Mardi Gras. Famously grounded on inaugural cruise March 11
1972-1993: Served as Carnival's flagship, launching the Fun Ship concept
1993: Sold to Epirotiki Lines, renamed StarShip Atlantic
1997: Scrapped at Alang, India after 36 years of service
Specifications
- Gross Tonnage
- 27,284 GT
- Length
- 650 feet (198m)
- Passenger Capacity
- 1,024 passengers
- Builder
- Vickers-Armstrongs, UK
- Carnival Service
- 21 years (1972-1993)
- Total Service
- 36 years
From the Logbook
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Legacy
The ship that ran aground on her inaugural voyage became the foundation of the world's largest cruise company. Mardi Gras proved that cruising could be a celebration—affordable fun for everyone, not just the wealthy elite. Every Carnival ship sailing today carries her DNA, her spirit, and her revolutionary promise of "Fun Ships" for all.