This was our second cruise on the Dream once before the dry dock. Must say the 2017 dry dock did the Dream some good! Honestly, I had reservation about booking again on the Dream since our first time it was just ok. The additions of Guy's Pig & Anchor and Blue Iguana Cantina were big hits for us on this trip.
We did have the late seating for dinner in the Scarlet Dining Room. Our waitstaff was decent with no major faults. The dining room appeared to be at 60% percent occupancy. Not sure if the lack of occupancy was from the many anytime dining goers or cruisers utilizing several pay restaurants. We enjoyed our Steakhouse night on the first cruise night and having a complementary bottle of wine put us in the relaxation mood! I wouldn't call the Steakhouse fine dining but the extra attention and food quality is well worth a visit at least one night.
Being a frequent Carnival cruiser we have noticed the cutbacks and such. One of those I believe is with the waitstaff as they are not as attentive as they used to be. Just 5 years ago, I recall them anticipating my needs before I ever needed to ask. One example is the Bubbles package, if you have it and after the first night dining with them, every night thereafter you would have your soda brought to you before asking. This doesn't happen or hasn't happened to us for the last 4/5 years.
We stated on the Lido deck (10) with a balcony room and we loved the convenience of walking to Lido restaurant or Guy's burger and enjoy our brunch on our balcony. We budget allows we try to stay on the Lido deck for all cruises - Location - Location - Location!
Cave Kayaking was excellent!
Swimming with the dolphins and sitting on Chankanaab Beach made for a great day.