Who wants the Magic? Of course, you do and Carnival Cruise Lines has the perfect formula for relaxation and rejuvenation. Point your navigation to Orlando, Florida, and hit the road or hop a flight. Port Canaveral is an easy embarkation and a quick shuttle from the MCO Airport. This boarding process is a breeze and perfect alternative to the busier cruise ports in South Florida.
The Carnival Magic is a 3,960 passenger Dream class ship and has a little bit of something for everyone in the family, young or old. This ship is also very laid-back and less scheduled than most cruising options. It is your time to experience the magic. Do your thing and marvel in memorable moments to last a lifetime.
THE EMBARKATION
Easy, breezy to start your week of relaxing. It’s the people taking care of you that make your vacation. The Carnival Magic staff did not disappoint, making me feel important before ever getting on the ship.
THE FOOD
The Magic is known for good grub and lives up to that reputation. Don’t expect fancy – but expect hardy food and plenty of it. By far, one of my favorite spots was Guy’s Burger Joint. It’s the best burger I’ve had at sea (not to mention the hand-cut fries).
There are plenty of food options included in the price of your cruise (including 24/7 pizza and room service); however, you can splurge on more upscale dining options for a nominal fee – for that foodie in your family. The 14 food destinations on the ship certainly kept us busy and full.
Italiano anyone? Cucina del Capitano was worth the more intimate setting and Northern/Southern Italian options.
You want a great steak or some surf n’ turf on the high-seas? Definitely make a reservation at Prime Steak House. Pair it with great wine and your meal includes a magical night at sea.
THE STAY
It’s a cruise. Don’t expect huge cabins. How much are you in the cabin anyhow? There are many options to choose from. Perhaps, splurge on a suite for even more magical memories.
THE DESTINATION
With over 100 excursions to choose from, you will get to do some “once in a lifetime” options.
Below: ATV trip through the jungles, rivers, mud and backroads of Mexico. This excursion was an adventurous and thrilling option. Choose your option once you book your trip on Carnival Magic.
End your trip with a few hours at a private beach and an open-bar. A view, sunshine, relaxation and libations = perfection!
THE FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT
Waterworks: A water park for the kids (big or small) – I made a huge splash.
Meet the staff that is a eager to please with gracious hospitality.
The stage show FLICK, created by Paul Roberts, is creative, artful and combined great talent and technology. Songs weaved from various Hollywood film productions will entertain you.
Comedy, a casino, lip-sync battles, pools, hot-tubs, adult only retreats, golf, basketball, ping-pong and kids activities everywhere — oh – did I mention bars everywhere? Night-club dancing? Carnival also offers various drink packages to fit your budget and consumption.
THE RELAXATION
Relax in the Thalassortherapy Pool, a special mix of sea H20 with all-natural absorbing minerals and vitamins to comfort your body and heal pains. This experience is one of the special rooms within the Cloud 9 Spa you can bask in with a day pass or an anytime voyage pass. The spa is amazingly relaxing after a day of shore excursions, equaling a must add-on to your itinerary.
The cruise options
Through 2018, the Magic is alternating seven night cruises: eastern/western Caribbean
EAST: Port Canaveral, Amber Cove Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, San Juan and Grand Turk
WEST: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, Belize City, Roatan Honduras, Costa Maya
