We went on this cruise to celebrate our 40th anniversary. We enjoyed it immensely mostly due to the staff on the ship. Our fellow passengers to a large extent did not fit our demographic. Fortunately, the Magic seemed to realize this and they set us at a table for dinner with other couples around our age. We did not drink much or order much alcohol on board because it was overpriced compared to some of the other cruises we have been on. The shows which often are a big draw on the cruises need a bit more... something. The major winner was the spa which was easily twice the size of the ones we've enjoyed on some bigger ships.
Embarkation
3 out of 5
The transfer from parking lot to ship meant a lot of lines and waiting in the hot sun.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
All the food was prepared well. They weren't quite as attentive to allergies as when we were on Royal Caribbean though. Actually liked that the portions were a little smaller so could try more dishes.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Most it was just okay. The two pools were abyssmally small and we only used them early in the morning. What upped the rating was the spa. We bought the spa package for the week and it was definitely worth every penny. Huge hot tub with built-in lounges, steam room that smelled amazing, heated reclining beds in the main room and two saunas. Delightful!
Entertainment
3 out of 5
Eh. The shows were fun but not that professional usually. Some of the singers went off-key on a regular basis. My friend who taught theatre couldn't attend because they made her groan and she could see all the mistakes. The comedians were a little better, but wish they had more variety on their clean shows.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Ketut, our room steward, was amazing. He made us a cute towel sculpture every day that we were there. He also kept the room spotless and well-supplied. Our dining room staff, Alexander and Arya, remembered our names and preferences within 24 hours and served us promptly and with a smile. (One night was an exception and we were the last table served, but not sure why.)
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Everything was clean. The layout needed refinement. For instance, if a basketball game was going, you couldn't use the walking/jogging trail because the bystanders would block it. The pools need to be drastically increased in size. On some decks you couldn't get from one side to the other
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Perfect amount of space for two people. The bed was very comfortable. The pillows, though, need improvement. My neck hurt unless I squashed them before lying down.
Loved Puerto Plata. Would definitely return. Amber Cove itself was touristy but once you got beyond that, the area was wonderful. Enjoyed the city and the rain forest. Wished we could have gone both directions on the cable car.
Glad you discovered the spa. The spas on this class of ships are the best and we often choose the Magic for just that reason. Fortunately about 98% of the passengers never discover it.
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