StenB

This was my 4th Carnival sailing and first on the Dream.  I had previously stated that I would never sail on with Carnival again but this trip wasn't really my choice. Carnival keeps things pretty uniform so I didn't have any unrealistic expectations...and I wasn't disappointed.  The Dream is a nice ship, clean and well maintained.  Not sure if it was sold out, but it didn't seem crowded at all.  The staff seemed rested and very attentive. We had dinner in the steakhouse on our first night and need to coordinate a surprise for someone in our party.  The staff bent over backwards to accommodate us and everything went off without a hitch.  Surprisingly, the food was rather tasty, as well....well worth the extra $$$. Our waiter, John, at the aft topside bar was beyond phenomenal and we actually hated to say good bye.  We did the 7 day western, it's a good run but it wouldn't hurt my feelings if the cruise-lines were to take Belize City out of the mix, the tender ride alone is reason enough to stay on the ship, which we did.  I did appreciate that we never felt pressured to buy photos or have to take them, it was a welcomed relief.   All around, it was a pleasant cruise and welcomed break.

This was our 4th Cruise with Carnival and it seems as though it will be our last.

We departed from the Miami terminal after a rather easy boarding process and as we entered the Carnival Liberty, we noticed that the crew seemed tired and cold.  One of the things that we've appreciated about our other sailings with Carnival is that the crew were really pleasant to interact with.  Right off the bat, we knew this was not going to be the case.

We were about 3 days into our cruise before we ever laid eyes on our cabin steward.  Every time we were on the pool deck, we had to physically go to the bar to place a drink order.  We used to joke on other ships that the ice in our buckets never had a chance to melt because the wait staff was bringing another before we could finish.  

The burger place and taco place were pretty good but the hours were way to short.

Dealing with guest services also proved to be a hassle and I had to let them now what such surly treatment was worhty of the madatory gratuity.

The only positive thing I can think of is that the ship was exceptionally clean.  The staff really did a great job of keeping the overflow of trash and empty plates/glasses picked up....kudos to them.

Overall, my family had a great time away from the ship....It will definately be the last time we cruise with Carnival. They just always seem a step behind their competitors.