Bad First Impression

Item: Carnival Dream
Rating: 3.7
Author: Jeffc717

Carnival Dream Cruise Review to Caribbean - Western

Jeffc717

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 7+ cruises

Reviews: 3

Helpful Votes: 57

Overall rating:

3.7 out of 5

6 Night Western Caribbean (Galveston Roundtrip)

Sail date: April 03, 2022

Ship: Carnival Dream

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 8363

Traveled as: Family (older children)

Reviewed: 2 years ago

Review summary

Good size and layout of the ship. However, the ship had some issues, especially in staffing. The dining room staff and stewards were very good. The Steakhouse was great.

Embarkation

2 out of 5

This was a ZOO in our opinion! This was our 26th Carnival cruise, but first on the Dream. We were called for boarding in group A01. In less than 30 seconds, they called the next 4 groups!! A mad rush followed. We have never experienced that before, in any of our cruises. Then, we followed the repeated instructions to immediately muster once we got onboard. Our Muster Station was D4. We were directed (or misdirected) by crew to 5 different locations. Once at the correct location, the crew there did not know how to log us in as attending the safety brief. When the crew member gave the safety presentation in the Teen Lounge, there were more than 60 passengers there, and probably only 10 or so could have possibly seen the demonstration. I don't feel the Coast Guard would have deemed that adequate. Then, we all waited until an officer figured out how to get us certified as attending. The whole process took over 45 minutes.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

4 out of 5

Most food and drink selections were Very good. However, station staffing was inadequate. At many stations (examples: Deli, Pizza, dessert bar, Coffee Cafe, and several bars) there was only ONE crew member. This made for some very long lines and waits.

Onboard Activities

3 out of 5

There was a lack of daily activities. We never saw the Cruise Director (MarkQ), and his announcements had the excitement of a subway conductor announcing upcoming stations.

Entertainment

5 out of 5

The entertainers and comedians were Excellent. Especially good was a comedian called Aunt Kay (from Louisianna).

Service and Staff

3 out of 5

Waiters and room staff were Excellent. However, as mentioned previously, staffing at food and beverage stations was inadequate.

Ship Quality

4 out of 5

No issues. Good layout.

Cabin / Stateroom

3 out of 5

Multiple issues with the cabin. The worst was the air conditioning. We lost A/C several times. One night it was off for hours. Cabin temp was above 80 deg, and very humid. Several other passengers told us the same. Balcony door kept jamming. Bed arrangement was jammed (2 singles and sofa bed.