Overall, this was a fun and memorable cruise that will likely be the first of many! We already have our next cruise booked with Cozumel / Yucatan stops.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Embarkation was a breeze after utilizing the priority component booked with our suite accommodation. We were able to skip the sea of guests and board the ship in under 15 minutes. We were sure to tip the luggage porter and had our bags in our immediately ready stateroom within minutes.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
My wife and came to the conclusion that EVERYTHING on the cruise-ship tasted amazing. Most nights we enjoyed the wonderful hospitality of the dining staff in the Crimson Restaurant for 'Your Time Dining'. I was initially concerned about not establishing a particular time for dining, but never waited more than 5 minutes from walk-up to table assignment. We also enjoyed our Thanksgiving night at the 12 floor SteakHouse - so much delicious food, for such a reasonable cost ($35/person). Lastly, but most importantly, we were assigned reservation for The Chef's Table on one of our Sea Day evenings. This was truly an amazing experience that every cruiser should arrange. We were provided a tour of the kitchen and food service areas that was truly eye-opening at the well oiled machine of a system they have to serve such great food. We were served such creative hand-crafted plates of food during our 11 course meal prepared by the head chefs we spent the evening with. The Chef's Table is a MUST!
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The Carnival Dream is full of more activities than you could ever imagine. We thoroughly enjoyed the seminars such as the Art Seminar and Art Auction, where we won a $1000.00 original piece for just $100.00 (after $200 gift card provided to my wife via the Carnival HUB app).
Entertainment
5 out of 5
You can tell that Chris Williams aka The Flying Scotsman truly sets the standard for excellence for all entertainment aboard the Carnival Dream. We didn't encounter one production or show that didn't impress us. However, our favorite would have to be the family-friendly Comedy Show in the 5th floor AFT Punchliner Comedy Club!
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
We were impressed with the hard-work and dedication of all the staff aboard the Carnival Dream. Not only our personal room steward or waiters at dinner, but everyone staffing the ship would smile and greet you as you pass by. Our room steward, Mangku did an excellent job at making sure we were comfortable and even went above and beyond by making sure we had ice routinely stocked in the room for our YETI cups as well as several surprises left for us almost daily (including sweet treats or additional beverages).
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
With this being our first cruise, we were astonished at the size of the ship. It took us nearly the entire week to familiarize ourselves with the ship's ins-&-outs..and we didn't even see all the venues at that! The Carnival Dream is a beautiful ship that the staff takes great care of. We never noted any deficit regarding cleanliness. We did however, spot a few interesting choices in design including the very close proximity of the children's water-slide to the Serenity Deck as well as the SteakHouse being surrounded by a jogging track with recreational sports area directly on top of its ceiling. These near interactions made for non-consistent sounds/distractions within the formal restaurant while dining.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
A Suite is the way to go, if the budget will allow. I have to say, for a HoneyMoon, it was the best choice, by far! We were thoroughly impressed with the spaciousness of our accommodations. Not to mention, Suite guests are provided with several perks that make the trip memorable and more enjoyable!
Ship tip
Sea Day Brunch is the best breakfast you'll find on-board!
Disembarkation was nearly as easy as embarkation with the priority perk of being a Suite guest! We were off the boats in just minutes after our leisurely breakfast in the Scarlet Restaurant.
I'm so glad we ran into each other at the Beach! Thanks for recognizing me, I of course was oblivious. lol Congratulations on your Honeymoon! I'm happy to read that y'all had a wonderful cruise!!! Wishing you and your wife many years of happiness and many more wonderful cruises!!! - Dbldelites aka Cheryl
You may be disappointed in the next ship if you go smaller. It will more than likely be Triumph but so many are fussing about ! Hopefully you booked when Glory or Valor is coming here to NOLA. The Dream is a nice ship... Glad you enjoyed it!
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