Carnival Magic Review
4.0 / 5.0
Eeyoregon
10+ Cruises • Age 50s
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Additional details
Sail Date: May 2016
Cabin: Balcony
Another great Carnival cruise (this was #5). Dominican Republic was the only new port of call for us. We chose to stay in the Carnival "compound" and after realizing that there is NO beach area, we regretted our decision. We could have taken a cab to a beach but the taxi prices were very high, starting at $50 round-trip. If we visit this port again, we will plan an actual excursion. DO NOT ORDER THE NACHOS from the pool bar/restaurant in this port. $14.00 for chips with a drizzle of liquid cheese, drizzle of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of pico de gallo!!
Embarkation was delayed significantly = standing outside in the HOT sun for hours for many folks. Thank goodness we had purchased Faster to the Fun, which greatly reduced the amount of time in line, outside. Unfortunately, our luggage came long after the folks that didn't pay for Faster to the Fun but Carnival was quick to refund the cost, at my request.
The new Pig and Anchor BBQ was really good but has very limited hours/days of operation.
Cabin Review
Balcony
Cabin 8D
LOVED the aft location on deck 9 as we only had to go up one flight of stairs to get to the buffet and aft pool.
Only complaint is that there is a smoking area below, on deck 5, and being down-wind meant smelling cigarette and cigar smoke on our balcony.
Port Reviews
Amber Cove (Puerto Plata)
There is NO beach area. The only beach access if via shore excursion or expensive taxi ride.
St. Thomas
Took a taxi to Sapphire beach. Beautiful beach, not crowded but small sharks in the water.
San Juan
Always enjoy walking around Old San Juan. Found a GREAT sushi place and grabbed some needed items at CVS, which is across the street from the port.
Grand Turk
Beach is close and free but nothing to see if you want to snorkel.
Port Canaveral (Orlando)
We rented a car from Alamo and dropped it off at their port location. Took there free shuttle to port. Unfortunately, embarkation was delayed and standing in the hot sun for hours was NOT pleasant.
13 Helpful Votes
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