Carnival Magic

The debut of the brand-new 3690-passenger Carnival Magic from her homeport of Galveston was celebrated last week with live music, parties, and fanfare. A crew of FROSCH travel agents was on the scene to inspect the newest ship in the Gulf. Here’s what they had to say about it! (Photos by Jamie DeJean.)

Which cabin categories did you see? Which one did you like the best? How did the cabin amenities compare to what you’ve seen before? 

Andrea D.: The Balcony Stateroom was quite spacious with subtle décor, plenty of storage space, nice bathroom amenities and of course a great view. 

Gail Shinbaum: Agreed. I also saw the Cove Balcony which reminded me of the sheltered balcony on the QMII. The only negative was the shower, which was a little on the small side. 

Ralph Cooper: The layout has changed from the older Carnival ships, making the rooms seem bigger. 

Marya Minter: I saw the Ocean View with Balcony and some Inside Cabins. Obviously, the balcony category is preferred! But both categories are spacious and the décor is tastefully done. 

What was your impression of the onboard entertainment and activities? 

Gail Shinbaum: The entertainment was good for kids & young adults. The ship is busy, active, lively… perhaps not as well-suited for older people who are looking for a quiet getaway.

 

Jamie DeJean: The show was fabulous for all ages—it was very high energy. There’s a rope climb for active guests and a waterworks area for kids. 

Marya Minter: I was impressed with the variety of sport and entertainment options. Out on deck the ropes course, Waterworks and theatre at sea were most impressive. Inside, the Red Frog Pub, Piano and Karaoke bars are sure to be a hit. I'd say these amenities would appeal to a broad range of clients and in various age groups.

How was the food? 

Andrea D.: The butter chicken at the Indian Tandoori restaurant was the most tasty food item that I experienced on the ship. 

Jamie DeJean: I ate at the buffet, had decent dessert and butter chicken from the Indian food section. The breakfast buffet had lots of choices. In the Dining Room, I noticed they had “comfort food” options on the menu—something very different from other cruise lines. 

Ralph Cooper: I thought the food was average, though I did enjoy the plantains and coconut shrimp in the pub. 

Who would like this ship and its itinerary? 

Jamie DeJean: It’s best for families and groups. Texas and Louisiana clients like this port because they can save on airfare. 

Marya Minter: I’d send our clients in Houston looking for a convenient port to depart, especially multi-generational family groups or honeymooners. 

Any commentary on the port of Galveston? Any good suggestions for pre-post hotels or restaurants? 

Andrea D.: Embarkation was flawless with many agents assisting and checking in guests. It was a quick and simple process from the parking lot shuttle to the terminal to the stateroom. 

Marya Minter: I have never seen a pretty port area—Galveston is about average. The cruise terminal is nothing fancy but has improved over the years. For pre/post hotels, I like Tremont House and San Luis.