At Sea with Doug Newman

Carnival Cruise Lines has unveiled details of the 130,000 GT, 3,646-berth Carnival Dream, which will enter service in September 2009. The new information sheds light on the company’s largest-ever ship, an evolution of a design that traces its origins back to Carnival Destiny of 1996 and also encompasses the Triumph-, Conquest- and Splendor-class ships. Carnival’s largest-ever ship will feature an improved layout and new features to set her apart from her predecessors.

Topping the list of new features is Carnival’s first wrap-around promenade deck, which will feature whirlpools cantilevered over the sides of the ship and access to the new Piazza indoor-outdoor café. Other highlights include a new indoor-outdoor dance club and family cabins with two bathrooms. The ship will feature Carnival’s most expansive spa and family facilities yet, and the improved layout adds an indoor promenade alongside the upper level of the main dining room located amidships, which should greatly improve passenger flow.

Currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard, Carnival Dream’s maiden voyage on 21 September 2009 will be the first of three Mediterranean cruises for the ship. They’ll followed by an Atlantic crossing and two cruises to the Bahamas from New York before the ship repositions to her year-round home port of Port Canaveral, from which she’ll operate seven-night cruises to the Caribbean.