The Carnival Magic cruise ship is a popular choice for travelers looking for an exciting and fun-filled vacation at sea. This ship, which is part of the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, offers a wide range of amenities and activities for guests of all ages. One of the main attractions of the Carnival Magic is its WaterWorks water park, which features thrilling waterslides, splash zones, and a massive tipping bucket that guarantees a wild and wet time for everyone. There is also a dedicated area for young children called Camp Ocean, where kids can enjoy age-appropriate activities and make new friends. For the adults, the Carnival Magic offers a variety of entertainment options, including live shows, comedy clubs, and a casino for those feeling lucky. The Serenity adult-only retreat provides a peaceful oasis for relaxation, complete with loungers and whirlpools.
The Ultimate Guide to Carnival Magic ®
Carnival Magic ® , a Dream class ship, was named so because she invokes a sense of awe and wonder. On the first day of your Caribbean cruise when you board Carnival Magic ® you’ll begin to get a sense of how spectacular, sensational, and magical she really is. From the top deck to the bottom and from bow to stern, Carnival Magic ® is brimming with fun for the whole family throughout the entire length of your cruise vacation.
The ship features a 1/2 mile wraparound promenade deck with spectacular scenic views, charming staterooms, and exceptionally friendly and accommodating staff. In fact, the ship has been specially designed to offer the best in activities and entertainment.
There’s also no shortage of restaurants and pubs offering delicious food and refreshing drinks in a merry and friendly atmosphere. Carnival Magic ® truly is where magical memories are made!
Outdoor Fun
Along the upper decks you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied, energized, relaxed, or entertained as the mood grabs you. For starters, there is Carnival WaterWorks, a full waterpark that will delight children of all ages, including those who are young at heart!
If you want to get wet and have a lot of fun doing it, WaterWorks ™ will certainly fit the bill.
If relaxation is more your style while the children enjoy other activities, you’ll want to book some time in Serenity Adult Only Retreat ™ . Here you can find yourself in a truly magical setting of tranquil calm, away from all the energy and excitement on other areas of the ship.
When you’re ready for some more outdoor fun again, you can try your skill at our challenging ropes course with two levels of skill for younger and older thrill-seekers, or perhaps you’d like to play a round or two of Mini Golf with the family.
And, of course, there is also SportSquare ™ , an outdoor recreation area with plenty more athletic activities as well as a fitness area so you never have to miss a good workout.
Indoor Fun
Within the ship you’ll find ample opportunities to watch dazzling shows, take part in fun game shows, try your luck at the casino, and much more. Some of the most popular crowd-pleasing features on Carnival Magic ® include Lip Sync Battle ™ , a lip-syncing competition where you can challenge other passengers all the way to the finals, where you could be crowned the Lip Sync Battle ™ Champion!
The casino is where a lot of the action happens in the evening, offering everything from slots to poker and blackjack to all your favorite table games. Will you hit the jackpot?
If the casino activity isn’t your preference, perhaps you’d enjoy some relaxation in Cloud 9 Spa ™ instead. Treat yourself to a massage, a facial, or some thermal therapy in the sensational Hydrotherapy Pool!
Carnival Magic ® has its very own Piano Bar too, where you can simply relax and take in some good tunes and good vibes, or even join in on a sing-along around the piano. And for some truly tasty and unique libations, visit Alchemy Bar ™ and sample some vintage cocktails or let the bartender make a special creation just for you.
For some lively fun by the pool, have a drink at RedFrog Rum Bar ™ , and you’ll definitely want to check out BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ , where you can also try frozen tequila drinks and an assortment of refreshing Mexican beers.
Delicious Cruise Dining
As mentioned, there is no shortage of delicious cruise dining and drinking options. Whether you are seeking a fine meal, some tasty pub grub, or a cold pint to enjoy while you watch the game, we’ve got you covered.
