Carnival Magic offers a wide range of recreational activities, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or fun, this cruise ship has it all. For those seeking adventure, Carnival Magic offers thrilling activities such as the exhilarating water slides at the WaterWorks water park. You can race your friends on the Speedway Splash, feel the rush on the Twister slide, or brave the high-speed thrill of the DrainPipe slide. There is also a splash zone for younger children to enjoy. If you prefer a more relaxing experience, you can spend your time lounging by one of the many pools or whirlpools on the ship.
As they say, everything's bigger in Texas, so it's only fitting that Carnival Magic's new home port is in Galveston. This port is ideal for families traveling in from around the state and beyond-- almost 50% of Americans are within a day's drive of Galveston. Family cruisers will be happy to know that there is a ton to do in downtown Galveston; from water parks to museums, you'll want to plan a pre or post cruise stay to make the most of your vacation.
Family cruisers will be happy to know that there is a ton to do in downtown Galveston; from water parks to museums, you ll want to plan a pre or post cruise stay to make the most of your vacation. Camp Carnival -- the complimentary child care program for children 2-11 -- is expanded on Carnival Magic, giving kids even more space to play games, watch movies and make crafts.
If you prefer a more relaxing experience, you can spend your time lounging by one of the many pools or whirlpools on the ship. The Serenity Adult-Only Retreat provides a peaceful oasis for adults to unwind and recharge. Here, you can enjoy a good book, take a dip in the pool, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the breathtaking ocean views.
Carnival Magic: Fun for All Ages
When given a choice between a cruise or a land vacation, my family would choose cruise every time. You just can't beat the value of cruising --dollar for dollar-- when you factor in transportation, accommodations, food, activities and childcare. Carnival Cruise Lines' newest ship, the Carnival Magic, provides a boat-load of fun for families of every age. From the brand new SportSquare, featuring the first ropes course at sea, to the mega cool WaterWorks Aqua Park -- the ship is nothing short of spectacular!
In fact, there's so much to do onboard, you may have a hard time fitting it all in . or at least that was the case for me when I sailed Carnival Magic on her inaugural voyage from Galveston, Texas.
Here are 7 Reasons Carnival Magic is Fun for All Ages:
Sailing from Galveston, Texas
As they say, everything's bigger in Texas, so it's only fitting that Carnival Magic's new home port is in Galveston. This port is ideal for families traveling in from around the state and beyond-- almost 50% of Americans are within a day's drive of Galveston. Family cruisers will be happy to know that there is a ton to do in downtown Galveston; from water parks to museums, you'll want to plan a pre or post cruise stay to make the most of your vacation.
Did Someone Say, Ropes Course?
I think one of the biggest and best additions on the Carnival Magic is the brand new SportSquare, featuring the very first ropes course at sea. My daughter didn't sail with me, but I know she would have gone nuts for this space and may have even tried the SkyCourse, which is available to anyone 48" or taller (that's usually around 7 years old). The fun continues 150' below with a 9-hole mini golf course (always a favorite) and plenty of foosball and ping-pong tables.
WaterWorks Wonderland
Carnival WaterWorks is always the go-to spot for my family on sea days. Carnival Magic takes the fun up a notch with a super-soaking 300-gallon water bucket that drenches everything (and everyone) in sight! There's also more water jets and splash zones for younger kids who are too small to ride the longest Twister water slide at sea. And the Drainpipe? Let me tell you from experience, that water slide is no joke!
Expanded Camp Carnival
The Carnival Magic doesn't skimp on any of the play spaces for kids. Camp Carnival -- the complimentary child care program for children 2-11 -- is expanded on Carnival Magic, giving kids even more space to play games, watch movies and make crafts. There are so many activities on board that you will literally have to drag your child(ren) away. again, I speak from experience! If you find yourself needing even more time, Carnival Magic offers Camp Carnival Night Owls for a nominal fee. In total, there is more than 19,000 square feet of space catering to kids and families, including Camp Carnival, Circle “C” ('tweens) and Club O2 (teens).
Foodie Heaven
If you're a long time reader of this blog, you'd know how much I enjoy food. Cruise line food, in general, is pretty good -- It's great having so many choices and if you don't like something, your waiter is more than happy to bring you something new. The Carnival Magic has a great main dining area where you will find all of your favorites, like Warm Chocolate Melting Cake, but when you really want something extra special, there are two specialty restaurants that will make your taste buds sing!
The first is Cucina del Capitano, also known as "The Captain's Kitchen". If you love Italian, you just need to go ahead and book this dinner every night of your cruise. Yes, it's an additional $12 per person ($5 for kids), but it worth every single penny. It's been months since I dined at Cucina and I am still thinking about the food (it doesn't help that I have mouthwatering pictures to look at). this is one of those times where you will just have to trust me-- the food is that good!
