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Carnival Dream ®

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It's one thing to be fun, but it's another thing to be first. Carnival Dream was at the forefront of a recent wave of amazingly innovative and fun Carnival ships. As the genesis of the Dream class, Carnival Dream set the direction for the ships that followed in her footsteps — first Carnival Magic and then Carnival Breeze. But back to Carnival Dream: the ship itself is a unique experience with the way-fun RedFrog Rum Bar ® and the very cool BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ . Get your appetite ready, because you're gonna need it. Carnival Dream features two dual-level dining rooms, a gourmet steakhouse and dedicated sushi spot Bonsai Sushi ™ . It's also got a full menu of our latest and greatest casual spots for a bite: BlueIguana Cantina ™ , Pizzeria del Capitano, Guy's Burger Joint ™ and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse ™ . (That's Guy as in Guy Fieri, by the way — so you know the food's delish.) Carnival Dream also features the borderline-magical Alchemy Bar ® and Ocean Plaza, which combines tasty treats with perhaps even tastier entertainment. Entertainment options are all up and down the ship, and so is soaking-wet fun, from the heart-racing waterslide action at Carnival WaterWorks ™ to the soul-soothing Thalassotherapy pool at the Cloud 9 Spa ™ . Despite its name, Carnival Dream is definitely a reality. Can't believe it? Pinch yourself... and book your dream cruise today.

• 130,000 Gross Tonnage
• 3646 Guest Capacity
• 1004 Length In Feet
• 1367 Onboard Crew

INSIDE THIS SHIP

Just like a delicious cake, your ship is made of layers. Find out which fun ingredients — staterooms, dining, activities — go into each deck.

YOUR STATEROOM

Cloud 9 spa interior.

Amenities exclusive to Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms and suites:

• Unique welcome ritual
• Priority spa reservations
• Unlimited use of Thermal Suites, plus scrub kit
• Unlimited use of Hydrotherapy Pool
• Two complimentary fitness classes (per guest)
• Complimentary body composition analysis
• Exclusive discounts on treatments during port days
• Cloud 9 Spa bathrobes and slippers
• Upgraded ELEMIS in-stateroom toiletries

Plus, every room includes:

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• In-room safe for valuables
• Stateroom climate control

Interior with Picture Window (Walkway View)

Every room includes:

Interior Upper/Lower (Porthole)

Interior upper/lower, cloud 9 spa ocean view (walkway view).

The best way to enjoy the relaxing, invigorating Cloud 9 Spa while on a cruise is in a spa stateroom, and this one fits the bill, providing comfy accommodations and convenient, priority access to treatments and services at the Cloud 9 Spa. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Deluxe Ocean View

On Carnival Dream, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are a great choice for families who want to let the sun shine in as they sail. Rooms of this type feature great views, a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom — and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five cruisers.

Deluxe Ocean View (Obstructed View)

On Carnival Dream, Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are great for families. These rooms feature a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom — and while stateroom configurations vary, certain Deluxe Ocean View rooms have space to sleep up to five. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

Premium Vista Balcony

Premium Vista Balcony staterooms were designed to wrap around the aft corners of Carnival Dream, giving you a unique vantage point from which to enjoy luxuriously panoramic views of the sky and the sea — and yes, take in even more of that sunshine.

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony

Whether you're warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there's no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important — take the ocean breeze in, then let it out — you're already getting the hang of the whole spa thing!

Aft-View Extended Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space; not to even mention some of the best stern-side views you'll find anywhere. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon Carnival Dream's gentle wake from your spacious balcony.

Balcony (Large Balcony)

We designed Carnival Dream Balcony staterooms for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, and this stateroom features a balcony that's even wider than our standard balcony. Enjoy the extra outdoor space, along with all the standard Carnival stateroom amenities.

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you're looking to cruise aboard Carnival Dream. Any time you're in your room, you're just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

Cove Balcony

Love the sea? Carnival Dream's Cove Balcony staterooms are the best way to see the sea — these rooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location. Enjoy things from a whole new perspective: one amazing up-close view of the wake and seafoam as the ship cruises along.

Grand Suite

A Grand Suite aboard Carnival Dream features even more space than the standard suite — plenty of room in your room! This stateroom is loaded for an unparalleled experience: VIP check-in, a huge balcony, and even a convenient dressing area with vanity.

Amenities exclusive to suites:

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority Main Dining Room time assignment
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 Am
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattress

Cloud 9 Spa Suite

A Cloud 9 Spa Suite is the ultimate in both stateroom and spa accommodations. There's room for you and your things — with a large room and balcony — and a walk-in closet. The soothing in-room whirlpool tub will help you stay relaxed after your relaxing spa treatment. And like all suites, a Cloud 9 Spa Suite features VIP check-in, which lets you easily get right up to your amazing stateroom.

Plus, all suites include:

Ocean Suite

A Carnival Dream suite is the ultimate way to cruise. With more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors, try an Ocean Suite to experience private, luxurious relaxation. Ocean Suites also include VIP check-in, walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool tub.

Junior Suite (Obstructed View)

As you step into a Junior Suite aboard Carnival Dream, you can't help but feel that you're stepping into full-size luxury in a smaller package. Featuring a standard-size balcony, in a Carnival Dream Junior Suite you'll find everything else there is to love about a suite, including VIP check-in, a walk-in closet; and even a whirlpool tub for relaxing. (Note that rooms of this type have obstructed views.)

ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

Onboard dining, where to for you.

This ship is always visiting great vacation spots. Where will your next vacation take you?

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

TAG & THEY'RE IT!

Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

Honest Alaskan Dream Cruises Review: Adventure on Small Ships

We ventured to Alaska's Inside Passage on Baranof Dream, a 49-passenger ship in Alaskan Dream Cruises’ fleet. It was a terrific way to see the wildlife and scenery of the “Last Frontier” state. But who is an Alaskan Dream Cruises experience for, and what can you expect onboard? Dive in as we share our honest Alaskan Dream Cruises (ADC) review with important things to know before you book. 

Disclosure: We were hosted by Alaskan Dream Cruises. All opinions are our own. Additionally, this page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Why Sail with Alaskan Dream Cruises?

When you invest in a cruise with Alaskan Dream Cruises, you're investing in:

• Supporting local Alaskan businesses . Not only in the company — because ADC is locally owned and operated — but also in the businesses that ADC supports through its excursions and provisioning.
• A unique small ship experience where you'll be able to get to know the other passengers rather well. With around 50 passengers per ship, it's nice to be able to bond with the other guests in a shared setting that's a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people.
• Learning about the native people of Alaska is one of the reasons we were so excited to vacation with them. It's a part of our Alaskan Dream Cruises review we want to highlight because it's essential to recognize that, as travelers, it's vital we support these cultures to keep them alive.

Alaskan Dream Cruises Overview

Who is alaskan dream cruises for.

We'd be remiss if we didn't address this right off the bat because this cruise isn't for everyone.

If you need a cruise with a ton of things to do onboard, internet, television in your room, a fancy bar, and attractive restaurants with artful cuisine to go with it, it's not for you. If you like to get lost in a crowd and be anonymous on a cruise ship, an ADC cruise isn't for you.

If you are game for an adventure with no-frills accommodations but an elevated feel by way of a great crew-to-guest ratio of 1:2 and outstanding excursions, this is the cruise for you.

You are one of a few dozen passengers and get to know the crew and your fellow passengers rather well during the trip. You form bonds and make memories together. There's no escaping interacting with other guests when there aren't many of you. We like that aspect of small ship cruising.

We've stayed in cruise ship staterooms and been on excursions that run the gamut, from a Maine Windjammer cruise where 25 people shared one shower to staying in The Retreat with Celebrity Cruises with our own private lux suite with a lovely bathtub in the shower to tendering to shore with hundreds of other passengers in the Caribbean , to being one of five people on a barge cruise exploring town.

The price point of Alaskan Dream Cruises is more than your average ocean cruise, as it should be. It's a small ship experience that brings you into remote areas of Alaska with an all-American staff because it's an American-owned ship and a US-owned company. It's also Alaska – native owned, which is one of the reasons the cruise line appealed to us. We love supporting native American cultures and US companies — a double-whammy of support.

Notwithstanding is the price tag that comes with a small ship American cruise line experience, whether a river cruise or a small ocean ship. Expect to spend a minimum of $3,495 per person for a cruise with Alaskan Dream Cruises. This excludes getting to and from Alaska for the cruise. Some cruises have a higher price point, depending on the itinerary and ship.

This investment is inclusive of excursions, an onboard naturalist, a glass of beer or wine with dinner, and not feeling like one guest in a sea of thousands as you do on a big ship.

For the investment, you'll experience “true Alaska,” as the brand boasts, with Alaskan-led tours and excursions and discovery in the nooks and crannies of Alaska, where big ships cannot go. Many would argue this kind of vacation is priceless.

Food and Drinks

The food and drinks aren't going to be the reason you cruise with Alaskan Dream Cruises. Though some meals stood out above others, overall, it wasn't memorable cuisine. But we cared less about the protein on our plate and more about things like sailing past glaciers with otters practically waving hello, so close to the water because there were only four decks.

When you're on a big ship with 12 or more decks and don't have a windowfront seat at dinner, it's harder to appreciate nature during all times of the day.

Accommodations

We want to set realistic expectations for you in this Alaskan Dream Cruises review. The ship feels more like an upscale glamping experience rather than a temporary cushy home on the seas with luxurious, beautiful amenities. You'll be a step above a well-setup, modern, top-of-the-line campsite on an Alaskan Dream Cruises ship.

Cruisers go for the destinations and scenery, not the ship itself. Which is precisely why we were there.

Cabins are very modest, with just the necessities. This is not the cruise for those looking to luxuriate. It’s a cruise aimed at people wanting to see wild Alaska, who are interested in supporting an Alaska-owned company.  

Suites are about the size of a small cabin on a mega cruise ship. On Baranof Dream, Decks 3 and 4 have suites. Deck 2 is the level you walk into the ship, which has several small cabins.

Three suites on the top level, on Deck 4. All staterooms have windows. This was a nice advantage when we were cruising and wanted to be inside to take cover from the wind but still wanted to see the beautiful landscape surrounding us. 

Experiences and Excursions

The excursions during our Inside Passage Sojourn itinerary were wonderful. If our naturalist wasn't giving us some information about Alaska and where we were at each location, the cruise line partnered with local businesses and guides, many of whom were Native Americans. This very much enriched our experience.

Additionally, because we were on a small ship we were able to access areas big ships cannot. And this proved to be incredibly beneficial, like when we could get closer to the glaciers in Glacier Bay than the big ships could. Or when we docked in Kasaan, a small native village, or when we ended the trip with a gorgeous evening in Misty Fjords.

Wifi or Internet on Alaskan Dream Cruises

Simply put: there is no wifi on ADC ships. The lack of internet makes you focus on the wilderness and your surroundings, being with others, and enjoying your vacation. 

Alaskan Dream Cruises Ships in the Fleet

There are four overnight cruise ships in the Alaskan Dream Cruises ‘ fleet . Three of the four are named after islands in Alaska. 

The ships are made for expeditions, with a focus on nature, wildlife, and native cultures.

