I decided to take the family on our first big trip together on the Carnival Dream. I have four kids (14, 14, 12, 11) and also my wife and in-laws. I reserved two adjoining balcony rooms. Upon arrival to the port, you are immediately greeted with lines. Unfortunately, the lines never ended. Lines to get on and off the ship, lines for buffet....literally lines for everything. When we arrived in our stateroom, it was old and dirty. The phone did not work nor the mini fridge. The door that separates the two balconies was broke and our steward said it could not be opened. This posed a problem because my kids could not freely enter both rooms via balcony. The staff seemed unconcerned. The ship in general is old and in desperate need of renovation. The kids club was pathetic. Every time my kids try to get involved with an activity in Circle C, it was "cancelled or closed" or the activity just wasn't entertaining enough for my kids to participate. My kids had trouble keeping entertained on the ship during sail days. All that is really available is putt putt, two slides, two small pools, small basketball court. The basketball court closes at 5?! The "hot tubs" were always cold. The food was below average. The only thing we did enjoy was the pizza and 24 hour ice cream. However, all staff was very friendly and respectful.

With all that being said, the excursions were AMAZING! We had the best time of our lives in Cozumel, Belize, and Roatan. I highly recommend the Sharks and Rays Island Getaway in Belize and took a private tour with Victor Bodden Tours in Roatan. Both were amazing and unforgettable. Even with all my disappointments with the ship, it was worth going just for the excursions.