Prime Steakhouse is the other specialty restaurant on Carnival Magic that I suggest making a reservation for. The steakhouse is a little pricier at $30 per person; but, again, the meal is worth it. Since this is a steakhouse, beef is the bulk of the menu, though there is an option of lobster, lamb or chicken -- but why would you order any of those!? 😉 I've dined at Carnival's Steakhouse on 3 separate occasions now and it's consistently one of the best meals of my cruise. Just tell me this steak doesn't look good:
A Caribbean Hangout
Possibly the most talked about addition to the Carnival Magic is the RedFrog Pub. The concept has been so successful, a smaller version is being added to other ships in the Carnival Fleet. As much as you may think it's just another cruise ship bar -- it's not. RedFrog Pub is a destination on Carnival Magic where you can relax with a pint of ThirstyFrog Red (brewed exclusively for Carnival) and nosh on a few Caribbean snacks from the Pub Grub menu - each only $3.33. There's live music at sunset with drink specials and games out on the lanai. After my first day on Carnival Magic, I found I just naturally gravitated to the RedFrog Pub. I wasn't the only one 😉
A Sweet Surprise
Last but not least, "Formalities" got an overhaul on the Carnival Magic and it's now a fun space called Cherry on Top. This little boutique candy store is one of those places where you plan to go in and have a quick look, and then find yourself knee deep in Pop Rocks and Hello Kitty candies. OK, that was just me. But, Cherry on Top is a fun little store where you can purchase all kinds of treats as well as champagne, wine packages and other stateroom gifts. A little bonus: there's a gumball machine outside the shop with giant jawbreakers for a quarter 😉
Special thanks to Carnival Cruise Lines for hosting me on the inaugural sailing of the Carnival Magic from Galveston.
4. Water Works Aqua Park: A splash-tastic water park that includes two exhilarating water slides and numerous squirting, splashing features for the little kids, as well. The centerpiece of the park is a 500 hundred gallon water bucket. Below kids twitter with the expectation of the next big splash that will leave them drenched from head to toe.
For those who enjoy staying active while on vacation, Carnival Magic offers a variety of sports and fitness activities. You can challenge yourself on the SkyCourse ropes course, which features thrilling obstacles and breathtaking views. The ship also has a jogging track and a fully equipped fitness center, where you can work out and stay in shape. In addition to these activities, Carnival Magic offers a wide range of entertainment options. From live shows and musical performances to comedy shows and karaoke nights, there is always something happening on the ship. You can also try your luck at the casino or catch a movie at the outdoor Dive-In Movies theater. Overall, Carnival Magic provides a diverse range of recreational activities for all guests to enjoy. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or fun, this cruise ship has something to offer everyone. So, whether you are traveling alone, with friends, or with family, you are sure to have a memorable and exciting time on board Carnival Magic..
Reviews for "Cruise and Play: Carnival Magic's Recreational Fun for All Ages"
1. John - 2/5 - "I was quite disappointed with the recreational activities on the Carnival Magic cruise ship. The options were limited and geared mostly towards families with children. As a single traveler, I was hoping for more adult-oriented activities. The pool area was always overcrowded, making it impossible to find a spot to relax and enjoy the sun. Overall, I feel like the Carnival Magic fell short when it came to providing a variety of recreational activities for different age groups."
2. Sarah - 1/5 - "I would not recommend the Carnival Magic if you're looking for a ship with exciting recreational activities. The options were extremely limited and didn't cater to a wide range of interests. The sports activities were lackluster and the onboard casino was small, making it difficult to find a machine or table without having to wait for a long time. If you're someone who enjoys being active and engaged during a cruise, I would suggest looking elsewhere as the Carnival Magic simply didn't meet my expectations."
3. David - 2/5 - "The recreational activities on the Carnival Magic cruise ship were a major letdown. The entertainment options were repetitive and lackluster, with the same shows and live music being repeated throughout the week. The onboard gym was small and poorly equipped, making it difficult to have a decent workout. Additionally, the outdoor activities like mini golf and basketball courts were often crowded, and it was challenging to participate unless you arrived early. Overall, I was disappointed with the limited and repetitive recreational activities offered on the Carnival Magic."
4. Emily - 3/5 - "While the Carnival Magic had some enjoyable recreational activities, I was ultimately left feeling underwhelmed. The pool area was always crowded, and it was nearly impossible to find an available lounge chair. The onboard sports activities were limited and lacked variety, making it difficult to stay entertained for the duration of the cruise. Additionally, the live music performances were hit or miss, with some shows being entertaining while others were lackluster. Overall, the Carnival Magic could benefit from expanding and diversifying its recreational activities to better cater to the diverse interests of its passengers."