The Only Alaskan-Owned Overnight Cruise Company in Alaska

Alaskan Dream Cruises is Alaskan-owned and operated. In 1967, Bob and Betty Allen founded Allen Marine Company. Betty is a Tlingit native, and she and Bob grew up locally. Allen Marine Company still operates today as it did beginning in 1970, as a tour operator offering guests day trip wildlife experiences in Alaska. We enjoyed a day tour with Allen Marine Company in Ketchikan .

Over the decades, the market for overnight Alaskan cruises grew. So, in 2011, Alaska Dream Cruises was born. Though Bob and Betty have passed on, the company remains in the family in their children's hands. 

The offices of Alaska Dream Cruises are in Sitka, overlooking the shipyard in Jamestown Harbor. The harbor is beautiful, and it's where Bob and Betty started Alaska Dream Cruises (ADC). In fact, you can see their home in the distance overlooking the harbor. There is a Tlingit totem pole in front of the waterfront side of their home, across the bay from the ADC offices.

This state is the only area where Alaskan Dream Cruises sail. They are the Alaska cruise experts! They are also unique because their itineraries go to lesser-visited areas in southern Alaska.

Alaskan Dream Cruises Season

The cruise season with ADC is from May to September. This corresponds to peak season in Alaska when 95% of the cruises take place, and tourists visit by land or sea. This is also when there is more daylight, temperatures are warmest, and wildlife is active. Expect whales who migrate to Alaska for the season to be in residence and the annual wonder of salmon spawning to take place.

Life Aboard Alaskan Dream Cruises' Ship, Baranof Dream

The ship's public spaces are minimal. It's a small cruise ship, after all.

Onboard, you'll find modest cabins, an outdoor deck, an indoor bar and lounge area, and a restaurant. Coffee and tea are available all day, and kitchen-made snacks are put out twice in the afternoon between lunch and dinner, like dips and hot finger foods. If you're noshy between those times, there are individual chip bags in the lounge for guests to eat.  

A naturalist is on board to answer any wildlife questions you may have and to guide excursions. Several maps and identification posters on display showcase the array of wildlife you may see. 

Board games and books are available for guest use in the lounge. If the weather is nice, the crew may put out some games, like cornhole. One afternoon, when we were lucky enough to enjoy some sunshine (our cruise was rather gray and gloomy the majority of the time, which is simply luck of the draw on any vacation), Captain Neil took out games for us to play. It was surreal to play cornhole in such stunning surroundings!

Speaking of the ship's captain, one of the fun things about cruising Alaska on a small ship is that you can go to the bridge and chat with the officers nearly any time of day. We even sat there chatting with them with binoculars in hand one afternoon, trying to spot whales together.

Cabins on Baranof Dream

While the rooms are not the main event on the ship, it is a significant part of any cruise. On an Alaskan Dream Cruise, they're mostly to sleep, wash up, use the toilet, and get ready for the day. Otherwise, most people can be found on deck enjoying the scenery or bonding with fellow passengers and the crew in the lounge or restaurant.

The rooms are rather small, so if you can swing the cost of a suite (which is the category called “Deluxe” and “Deluxe Suite” on ADC) we recommend doing so for a small yet significant amount of extra square footage. Deluxe Suites are 210 square feet compared to an A room, which is 109 square feet. Or an AA room, which is 116 square feet.

An “A” category room, like room 203 in the photo below, contained a small, soft bed next to some drawers against the wall, with one side of the two-person bed against the window.

No matter the category of room, the ceilings in Baranof Dream cabins aren’t more than six and a half feet high. Dan is 6’2” tall, and his head nearly touched the ceiling. If you’re 6’6” or taller, you likely won’t comfortably fit in the cabin, which has low ceilings and queen-size beds. (Tall people problems!) 

There are 25 cabins onboard Baranof Dream. The classes are as follows: A, AA, AAA, Deluxe, and Deluxe Suite.

There are No Locks on the Doors

It's important to note that there aren't locks on the doors of any of the rooms. This didn't bother us because we were used to it from previous cruises, like our yacht cruise in Ecuador on Kontiki Wayra . However, if you're not used to such a thing, it can be shocking! So we want to be sure we frankly share that with you.

Yet it's also important to note that there is a level of mutual trust that you have with people onboard. They all paid to be on the same trip and also potentially have valuable things onboard, like their own binoculars and expensive camera gear.

Chances are, however, that you'll have those things nearby or on you for most of the trip. Spotting wildlife, or taking photos of it, is part of the memory-making of a cruise in Alaska.

Stateroom Bathrooms

Though things vary slightly from ship to ship, Baranof Dream’s bathrooms are very small. A “show-let,” as the Assistant Hotel Manager described it to us while she showed us our room, is what the bathroom consists of. That's a combined toilet and shower in one room, along with a small sink. The door to the bathroom area was a metal-framed frosted piece of plexiglass likened to a vintage shower door.

Shampoo and soaps were from Alaskan vendors, a detail we sincerely appreciated. 

Getting Around the Ship

The ship is small. You could walk the entire ship from top to bottom, bow to stern, in a short amount of time. But a small ship adventure is likely why you're interested in Alaskan Dream Cruises anyway!

If you have mobility issues, it's important to know that the stairs are a little steep between decks. Also keep in mind that the showers and bathrooms are very small, with little to no room to maneuver.

Food on Alaskan Dream Cruises

Breakfast is served in the restaurant around 7:30 am every day, thirty minutes after a wake-up call announcement on the loudspeaker. An early riser’s breakfast is set up at the bar beginning around 6:00 am.

Lunch was around noon, and you ordered what you wanted from a menu that changed daily.

Cookie time was around 4:00 pm each day, which was always a hit. That was followed by a time for hors d’oeuvres, which were served between 5:00 and 5:30 pm in the bar area. Some hors d’oeuvres we had were dip with crackers, bruschetta on crostinis, crab cakes, and stuffed mushrooms. 

Dinner was served at 6:30 pm, and we chose our evening's selections off a menu that changed every day. Our meal was served with an optional small glass of red or white wine or a glass of beer, which is included in the cruise fare.

The restaurant has open seating, with tables for four people or more. On a small Alaskan Dream Cruises ship, you’ll be sure to make friends quickly, especially because you sit together during meals. 

Local purveyors provide the seafood.

The menu for each meal is posted publicly by the bar hours in advance so you can get excited about your next dining experience. 

The food is good — there were some hits and misses, as we find with most cruises.

Drinks on Alaskan Dream Cruises

Aside from the included glass of beer or wine with your dinner each day, drinks can be purchased from the bar. The exception is that onboard alcohol is included for guests of the Deluxe and Deluxe Suite cabins.

You are not permitted to bring your own alcohol onboard. 

Cocktails were $10.50 each, and beer was $7.50 per glass when we sailed. One of the nice things about the beer onboard is it’s from an Alaskan brewery in Sitka called Harbor Mountain Brewing Company. We loved that we were supporting a local business and getting a taste of a local brew when we ordered the Alaskan beer.

There was also local gin onboard from Port Chilkoot Distillery called 50 Fathoms. Because the Alaskan Dream Cruises ships are provisioning in Alaskan ports, you have to imagine they're bringing local products onboard. And we loved that it showed in the bar options.

Other alcohol included Jameson, Tito’s, Bombay Sapphire, Woodford Reserve, and the like. 

One of the most fun things that happened during the cruise was when the ADC crew brought Alaskan ice onboard that they retrieved from the ocean. We got to have a drink with a glacial ice cube!

Wi-Fi and Cell Phone Service on Alaskan Dream Cruises

There is no wifi on the ship. Though Alaska is in the United States, cell service on the water is non-existent. Dan has AT&T, and I have Verizon, and we almost didn't have cell service the entire time while cruising, except for two times while leaving the shore in some areas when Dan had a tiny bit of service until the boat sailed further out on the water.

You don't need an international cell phone plan if you're US-based if, perchance, you do get cell service. Because, remember, though Alaska feels like another world it's an American State. Major cities, including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka, have cell service, but smaller towns, like Wrangell and Kasaan, are harder to get strong signals in.

Plan to be unplugged and enjoy your surroundings, not being glued to a device. Consider it a bonus if you get service in a port and want to briefly connect with anyone back home during the trip.

In addition to day-to-day excursions in ports or cruising the area, there are noteworthy activities.

The crew will put kayaks and paddleboards in the water when the conditions — weather and geographic area — are right. We loved kayaking in a quiet bay one afternoon and seeing the small jellyfish in the water beneath us. We even spotted whales in the distance!

As we previously mentioned, there were games onboard, too: board games in the lounge, and if the weather was nice, a crew member put out cornhole and a huge Connect 4 game.

We really valued the presentations that Ken, our onboard naturalist, offered a few times throughout the cruise. One was about what winter is like in Alaska, and another was about the salmon in the state. Both were fascinating topics!

What to Pack for an Alaskan Dream Cruise

Water in the rooms is potable/drinkable, so we recommend bringing a reusable water bottle.

Though they provide binoculars per stateroom, we brought our own. If you don’t want to bring your own, use theirs. If you want a premium quality pair of binoculars, bring your own. The binoculars in the room were less magnification than ours and not high quality. 

Leave any formalwear at home; it's unnecessary and a waste to take up space in your luggage with fancy attire for Alaska. You'll want to pack layers, comfy socks, and waterproof or water-resistant gear in case it rains. Pack cozy shirts, both long sleeves and short. In hindsight, slippers to wear in the room would have been a great addition. Pack a scarf, gloves, and a hat as well. Sunscreen and sunglasses are necessary, too.

Though you'll be cruising in Alaska during summer, the high temperatures are usually in the 60s. Sure, there are exceptions when they may have a heatwave. However, remember it's also always colder and windier on the water than on land.

Lastly, as long as you included the request in your pre-cruise “order” with Alaskan Dream Cruises, they provide some rain gear, which I am gleefully modeling in the photo below! The rain pants and hooded raincoat were a welcomed addition to my outfit on rainy days.

Pre and Post Cruise Excursions

Alaskan Dream Cruises is unique in that it includes pre and post-cruise tours the day you embark on the cruise.

The day the cruise started, we checked into Alaskan Dream Cruises’ hospitality suite in Sitka around 12:30 pm. Then, about thirty minutes later, we were on our way to the waterfront Salmon Hatchery at the Sitka Sound Science Center for a tour with fellow passengers.

Afterward, we enjoyed the small aquarium at the science center before heading to the Alaska Raptor Center. (They even had a touch tank! Who doesn't love a touch tank at an aquarium?)

Finally, we went to the Fortress of the Bear — an incredibly popular tourist spot in Sitka — as our last stop before we were driven to the cruise ship. We boarded Baranof Dream in Sitka around 4:30 pm. 

Additionally, ADC helped with transportation assistance in Ketchikan the day we disembarked. We were each given a ferry ticket to use to get from the shore to the airport, which is a 5-minute ferry ride across the water. Otherwise, you have to buy a ferry ticket, so this was a nice thing that the cruise line covered.

Alaskan Dream Cruises Review, All in All

Would we cruise with ADC again? Absolutely.

It helps to know what to expect, having been once, however, which we hope helps you as well. Knowing that the cruise ship isn't luxurious in aesthetics despite the price point but in hindsight, discovering the luxury is in the crew-to-guest ratio of 1:2 and the incredible experiences ADC works hard to curate to give guests “true Alaska” sets the right expectation.

