Carnival Magic Makes its First U.S. Appearance; Debuts with Exclusive Maroon 5 Concert

Today, Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic, arrived at its year-round homeport of Galveston, Texas, after completing its transatlantic voyage. An expected crowd of more than 4,000 will celebrate the ship’s U.S. debut with a concert by three-time GRAMMY Award-winning band Maroon 5, internationally known for hits like “Moves Like Jagger,” “This Love,” “She Will Be Loved,” “Wake Up Call” and “Makes Me Wonder.” The chart-topping group, nominated for the 2011 American Music Awards’ “Favorite Pop/Rock Band,” will perform an hour-long concert set to the backdrop of the stunning new vessel from Pier 21.

“Today marks a big day for Carnival Cruise Lines as we introduce the spectacular new Carnival Magic to its U.S. homeport of Galveston, Texas,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival Cruise Lines’ president and CEO. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the Carnival Magic’s arrival with a Texas-sized performance by Maroon 5, one of the country’s most popular bands.”

On Monday, November 14, Carnival Magic – the newest and most innovative cruise ship to sail from Texas – will depart on its inaugural U.S. voyage, launching a year-round Caribbean cruise program that will feature two different week-long itineraries, including seven-day westernCaribbean voyages to Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel, and week-long easternCaribbean cruises to Nassau, Freeport, and Key West.

Carnival Magic offers a wide variety of innovations, including the RedFrog Pub, a colorfulCaribbean-inspired watering hole featuring its own private label draft beer; Cucina del Capitano, a family-style Italian restaurant that brings the heritage of Carnival’s captains to the table; and SportSquare, an expansive open-air recreation complex with the first ropes course and outdoor fitness area at sea. Other features include an exciting WaterWorks aqua park with a 312-foot-long spiral water slide and other attractions; The Lanai, a wraparound promenade with an outdoor barbeque area and whirlpools that extend out over the ship’s sides; and Ocean Plaza, a stunning indoor/outdoor cafe and live entertainment venue.