The Dream: Sailed 1/23/10-1/30/10 WITH PICS...I hope! :)

[Kristi Williamson]

I'll preface this review with the fact that I am long winded and enjoy reviews with lots of details, so that's what I'll try to do, as well. I'm hoping the pics upload well, but if not, then someone can explain to me how to do it.

 

This trip was myself, my DH, my 2 DS's, my 2 DD's and my mom. This cruise was very special to us, as my 72 year old mother was traveling with us. She is currently undergoing tests because they believe that her cancer has returned. So...this trip meant a great deal to us. We are all seasoned cruisers and we were especially looking forward to Carnival's newest addition!

 

And now....The Carnival Dream!

 

We began our journey on 1/21/2010 from South Carolina. We homeschool our kids, so we waited until 2:00pm to leave. They had co-op (a homeschool thing), and other school related things to do to make sure they weren't behind when we returned. We hit the road at approximately, 2:30pm.

 

After 8.5 hours, we arrived at the Comfort Inn and Suites, which we prefer over the Raddison. We actually like a quieter environment and the breakfast here is completely free (even if you have more than 4 people) and ROCKS. It's a true buffet, not just a continental affair. With four kids, that's relevant. ;)

 

We got the kids suite for the first time, and I'm sorry I didn't take photos. It's was GREAT. If you have more than 1 kid, this is a wonderful option that's convenient for everyone. We hit the sack as soon as we got in. We left 39 degree temps and rolled in to Florida in the low 70's....at night! YAY! :)

 

The next morning (Friday) was warm and lovely. We actually laid out in the sun that day, played in the pool and then hit Fishlips for dinner. We watched the Monarch of the Seas pull out at 5:00pm that evening. So cool! If you've never been on the docks waving, you should try it. It completely ups the anticipation of your turn to be on the deck and waving back.

 

I'm going to try and upload some photos of the hotel, as well as a little friend we met while we were hanging out by the pool and hot tub.

[w8ing2cruz]

Looking forward to your review! So you saw the Monarch leave port on Thursday night, not the night before your cruise? I wonder if there are any ships leaving the night before? Your description makes it sound like a must do!

[Kristi Williamson]

The pool area at the Comfort Inn and Suites. Just inside those doors behind the pool is 24 hour coffee and hot chocolate. They also keep homemade cookies 24 hours a day at the front desk. These are great for snacks!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is my mom taking photos. I included this one because you can see the kiddie area behind her. It's enclosed from the rest of the pool area and has that neat little fountain thingy. lol

 

 

 

This next one is a little friend we found hanging around just behind the pool area. He's catching some sun!

 

 

 

I'm sorry to say that I did NOT take my camera to Fishlips, so no photo of the Monarch leaving! It never crossed my mind that we'd see that, it was just luck that we saw it. Lesson learned! lol

 

 

The hot tub! As you can see, we're basically the only people around. There was one other couple who joined us later in the day, but we left within 10 minutes of them getting there. We LOVE the quiet atmosphere of this place.

 

[alwayshappytocruise]

Looking forward to your review! So you saw the Monarch leave port on Thursday night, not the night before your cruise? I wonder if there are any ships leaving the night before? Your description makes it sound like a must do!

 

Monarch leaves PC on Friday and Monday nights..........

[Kristi Williamson]

That's right. We got down on Thursday night, and then saw the Monarch leave on Friday evening. It was something neat to do, and we're really glad that we got the opportunity. It made us very excited to be doing that very thing the next day!

 

Now...the day of embarkation!

[Kristi Williamson]

Saturday: Embarkation Day!

 

We had the 10:30 am shuttle time from Comfort Inn and they were prompt and efficient, like always. Duane, the shuttle driver, always has the same jokes, but they are quick and prompt and that's all that we care about!

 

We rounded the curve and there she was! She just lovely!! Port Canaveral is our favorite embarkation terminal, and this time was no different. They are FAST and efficient! But, first....a surprise.