We're so lucky to have learned about Alaska on our first trip there from Native Americans and native Alaskans, to have supported several locally-owned businesses along the way, and to have made fantastic memories with the crew and fellow inspiring guests.

Of any cruise we have ever been on, we still keep in touch with the most fellow passengers from that cruise than any other cruise. We truly cherish those friendships and the genuine connections we made thanks to Alaskan Dream Cruises bringing us all together.

Ready to Book Your Cruise or INquire?

Use our preferred travel advisors, bolds travel, because….

• They take away the hassle of travel planning : time spent on the phone with the cruise line could be time you spend doing other things.
• You don't pay them a dime : their service is free (this is because they get paid by the cruise line or destination).
• Their experience: They have decades of experience and attention to detail.

Read this next:

• Our Experience on Alaskan Dream Cruises Inside Passage Sojourn
• Exploring Ketchikan: Top Activities Revealed with Useful Area Info & Map
• Alaska Bugs in Summer: Avoiding Mosquitoes and What to Know

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A Wealth of Entertainment

Dream cruises.

Pristine waters, exotic ports of call and unique, once-in-a-lifetime activities await you on Dream Cruises. Sail away with us on state of the art vessels fit for adventure on the seas.

• Navigator of the Seas
• Rhapsody of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Explorer of the Seas
• Legend of the Seas
• Vision of the Seas
• Voyager of the Seas
• Silversea Silverwind

Sail on the Adriatic Sea to the Greek Islands aboard the luxurious MSC Musica -- a ship that boasts multiple decks, intimate cafes, & exciting live shows.

The Mediterranean: Sun-drenched beaches and cities rich with historical influence. See all of this and more as you sail on the MSC Fantasia, one of the most luxurious ships built by a European cruise line.

Discover opulence and splendor on the Magnifica while it sails to Italy, Greece, Israel and other magical locations throughout the Mediterranean. Next stop: Three of the seven wonders of the world await along this journey.

This floating luxury hotel the MSC Orchestra, takes a one week trip across the Baltic Sea and Northern Europe's most fascinating cities.

Explore the western Caribbean aboard the amazing Navigator of the Seas. Passengers discover stunning Caribbean islands on this massive and luxurious ship.

Australia -- idyllic islands, aboriginal tribes, and The Great Barrier Reef await the passengers aboard the luxurious Rhapsody of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas is the largest liner ever built. On this floating city, travel from Florida to Jamaica, across one of the most beautiful seas in the world.

Welcome aboard the Brilliance of the Seas, and sail to the mystical Greek islands, Italy and other ancient locales across the Mediterranean.

Cape Liberty is the perfect port of embarkation for the Explorer of the Seas. Pamper yourself with wine, fine restaurants, and Caribbean destinations on this magical trip.

The unexpected wonders of China come to life on this liner, The Legend of the Seas. Travel through Shanghai and take exciting side trips through China's neighboring countries.

Eccentricity is a way of life in these small, charming islands and unspoiled beaches of Brazil. Set sail to its surrounding cities on this beautiful voyage across the Vision of the Seas.

Explore wonders off the Adriatic Sea. The Voyager of the Seas has sailed practically every ocean in the world, and now it's set its course for the coast of Italy.

Cross the Atlantic and explore the Spanish coast aboard the luxury liner Silver Wind. Stops including the gorgeous St. Lucia and exciting Antigua.

• Silversea Silver Spirit
• Pullmantur Zenith
• Silversea Silvershadow
• Vasco de Gama
• Queen of the Mississippi
• Brahmaputra Mahabaahu
• Belle de Cadix
• Belle de Ladriatique

Travel aboard the Silver Spirit, a small liner with an intimate cruising experience. Dive into restaurants, boutiques, and five-star service along the ports of Grenada, St. Lucia and the Virgin Islands.

Welcome aboard the Zenith, as we set sail on the Adriatic and Aegean Seas! After visiting the castles of Bologna and the enchanting canals of Venice, we will follow the coastline of the Adriatic Sea.

It is a board Silversea's Silvershadow that we sail the coastline of one of the world’s most fascinating regions. Over the course of our trip, we will visit the acclaimed sites of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Singapore.

This long river flowing from its source in Spain comes alive on the coasts of Portugal. Centuries of agriculture are visible on the mountain sides as we witness its imposing wealth and prestigious universal heritage.

Medieval castles, landscapes rich in history, customs several centuries old, and stunning architecture, are witnesses to the splendor of bygone eras. This is a taste of the adventure that lies ahead as we sail the Danube, Europe’s majestic river.

This Christmas Time Dream Cruises follows the passengers of the riverboat Amaprima, as it winds its way through the heart of Europe in the days preceding Christmas.

The Mississippi: a legendary river that crosses the US. The boat is a beautiful replica of the famous steam boats that sailed the river during the 19th century. On the agenda: jazz and blues, famous plantations, and historical sites.

Welcome to the province of Assam in northeastern India. We'll be cruising down the Brahmaputra River, through some of the most beautiful terrain on the planet.

For this dream cruise, we set off on the Caribbean Sea! It is aboard the Costa Luminosa that we will discover the Pearl of the West Indies, a territory coveted by travelers from all over the world.

Dream Cruises invites you to travel the waters of the Guadalquivir and the Guadiana to discover this celebrated part of Spain. Starting in Seville, we will sail the waters of these exotic European ports of call, aboard the luxurious Belle de Cadix.

Built essentially to sail on the Adriatic Sea and along the Dalmatian coast, this intimate yet beautifully appointed ship can dock in most ports large and small.

Dream Cruise welcomes you aboard the MS Botticelli for a cruise on one of the most beautiful rivers of Europe, the Seine! On this intimate cruise on the Seine, we will visit some of the country’s most beautiful cities including Paris.

On this unique cruise on the Cyrano de Bergerac, we will be sailing the region of Bordeaux, known for its amazing wines but also for its many historical sites.

Season Three

• Michelangelo

Dream Cruises invites you to sail the Rhine on board CroisiEurope’s MS Europe - A 100-metre 4-star ship accommodating up to 120 passengers. Our route will take us to the city of Rudehsheim, the romantic part of the Rhine with its many castles.

On this cruise, we will drift on this mythical river which runs 4500 km long. We will start our visit on the Tonle Lake where we will discover the magnificent remains of the majestic temples of Angkor.

It is considered the most beautiful city on Earth, the most romantic, the most mysterious. Dream Cruises invites you on board the Michelangelo to visit the most romantic city in the world: Venice.

Welcome on the Volga, Europe’s longest river. Almost 3700 km long, it flows through extraordinary landscapes and tells the amazing history from Moscow to Saint Petersburg.

Take a delightful trip up the historic Rhone River in France, from Martiques on the Mediterranean, to Chalon sur Saone on board the fabulous river boat Van Gogh. We'll be stopping along the way to visit beautiful towns along the ports.

Dream cruise invites you on board the luxurious MS Vivaldi of the CroisiEurope Line to sail the waters of the Danube. The cruise will depart from the city of Passau in Germany and sail down the river to Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

It is aboard the Austral, a gigantic 149 meter yacht that we will journey through Antarctica in the presence of penguins, whales, seals, dauphins, carnivorous birds and powerful killer whales!

Dream Cruises invites you to discover the beauties of the Indian Summer along the majestic Saint- Lawrence River on board the Boreal.

On board this themed cruise, we will visit the most stunning golf courses the Mediterranean has to offer, as well as visit dream destinations for any enthusiast of the Great Blue Sea, all aboard one of the most luxurious sailboats in the world.

The Celtic Empire once stretched far and wide over what is now Western Europe. We'll embark on a fantastic 12-day cruise from Lisbon to Reykjavik that will trace some of the roots of these gorgeous and historic parts of the world.

Cruise in the luxurious riverboat Aqua for an intimate encounter with the Peruvian Amazon. Daily excursions deep into the rainforest awaits you!

Welcome on board the MSC LIRICA, where we will discover some of the most beautiful islands of the West Indies. During this cruise we will visit the exotic islands of the Dominican Republic.

Live the life of the rich and famous aboard the Poesia. A luxury liner sponsored by the glamorous Sophia Loren, this vessel takes a seven-day voyage across the Caribbean Sea.

Season four.

Dream Cruise invites you to sail the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and part of the famous Riviera.During our cruise we will stop in Barcelona, La Goulette, Rome, Florence and as well as in Montecarlo.

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What to Expect on a Cruise to Nowhere — Dream Cruises’ World Dream Review

Update: Dream Cruises’ World Dream has ceased operations since 2 March 2022.

With travel out of the books, we’ve been on the lookout for other meaningful ways to take a good well-deserved break.

Photo credit: Dream Cruises

In Nov 2020, Singapore began cruises to nowhere . It’s not very different from regular cruises except this time, there aren’t any ports of call. You leave Singapore’s shores and return without stepping foot in other countries.

We had the pleasure of sailing on the World Dream — the newest ship of the Dream Cruises fleet just built in 2017!

For those wondering if a cruise to nowhere is safe and worth it — we’ve sussed out the whole experience — from pre-boarding process and accommodation as well as things to do , food onboard , and safety precautions . Here’s our no holds barred experience of our three-night stay on the World Dream!

Pre-boarding Process for a Cruise to Nowhere

Thanks to COVID-19, there are a few extra steps to take before getting on the cruise:

1) Check-in online before your cruise (up to 90 days before departure) — upload a scanned copy of your passport or NRIC. 2) On the day of departure, guests will have to check in via SafeEntry, undergo temperature screening and fill in a health declaration form. 3) All guests will have to take a COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test (ART) at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre (level 3). Check your pre-assigned timeslot for the test, printed on the ticket. 4) After receiving a negative ART result, check-in your baggage.

*Pro-tip: Pack light and skip the baggage check-in to save time.

5) Collect your key card and TRACEY — for contact tracing. These must be with you at all times on the ship. 6) Lastly, immigration. The automatic lanes now use facial recognition, so you don’t have to scan your thumb.

Despite the extra steps, the entire check-in process was actually very smooth and only took about 45 minutes in total. If you check the World Dream FAQ page, it states that waiting time for the swab results can take up to an hour — ours only took 20 minutes.

Note that the ART is slightly different from the PCR test — it’s a lot less intrusive and painless!

Accommodation on board Dream Cruises’ World Dream

Balcony deluxe stateroom.

Our room for the next three nights!

Our Balcony Deluxe Stateroom had a comfy queen-size bed, large sofa, flat-screen TV and a private balcony. This was my virgin cruise experience and I was pretty impressed with the size of the room.

The bathroom was really spacious too, with a dual-tap sink and rain shower with seriously good water pressure — no complaints so far!

It was surprisingly comfortable, but the best part is looking out on the balcony and realising you’re no longer on land — ah, that ever-changing sea view.

A gorgeous sunrise view from our balcony on the first morning

*Pro-tip: If your room isn’t facing the east side, head to Zouk Beach Club at the back of the ship for an uninterrupted sunrise view.

Cost: From ~S$300/pax for two nights

While the Balcony staterooms are cosy, we got to visit The Palace — it’s basically the Sentosa Cove of the ship!

Staying here gives you access to exclusive restaurants and programmes, 24-hour butler service, and priority access to shows. The Palace also has its own facilities that non-Palace guests can’t access, like a separate pool and gym — talk about living that bougie life for three nights!

