Interesting you posted this subject as we have been off the Magic for just over a week and we found ourselves talking about this. So this was our first time on the Magic since the refurb (aqua dunk, etc. added). What I was surprised about was how much deck room was taken up on deck 9 due to slides. Also, with the placement of cabinets, there isn’t as much room to stand around the railing for the parties on deck 10.
My DS who is between the edge and oceaneers clubs, was bored and only went to edge. Now I DID like where edge was located on the Magic. It was easy to get to and accessible if you wanted to “pop” in. It didn’t seem so hidden as was on the larger boats which I liked. But keep in mind, things are on a smaller scale.
Now while I was excited about Rapunzal’s table, and it was just an okay show. Merely my opinion so please folks don’t rip me on this, but it in no way compares to Tiana’s place. Tiana’s place will likely always be my favorite dining experience on ANY
DCL cruise. While Rapunzal’s tried, I think the show was a bit too childish almost. And the decor wasn’t anything special at all so except for the lanterns, perhaps more could have been done.
They place a “makeshift” area outside of the theatre for popcorn, etc. so if you want popcorn, etc. then you may have a long line, depending on what’s playing.
Lumiere’s to me is starting to show it’s age. One of my least favorite restaurants. I agree with another person who stated you realize just how small the atrium is.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s NOT to say the smaller boats aren’t magical. The difference is easier to see if you’ve been on them in a tighter time frame than say.......3 years since you‘ve been on the other.
The Wonder was my least favorite outside Tiana’s place but on our cruise a lot of the doors to the decks weren’t working, they seemed to be painting and stuff all over and to me, it seemed to put off a lot of smoke so when on the upper decks, it seemed I breathed that in more. So perhaps these annoyances had a bit to do with my feeling on the wonder. Would I cruise it again? Yes.
The boats still look great compared to others cruise lines. We parked next to a Carnival ship which looked OLD! Not aging gracefully is more like it.
Now what we are having to ask ourselves though, is DCL starting to price us out for the experience and that’s how we are leaning. Also the pirate shows are definately NOT what they used to be. So if you’ve seen the stage shows, etc. then you just have to ask yourself is it worth the big bucks?
With all that said, our first time on the Magic we loved it. This second time, well....wouldn’t say loved but had a good time.
So you’ll have a great time, it will be a great experience for you and your family. I personally am glad you’ll get to go and find out for yourself so you too can one day respond to posts such as this as this experience will be under your belt. I’m sure you’ll find your way to the soft serve quickly. At least all the boats have THAT in common. *wink*