 

After quickly getting our sail and sign cards, my husband took my hand, and stopped me from getting into the seating area. He got down on one knee, presented me with a gorgeous ring and asked me if I would remarry him after 13 1/2 wonderful years together. We actually went to high school together, and he's absolutely my best friend! I was SHOCKED. I had no idea. Of course, I said yes!! Everyone clapped and cheered, but I think I sort of just stood there in shock.

 

We were even MORE surprised when the embarkation staff came over, escorted us to the VIP line and let us be almost first on board. This cruise could NOT have started any better than it did!

 

We were on-board by 11:10 and drinking our first drink of the day. My DH was the 2nd person in line at the Mongolian Wok. We had a wonderful first lunch and then it was out to the pool, where we talked, swam, drank some DOD's and just hung out in the beautiful weather.

 

By the way, we LOVE the new muster drill. No life jackets!! We went to the encore theater, listened to the demostration, and then were on our way. Our luggage was at our room by 1:45pm and we were completely unpacked before muster drill. We were upstairs watching the sail away and remembering seeing the Monarch just the day before. NOW, it was our turn to do the waving! One more DOD, and then we're off to get ready for dinner!

 

Our waiter was Nathanial, and he was GREAT! We were at table 247, which is in the little back room where there are only 4 other tables. We LOVED this! Great window views, very little noise and privacy to just relax and enjoy our dinner and time together as a family. Nathaniel and his team made sure we still got to sing and dance and really have fun with him. We had the best of both worlds in this area. Couldn't have been more perfect. OH! And the food was really good, as well. ;)

[Kristi Williamson]

Day 1: Sea Day

 

There's really not much to say here. It was play off Sunday and mostly we just sat at the pool, watched football and ate. The kids LOVE the waterslides and we LOVE the big screen.

 

The only complaint that I have here is that, obviously, most people around the pool that day were solely there to see the football games. That was obvious by the amount of jerseys present. It was quiet ALL DAY, until the first game actually started. THEN, the entertainment staff cuts off the sound, and starts having the drink mixing contest and bingo. There were LOTS of passengers who were livid. I don't understand why they didn't do this BEFORE the games started. People wanted to hear the games, NOT bingo and drink ingredients. The staff left pretty quickly after bingo. The bingo caller even asked that complaints be taken to the pursers desk because they HAD to finish, as it's their job. He rushed as quickly as he could, in his defense. I've NEVER heard Bingo called that fast on a ship! lol

 

I understand it's there job, but it was BAD timing and bad planning all around. There are other places to play bingo. Play off games are NOT the thing to interrupt for people who like football. Just something to think about. We still enjoyed the games, and had a great time watching them while under the stars!

 

We got dressed after the games, had dinner and then headed to the show and then casino. I won 500 dollars with my first 20! We had a GREAT week in the casino. More on that later! :)

 

Coming up: First stop...COZUMEL. Pictures of Nachi Cocum to follow!

[InHeavenOnEarth4]

OMG! You have me so excited! haha

 

We'll be going on the Dream in about a month. We were planning on staying at the Raddison, because it was a little cheaper, but changed back to Comfort Inn and Suites, because we there two years back and just loved it! Also, their 10:30am shuttle beats the 12:00pm shuttle at the Raddison! We also ate at Fish Lips and are planning on doing the same again!

 

Looking forward to the rest of your review!! :D

[Kristi Williamson]

First port: COZUMEL

 

Since we had been to Cozumel 2 other times, we really wanted to do something different and we settled on Nachi Cocum. I can't say enough good things about this place!!!

 

After a 15 minute taxi ride, we arrived at Nachi Cocum. At first, it doesn't look like much, but we're pretty easy going and were really looking forward to this, so we weren't even fazed. After having our pictures made in the obligatory sombreros, we walked around the partition....and paradise was waiting...

 

 

 

 

 

 

DH and youngest daughter getting ready for lunch and youngest son LOVING the virgin pina colada "smoothies" that he drank ALL DAY! lol This really IS an all inclusive place. LOVE IT!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My mom and oldest DS starting lunch. Bottled water, food, soda and alcohol are all included in the price of Nachi Cocum. We had our own palapas, our own personal waiter, who was AWESOME, and gorgeous weather.

