Phil Reimer—aboard the Carnival Dream.
We have covered a lot of areas over the past few days in regard to the Carnival Dream, now let's get into one of my favourites—food.
Carnival Dream is feeding some 4,000 people a day. Considering it is a mass market ship, the food has been good.
The Gathering on the lido deck is where most of the food action takes place. Outside around the Waves pool and bar you will find the pizzeria and grill. Inside, all kinds of foods are made fresh. New is the pasta bar on the second deck of The Gathering. The omeletet and Mongolian wok stations are still there and they have one section for alternative dining. On the other end of The Gathering—outside at the Sunset Pool—you will find Deli and the Tandoor bar.
There are two main dining rooms on-board the Dream. The middle one is the Crimson and the stern dining room is the Scarlet. One look at the chandeliers will give you a clue as to the names. Both offered a wide selection of items. A pick-your-own-time dining schedule has added to this ship—and all the others will be completed by next year—while still keeping the regular early and late seating times.
Most of the other cruise lines are into the dine anytime alternative and you will find arguments for and against it. Some feel that you develop friendships during the fixed times, as well as get to know your waiter who, by the time the second night rolls around, knows your likes and dislikes. However, if you’re with a group of friends or not into the fixed times, you do have a choice.
Room service is still 24-hours a day at no charge and they have expanded the evening menus.
My favourite spot was on the promenade deck in the Ocean Plaza where they kept a variety of pastries, specialty coffees, and ice creams—all moderately priced and available to eat indoors or out.
While this was the official naming cruise of Carnival Dream, time will tell if the food standard for a mass-market ship continues.
All for now.