Sail away on a Disney Dream Cruise Ship

I can only describe the Disney Dream as a luxury Cruise Liner. A three day dream come through that allows us to be kids for a short time. Our ports of call were Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas and Disney’s own Island of Castaway Cay, originally known as Gorda Cay. When we boarded we were awestruck at the sheer volume of the ship and we were welcomed by the over enthusiastic staff. The shows were Broadway style every night in the theatre and the Disney cast performed to perfection. Every couple of hours there was a meet and greet with the Disney Characters. I was in heaven when I realised that Disney hosted five main restaurants as well as buffet Cabana, Flo’s diner and Eye Scream.

Gourmet Dining

We dined every evening in three main restaurants The Royal Palace, Enchanted Garden and Animator’s Palate, while our waiting staff followed us to every single one, a rotational system that worked well for our family. By the end of the three nights we were on first name basis with the staff. A personal favourite was the Animator’s Palate with Nemo and Crush the Turtle entertaining the diners on big screens. In the mornings we ate buffet style at the Cabana restaurant on Deck 11, such an array of food that it was difficult to choose between the Mickey Waffles or the healthier option of fruit and cereals. If on board you are still feeling peckish, Eye Scream is a self-serve ice-cream station.

Entertainment

During the day big screens show the latest block buster surrounding the pool area and also the Aquaduck, a waterslide wraps around the ship which kept the kids amused for hours. For the adults there is the Senses Spa & Salon, as well as a swimming pool, a drinks area known as the District showing televised sport and one can dance the night away at Evolution or maybe try a light refreshment at Pink champagne bar.

The Bahamas

Initially owned by pirates, Nassau has become a very popular tourist destination with its attractive harbour, colourful shops and tropical climate. As soon as we stepped off the ship, we were propositioned with taxi tours around the island, sellers fobbing off the latest Guess handbag for a bargain and of course hair braiding. I asked the lady ‘Could you braid my husband’s hair’ which is non-existent, and she said ‘of course, he is free of charge.’ In Nassau, everyone seemed to be on Bahamian time, as it took a long time for our coffees to arrive in the local café. However, residents are very friendly and hospitable and once we spoke to the waiter, he asked us all sorts of questions as to where we were from and about the Disney cruise.

Disney’s Magical Island

Castaway Cay is situated in the Bahamas and is Disney’s own private island. Originally known as Gorda Cay, 60 people working for Disney reside on this island, and there are three beautiful beaches here, one solely for the adults. The films Pirates of the Caribbean and Splash starring Daryl Hannah and Tom Hanks were made on Gorda Cay and Castaway Cay. After a swim in the lukewarm waters, we dined al fresco at Cookie’s barbecue; mouth-watering burgers and succulent chicken accompanied with corn on the cob. Bicycles are available for hire for a small fee and we explored this private Disney Island. When the heat got too much we boarded the ship to get ready for dinner in The Animation Restaurant, followed by the show Disney’s I Believe.