I’ve cruised Magic, Mardi Gras, and Vista (plus Fascination, Fantasy, Glory, Triumph, Liberty, Pride, Dream, and Sunshine). Vista is my favorite. We cruise Horizon in March and I’m so excited since I know they are almost identical. On the Vista, I liked that there was no charge for the Sky Ride and it was fun. It also had a Clubhouse area in the sports square that we liked. One thing we really like is the IMAX and thrill theater. We rarely ever go to the movies and consider it a nice treat on a sea day. And the thrill theater is just fun. We also sometimes watch the documentary style films they show as well. If we are hanging out on deck, some of us like to grab a bowl of pasta from the Italian place at lunch and chill in our lounge chair watching the ocean. You can’t do that on Mardi Gras. Same thing with the pizza place. It is on deck 5 on Mardi Gras.
Now I’m not against the Mardi Gras, it is definitely #2. Carnival changed the location and set up of Guys Burger for this ship and it flows so much better. Still on the upper decks for easy access while at the pool. The pizza place is set up better too to handle the long lines but a bit more hassle if you want it for lunch while you are lounging in the sun. The Bolt coaster was cool to ride once but I wouldn’t pay to ride it again. Another big plus for Mardi Gras is Big Chicken. Family Feud was also fun.
I tried to add the comparison chart in case you hadn’t seen it. You can see what each has and whether it is important for your family.