Palace Suite

Palace Suites include a queen bed, sofa bed and a luxury bathroom with a bathtub. You can also look forward to a complimentary mini-bar and Nespresso coffee machine.

The best part is the balcony — it’s twice the size of the one in the Balcony Deluxe Room!

Cost: From ~S$660/pax for two nights

Read more: Our Palace Suite Experience — Dream Cruises Review

Palace Villa

We also got to tour the best suite onboard — the Palace Villa. It has two bedrooms, a dining room, living room and three bathrooms.

The Palace Villa’s master bathroom. Just wow.

There’s plenty of outdoor space too, like a private sun deck, jacuzzi and sauna. At the front of the ship, no less!

The guest room in the Palace Villa .

Free Things to Do on a Cruise to Nowhere

Thrilling activities.

Waterslide Park

The Waterslide Park has five thrilling slides — three looping slides and two steep drops! The loop slides are a lot of fun, with clear segments for sneaky views of the ocean. Just a fair warning that the drops are not for the faint-hearted!

Workout and Dance Classes

Some of the most underrated cruise activities are the free fitness and dance classes! There are at least two classes daily.

Ballroom dancing taught by Gabriele from Italy and Laura from Spain!

Being the fomo / kiasu travellers, we attended four in total — Muay Thai, HIIT, Ballroom Dance and Bellydance. These ended up being one of the highlights of our cruise! It was a great experience being taught by instructors from all over the world.

My favourites were the dance classes. As someone with no dance background and limited grace, they were a lot more fun than expected. The instructors were friendly and patient, and the moves weren’t too hard to pick up — I’m ready to start my own dance crew now 😎

Post-HIIT with personal trainer Natalie Yeo .

Classes are limited to 15 – 20pax on a first-come-first-serve basis, but the ones we attended were less than half-filled. What a waste! But now that you can’t leave the ship, it’s the best time to try all these fun classes. Classes can be found on the Dream Daily — a daily newsletter you get at the start of each day.

Ropes Course and Zipline

The rooftop Ropes Course is a good source of adrenaline — navigate through different obstacles and end off by ziplining over the ocean!

There’s even a full-sized basketball court to shoot some hoops! This space is also occasionally used for fun activities like a reverse bungee run. Reserve your slot at Deck 18, at the Ropes Course area.

Rock Climbing Wall

Scale new heights at the rock wall on Deck 18! The course isn’t too difficult so it’s perfect for kids and beginners.

Crystal Life Fitness

Squeeze in a quick workout at the well-equipped Crystal Life Fitness gym. There are several treadmills, gym machines, and a weight-training area to help you work up a sweat.

Plus the view provides extra motivation to work harder! Book a slot in person at the counter on Deck 15.

Chill Activities

Main Pool Deck

At the heart of all the action lies the main pool deck, with four relaxing jacuzzis.

Currently, the pool is limited to 26pax, while the jacuzzi is limited to two guests each for hourly timeslots. You’ll have to reserve a slot at the pool reception desk.

Enjoy a chill game of mini golf with your friends on Deck 17 — no bookings required!

Cinema at Sea

Zouk Beach Club is now used as an outdoor movie theatre!

There’s a broad selection of films playing throughout the day around the cruise. On our sailing, there was Jumanji: The Next Level at the outdoor Zouk Beach Club, Spiderman: Far From Home at the Zodiac Theatre, and Bad Boys for Life at The Lobby. There are about six films playing each day.

The Zodiac Theatre, also used for performances.

The Dream Boutiques, The Dream Store and Souvenir Mart

For the shopaholics, The Dream Boutiques offers a small range of luxury goods. Look out for occasional designer handbags and jewellery clearance sales on the Dream Daily!

Snackaholics can head to The Dream Store for souvenirs and snacks.

FAITH is everything you’d want in a show — ballet, acrobatics, comedy, visual technology. The cast features performers from all over the world, and it’s the show’s first time launching in Singapore!

Join comedian Txema Munoz in a night of comedy and magic from 5 Nov 2021.

VISION by Vincent Vignaud

Experience the magic of illusions up close with renowned illusionist Vincent Vignaud — great for both kids and adults!

The Paid Stuff on a Cruise to Nowhere

Some activities on World Dream require an additional charge but are still worthwhile for a more unique experience.

Esc EXPERIENCE LAB

Virtuix Omni.

For some virtual reality fun, check out Esc EXPERIENCE LAB . On World Dream, there are eight exciting games — from full-motion rollercoasters to Formula 1 racing simulators.

Our top pick is the Virtuix Omni, a multi-directional simulator with free range of motion, allowing you to chase down (or run from) zombies.

The Icaros Flying Simulator is a close second — you’re essentially a drone hunting enemy drones.

The Esc EXPERIENCE LAB includes an eSports Arena which hosts daily tournaments for popular games like Street Fighter and Tekken 7 . When there aren’t tournaments, you can book the space and enjoy games like Mario Kart on the big screen!

Cost: S$4 – S$20 per game

*Pro-tip: Look out for special game promotions on the Dream Daily like S$40 for 30 minutes of unlimited gameplay!

There’s a small arcade onboard — a whole separate venue from the Esc EXPERIENCE LAB.

Cost: ~S$3/game

Crystal Life Spa

The Crystal Life Spa is the place to go for a full on pampering session. You could get a full-body massage, detox facial, or makeover. We opted for a spa access pass (S$20/pax) to enjoy the sauna, steam room and vitality pools (both hot and cold!).

Cost: From S$20

Food — Where and what to eat on a cruise to nowhere

Free restaurants (no top-up required).

The Lido is the free buffet spread you’d expect on a cruise. Here, there are rows of international cuisine like Indian curry, laksa , pizza, and a mountain of desserts — all in one place.

Breakfast for four! We might have gone slightly overboard.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, you won’t be able to help yourself to the food. On the plus side, the friendly servers are very generous with the portions. There’s also a 24-hour snack bar right outside, perfect for midnight munchies.

Dream Dining Room Lower

For Western fare, check out Dream Dining Room Lower for a tasty three-course meal!

Main course options for lunch include Sauteed Black Pepper Beef, Fish and Chips, and Fusilli Pasta. The menu varies a lot, so don’t worry about having the same meal twice.

Dream Dining Room Upper

Dreaming Dining Room Upper serves zi char -style Chinese cuisine. On the menu for the day: Sweet and sour pork, Chinese cabbage, pork ribs, and bitter gourd soup.

The dinner menu that day looked really appetising — assam pedas seasonal fish and wok-fried frog legs!

*Pro-tip: Opt for lunch here as it gets pretty packed during dinner.

Specialty Restaurants (top-up required)

There are over 20 specialty restaurants and bars on the World Dream. The prices are comparable to Singapore restaurant prices, but with an 18% service charge.

For the experience, we’d recommend setting aside at least one meal at a specialty restaurant.

For us, we tried Umi Uma, a Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, where set meals start from S$58.

I’ve had teppanyaki before, but nothing like this. Our chef was a man of many talents. He taught us how to juggle an egg with a spatula and let us (attempt to) catch food with our mouths. Talk about dinner and a show!

The food itself was great. I enjoyed a juicy filet mignon steak, with salad, fried rice and stir-fried veggies on the side. For dessert, I opted for green tea ice cream with a matcha cake. Yum!

Themed Events on the World Dream

Dream Cruises runs periodic themed events on board, so there’s always something new to look forward to. Check out World Dream’s calendar for upcoming events!

A Nordic Christmas Adventure

Celebrate Christmas the Scandinavian way with Dream Cruises’ Christmas themed sailings from 17 Nov 2021 – 1 Jan 2022. Enjoy Nordic markets, cultural workshops and Holly Jolly — a special holiday production featuring contortionists, acrobats and elements from the Nutcracker ballet!

If you’re sailing on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, there’ll be holiday favourites like roast turkey and beef wellington at The Lido and Dream Dining Room Lower. 😋

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for a Cruise to Nowhere

Photo credit: Dream Cruise s

1) Do I need to be fully vaccinated to go on a Cruise to Nowhere?

As of now, guests don’t need to be vaccinated. However, you do need to be fully vaccinated to dine-in on board — the same as the current guidelines.

Take note that from 21 Nov 2021, all World Dream sailings will require its guests to be fully vaccinated, excluding children aged 12 and below. Guests must complete their vaccination at least 14 days before the cruising date to be eligible for the cruise.

2) Do I have to take a COVID-19 test?

Yes, as an added safety precaution, all guests have to take the COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test (ART) before boarding. The cost of the ART will be waived for new World Dream bookings for cruises departing from 20 Jan 2021 – 1 Apr 2022.

3) What are the safety precautions on board?

Contact tracing: Every guest is given a key card and TRACEY pod which has to be on you at all times. Your key card is required for tap in everywhere you go — restaurants, shops, shows etc. It’s like the ship’s version of SafeEntry.

Your temperature is also taken before entering potentially crowded areas, like theatres or restaurants.

Reduced capacity: In general, the ship is limited to a capacity of 50%, or 1,700 passengers — which is great for guests because other than mealtimes, we didn’t feel it was crowded at all. Most activities like waterslides and virtual reality games didn’t require waiting in queues!

This also applies to shows, restaurants and activities. The Zodiac Theatre, for example, currently allows 250 people, just 25% of its usual capacity. Don’t worry about missing shows, there are multiple timings to ensure all guests have a chance to catch them.

Hand sanitiser: These stations can be found all over the ship, as well as safe distancing markers on the floor reminding guests to practise social distancing.

4) Are reservations required for activities and shows?

Shows and classes are on a first-come-first-serve basis. But places like the spa, swimming pool, jacuzzis, SportsPlex and gym require reservations.

5) Where can I get the detailed schedule?

You can check the crowd level at each restaurant!

The detailed schedule is only accessible once onboard the World Dream, via a daily newsletter called the Dream Daily. You can find it on the Dream Cruises app , physical copies delivered to your room, and on the many screens around the ship.

The Dream Cruises app

The Dream Cruises app allows you to book WiFi packages, view Dream Dining’s menu for the day, as well as the day’s highlights. Download the app before boarding!

The Dream Daily gets released at around 7PM – 11PM daily, so you’ll know what’s on the agenda for the next day.

6) WiFi on board?

WiFi packages are available via the Dream Daily app from S$9 per day. The WiFi speed was fast and reliable, I only experienced a short 10-minute disconnection during the entire cruise.

7) How do I pay for additional activities and specialty restaurants?

All payments will be charged to your room card. Payments must be settled on the World Dream app before you disembark.

8) Are the restaurants on board Halal-certified?

The World Dream is Asia Pacific’s first Halal-friendly cruise ship! Both The Lido and in-room dining services are halal-certified. Halal options are also available at Dream Dining Room Lower upon request.

9) What other facilities are there for Muslim guests?

The World Dream offers a dedicated prayer room. Prayer gowns and mats will also be provided upon request.

10) Does the ship dock anywhere? Where will we be sailing to?

No, it is a cruise to nowhere , after all. The World Dream sails along the Straits of Malacca, where the waters are calmer.

Is a Cruise to Nowhere Worth It?

The most important question of all — Yes!

