Carnival Cruise Line, in partnership with Atlanta culinary artist and baker Karen Portaleo, created a giant cruise ship replica of Carnival’s new Mardi Gras.
Weighing 1,500 pounds, the cruise ship-shaped confection is “docked” at Atlanta’s Lenox Square Mall and was officially named by Portaleo who served as godmother this past Saturday. In keeping with maritime tradition, the Food Network star smashed a ceremonial bottle across the vessel’s bow. Carnival also made a $10,000 donation to the Immune Deficiency Foundation, Portaleo’s charity of choice which is dedicated to improving the diagnosis, treatment and quality of life of those with primary immunodeficiencies.
Comprised of 130 pounds of flour, 10 pounds of cinnamon, and 50 gallons of icing, the gingerbread Mardi Gras is an creative representation of Carnival Cruise Line’s most innovative ship complete with a water park and even a working replica of BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea.
The real Mardi Gras is set to debut in Europe in August 2020 and, after several sailings in New York, will reposition to Port Canaveral for year-round Caribbean departures beginning in October 2020.
View Prices on Cruises on Mardi Gras
The gingerbread cruise ship will be on display at the Lenox Square Mall through December 24, providing a unique and memorable attraction for shoppers during the holidays.
Shoppers can also interact with the ship through a fun custom Snapchat geofilter, special Snapchat AR lenses that provide a peek into Mardi Gras’ many on board innovations, and a GIF booth for shoppers to capture how they’re Choosing Fun with Carnival.