In the mood for a burger? You’ve got to stop at Guy’s Burger Joint, where restaurateur and celebrity chef Guy Fieri helped Carnival Cruise serve up the best burgers at sea!
And then there’s BlueIguana Cantina ™ where you can enjoy delicious and fresh Mexican fare, and have fun building your tacos or burritos from a wide range of tasty ingredients.
Cucina del Capitano ® is where you’ll want to go if you want to enjoy authentic Italian food, served up family style for that true family dinner feeling.
Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que – Guy Fieri didn’t stop with burgers–get ready to sink your teeth into some tender, tasty, and smoky barbecue!
RedFrog Pub ™ – Offering flavorful Caribbean food in a lively yet laid back atmosphere, the Red Frog Pub also features live music and invokes a sense of the island life even when you’re not on an island!
So what are you waiting for? Experience all the magic firsthand onboard Carnival Magic ® . Whether you are seeking a cruise vacation with your significant other for a romantic adventure, or planning on having loads of fun with the whole family, a cruise to the Caribbean or Bermuda will provide enough happy memories to last a lifetime.
Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.
Carnival Magic: Kids Activities and Family Fun
For South Florida families seeking an unforgettable cruise vacation experience, it’s time to meet Carnival Magic ® ! This large-scale Dream class ship is packed with food, entertainment, and family fun from bow to stern.
At 1,004 feet and a million possibilities, Carnival Magic ® is the perfect ship for cruising with kids (and teens)! Escape to Bermuda, the Caribbean and more on one of our thrilling cruises from Miami or Ft. Lauderdale. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store:
Family Fun Activities
Cruising on Carnival Magic ® is all about family fun and being together. That’s why we’ve dreamed up plenty of activities the whole gang will love.
WaterWorks – When you’re cruising with family, splashing around in the water is what it’s all about. WaterWorks is our signature onboard waterpark for the young – and the young at heart! Speed slides, twisting rides, and splash pads are just some of the awesome fun to be had at WaterWorks. Custom lighting effects will keep your heart pumping as you scream toward victory.
Ropes Course ™ – Ready for something a little different, and a LOT of fun? Our Ropes Course is the ONLY ropes course that puts you high in the air and out at sea! You’ll be safely harnessed so you can tackle every challenge with confidence. With two levels of difficulty and obstacles you can take at your own pace, thrill-seekers of all ages can enjoy this course with a view.
SportSquare TM – The ultimate place for movement, friendly competition, and of course, fun! SportSquare TM is a great place to bond with your kids, meet other families, and be active. Foosball, stationary bikes, soccer, volleyball, running and more are all on deck at SportSquare TM
Video Arcade – Boys, girls, moms and dads can all find something to love at the Video Arcade. From classic games to new hits, plus partner and team games, the arcade is the place for activity and excitement. Challenge your new friends to a game of air hockey, help your little one score a prize from the crane, or rev it up at the driving games. Open 24 hours for anytime enjoyment.
Kids and Youth Programs
There’s something for everyone aboard Carnival Magic ® . In addition to excursions and entertainment for the whole family, we’ve created special clubs and meeting spots just for your young ones.
Camp Ocean ™ – For young cruisers aged 2-11, Camp Ocean ™ is where it’s at! This summer camp-like atmosphere provides supervised fun in the form of arts and crafts, songs, games, toys, dancing, movies, video games and more.
Circle “C” ® – Tweens and early teens have a spot to call their own, too. Circle “C” ® is where kids aged 12-14 can cruise, chill, and connect over activities like dance parties, games, and outdoor movies, to name just a few!
Club O2 ® – Our high school-aged adventurers need look no further than Club O2 ® . This teens-only club is the ultimate onboard meeting place for ages 15-17. Movies, music, sports, and karaoke will keep your teens laughing and excited the entire cruise – there’s a reason we were named Porthole Cruise Magazine’s Best Cruise Line for Teens!
