Carnival Dream Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Actually it was very good and we enjoyed it. We had worried that about Carnivals party reputation but as it turned out the Dream was big enough to accommodate different cruise cultures and we loved it.
First the good things. The cove balcony (# 2393) was a revelation. It isn’t a reliable place to sunbathe but it was secluded and private. Being only two decks from the water enhances the feeling of being at sea – the nearest promenade deck is Deck 5. Sometimes you felt like you were the only one on the ship.
Food was good. Despite earlier negative postings we found the range and quality of food to be good. The Tandoori was superb and we also liked the deli for snacks. Free drinks were more generous than competitors – good quality lemonade, unsweetened ice tea, selection of tea and filter coffee. The buffet was adequate at any time of day, seating was always available and the MDR menu was good.
Cabin Review
Cove Balcony
The room was more spacious than others cruise lines. There were no noise issues with the galley above our cabin (2393) except for a bit of banging on the very last night which lasted only a few minutes. I guess the final night is the best time for deep cleaning and maintenance. Storage space was good. The bathroom was adequate although I’d prefer a sliding door rather than a plastic curtain. TV choices were fairly limited.
Port Reviews
New Orleans
Great place to join or leave a cruise. Plenty of scope for shopping eating and sightseeing and a great atmosphere. River Walk provides a great place to wait until embarkation time. Pre cruise hotels within 10 mins walk of the pier.
Grand Cayman (Georgetown)
Nice town. Flooded by tenders from 4 ships. Good quality. We walked from port to 7 Mile Beach. Access is a problem because most of the seafront is condos and hotels but it is possible and its a cheap day out. Taxi fares to better locations were only $8 which is probably a better deal.
Cozumel
There isn't really much of note on the island (Tulum on the mainland looks a stand-out)but its sunny so beach excursions look to be the thing. Last time we went to Paradise Beach by taxi but felt we didn't get value for money. This time we just hung about the port.
Facilities seem to have improved since our last visit. Shopping is generally for the usual tourist tat but there were some interesting craft items if you were prepared to pay a bit more.
Next time we may think about a day pass at the Royal Hotel. It's only 5 minutes from the ship. They were being touted at anything from $19-$99 so play hardball. Decent wifi in the Carls Jr opposite the dock.