Carnival Magic Review
Deck 12 Spa Balcony - had a great time on the Magic!
Rating by category
Additional details
Galveston embarkation/debarkation
We flew into Houston Hobby and used Super Shuttle to get to the port. There were 6 of us, so we found that was the best deal, and they did a great job.
We used the new Carnival process where you choose your boarding time. We had the 10:30 am boarding time. We quickly went through the check in process, but then had to wait until almost noon before they started boarding. When they boarded, it was in order of those with the higher status, then FTTF, then by zone and we were zone 3. I don’t know if our 10:30 am boarding time put us in a better zone or not. But it didn’t seem like our early boarding time bought us much. We expected to be able to get on the ship once we checked in, but that was not the case.
Cabin Review
Spa Balcony
Overall cabin 12016 was standard size, but had tons of storage, and I loved the lighted vanity/desk area. The balcony on deck 12 has very little cover, which I knew going in. That was a downside for me, but being steps from the gym down the hall was very nice. We used the stairs frequently to go up one floor to the heated loungers and pool in the spa area and one floor above that to Serenity. We loved being in the spa cabin and used the spa frequently. It felt like our own private area and was always so quiet.
Port Reviews
Galveston
Had to arrange a shuttle from the airport - too far/expensive for a taxi. Other than that, it was fine.
Cozumel
We love Cozumel! So many things to do, and great food.
Grand Cayman (Georgetown)
Grand Cayman is beautiful. Stingray City shouldn't be missed. Just wish we could have stayed longer. We were there from 7 am to 4 pm which was an awkward time - got there too early and left too early.
Montego Bay
We took a taxi to a beach, and the beach was crowded but very nice. The area outside the pier to get a cab was very, very hectic and confusing. We just wanted a taxi, and kept being guided to large buses. But we managed to find a taxi eventually and enjoyed our day.