Overview
130,000
Gross Tonnage
3,646
Guest Capacity
2009
Year Built
2021
Last Refit
2.67
Crew Ratio
Launched in 2009 and refreshed with a significant refurbishment in 2017, the Carnival Dream offers a vibrant and inclusive cruising experience, designed to cater to a wide range of passengers. Its mix of family-friendly features and adult-focused relaxation areas, all at a budget-friendly price point, makes it a popular choice among cruisers of all ages. With a capacity of 3,646 guests and supported by a dedicated crew of 1,367, the Carnival Dream ensures a lively and welcoming atmosphere onboard.
One of the ship's standout features, the WaterWorks aqua park, promises an exhilarating experience with its thrilling water slides and kid-friendly splash zone, marking the Carnival Dream as a hit for families seeking adventure. The dining options onboard are equally diverse, ranging from casual bites at Guy's Burger Joint to the more refined Chef's Art Steakhouse, catering to every palate. For those in search of entertainment or a peaceful retreat, the ship delivers with the Cloud 9 Spa and the adults-only Serenity area providing a quiet oasis away from the energy, while the Ocean Plaza stands as the beating heart of the ship, offering a blend of delicious food and engaging entertainment.
The Carnival Dream primarily attracts families, including those with young children, alongside couples and groups of friends across a spectrum of ages. It expertly navigates the balance between a dynamic, activity-filled vacation and a peaceful getaway, making it appealing to everyone from energetic young adults to relaxed seniors. The ship's ability to offer something for everyone ensures a varied and lively mix of passengers.
While it stacks up well against other vessels in the industry with its Dream-class facilities and spacious accommodations, it may slightly lag behind the newest ships in terms of cutting-edge technology and amenities. However, Carnival Dream still shines by delivering excellent value, thanks to its affordable pricing and extensive array of included activities and dining options.
In conclusion, the Carnival Dream is a great option for travelers looking for a fun-filled cruise vacation that offers good value. With a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and serene relaxation spaces, alongside a diverse selection of dining experiences, it welcomes a wide audience. The recent refurbishment means that while it might not be the latest ship on the ocean, it continues to provide a fresh, compelling, and enjoyable choice for both seasoned and first-time cruisers.
Pros
- Innovative and fun ship design with Dream class features
- Diverse dining options, including Guy's Burger Joint and Bonsai Sushi
- Entertainment options cater to a wide range of interests
- Extensive onboard activities, including Carnival WaterWorks and Serenity adult-only area
Cons
- Crowded at times, especially around pools and popular dining spots
- Staterooms, while comfortable, may lack enough outlets for modern devices
- Some dining quality and variety may not meet expectations
- Potential noise issues for cabins located near nightlife venues
Tips
- Pre-book spa treatments and specialty dining to secure your spot
- Use the Carnival app for real-time updates and to manage your schedule onboard
- For a quieter cabin, avoid booking directly under nightlife areas or the Lido Deck
- Take advantage of SeaDay brunches for a more relaxed dining experience
- Explore the Lanai for quieter outdoor relaxation and unique hot tub views
- Join trivia and other onboard activities for fun and to meet fellow passengers
- Save on bottled water by pre-ordering it before your cruise
- Bring a power strip or USB hub for charging multiple devices in your stateroom
- Check out the comedy club early to get a good seat for popular shows
- Remember to pack for theme nights and deck parties to fully participate in the fun