 

 

 

 

 

Hubby and oldest DS, jet skiiing. It was 60 dollars for both of them and they were out there almost one hour. They had a blast!

 

 

I can't begin to say enough good things about Nachi Cocum. We just loved the place. There were MAYBE 30 people there all day. It felt like our own personal paradise. We couldn't eat anywhere close to the amount of food that's included in the price. My mom was the only one who even ordered dessert because we were all so full! The drinks were great and the swim up bar very convenient. The bathrooms were clean and they had GREAT outdoor showers to rinse off in. With two little girls who love the sand, these were heaven sent for us!

 

At one point, my mom asked our waiter if you could actually drink straight from a coconut, or was there some "trick" to that. We all laughed, but he said, "Ma'am, I will let you see for yourself!". SO...he gets one of the crew to climb up the tree, he whacks off the top, and sticks a straw in it for her. She loved the coconut milk, and I was so thrilled that my mom got to experience that kind of service.

 

Thank you Manuel, for taking such good care of us. We tipped him, and regretfully, started back around 4:45 or so. We shopped just a few minutes and then was on-board just in time to shower and run to dinner for the early seating time. We were wiped out! lol But, the night was still young! :D

[Kristi Williamson]

 

 

It wouldn't let me post this one in the last post because it only takes six pics at a time. This is the Dream docked in Cozumel and my mom, DS, DD, and DS finally headed back. She's a real beauty!

[InHeavenOnEarth4]

haha Great minds think alike! We'll be at Nachi Cocum too! Never been there before, but gosh it looks a lot nice than Playa Mia we did before!

 

Thanks for such a wonderful review!!!

[Kristi Williamson]

haha Great minds think alike! We'll be at Nachi Cocum too! Never been there before, but gosh it looks a lot nice than Playa Mia we did before!

 

Thanks for such a wonderful review!!!

 

It really is a wonderful place! I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

 

I'm glad you're enjoying the review and I'm hoping to post more later today! Got to get to washing some clothes and unpacking. Be back later... :)

[Kristi Williamson]

OK...I decided that washing clothes could wait! This is SO much more fun. lol

 

After having dinner, we watched the show and sat around at the lanai area. I must say that I wish every ship had this area. It's out of the wind, a perfect place to people watch and off Deck 5, where there tons to do the minute you step back inside the ship. Just a great area all around.

 

We let the kids play in Camp Carnival this night, and of course, they loved it. Camp Carnival is just a great place for kids to have fun, meet other kids their own ages and still be safe. We do not allow any of our younger kids to sign in and out on their own, so we never worry about them when they're there.

 

Our oldest DS is 15 and part of CO2. He had a great time in there. It's connected to the arcade and they have their own dance floor, pool table and privacy. He is only allowed in the CO2 area, the lido and to the karaoke areas. He's just fine with that, and was never bored. All of our kids must be in by 10:00am (we pick the kids up at 9:45pm and we always let them know if we're going to be later), unless we specify differently, but they were so tired most nights, that they fell a sleep instantly. My 15 year old must also be in at this time.

 

We always have adjoining rooms, and we LOVE this. If any family out there hasn't done this, we think it's a must. We were in cabins 1210 and 1208. We leave the door open, but we have 2 bathrooms, 2 TV's, etc... Never felt crowded at any time.

 

The only complaint that I would have about our cabins is the noise on the first and last nights. There IS a lot of noise, just like previously reported, if you're forward and on a lower floor. When the waves hit the stern, it's like a HUGE booming noise.

 

We also had a lady stop us in the hallways and ask us if our rooms had a bad smell. We NEVER smelled a thing in our rooms, but she said hers was so bad that she couldn't get her breath during some times of the day and most especially in her shower. She, of course, had an aft room. I would suggest anyone NOT wanting that experience, to make sure you do not have a lower aft room. I'd prefer the noise!