If you’re willing to pay ~S$200/night for a staycation in Singapore (excluding food and activities), a cruise to nowhere is way more satisfying.

From ~ S$259/pax , you get a two-night stay with a sea view and your meals are free. Not forgetting free access to amenities like the pool, gym, waterslide park, ropes course, as well as top-tier shows and fun classes. Just the free stuff alone is enough to keep you occupied!

While some look forward to the various ports of call on pre-COVID cruises, a cruise to nowhere allows you to truly explore and enjoy the ship’s facilities. Plus, you’ll have time to try the different classes and watch all the shows!

Although we didn’t go anywhere, we still felt like we were on a holiday. Nothing like getting a text message asking you to activate your overseas data plan to get you in the vacation mood. 😂

Would you go on a cruise to nowhere? Share with us your thoughts in the comments!

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15 comments.

Hi how fast the wifi? Standard package can open youtube/netflix & video call? Or need to opt for premium package? Is mobile data totally can’t be used on board?

Hi Mira! The Wifi was pretty good, and yes you can watch shows and you should be able to video call! If you use mobile data it’ll be data roaming as the ship sails to international waters.

How does the onboard wifi work? Do you have to log in to a landing page where you key in a user name and password like hotels, and can you hotspot it to your laptop or something? Thanks!

The Wifi is accessed through the Dream Cruises app. Once you’re on board (before you set sail), you’ll have to purchase the package through the app, using your own Wifi/Data in order to activate it. The app is only available on mobile thus we weren’t able to access wifi on our laptops.

Do ensure you’ve downloaded the app before boarding. Hope this helps!

hi, Kim after the cruise was there a need to be self- quarantine for a period of time?

Hi Jane! There wasn’t a need to self-quarantine after the cruise. The safe distancing measures on the ship were pretty extensive, from having to book timeslots for activities to alternate seats for movies and shows.

Thanks for this write up guys!!! Was still contemplating coz it’s still a cruise to nowhere but after reading y’all made me want to go! Awesome….. thanks

Glad you found it useful Sabrina! We had a lot of fun on our cruise — definitely a welcome break despite not actually going anywhere

after back from cruise & if fill up declaration form eg in a clinic, question on where “travel overseas”, is cruise to nowhere considered travelled overseas ?

Hi Shirley, nope it’s not!

Hi, Thank you for your reivew. It is really helpful for planning my trip. Can I check with you? Which deck did you choose during your trip? Can you choose or they choose for us? Any tips for that?

That’s great to hear! I don’t think you get to choose your deck. You select a room type and then get assigned a deck 🙂 Like how Balcony Staterooms are on decks 8-13 and 15! You can check which rooms are on each deck here: https://www.dreamcruiseline.com/world-dream-rooms

Do you have to book activities in advance ? If so, do you know how to book ?

Hi Jac! you can only book the activities using the Cruise App once you are onboard.

hi, is there a restaurant where they sell cakes? I’m going to the dream cruise on my b day

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Disney Dream cruise ship review: Mostly magic with a bit of mayhem

TPG's Erica Silverstein accepted a free trip from Disney Cruise Line to cruise on Disney Dream. The opinions expressed below are entirely hers and weren't subject to review by the line.

A Disney Dream cruise is not just for families with young children who love Mickey Mouse and princesses. Disney lovers of all ages, including many couples who choose to get married on board or on the cruise line's private island, will appreciate setting sail in an immersive Disney atmosphere.

A Disney Dream sailing is also attractive to travelers who love a good show, as the ship offers stellar musicals, captivating deck parties and all the movies you can watch from the many Disney-owned production companies (Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and more). Cruisers seeking a more midsize ship, with attentive service and plenty of activities geared toward both kids and adults, will not be disappointed.

Unsurprisingly, Disney Cruise Line does themed sailings well. My five-night Western Caribbean cruise was a Very Merrytime sailing, complete with holiday decorations throughout the ship, seasonal shows and activities, and visits from Santa. Mickey and friends, as well as my fellow passengers, were sporting red and green attire, too. The ship gets equally passionate about Halloween and Marvel-themed sailings.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

A Disney cruise might be a magical experience for some, but Disney Dream isn't perfect. On my cruise, dining venues were crowded and loud, and the lobby atrium and pool deck did not have enough space for all the cruisers who wanted to watch the signature shows. Cruisers looking for varied nightlife might be disappointed that many adults are tied up with childcare at night and unable to venture out to the adults-only bars and lounges.

A cruise aboard Disney Dream is pricey, especially when compared with family-friendly lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line . Make sure that Disney Dream is the ship for you by learning everything you need to know about the ship — from its cabins to its restaurants, attractions and activities — as well as my take on where the ship excels and where it misses the mark.

Overview of Disney Dream

The 130,000-ton Disney Dream contains 1,250 cabins and can carry 2,500 passengers at double occupancy and 4,000 at maximum capacity. That makes it small for a family ship when comparing it to Royal Caribbean's family favorite Oasis Class ships. The biggest Oasis Class ship, Wonder of the Seas , for example, measures 236,857 tons — 82% bigger than Disney Dream — and carries 5,734 passengers at double occupancy or 6,988 passengers when full.

The ship also stands apart from competitors in that it defies categorization. The ship would be considered mass-market because it offers a range of cabins from windowless insides through suites, appeals to families, does not focus on gourmet food or high-end finishings, and does not offer all-inclusive fares.

Yet Disney Dream's sailings are priced higher than most family-friendly cruise ships because the Disney brand commands a premium. Plus, you could argue that the service levels are higher and the entertainment is of a higher quality than on Royal Caribbean, Carnival or Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

So who's on board? Obviously, families with young children make up a large fraction of Disney Dream's passenger base. You'll find babies, kids and teens, as well as three-generation groups and extended family or friend groups. Yet the ship also attracts adults who are Disney fans or appreciate Disney's entertainment and service. It is common for couples to plan onboard weddings or take their honeymoon on a Disney cruise.

Because Disney cruise fares are so high, most Disney Dream passengers are willing to spend money, either because they have a high vacation budget or have saved up for a special trip where they will pull out all the stops. I was surprised how many passengers were paying extra for princess makeovers at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, high-priced Disney paraphernalia from the onboard shops, and souvenir drink and popcorn containers.

The other thing to recognize about Disney Dream is that the kid activities are central and the adult amenities peripheral. The pool deck features several bars, but they are tucked away at the ends of the deck, not set out by the main pool. The sports pub, nightclub and other themed bars are hidden at the back end of Deck 4 in a warren of interconnected rooms that aren't always easy to find, and the adults-only specialty restaurants are relegated to a quiet corner at the top of the ship. There is no casino on board.

Because so many of the adults on board are traveling with children, not all are free to go out at night. So, some adult venues and evening activities can be sparsely populated. (Others generate a larger crowd, though.) On the upside, I did not encounter obviously inebriated folks on this cruise — though that could be because I, like so many adults, was traveling with a child and not often in the adult spaces.

What I loved about Disney Dream

The crew and waiters.

Every cruise line promotes the attentiveness of its crew, but the Disney Dream crew really shined, especially our waiters, who traveled with us from restaurant to restaurant. They quickly learned our preferences, bringing us our preferred drinks as we sat down, giving us butter in addition to the day's dip for the bread and remembering our tea preferences.

Our main waiter, Richard, always had a riddle or magic trick for the kids in his section, and Afandi, our assistant waiter, made origami for the kids each night. They would patiently listen as our 7-year-old companion told them jokes and stories, even though they were busy delivering meals and clearing plates.

Our room steward, Panca, left us towel animals every day and always inquired if there was anything we needed. The kids club counselors were always welcoming and ready to answer any parent questions. The entertainment staff did a great job involving as many kids as possible in the activities and were friendly and patient.

I love a good Broadway show, but the song-and-dance revues featured on so many cruise lines often fall flat. The singing ranges from great to mediocre, and while the costume changes and high-tech effects are cool, the shows don't always have a strong thread connecting the various numbers.

Disney Cruise Line takes a different approach — a more Disney approach, if you will. Disney Dream offers three featured musicals, all with a clear story to tell. Adults can appreciate the strong performances and creative use of costumes and scenery, and kids enjoy seeing some of their favorite characters and stories come to life on stage.

This was especially true of the ship's version of "Beauty and the Beast," an abridged version of the story based on the live-action movie. Kids and adults alike were riveted in their seats for an hour and a half, and the performances were stellar, with some of the actors even hailing from Broadway.

The only downside to the shows being so good is that you never want to miss one. That meant my friend and I never sent her daughter to the kids club after dinner, which would have allowed us to enjoy one of the ship's bars and an after-dinner cocktail together.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Palo brunch

I'd heard from many people that brunch at Palo was amazing, and the experience did not disappoint. If you can sneak away for a couple hours, it's a lovely way to enjoy a relaxed, quiet, kid-free meal without missing one of the featured rotational restaurants. It's also good value, leading some people to claim it's the best $50 you can spend on a Disney cruise .

Our waiter, Victor, was as handsome and charming as any Disney prince. He brought us passionfruit mimosas when my friend said she didn't care for orange juice. We started the meal with a bread basket, and the almond croissants were the best I'd ever had, warm and flaky with a delicious almond filling that elevated the pastry.

The menu is so varied that it's hard to choose. Winners included poached eggs with spinach, asparagus and mornay sauce and the goat cheese flatbread. The mushroom ravioli fell flat, but that was OK because I was getting pretty full by then. The chocolate hazelnut dessert was thankfully small because I only had room for a few delectable bites.

My tip: Book an early brunch, and don't eat anything beforehand. You will definitely want to arrive hungry and with a very empty stomach.

Family-friendly cabins

Disney really thought about what families need in a living space when it designed the cabins on its ships, including Disney Dream. As a mom who has cruised with kids since they were babies, I understand the unique challenges families face when sharing a small cabin together. Disney does, too, and has created cabins to eliminate some of those challenges.

It starts with the split bathrooms, one with sink and toilet and the other with sink and shower. That means two can brush their teeth at once, and if a little person suddenly has to go potty when Daddy is in the shower, it's not a problem.

The cabins have plentiful storage space with lots of drawers because little kid clothing does not fit on grown-up hangers. Our cabin host even left a kid-size bathrobe in the closet, along with the two adult-size ones.

There's a dim light on the ceiling of the room's living area where kids will sleep in sofabeds and pulldown bunks to serve as a nightlight. A floor-to-ceiling curtain can extend across the entire room to separate the kids' sleeping areas from the adults. This way, adults can have the lights on in their section of the room after bedtime.

Even the balconies have childproof locks high up on the door, so you can prevent kiddos from sneaking onto the veranda without adult supervision.

What I didn't love about Disney Dream

Crowds and queues.

Disney does not get everything magically right, unfortunately. One way its ships resemble its parks is in the crowds and wait times for nearly everything.

I was dismayed at how much time we spent on this cruise waiting around. Sometimes, it was waiting in the always-long lines for a meet-and-greet and photo opp with characters or to drop off or pick up kids at the Oceaneer Club. I waited 40 minutes on a sea-day afternoon to ride the AquaDuck, and there was no entertainment in that line, as there might be at a Disney park water attraction.

Any show we wanted to see involved arriving early to get seats, occasionally waiting in line to enter the theater. Show up late to one of the Pirate Night shows or any of the events in the atrium lobby, and you will have terrible sightlines and be unable to see much of the show.

