The ship will now have its first revenue sailing from Port Canaveral on 14 November 2020 – adjusted from 31 August. 

As a result of the change, the vessel’s original first eight sailings have been cancelled, including European, transatlantic and New York-based itineraries and four Port Canaveral cruises.

Carnival said it had “promptly” began notifying guests to allow them to make alternative holiday plans.

The line is offering impacted guests a 25% future cruise credit, in addition to the full refund of their cruise fare (and applicable fees and taxes and other pre-purchased cruise components), as well as assistance with non-refundable airline and hotel reservations already booked.

If guests rebook their cruise using their 25% future cruise credit by 18 February, they will be credited with an additional $100pp onboard credit for that cruise.

Carnival said it had also communicated guidelines to trade partners regarding commission protection.

Ben Clement, Carnival Cruise Line’s senior president of newbuild, said: “We have been working closely with Meyer Turku executives to keep the Mardi Gras delivery on schedule, and while we deeply regret disappointing our guests, this change in the delivery date is required to make sure all of the ship’s systems, features and technology will be fully operational, so that we can give our guests the vacation they expect.

“Our commitment is to deliver a great and innovative ship, and Mardi Gras will definitely be that when it arrives in North America.”