Our Christmas gift to the grands was really a gift to ourselves.  We wanted to find a way to spend some real quality time with them away from the distractions of home,  lake,basketball, gymnastics, school.  There’s always something to schedule, someone to see, a party to go to — we wanted to build memories for them and for ourselves.

After much consideration and lots of investigation, we decided to take them on a short Disney Cruise Line tour.  For our 3-night journey, we departed from Port Canaveral, FL, with stops in Nassau (the capital of the Bahamas) and Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island in the Bahamas). We weren’t concerned about the airplane part of the trip since they have both become veteran plane passengers, but we weren’t quite sure how they would handle being out in the middle of the ocean, away from their parents and pets.  In truth, we weren’t quite sure how well we would handle it either since we were novice cruisers as well.

Our vessel of choice was the Disney Dream and dreamy it was.  I cannot tell you how beautifully appointed this ship is and how immaculate it is kept.  Every window, railing, mirror, floor —- whatever!  Shiny, polished and sparkling.  I’m not quite sure when they did all of the cleaning because it just always seemed to be in perfect shape.  Certainly, cleanliness was a very important factor, but our accommodations, the programming and port adventures were even more so.

Upon advice of several who had taken previous Disney cruises, we opted for the Concierge Level, with a 1-bedroom suite and veranda.  The thoughts of tripping all over one another even on such a brief trip were not pleasant.  Oh my!  Was it ever worth it.  Our room was wonderful and surprisingly roomy.  We had a king-size bed in the bedroom, a double fold-out couch and a twin Murphy bed – enough bed for all.  Only the grands ended up sleeping with us, but that was another memory made.

The master bath had a full shower and a separate Jacuzzi, double sinks and, to the kiddos’ delight, a television in the mirror which they decided was a great idea for Mom and Dad to do at their home.   The additional bath had a full shower and  single sink.  Both were roomy and comfortable.

Did I mention that we had a dining table with chairs and a full verandah as well?  I kept meaning to do a photo tour, but there never seemed to be enough time.  Plus, I had given myself a break away from social media and blogging in order to really focus on what this little adventure was supposed to be all about.  I’m so glad that I did.

Our on board concierge team of Anne Marie, Tracy and Daniel greeted us in the Concierge Lounge with our plans for each each  day’s programming and options.  Anything we needed, they took care of including helping me with some failure on my carrier’s part in setting up our international calling (let’s not go there).  They were so eager to make our cruise an easy and pleasant trip.  Like I said, opting for the concierge level is sooooo worth it.

While I was very impressed with the service on the cruise overall, I was beyond pleased with the security measures Disney has in place to protect the children on board.  We laughed at the number of “bracelets” the kiddos had to wear that identified them and where/when they should be.  While ours did not spend much time in the Oceanaire’s Club (just for kids), they thoroughly enjoyed the time they did spend there, and it was nice to know that it was available for them.  They took full advantage of the Arcade and the miniature golf course as well.   We also appreciated the care and preparation that was present for our nut allergy Perfect Boy.

And the food?  We ate a continental breakfast each morning in the Concierge Lounge.  It was satisfying for all of us and without the crowds of the Cabanas with its seemingly miles of food options.  Lunch upon our arrival was from the Cabana options and suited the kiddos just fine with their chicken and fries.  Hubby and I opted for salads and stir fries and were quite satisfied with those.  Our evening meals rotated between the three main dining rooms: Animator’s Palace, a fun animator’s studio-inspired design along with an interactive show that keeps you entertained as you dine, the Enchanted Garden, an ornately designed restaurant with artistic renderings of the Gardens of Versailles and the Royal Palace, with its hints of Cinderella and all things princesses.

And one of the most favorite treats of the trip each evening was the little surprise waiting on us when we returned to the cabin.  The grands loved this! 

I have tons more I could share, but let me just say if you’re short on time and looking for a fun experience with your kids,   the Disney Dream is top-notch, and in my opinion, probably the best family cruise ship around anywhere.  If you’re questioning whether to book a cruise on the Dream, do it.  It lives up to its reputation, and both you and your kids will have an absolutely wonderful time.

Next: Let’s talk dolphins, stingrays and the beach!

Disclosure:  All opinions expressed here are my own.  Disney did not compensate me or my family for any part of our trip or this review.  But hey!  Disney, I’m willing to talk.