The ship also felt small for the number of people it carried, possibly because of bad design and passenger flow. Unless you go very early or late, the pool deck and its two pools are insanely crowded. Even the dining rooms felt like tables were pushed extremely close together, and it was so loud that I often had to raise my voice or lean across the table to converse with my tablemates. Walking through crowded areas was also tricky since kids would veer unpredictably while ambling slowly, so it was hard to get by; both parents and kids would block stairwells or corridors.

The crowding did make the adult areas feel like a respite. Still, the Quiet Cove sun deck and pool area fill up.

Nightlife district

The majority of Disney Dream's indoor bars and adult lounge areas are grouped together in a warren of interconnected rooms at the back of Deck 4. The District is meant to be a happening nightlife area, but I found it to be more of a dark, confusing afterthought.

I liked the vibe in the pub, with comfy seating and windows to the outside, and the whimsical Champagne bar Pink with its bubbles and corset theming. But the other bars were dark and not necessarily inviting. There was one bar, Skyline, that I could not find until I got turned around in a stairwell and happened upon it.

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

A member of the ship's entertainment team told me that evening adult events were hit or miss as far as attendance goes. It makes sense — I found that by the time I ate dinner and attended the show, it was time to put my friend's kid to bed. I could have ditched them to hang out in a bar on my own, but that wasn't an attractive option.

Disney Dream cabins and suites

The cabins and suites on Disney Dream were designed with families in mind, more so than on nearly every other cruise ship afloat. Cabins come in various categories, with many that can sleep families of three or four. Most have a split bathroom design, with two half baths; one contains a toilet and sink, the other a sink and shower (or shower-tub combo).

My cabin was a balcony room that could accommodate three, with a queen-size bed and a sofa that flips into a twin bed. I was dismayed to discover that, unlike every other ocean-going cruise ship I've sailed, the queen bed did not split into two twins. This forced my friend and I to share a bed. (Cabins that can sleep four will have a pull-down bunk above the sofa bed.)

The room is split in two by a floor-to-ceiling height, full-width blackout curtain, so we could put my friend's daughter to bed on the couch, turn off the lights on her side of the room and then read in bed with the lights on. One downside of this arrangement is that the small flat-screen TV is in the living area, not the bedroom, so we couldn't watch a late-night movie. Another downside: The blackout curtains effectively turned the adult sleeping area into an inside cabin with no natural light.

In addition to the sofa bed, the cabin's living area features a desk with two 110V and one 220V outlets, three deep drawers (perfect for storing kid clothing), a minifridge, the aforementioned TV, an open cabinet with two narrow shelves, a closed cabinet with two tall shelves and a mirror. One of the many light switches by the desk turns on a dim overhead light that can be used as a nightlight. A low-backed chair can be positioned at the desk or turned around to face the coffee table when dining in your cabin.

The master bed is flanked by two small nightstands, each with one drawer, and reading lamps. Only one side of the bed has a 110V and 220V outlet; the other has the cabin's phone. The closet is divided into two sections, both with hanging space and some open shelves. Adjacent is a shelving unit with three deep drawers and a tall two-shelf open cabinet above. The bed is high enough for suitcases, or your small child, to fit underneath.

I found the storage perfectly adequate for two adults and a child on a five-night cruise, and the room could likely handle belongings for a seven-night or longer cruise, as well.

The narrow balcony features two metal and mesh upright chairs and a round metal drinks table. It has a childproof lock you can choose to use to prevent little cruisers from venturing out on the balcony unattended.

The bathroom with the toilet and sink offers three small glass shelves for storing toiletries; the shower room has two. Our bathroom had a tub/shower combo, and at 6 feet tall, I came close to hitting my head on the ceiling; I could not wash my hair without removing the wand showerhead from its holder and reaching it up as far its cord would go.

Each bathroom comes with a refillable hand soap dispenser; the shower room also offers bar soap and refillable containers of Disney brand shampoo, conditioner and shower gel in the tub. You'll find tissue dispensers in each. The shower room has a full-length mirror on the back of the door, which is useful, but this means there are no hooks on the door to hang extra items. There are, however, two retractable clotheslines in the shower and two large hooks on the wall between the bathroom and the sleeping area.

Less expensive cabins are either windowless insides with "magical portholes" (round video screens set in a window frame that display images from outside the ship with some cameos from animated characters) or ocean-view rooms with a round porthole window that does not open.

Higher-tier cabins include Concierge-level cabins and suites that grant you access to the exclusive Concierge lounge and sun deck on decks 12 and 13, respectively. These rooms come in three styles: a balcony cabin, a one-bedroom suite and a Royal Suite, all with private verandas. They come with upgraded amenities and privileges, such as included Wi-Fi, a pillow menu, feather duvets and priority for check-in and debarkation, tendering and reservations.

Wheelchair-accessible cabins come in nearly every cabin category except the Royal Suite.

Related: The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Disney Dream restaurants and bars

The Disney dining experience is a bit different than what you might have experienced on other cruise ships . The line employs a "rotational dining" system in which you choose early or late seating (5:45 and 8:15 p.m. on my sailing). Then, each night, you are assigned to one of three restaurants each evening. You "rotate" through all the options during the course of your cruise, and your waiters move with you. This way, you can build a rapport, and they can get to know your dining preferences.

Disney Dream does not offer a buffet alternative at dinner, though you can order room service or pick up burgers and chicken tenders at Tow Mater's Grill on the pool deck. If you choose these options or if the adults in your party make a reservation at the adults-only specialty restaurants, Palo and Remy, you might miss out on one of the themed main dining room experiences.

Restaurants

Overall, the food on Disney is fine, but the emphasis is less on impressive food and more on creating an experience that children will enjoy. The waiters work hard, not only taking orders and serving food, but cutting up food for kids or entertaining them with riddles and origami.

Each of the three main restaurants serves its own menu, but on some nights, each menu will serve the same menu, such as the "welcome aboard" menu on night one and a Caribbean-themed menu on pirate night. Every menu is divided into appetizers, soups and salads, main courses, vegetarian options, lighter options and dessert (which always includes an ice cream sundae and a sugar-free option).

The kids menu varies nightly, but is the same at each restaurant on any given day. It's divided into appetizers (a different soup each night and a garden salad), mains (macaroni and cheese, mini burgers, pizza and a changing option such as kid-sized surf and turf) and Disney Check Meals (combo dinners served with a main such as baked cod or penne pasta, a vegetable and fruit).

Mickey ice cream bars are the favorite dessert here; ice cream is also available, as well as a changing dessert such as a chocolate brownie with ice cream or white chocolate cheesecake.

Related: Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Unlike the venues on Disney's newer ships, the three main restaurants on Disney Dream have less of a theatrical aspect to them, though all are themed.

The design of the Enchanted Garden restaurant on Deck 2 was inspired by the Gardens of Versailles, and its menu claims to be market-style and international. Try the ahi tuna and avocado tower as a starter and the scallops or the prime rib for your main. The signature pecan tart was a nod to Thanksgiving on a Christmas-themed cruise.

Right above the Enchanted Garden on Deck 3 is the Royal Palace, inspired by four princesses — Cinderella, Snow White, Belle and Aurora (Sleeping Beauty). See if you can find iconic images from their stories around the dining room. Dinner here is the perfect time to wear your princess dress to dinner or dress up a little.

The menu is French, with starters like escargot and baked brie. Mains include duck breast, rack of lamb and Chateaubriand-roasted steak. For dessert, consider the grand marnier souffle or the apple tart tartin.

Royal Palace was also the sit-down option for breakfast and lunch on our cruise. Breakfast offers a nice selection of fruit and yogurt, breakfast pastries and egg and griddle options. A kids menu features fun-sized versions of eggs, pancakes, Mickey waffles and yogurt with fruit. Signature adult breakfasts include a savory power crepe, a plant-based hot breakfast for the vegans among us, southern hash and brioche French toast.

Most families stick to casual options for lunch, but if you want a sit-down, multicourse meal, the Royal Palace is there for you. The lunch menu is split into a choice of soups and salads, small plates (such as beef satay skewers or tomato and mozzarella bruschetta), chef's recommendations (churrasco steak, spiced cod fillet), burgers (including a turkey burger and Impossible burger), pasta, a handful of kid-friendly options and dessert (typically one is a sundae). Sit-down lunch is a great option on embarkation day when you don't want to drag your bags around a crowded buffet.

Animator's Palate, on Deck 3 aft (essentially behind the Royal Palace), is the night to experience dinner with a show. Video screens around the animation-themed restaurant come to life with characters from "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory," with a surprising interactive element. I enjoyed the butternut squash soup, ginger-teriyaki beef tenderloin and the cookies and cream sundae for dessert.

I generally found the three main restaurants loud, with tables spaced extremely close together. (At Animator's Palate, our table was separated from the next by the width of the ice bucket for our bottle of Prosecco.) Dinners are not relaxing events, even though the waiters are outstanding, keeping the kids entertained with riddles, magic tricks and origami.

Perhaps that is why Disney Dream's two specialty restaurants are exclusive to adults over 18. They offer a nice break for the grown-ups in the group to have a quieter, more upscale meal in a less crowded setting. Both the French Remy and Italian Palo are on Deck 12, separated by the Meridian Bar.

Palo is open for brunch on sea days and dinner daily, both for $50 per person. Brunch is a highlight and a great value for all the food they give you. The meal starts with a complimentary Prosecco or mimosa and a bread basket that includes not-to-be-missed warm almond croissants.

Then you can choose as many breakfast or lunch entrees as you'd like; the poached eggs with spinach, asparagus and mornay sauce and the goat cheese flatbread (pizza) were standouts from our brunch. You can also select from frittatas, waffles and pancakes, and mains like lasagna Bolognese, sirloin steak, veal and parmesan-crusted chicken breast.

After you've completely stuffed yourself, the waiters have the audacity to offer dessert. We sampled the warm amaretto chocolate fondant and the limoncello torte; while tasty, they were definitely not necessary to complete your meal.

For dinner in Palo, choose from the $50 fixed-price menu (a four-course meal with limited options for each), upgrade to the wine-paired menu or order a la carte from the full menu. The chocolate souffle dessert is the signature sweet and should be ordered at the beginning of the meal.

Remy is one of the most expensive specialty restaurants at sea, with menus by acclaimed chefs Scott Hunnel (from Victoria & Albert's at Walt Disney World Resort) and Arnaud Lallement (of Michelin star fame). Disney Dream offers two set menus, one by each chef, for $135 per person, with wine and Champagne pairings for an additional $120 and $160, respectively. You can also order a la carte.

For casual dining, Disney Dream does offer a buffet option on the Deck 11 pool deck. Cabanas serves breakfast and lunch only. In the morning, you'll find all the staples: eggs, breakfast meat, pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, pancakes and the famous Mickey waffles. An omelet station is tucked away at the back.

At lunch, you can find pizza and burgers, an array of hot entrees, soup, premade salads, a huge stash of shrimp and crab legs, pasta, deli meat and desserts (including ice cream). Look for themed sections that change daily.

