A Visit To Norwegian Dream

Norwegian Dream is one of NCL's older ships; originally constructed as Dreamward in 1992 she was later lengthened and renamed. Additionally her funnel was adapted to allow it to be folded over for passage under the low bridges of the Kiel Cana.

For the last few years she has spent her time in the Caribbean during the Winter months and on Scandinavian and Fjord cruises from Dover in the Summer. Whilst operating from the UK she still attracts a high proportion (approximately 60%) of US passengers, and the average age of passengers is higher than those found on other NCL ships with more passengers aged 50 +.

The ship is well maintained and the crew friendly. However for a ship of this size she feels narrow and the lifts very cramped. Whilst the outside deck areas are expansive, with such a high passenger capacity space may be at a premium on 'sea days'.

The range of cabin grades is rather limited. That said all cabins are well appointed and would prove comfortable for a voyage of two weeks or so. On a personal note I wonder why some cruise lines (including NCL) insist on describing even their lowest grade of cabin as a 'Stateroom'!

Norwegian Dream came into service before 'Freestyle Cruising' was first invented. Her adaptation for Freestyle cruising (i.e. the introduction of a wider range of eating venues) has been accomplished by the conversion of (and at the expense of) other public rooms and lounges. Whilst Freestyle Cruising may increase the location and time where passengers may choose to eat it also reduces the number of locations for other on board activities. Once again I feel for a ship of this passenger capacity the size and range of public rooms (non-eating) and bars is too low.

Our Society group were treated to a meal in the Terraces Restaurant which, in my view, is one of the most attractive spaces on the ship. The large sub-aqua mural brings the whole room to life. Our meal was faultless!

In conclusion I would say it would be difficult not to enjoy a cruise aboard Norwegian Dream though passengers who have experienced the newer and larger NCL ships may be disappointed.

Review and photographs by Stephen Shirley, August 2003

For further information on Norwegian Dream and Norwegian Cruise Line click here