Family-Friendly Dining
Guests always say cruise dining is one of the highlights of the trip! We’ve made sure the Carnival Magic ® is packed with tons of great food options, all in a fun atmosphere. Even the most finicky eaters can find something to love on a cruise to any exotic destination:
Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast TM – Start your day with imagination! The Dr. Seuss-inspired Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast TM is all about food, plus a big helping of fun. For a funky take on breakfast, join us for this feast, and even meet the stars of Seuss’ wacky world.
Guy’s Burger Joint – All the appeal of a roadside burger joint, brought to you in the middle of the ocean. Guy’s Burger Joint serves up juicy burgers and hand-cut fries, complete with a DIY toppings bar. Deliciously fun!
BlueIguana Cantina TM – If tacos, burritos and margaritas are your thing, we’ve got you covered. Head to the BlueIguana Cantina TM for a taste of Mexico. Our homemade tortillas and salsa served in a casual atmosphere will have you asking for “mas, por favor.”
Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ – Guy Fieri brings real-deal barbecue to the open seas! The champion chef and barbecue hall of famer has worked his magic once again. At Guy’s Pig & Anchor BBQ, you’ll find rockin’ sides like Mac Daddy Mac n Cheese, Old Skool Potato Salad and Collard Greens. And of course, the main event – some of the best smoked meats you can sink your teeth into.
Pizzeria del Capitano – No matter where you travel to, pizza is always a good idea. Cruise favorite Pizzeria del Capitano brings the flavors of Italy to you in the form of tasty pepperoni and mozzarella, perfectly seasoned sauce and fresh dough. Buona sera y buon appetito!
Do these dining options, activities and youth programs sound great? There’s more where that came from! Our cruises are designed to make every moment special, from stat to finish and onboard or on land. Carnival Magic ® is waiting to whisk you and your family away to parts unknown – are you ready to experience some magic?
Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.
Carnival Magic Review
When Carnival Magic appeared on the scene in 2011, the cruise industry sat up and took notice. Although the 3,690-passenger ship wasn't first in its class – that honor fell to Carnival Dream – the vessel boasted several firsts for the Fun Ship line, including Cucina del Capitano Italian specialty restaurant, the RedFrog Pub and its signature Thirsty Frog Red Ale, the SportSquare outdoor recreation area and the first ropes course at sea.
The Serenity adult-only retreat provides a peaceful oasis for relaxation, complete with loungers and whirlpools. Dining on the Carnival Magic is a culinary adventure in itself, with multiple dining options to choose from. The main dining room serves up delicious meals, while specialty restaurants like the Steakhouse and Cucina del Capitano offer a more intimate and unique dining experience.
Carnival Magic Deck Plans Pack in Tons of Family-Friendly Entertainment Options
More than a later, the Carnival Magic cruise ship may no longer be the fleet's most innovative, yet it holds up as a floating destination that offers something for everyone. A wide range of cabin types, including family "quints" that fit five people, make it perfect for the packs of friends and family we saw onboard (in matching T-shirts, natch). Dining may not be fancy, but you can choose from the key cruise food groups: burgers, burrito, brats and barbecue, as well as Asian, Indian, deli and pizza -- at least at lunch. The number of choices falls significantly at dinner.
Activities, too, are designed for a wide range of interests – and there are lots of things to do on Carnival Magic. If you like games, Carnival Magic has you covered; besides group participation favorites like Hasbro the Game Show and Liars Club, the daily program was packed with options like Yahtzee, Scattergories, Clue and a Jenga-type tower game in the lobby (plus shuffleboard in the RedFrog Pub and pickup pool, Ping-Pong, beanbag and mini-golf options around the ship). Dance lessons, casino tournaments, spa specials, a robust kids’ club program -- Carnival Magic throws it all at the wall -- and passengers respond with enthusiasm.