I found Cabanas to have a nice variety of dishes (and the creamiest steam tray scrambled eggs I've had on a cruise to date). However, the layout is awful. The buffet is all one line, rather than station-based, and there is not a lot of room to walk around the venue. The result is that lines are long, and it's tricky to navigate through (say, if you're walking from the beverage station back to your table). This is especially true if you get stuck behind slow-moving, unpredictable small children who are somehow impossible to get around.

Related: Cruise ship buffet taboos: 10 things you should never do at mealtime

Unlike other mass-market cruise ships, Disney Dream offers free soda with meals and from beverage stations along the pool deck sides and in Cabanas (where you'll also find water, juice, coffee, tea and hot chocolate). Bring your own refillable drink containers to avoid waste because the poolside stations only offer paper cups, not reusable glasses and mugs.

For a snack or simpler meal, a trio of food counters, collectively known as Flo's Cafe, on the opposite end of the pool deck from Cabanas offers all the kid favorites. Luigi's Pizza serves up five types of pie daily; Tow-Mater's Grill cooks up burgers, chicken, hot dogs and sausages, plus chicken tenders and French fries; and Fillmore's Favorites serves a range of paninis, wraps, salads and fruit bowls. Be aware that while these venues are open all afternoon, only Tow-Mater's is open for dinner; Luigi's Pizza opens again at 9 p.m. for late-night snacks.

Poolside treats include the Eye Scream station with three soft-serve machines pumping out multiple flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, banana and strawberry. Frozone Treats next door offers extra-fee smoothies and refreshing drinks with and without alcohol (such as Dole Whip with a shot of rum).

Room service is complimentary on Disney Dream. You can order continental breakfast items by marking off your selections on a tag and hanging it outside your door before bed. All-day room service is available for order via phone; the menu is on the Navigator app. Selections include soups, salads, American fare (buffalo wings, burgers, chicken tenders), pizza and pasta and dessert. Mickey bars are not on the official room service menu, but can be ordered to your cabin.

If the free treats on this ship aren't enough (which is a concept that's difficult to grasp), you can splurge at Vanellope's Sweet Treats. Indulge with extra-fee ice cream and gelato, crazy sundaes, cupcakes and other baked goods and candy.

Outside the Walt Disney Theatre on Deck 3 is Preludes, where you can buy snacks (popcorn, candy) and drinks to bring into the theater. A secondary outpost of Preludes is outside the Buena Vista Theater on Deck 4.

Parents, be prepared: The pervasive smell of popcorn will have your littles desperate for a snack, and the only way to access popcorn is by purchasing a souvenir popcorn bucket on the first night. The buckets range from $8 to more than $20, but refills are only $1.50.

On a ship where sodas and ice cream bars are complimentary, I was surprised the line charged for popcorn.

On a ship full of kids, it's understandable that adults might need a grown-up beverage or two. Disney Dream accommodates, but the bars are less front and center than perhaps you'd find on other cruise ships.

On Deck 3, the Bon Voyage bar is tucked to one side of the midship elevator banks, between the Grand Lobby and the shopping area. It's in a crowded thoroughfare, so it lacks ambience.

Tucked into a corner on Deck 4 is the Vista Cafe for all your coffee drinks, regular or spiked. It also has a small case of snacks to go with your latte or mocha.

Related: Best cruise ship bars

The District, on Deck 4 aft, is the adult nightlife area, though it's used during the day to host events such as trivia. Grouped together are Pink, a wine and Champagne bar; Evolution, the nightclub and event space; Pub 687, the sports and game bar; Skyline, for bougie martinis with a changing cityscape behind the bar; and the District Lounge for hanging out, sometimes with live music. The District is a dark warren of interconnected rooms, so I only found the Skyline bar halfway through my cruise.

You won't find crowds here, as many adults will be at the family activities in the evening or stuck in their cabins after their kids go to sleep. Fun competitive games, trivia contests, and karaoke in Evolution did get a good-sized audience, but you'll rarely need to search for a seat at any of the venues.

If you're interested in Disney Dream nightlife and are traveling with younger kids, I recommend cruising with extended family or friends; this way, each adult can take turns staying with sleeping children while the others go out. Alternatively, put your kids in Oceaneer Club after dinner and the show, but not every child wants to stay up that late or leave their family for the club.

A buffet of finger foods is put out for an hour each evening to help soak up all that alcohol.

On the upper decks, the Cove Cafe is half coffee shop, half bar by the Quiet Cove adult pool. Grownups don't have to get out of the water to order drinks at the swim-up Cove Bar adjacent to the pool. Forward of the adults area, a juice bar in the Senses Spa will kick start your day or refresh you after a workout with fresh juice blends.

Additional pool bars include the Waves Bar on Deck 12 and the Currents Bar on Deck 13.

Also on Deck 12, the Meridian bar is the perfect place for a pre-dinner cocktail before a meal in the adjacent Remy or Palo. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and is a lovely getaway from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the ship. Passengers booked into Concierge-level cabins can also get drinks at their exclusive Concierge Lounge also on Deck 12.

Disney Dream activities

Disney cruise ships offer a mix of typical and unique-to-Disney activities. Perhaps the most Disney thing you can do on Disney Dream is meet your favorite Disney characters and princesses.

Families have three options: You can sign up for free Royal Gatherings, where you can meet multiple princesses at one time, or extra-fee events, such as the Royal Court Royal Tea. You can look up on the Navigator app when characters will be making appearances and line up for a photo opp and to get an autograph. You'll often find the characters posing in the Grand Lobby or on the balcony just above. Or, you can serendipitously run into a character wandering about the ship.

Even your kids who think they're too cool for Mickey or princess photos will likely become starstruck when they see the characters around the ship and ultimately want a photo or two.

Most kid-friendly activities occur in the multiple Disney cruise kids clubs on board. Most are clustered on Deck 4, where you'll find the It's a Small World Nursery for baby and toddler (up to age 3) daycare for an hourly rate. The Oceaneer Club and Lab offer complimentary drop-off activities for kids ages 3-10. Kids will love flying the Millennium Falcon, playing in Andy's Room, competing in Magic PlayFloor challenges and making crafts in Tinkerbell's Fairy Hollow.

Also on Deck 4 is the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where families can pay for a range of princess, prince and pirate makeovers for young cruisers. If you decide to splurge, choose your salon times wisely. You might not want to get makeup and an updo at 9 a.m. and then be unable to go into the pool for the rest of the day.

Tweens (ages 11-14) have their own hangout called Edge with video games, movies, crafts and group activities in the fake forward funnel on Deck 13. Teens (14-17) can enjoy an indoor lounge with snack bar, video game and movie space, plus a teen-only outdoor sun deck with a plunge pool and hot tub. Vibe, as it's called, is all the way forward on Deck 5, with a secret entrance from the Deck 4 outdoor promenade.

A range of family activities, from crafts to karaoke and dance parties, take place in the D Lounge on Deck 4. (Don't confuse it with the District Lounge next door, which is a bar in the adults-only area.) Some activities are held in the atrium lobby, including the hilarious Jack Jack's Diaper Dash (ie, crawling baby races). Evolution is the destination for evening adult activities, such as trivia, interactive competitions and karaoke.

The other major family-focused destination is, of course, the pool deck. Disney Dream has options for all ages and interests. Deck 11 midship is the main pool area with Mickey's pool and slide (the latter meant for ages 3-14) and the Goofy pool. Life jackets are available for kids who aren't strong swimmers.

A giant poolside screen shows Disney movies during both daytime and evening. Pools are open late so you can watch the evening film from the water. The pool area stage is where the welcome/sailaway show and Pirate's Night shows take place.

The Nemo's Reef splash area is intended for supervised splashing for junior cruisers in swim diapers, though youngsters of all ages are welcome. There is a hot tub by the kids pool, but it's generally full of kids.

Don't worry, Mom and Dad: Adults have their own pool deck, forward on Deck 11. The Quiet Cove pool and hot tub are exclusive to adults over 18 and are surrounded by a swim-up bar, adults-only coffee shop and lounge spaces.

Two decks up, the Satellite Falls pool and sun deck provides additional sunbathing space and a wading pool with a circular rain curtain under the ship's satellite transmitter. A sun deck exclusive to Concierge-level guests is also found on Deck 13.

Between the two on Deck 12 forward is a small family area with the Funnel Puddle plunge pool.

The pool area's other main attraction is the AquaDuck two-person raft slide that circles the entire pool deck. You must be 42 inches to ride and 54 inches to ride alone or with a smaller person. The ride has some thrills but is fairly tame. Sea-day afternoon wait times can be long (upward of 40 minutes). Ride after dark, and you'll hardly wait at all.

The entrance and exit from the AquaDuck are adjacent to each other on Deck 12, right above Nemo's Reef. I say this so you won't loop the decks multiple times looking for it.

On the opposite side of the ship on Deck 13 is Goofy's Sports Deck for all your athletic or competitive pursuits. A central sports court with basketball hoops is surrounded by a wacky minigolf course, ping pong tables and foosball.

Your running and walking track, however, will be the Deck 4 promenade. You'll find padded wooden lounge chairs here, as well as shuffleboard courts.

If you need some serious pamper time, head to the Senses Spa and Salon on Deck 11 forward. A salon offers mani-pedis and hair styling, or you can book a massage or facial in one of the spa treatment rooms. Couples treatments include various massages as well as time in one of two couples' villas, and teen services are also available.

A fitness center is stocked with resistance machines, free weights, yoga mats and cardio machines with ocean views, plus group class space for spin and core classes. You can also book a pass to the Rainforest Room thermal suite for access to relaxing saunas and steam rooms.

If retail therapy is more your style, you'll find an array of shops on decks 3 and 4, selling all kinds of character-based souvenirs and toys, Disney Cruise Line logo items, fine jewelry and sundries. The Whozits and Whatzits shop on Deck 11 sells swim and beach items in case you forgot something at home. If you plan on splurging, consider packing a foldable duffle that you can fill with all your souvenirs for the trip home.

Related: Tricks to save money on a Disney cruise

Disney Dream shows

Disney Cruise Line is known for its original Broadway-style musical shows. Disney Dream's trio of original productions include "The Golden Mickeys," "Beauty and the Beast" and "Disney's Believe." These are performed in the Walt Disney Theatre on decks 3 and 4. Your showtime is opposite your mealtime; if you have an early dinner, you'll see the late show and vice versa.

"The Golden Mickeys" is a Disney's version of an awards show, honoring the bravest heroes and the most dastardly villains. The show combines video clips with live performances of favorite songs from Disney movies.

"Disney Believe" is another original musical featuring a single dad who goes on a journey to regain his belief in magic. Along the way, he encounters characters from a wide selection of Disney movies, who guide him on his journey with song and dance.

The ship's marquee show, which runs 1 and 1/2 hours rather than an hour, is a stage adaptation of "Beauty and the Beast," based on the live-action movie. The show employs creative use of puppetry and high-tech scenery, and the performers are stellar. (Some even have Broadway backgrounds.) On our sailing, this show also has a matinee performance to accommodate more guests.

The Walt Disney Theatre has both orchestra and balcony seating. Be careful of poles and railings that can block views from the balcony. Sit in the front section of the orchestra if you want confetti to rain down on you during certain performances.

Disney Dream does not have just one theater. The Buena Vista Theatre on decks 4 and 5 is the ship's movie cinema, showing first-run movies from Disney-owned production studios. That means if the film is currently showing in the movie theaters on land, you can watch it for free while you're at sea.