 

Please note that my mom was in cabin 1260 and had NEITHER of these issues. She had 2 baths, no noise, and no smell. She loved her room and slept like a baby. The noise only bothered us those two nights, and frankly, we still slept like babies once we were able to get to sleep. Don't let the little things bother you!

 

After the kids were settled in, we headed back out and hit the casino for a short while. Left by 11:30pm and hit the sack for Roatan tomorrow!

[bots99]

wonderful review & pix. looking forward to more.

[splash_in_the_water]

nice review and pics! not sure f just over looked t, but dd you say how much the nachi cocum deal was? sounded relaxing ;)

[Megan_Strick]

The pool area at the Comfort Inn and Suites. Just inside those doors behind the pool is 24 hour coffee and hot chocolate. They also keep homemade cookies 24 hours a day at the front desk. These are great for snacks!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is my mom taking photos. I included this one because you can see the kiddie area behind her. It's enclosed from the rest of the pool area and has that neat little fountain thingy. lol

 

 

 

This next one is a little friend we found hanging around just behind the pool area. He's catching some sun!

 

 

 

I'm sorry to say that I did NOT take my camera to Fishlips, so no photo of the Monarch leaving! It never crossed my mind that we'd see that, it was just luck that we saw it. Lesson learned! lol

 

 

The hot tub! As you can see, we're basically the only people around. There was one other couple who joined us later in the day, but we left within 10 minutes of them getting there. We LOVE the quiet atmosphere of this place.

 

 

We stayed at this same hotel. I loved it. Great breakfast

[Kristi Williamson]

Before going any further by days, I thought I'd give you some info on the shows, if you enjoy those. We saw the Welcome Aboard show and it was OK. To be honest, I like Todd, but didn't think he was a great CD. He lacks...spark? He's funny, but sort of dry. I think Butch would have been the better choice, but that's just me. John Heald was there toward the end of our cruise, and he'll be on the Dream for the next 9 weeks. (I think it's 9 weeks.)

 

We loved the Evolution of Edge. This guy is really good. We skipped the Country show, so no comment on that.

 

Dancin' in the Streets is probably the best show at sea we've ever seen. We typically don't LOVE the shows, but we like them. This one is a MUST see!!! Even if you don't like the shows, go see this one. It's truly excellent.

 

The last show we saw was the last nights Legends show. We always catch this one because it's funny, entertaining and usually they'll be a great performer or two. This one was no different. Fun time all around!

 

We didn't hit any of the comedy shows, because the times interferred with other things we wanted to do. If we hadn't had the kids and my mom with us, we may have caught one or two of them. From what other passengers said, they were worth seeing. They have multiple family shows, plus two adult rated "R" shows. There's really something for everyone here, so if you enjoy the more relaxing activities on board, there's just TONS to pick from.

 

I have to throw this in: TWO LADIES GOT IN A FIST FIGHT OVER SEATS. The word must be out on Dancin' in the Streets, because ALL seats were taken a full 20 minutes before the show started. It was PACKED!!! This lady was "saving" seats and the other lady put her kids in those empty spaces. It ended up with hair pulling and fighting. They also got into the next day, but we didn't see that part. It was just heresay across the ship.

 

The funny thing is, we had to come back to the 10:00pm show to get seats. The theater was probably only 3/4 full during this time. I just can't see getting in a fight over anything while on vacation or any other time, really! (well, with the exception of my kids being mistreated or something...) There was plenty of space for everyone. They could have just come back at another time and all would have been well. Keep in mind, if it's full at 8:30, it'll be available later! lol

 

The laser shows are a neat addition. They aren't overly complicated, but to see one while at sea is a big feat! They must have smoke to catch the light so you can see them. If it's too windy, the smoke gets blown away and they lack the effects they should have. Either way, it's a great idea and something worth seeing at least once. They offer them at least 3 or 4 times a week, twice a night. They are also set to music, which is fun. The Pink Floyd one was really good!

 

Now...on to Roatan!!

[crewsweeper]

Great review Kristi...looks like you had a great cruise.

