Carnival Magic Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We chose this cruise based on the ship and it's activities that we thought would appeal to all ages. We had been on Carnival 8 years earlier and it was a favorite line for our family. However, there have been some changes, not for the good. I'll give you my honest opinion of the good and the bad so you can decide.
Embarkation was very rushed. From the moment we got to our parking place (Park Port Canaveral-cheaper than parking at the port) to the time we boarded, it seemed like we were hurried along. One person forgot his shoes but the driver for Park PC allowed him to return to car to get them. At the port, they continued to rush us, asking questions but not listening for the answer, causing our party to get separated. We had to reassemble later to check in correctly. A word about arrival times: there were 2 lines, one for those arriving at their check in time and one for those who were early or late. We were quickly processed, though it seemed somewhat disorganized to us. I guess fast is good. Then we sat to wait to board, not terribly long. From car to on board, about one hour. Debarkation was a somewhat slower process with long lines, which gave me time to find my passport and documents for the grandchildren. The lines moved along fast.
Pros: Hub app: A nice way to find locations, see what is going on, view photos, menus for the entire cruise. Offered for free unless you want to send messages to others on the ship, that is $5. extra. Dr. E.- super funny, nice entertainment director, he was awesome (unfortunately, this will be a con also because this was his last cruise on the Magic--Look for him elsewhere, he is that good! Food options: There were food options scattered around in different places- on Deck 5, opposite ends of the Lido deck, and 2 different choices on the Lido deck in the open deck area. It was nice and cut down on lines. (though there were often lines at popular eating times. NOTE: These were open during lunch times only, not dinner. In the main dining room, the lobster, crabcakes, filet mignon, and molten lava cake were wonderful! An Easter service was offered on Easter.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Ocean View
The cabin was nice, not sure of exact category. We had one regular bath and another bathroom with a sink and tub/shower. It was nice having the extra area and the extra clothesline with 3 people sharing the cabin. We had 4 closet areas which provided ample storage room. We had adjoining doors with other family members in the next cabin. The window was big enough for a small person to sit in and look out, very nice.
Port Reviews
Belize City
Traveling beyond port area without an excursion was highly discouraged. We walked a bit out of the area to purchase items from locals but would not have done so without a male. We were approached by multiple people offering hair braiding and taxi rides but not too pushy.