Overall, a great ship and first time solo cruise trip!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
I parked at Asphalt Lots (a second party parking area about 15 minutes from the cruise port). It was a cheaper option than the ships designated parking area (Cedar Grove). I heard some negative reviews about the lot (mostly from last years seasonal cruising out of Norfolk) about cars being broke into and long lines, so I decided not to park there, but I heard that in 2023 Carnival and the port has resolved those issues.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Typical Carnival food provided. But I will say the soups that were offered, were amazing.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
As a first time solo cruiser, I spent my time on the open decks and conversed with other guests, so I can’t really say what the entertainment was like. But on a Carnival ship, you will always have fun.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
As a first time solo cruiser, and 13th overall Carnival cruiser in the span of 8 years, I’ve seen many of the shows already, so I only went to one theater show this time, 88 Keys, it was nice. The theater on the Magic is very big, so no problem finding a spot/seat.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
As a solo cruiser, I was upgraded from an upper/lower Pullman Cabin to a regular interior cabin with a king bed. No complaints!
Ship tip
It’s a “newer” Carnival ship, but not the newest, so expect some wear and tear, and not all the bells and whistles as a newer ship. But do some research beforehand, and you will have an amazing cruise.
Norfolk is current a seasonal summer cruise port. There are some issues with parking, porting, etc. I imagine these issues will be corrected once it is a year round port in 2025.
Great review and good encouragement for wannabe soloists. I have done 7 solos and always loved them. Cruise people are the best people on earth. So, if you are gonna do anything solo, do it around the best people you can…fellow cruisers.
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