 

Also another cruiser in a review said the watersports were closed in Coz. Obviously didn't apply to Nachi. Doesn't look half as bad a it was earlier in January.

 

Waiting for the rest of it. and yes the 6 pic/emo limit takes some getign used to especailly when it disrupts your writing rhythm.

 

Crew

[Kristi Williamson]

Great review Kristi...looks like you had a great cruise.

 

Also another cruiser in a review said the watersports were closed in Coz. Obviously didn't apply to Nachi. Doesn't look half as bad a it was earlier in January.

 

Waiting for the rest of it. and yes the 6 pic/emo limit takes some getign used to especailly when it disrupts your writing rhythm.

 

Crew

 

 

Carnival cancelled all of their watersports excursions, because when we first docked, it was a little rough. By 1:30 or so, Nachi opened theirs because the water had calmed substantially. They jet skiied around 2:30ish and came back in around 3:15 or so.

 

I completely agree with Carnival's decision, too. When we first got in, I don't think it would have been all that safe.

 

And yes, the weather was MUCH improved from that cold spell! It actually hit 90 in Belize, after a rainy start. The weather was hit or miss for us this trip (rough seas more so than temps), but we still had a blast! :D

[Kristi Williamson]

Stop 2: Roatan, Honduras.

 

We've been to Roatan before, and were excited to see the new dock. Last time we were here, we hit Fins and Flippers, which is just glorious!!!

 

I must say that while Mahogany Bay is clean and attractive, it's very much commercialized and very American. I was disappointed to see what they've done to the reef there and how touristy it was. The chair lift was packed when we first got off the ship, but settled down later.

 

The beach area is neat and clean, but we didn't stay there long. We mostly shopped, took photos and hopped back on the ship. We'll probably take a Victor Bodden tour next time we're in Roatan. I prefer the uniquenes of each island, and Mahogany Bay feels a lot like getting off a Cozumel at the dock area and never leaving it.

 

We did find a neat little shop with smaller items. I collect Christmas ornaments of our travels and they had a hand made ornament with Roatan written on it. You can still the carvings in the wood. Just a GREAT item for me!

 

 

 

 

Can you find the zipline behind my family? :)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Can you spot the hummingbird? We thought he was the coolest thing. He would just sit at some points and stare at us. He was totally used to humans checking him out!

 

 

 

The beach area and lift from the ship.

 

 

 

 

It started to rain later in the day, but wasn't a big deal for us. We hung out, relaxed and were just happy to be doing so. We watched sail away and had dinner in the MDR. Our food and chocolate melting cakes were delicious!!! I think this was the night they had Dancin' in the Streets, but I'm not sure.

 

We put the kids to bed and hit the casino. My hubby hit the jackpot for 2572.00!!!!! We paid off the sail and sign, banked the rest and did a little happy dance! We don't have casinos where we're from (they're illegal), so we only gamble on the ships, and we like it that way! It's very much like a game for us, but it sure was nice to win at "the game"! lol It's the most we've ever won and we were just thrilled. They gave us a free drink and counted out our money. What fun!!!

 

Time for bed now...with Belize, the Wallace River and Altun Ha, coming up!

[Kristi Williamson]

nice review and pics! not sure f just over looked t, but dd you say how much the nachi cocum deal was? sounded relaxing ;)

 

Nachi Cocum is 49.00 for adults, and I believe 29.00 for kids 4-17. Kids under 4, are free.

 

This includes your palapa, your food (and it's A LOT!), your loungers, all drinks, including alcohol. We had no less than 10 sodas, 8 waters, 10 "drinks", and 10 "smoothies" for the kids. They also filled a to-go cup with drinks when we left! This also includes your own personal waiter all day long.

 

You can each order an appetizer, an entree and a dessert with that price. That was seven appetizers, seven entrees, and seven desserts for us! lol No one but mom ordered a dessert. The food was spectacular! Best guacamole and nachos I've ever eaten! The chicken fajitas were killer, also. Hope that helps. If you have other questions, please don't hesitate to ask! :)

[cruzkitty]

Kristi-Thank you for the Review and pictures of the Dream! Can't wait to sail on her in Sept. We also went to Nachi last time in Coz, and had a great time!

