First cruise back, and it was fine. The only difference of note was the wearing of face masks.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
So, we had the early time, which was great, and we went right through. Changes from previous embarkations through the same port, are as follows: 1. Masks required. 2. After going through the security checkpoint, you stand in another line to get your documents checked. It was uneventful and quick. 3. You sit until your boarding group is called. The boarding group is listed on the boarding pass (A5). In our experience, there was a long delay in getting the ship clearance, so the place was packed and not enough chairs to accommodate everyone.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Did not do specialty restaurants, but buffet, Guy's BBQ and Burgers, along with the main dining was excellent as always.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
We walked the track early morning and was fine,
Entertainment
5 out of 5
We generally attend the shows and attended 1 of 2 that were on the cruise. We saw the Rock Show which was new and was good. We also sat in the atrium to watch the musicians.
Children's Programs
No kids.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
I completed the review with Carnival and spoke highly of the staff. We have been on 11 cruises, the dining staff on all cruises are great, but this one, with Eric was the best.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
This is the second time on Magic, but also been on her sister ship, the Breeze, so we are familiar with it. The recent change, besides the new outside livery was the addition of the Smoke Free Casino on the 4th level, just aft of the Northern Lights Dining room. The casino was surprisingly large with machines, tables and bar. I do not recall what was sacrificed to put this in! Ship was well maintained. Even before covid, cleaning was always a top priority, it was the same, if not more attentive these days.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
This was a 6B level and just fine. It was forward on the second level. Convenient to the forward elevator group and main lobby. Also convenient to the gangway to leave ship while in foreign ports. I was concerned that it was just under the main theatre, but did not hear much from that. It did have an adjoining room door and we could hear the next door's tv. It was not loud or bothersome, but if you get a noisy neighbor, this could be a problem.
Ship tip
Guy's BBQ on embarkation day. Go directly to level 5 and eat at the ocean plaza. Guys BBQ is only open on embarkation and sea days. After eating there, go to the Lido if you want more!!!! Also, with Covid changes, the safety brief is so much better. Get that knocked out early. Also, if you are due free bottles of water (Red VIFP or higher) go to any bar to get your bottles as it will not be in your room. If you are Gold VIFP or higher, go to the photography counter to get your cruise pins. This was like a mini scavenger hunt and we did it all before sale away.
Still suffering from Covid. Less than 50% of the stores were open. the Straw Market was completely closed. We walked to the Fish Fry area which appeared to be fully opened and was as good as ever. Visit Oh Andros for Conch Fritters and Fresh Fish. Too much food, so you may want to split a meal. Also, major construction at the pier and look forward to the completion, it will be nice.
Easily a 5 start debarkation. They debarked by your muster station number, not levels. This was new. I never got off the ship so quickly. We were on the road before 8AM!
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