All this stuff, though, comes with a price – and that's lines. On our summer sailing, with the ship at well more than double occupancy (Carnival Magic has a maximum capacity of 4,724 passengers), the queues were persistent, to the point where the crush cut into our enjoyment. Thirty-minute waits (or more!) for popular eateries, like Guy's Burgers and Mongolian Wok, were the norm, not the exception. Tickets for Punchliner Comedy performances were gone hours before the show. Serenity Deck clamshells were claimed by 8:30 a.m. Getting off in port for excursions felt like a blood sport. Even trivia sessions were jam-packed, with teams of eight monopolizing the tables, forcing smaller groups to stand or even sit on the floor.
So where did we find our Zen? Attending the daily RedFrog Pub trivia quiz -- it's cumulative, so you play with the same people for the entire cruise for a more intimate experience. Sticking to off-hours for dining and getting up early for morning coffee helped, as did making Deck 5, with its four hot tubs and relatively underutilized lounge chairs, our sunning headquarters. Despite the sheer number of people onboard, we found the vast majority spent money on drinks instead of for-fee offerings so opening up the wallet a bit for specialty restaurants and the wonderfully expansive Cloud 9 spa also put the crowds at a distance. The cheer of the crew also kept us going; with a room steward that brought us copious amounts of ice and towel animals, as well as an outgoing entertainment staff, it was hard to stay irritated for too long.
Do we believe in Magic? After a week onboard, we'd answer with a quantified yes. As long as you pack your patience and are prepared to shift your routine slightly -- or conversely, see beating the lines as a game in its own right -- you'll emerge rested and relaxed, with plenty of Fun Ship memories. And really, what else can you ask for?
Accommodation on the Carnival Magic ranges from cozy interior cabins to spacious suites with private balconies. The ship also offers a selection of accessible cabins for guests with mobility issues. In terms of destinations, the Carnival Magic sails to a variety of exciting locations, including the Caribbean, Europe, and the Bahamas. Whether it's exploring the vibrant culture of the Caribbean islands or immersing oneself in the history of Europe, the Carnival Magic offers a memorable vacation experience. Overall, the Carnival Magic cruise ship is a fantastic choice for those seeking a thrilling and enjoyable vacation at sea. With its abundance of activities, amenities, and destinations, it promises to create lasting memories for all who embark on this unforgettable journey..
Reviews for "Unleash Your Inner Party Animal on the Carnival Magic Cruise Ship"
1. Sarah - 2/5 - I recently went on the Carnival Magic cruise ship with high expectations, but I was left disappointed. The ship felt overcrowded, and the amenities were underwhelming. The food at the buffet was lackluster, and the dining options were limited. The entertainment shows were subpar, and there weren't many activities to engage in during the day. Overall, I found the experience to be average at best and not worth the price.
2. John - 2/5 - My experience on the Carnival Magic cruise ship was far from magical. The service was lacking, with staff members appearing disinterested and inattentive. The cabins were cramped, and the decors felt outdated. The onboard activities were repetitive and not very engaging. The worst part was the constant noise and commotion from other passengers, making it hard to relax. I wouldn't recommend this cruise ship to anyone looking for a quality and enjoyable experience.
3. Emily - 1/5 - The Carnival Magic cruise ship was a complete letdown. The ship itself looked worn out and in need of renovation. The cleanliness standards were subpar, with dirty common areas and uncleaned cabins. The food options were limited, and the quality of the food was below average. The pool area was always crowded, and it was impossible to find a spot to relax in peace. I would avoid this cruise ship if you're looking for a comfortable and enjoyable vacation experience.
4. David - 2/5 - I had high hopes for the Carnival Magic cruise ship, but it fell short in many aspects. The onboard activities were repetitive and lacked variety. The entertainment shows were lackluster and didn't match the level of quality I expected. The pools were overcrowded, and it was difficult to find a lounge chair. The overall atmosphere felt chaotic and congested, making it hard to enjoy a relaxing vacation. I wouldn't choose this cruise ship again in the future.