[gypsyrose]

OMG!!! How lucky you 2 are!!!! How sweet was that proposal!!! Awwwww. I am sooooo loving your pictoral review. And I pray that your Moms cancer has NOT returned. I know you created many special memories. I lost my Dad last May after a long battle w/ cancer. What an ugly word...cancer. Anyway..thanks for sharing your trip and looking forward to the rest.

[Suntanz]

Kristi,

 

You said you have been to Cozumel before & wanted to try Nachi Cocum this time. I will be sailing in September on the Dream with 3 kids & was debating between Nachi Cocum & Paradise Beach. Have you taken your kids to Paradise Beach? If so, please give me some feedback on how the kids enjoyed each place & which one would be better. Thanks & Glad to hear you had a great cruise.

[Kristi Williamson]

Stop number 3: Belize!!!

 

We've been to Belize before and were aware of the longer tender process. However, some people must not have been aware, because we heard lots of griping. Our thoughts are that the reef is much more important than our 15 minutes, so we don't care. Anyway, please be aware that the tender here isn't a hop on and hop off thing. It's about a 15 minute ride, one way.

 

We arrived to a slightly cloudy day, with rainy patches being forecasted. We had pre-booked the Wallace River and Altun Ha excursion, thru Carnival. We more often than not book directly, but for us, Belize is one of those places that we preferred to book thru Carnival.

 

Despite the weather, we were determined to enjoy this. lol As we tendered in, it started to rain. No biggie...we bought ponchos! They are 5 dollars each in almost every store, so no worries in Belize if you're caught there in the rain. They're cheaply made, but work...mostly.

 

Our guides name was Jake and he was very well informed and thoughtful. He made sure everyone went to the restroom beforehand, because the River portion is about 2 hours and 15 minutes, and there's no stopping! We were quickly on our way.

 

 

 

We did spot a few manatees noses popping up, but they were too far away for photo ops. We saw native bats, gorgeous birds, including a blue herron and the scenery was lovely.

 

However, it rained almost the entire time. We eventually just started laughing and singing, because it was that or cry! lol I think the other passengers preferred to just sit in the boat, with their heads down and wish they were somewhere else. We just can't do that! It's vacation. What's a little rain, right?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After the river, we stopped at the Black Orchid and it was DELICIOUS!! It was the best jerk chicken and beans and rice I've ever had. Just yummy!! The server was so polite and soft spoken and it was very reasonably priced. You had two choices: Jerk Chicken, with beans and rice, coleslaw and fried plantains, or American cheeseburgers made from beef or chicken. Both plates were 8.00 American dollars. Sodas were a little high at 2.00 dollars for a 16oz plastic bottle.

 

We then hopped on the bus for a 45 minute ride to Altun Ha. The weather cleared up on the way, and then it got HOT!!!! It was 90 degrees while at the ruins.

 

 

 

Again, Jake proved himself to be a great guide. He answered all questions knowledgeably and patiently. I'm a real estate broker, and he answered all my questions about the lands, restrictions and covenants in Belize. He was quite proficient about answering the questions about their government, as well. We learned about cashew production, as well as cashew wine production.

 

Everyone on the bus enjoyed this part, even though it probably sounds kind of boring here. The process is QUITE extensive. Did you guys know that cashew FRUIT (where they get the nuts) had TONS of poisons in them? Really neat info. This is where lots of revenue for the island comes from, according to Jake. They have turned Planters away because of this. Their farmers need the money, not Planters.

 

I also spoke with Jake about the Amish on the island. Turns out, that they found commercial sized oil deposits on their land, which the government immediately took over. Bummer, huh? Anyway, it was a fun time, even with the crappy, and quite tempermental, weather. ;)

 

One quick word of advice: Sit on the RIGHT hand side of the boat during the boat ride. It's much better views. More pics of the ruins to follow.