Disney Cruise Line is also famous for its Pirate Night, a shipwide pirate-themed party, complete with pirate-themed games, trivia and kids activities; a special pirate-themed, island-inspired dinner menu in every restaurant; and two pirate shows on the pool deck stage. The early show stars Pirate Mickey and friends and is geared for younger cruisers; the later, all-ages show features Jack Sparrow and culminates in a fireworks display.

Nearly everyone on board, from babies to grandparents, gets into the pirate spirit, dressing up in looks ranging from simple DIY outfits with a few accessories to head-to-toe professional costumes, complete with wigs. Even if your kids think they're too cool, pack some pirate attire because you will feel left out of the fun if you're not in costume.

Another hot tip: The pool deck cannot handle the number of people who turn out for these shows. Arrive a good half hour early to stake out a spot with decent sightlines, and be prepared to potentially hold your child up the entire time if you're standing in the back. Also, plan for an afternoon nap, if your young kid wants to see fireworks. The show starts after 10 p.m.

On our five-night cruise, Pirate Night took place on a night when a performance one of the three musicals was not occurring. On that night, the main stage screened the newest Disney movie, so more people could watch. On the remaining night, a guest magician performed.

If you like shows, keep an eye out for short performances listed in the daily schedule on the app. Early in the sailing, Mickey and friends did a Christmas tree lighting event, complete with a Santa visit. One evening, the Broadway actor who plays Gaston in the ship's theater did a half-hour one-man show, performing numbers from the Disney songbook.

Disney Dream itineraries and pricing

Disney Dream will offer a series of three-, four- and five-night Bahamas and Caribbean cruises out of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, through early May 2024. Ports of call in the Bahamas include Nassau and Castaway Cay, Disney's longtime private island. Caribbean cruises include Grand Cayman or Cozumel, Mexico.

The ship then crosses the Atlantic for a summer season in Europe. From May through mid-July, it will offer five- to 11-night Mediterranean cruises out of Barcelona and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome), Italy.

It will then reposition to Southampton, England (near London), where it will sail two Scandinavian fjords cruises; several three- to seven-night Europe Coastal and southern Europe cruises to ports in Spain, France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands; and one British Isles cruise before crossing the Atlantic back to Florida.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

The ship returns to Fort Lauderdale from October 2024 through May 2025, again offering three- to five-night Caribbean and Bahamas sailings. This time, certain itineraries include Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's new private destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas.

Fares vary by season, cruise destination and theme, as well as cabin category. Expect the least expensive windowless inside cabins to start at more than $200 per person, per night, based on double occupancy.

On Disney's website, three-night Bahamas cruises start from $1,733 for a couple. Five-night Western Caribbean cruises start at $2,437 per couple, and a seven-night Western Europe cruise starts at $4,427 per couple. Fares increase from there for cabins with balconies or suites, as well as for adding additional guests sharing the cabin.

A family of four would pay upward of $5,859 for a Concierge-level cabin on a three-night Bahamas cruise, for example.

Related: I saved every receipt — here's how much it actually costs to go on a Disney cruise

What to know before you go

Required documents.

U.S. citizens sailing Disney Dream from Port Canaveral will need either a passport or a government-issued photo ID and an original birth certificate. Children can sail with either a passport or a birth certificate. However, for Disney Dream's summer European sailings, including the transatlantic crossings, everyone traveling (including babies) will need a passport.

If you're sailing with a child who is not your own, you will need to fill out a form certifying that you have permission from their parents to travel with them. Passports, when required, must be valid for at least six months. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Tips for getting a child's passport

Disney Cruise Line charges a crew gratuity of $14.50 per person (including babies and children) per day for most cruisers and $15.50 per person for Concierge-level cabins and suites.

You can prepay this amount, or it will be added to your onboard bill. If you have not prepaid, you can adjust the amount up or down at guest services or give additional tips in cash. The hardworking crew relies on these gratuities; even if you have service snafus, we strongly encourage you to pay the full amount and express your dissatisfaction in another fashion.

To give an idea of the cost, a four-person family on a five-night cruise in a standard cabin would pay $290 in recommended tips. The amount is split among your team of dining room servers who kept your kids entertained at dinner and your cabin host who cleaned up your mess each day.

An 18% gratuity is added to onboard spa, bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs. You can always add an additional gratuity for any of your services or servers.

While room service is free, it's customary to add a few dollars of tip when you sign the "bill."

A gratuity is added to bills at Palo and Remy because those servers are not included in the automatic gratuity. Leave an additional tip if you enjoyed the service. If you stay in a Concierge-level room or suite, it is customary to tip the Concierge Lounge hosts $8 per person, per day, at the end of your cruise.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Disney Dream offers various Wi-Fi packages for a fee.

On my sailing, you could choose from three Wi-Fi packages and pay per 24 hours or per voyage. The Stay Connected package gives access to just Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. It costs $18 for 24 hours for one device or $16/day for the full voyage (so $80 for a five-night sailing like mine).

The Classic Surf package gives access to the entire web, email and audio calling. The 24-hour price for one device is $28; the full-cruise cost is $24/day ($120 for a five-night sailing).

The Premium Surf package gives the same access as the Classic but with the addition of streaming services like YouTube, Snapchat and video calling. It costs $42 for 24 hours on one device or $34/day for the voyage ($170 for a five-night cruise).

For any of the plans, you can purchase full-cruise packages for up to four devices, with a 20% discount for each additional device. There is no discount for a multiple-device package for 24 hours. You can purchase a full-cruise package in the middle of your vacation, and the price will be prorated for the number of days left.

If you're deciding how many devices to add to your package, know that you can switch your plan from device to device throughout the cruise. For example, if you purchase a one-device plan, you can switch the service from your phone to your tablet then back to your phone. However, if you need a connection on your tablet and phone at the same time, you will need a two-device plan.

On my Caribbean cruise, I had no problems using the Navigator app or texting, and my travel companions made several Wi-Fi calls using our Premium Surf package. However, loading webpages and uploading photos on my laptop was often slow.

Carry-on drinks policy

Each passenger 21 years and older can bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 milliliters) or six beers (no larger than 12 ounces) on board both at the beginning of the cruise and at each port of call. Not every cruise line allows you to bring drinks back from port without confiscating them, so take advantage of this generous alcohol policy .

On embarkation day, beverages must be packed in your carry-on (not checked) bags. You can keep drinks chilled in the small fridge in your cabin or ask your stateroom host for ice.

If you wish to consume wine or Champagne that you've brought on board in one of the dining rooms, you must pay a $26 corkage fee per bottle.

Smoking policy

Smoking is permitted in the following onboard locations only:

• The portside outdoor area of the Meridian Lounge on Deck 12
• The portside deck area on Deck 13 aft by the Currents Bar
• The aft port side of the Deck 4 outdoor promenade, but only from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Passengers caught smoking in their cabins or on their cabin balconies will be charged a $250 cleaning fee.

Disney Dream offers 24-hour, self-service guest laundry facilities on Decks 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. They are not marked on the deck plans on the app, but they are shown on each floor's deck plan by the stairwell and signs in the cabin hallways point the way. On most decks, they are located all the way forward or aft.

Use your Key to the World cruise card to pay to operate the washers and dryers, as well as buy any detergent or dryer sheets you need. Laundry rooms are also stocked with irons and ironing boards for complimentary use; they are the only place on board where you're allowed to use an iron.

If you really don't want to do chores on your vacation, you can send out your dirty laundry for washing, pressing or dry cleaning for an additional fee. Use the laundry bag and form in your cabin and your cabin attendant will pick up and return your clothes.

Electrical outlets

All cabins are equipped with 110-volt outlets, which are standard in the U.S. and Canada, and 220-volt (European) outlets by the desk and on one side of the bed. A shaver-only outlet is located on the ceiling of the bathroom.

The currency on Disney Cruise Line ships is the U.S. dollar.

When you are on the ship, you will not need cash or a credit card — all incidentals, purchases and services will be charged to your cabin folio. Your Key to the World card serves as your onboard payment method. The only exception is if you want to tip a crew member in cash.

You will want to have some cash or a credit card for purchases in port. The exception is Castaway Cay, where cruisers can pay for all purchases at the shops and bars with their cruise cards; cash and credit cards are not accepted on Disney's private island.

Drinking age

The drinking age on board Disney Dream is 21. However, if you're sailing on one of Dream's round-trip cruises within Europe, where the drinking age is lower, parents and guardians can sign a form to allow 18- to 20-year-olds to drink on board when in the presence of an adult in their traveling party.

Daytime dress is casual; shorts, T-shirts and casual sundresses are the norm on Bahamas and Caribbean sailings. Many of your shipmates will be dressed in Mickey ears, Disney-themed attire, princess dresses or group T-shirts at all times.

During the evenings, dining attire in the three main dining restaurants is "cruise casual," meaning no swimwear or tank tops, but you don't have to dress up in anything fancy. That said, many guests do dress up in the evening, but it's not required unless you are dining in Palo or Remy. (Palo also asks that diners dress up a bit for brunch, so come prepared.)

Our five-night cruise had one optional dress-up night, and we were also told that it's fun to change into something a bit fancier (or perhaps a princess costume) when dining at the Royal Palace restaurant.

The dress code on Pirate Night is, of course, pirate casual. Bring your bandanas and eye patches, but leave your swords and pistols at home.

On Halloween and Very Merrytime Christmas cruises, costumes and holiday attire are encouraged — and make for great photos.

Related: The ultimate Disney cruise packing list

Bottom line

Disney Dream offers an amazing experience for families with children and Disney lovers of all ages. The ship stands out for its family-friendly cabins, attentive crew and stellar musical shows. You will be able to meet many of your favorite Disney characters and immerse yourself in the world of Disney.

However, you need to be prepared for crowds and queues, loud dinners, other people's children and myriad extra-fee events, treats and souvenirs that will tempt everyone in your travel party. Come with the right mindset, and you'll have a magical trip your family will remember fondly.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Alaskan Dream

At 104 feet in length, the Alaskan Dream’s innovative, streamlined catamaran design allows the vessel to easily navigate narrow channels and passages. All cabins feature extra-large viewing windows. The Vista View lounge faces forward with the same view as the captain, affording spectacular views of the scenery, ports, and wildlife along the way.

Ship Highlights

• Passengers: 40
• Length: 104 feet
• Staterooms: 19
• Cruising Speed: 13 knots

Alcohol is included with Owner's Suite and Vista View bookings *Select cabins can accommodate a 3rd or 4th guest

One queen bed or two twin beds (207, 208, 301 cannot be converted to twin configuration), ocean-view window, wardrobe, private bathroom with shower.

Approx. 104 sq. ft.

One queen bed or two twin beds (104 features optional drop-down beds to accommodate up to 4 guests), ocean-view window, wardrobe, private bathroom with shower.

Approx. 120 sq. ft.

One queen bed with side and forward views from ocean-view windows, comfortable sitting area, wardrobe, private bathroom with shower.

Approx. 147 sq. ft.

Owner's Suite

One queen bed, ocean-view windows, wardrobe, private bathroom with shower.

Approx. 208 sq. ft.

Alaskan Dream at Glacier

Alaskan Dream Bar

Alaskan Dream Dining Room

Alaskan Dream Itineraries

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