Disappointing Adult Cruise On The Dream

[tidefan]

I imagine they monitored the traffic to Cabanas/pool dining and decided it didn't make sense. Rotational dining is one of the uniquely DCL things... that experience is part of what many people are signing up for. It's a trade off for sure - one that appeals to me because I could can go to about any kind of restaurant I want at home... no need to do that on a cruise. I'd rather have the Disney experience.

This is why there are different options for everyone.

While I would somewhat agree with this on 3 or 4 night cruises, it really becomes more of an issue when you are on a 7 night or especially longer cruise. I mean, if you are on a 10 night cruise, you may not want to eat that 4th time in Enchanted Garden.

Also, I like the itineraries like Virgin has in Europe where they stay until 10pm in some destinations or even overnight. Can't do that if you have to hold to a 5:45pm dining time...

I really like Disney and continue to at least do some of my cruising with them. However, this is one area that I definitely agree with the OP and I think they definitely need to improve their offerings.

 

[DCLMP]

While I would somewhat agree with this on 3 or 4 night cruises, it really becomes more of an issue when you are on a 7 night or especially longer cruise. I mean, if you are on a 10 night cruise, you may not want to eat that 4th time in Enchanted Garden.

Also, I like the itineraries like Virgin has in Europe where they stay until 10pm in some destinations or even overnight. Can't do that if you have to hold to a 5:45pm dining time...

I really like Disney and continue to at least do some of my cruising with them. However, this is one area that I definitely agree with the OP and I think they definitely need to improve their offerings.

It was a real convenience on our Med cruise on Royal. We had late dining, but I loved getting a heathy snack if I needed one before dinner. They always had a section with cheese fruit and crackers or I could gab a small salad. There is just not enough options on DCL. The poolside food is awful and there are times especially after a long port day you just don’t want to go to dinner.

I was also disappointed to see they got rid of the appetizers in O’Gills. That had to be cost cutting.

 

[dcassetta]

Other cruise lines have done it for years even before My time dining. The buffet would not be a madhouse like at lunch and breakfast. It would not require a lot of staff and they would only need one side open.

I’ll have to take your word for it. I’m not an expert in restaurant staffing. We sailed on Princess in the spring, not a great experience overall. But one of the things that I thought was problematic was the buffet in the evenings. Many of the offerings looked old and dry, and they did not have enough staff on the dining area to keep the tables clean.

 

[MonaMN]

While I would somewhat agree with this on 3 or 4 night cruises, it really becomes more of an issue when you are on a 7 night or especially longer cruise. I mean, if you are on a 10 night cruise, you may not want to eat that 4th time in Enchanted Garden.

Also, I like the itineraries like Virgin has in Europe where they stay until 10pm in some destinations or even overnight. Can't do that if you have to hold to a 5:45pm dining time...

I really like Disney and continue to at least do some of my cruising with them. However, this is one area that I definitely agree with the OP and I think they definitely need to improve their offerings.

I can agree with that. But DCL doesn't offer that many itineraries that are significantly longer... a few are up to 10 days plus the repositioning cruises (which are minimal).

I think if one is a repeat cruiser on the same ship it would also get tiring more quickly - just like the big shows, there's only so many times you probably need to see those dinner shows. (Although you could argue that for some of the attractions at the theme parks, but people seem to never tire of those.)

From a cost/operational perspective, it would probably make more sense to keep all the pool deck offerings open longer or really push the room service options, rather than keeping Cabanas open. In addition to the extra staffing required, there's a lot more potential for food waste at a buffet.

 

[tidefan]

It was a real convenience on our Med cruise on Royal. We had late dining, but I loved getting a heathy snack if I needed one before dinner. They always had a section with cheese fruit and crackers or I could gab a small salad. There is just not enough options on DCL. The poolside food is awful and there are times especially after a long port day you just don’t want to go to dinner.

I was also disappointed to see they got rid of the appetizers in O’Gills. That had to be cost cutting.

O’Gill’s had the appetizers when we sailed the Magic last August

 

[DCLMP]

O’Gill’s had the appetizers when we sailed the Magic last August

That was last year and this is this year. Twice on the Wonder since March and they are gone.

If anyone has had a different experience this year. Let us know.

 

[DCLMP]

I can agree with that. But DCL doesn't offer that many itineraries that are significantly longer... a few are up to 10 days plus the repositioning cruises (which are minimal).

I think if one is a repeat cruiser on the same ship it would also get tiring more quickly - just like the big shows, there's only so many times you probably need to see those dinner shows. (Although you could argue that for some of the attractions at the theme parks, but people seem to never tire of those.)

From a cost/operational perspective, it would probably make more sense to keep all the pool deck offerings open longer or really push the room service options, rather than keeping Cabanas open. In addition to the extra staffing required, there's a lot more potential for food waste at a buffet.

Carnival, NCL, Royal Princess, Celebrity and others all have buffets in the evening regardless of cruise length. It's a common complaint I have read on here from people trying DCL for the first time. Disney charges significantly more than other cruise lines. I do not believe it's a cost factory or a food waste issue when Disney is the only cruise line doing this.

Disney wants everyone in the dining rooms for the shows and experience whether they want to be there or not. It's how they do things. In fairness most cruise lines have multiple specialty restaurants, buffets and fast food places open. The MDR's are never full. Guests are eating at multiple venues. DCL choice a different model you either like it or you don't.

 

[Paul Stupin]

Carnival, NCL, Royal Princess, Celebrity and others all have buffets in the evening regardless of cruise length. It's a common complaint I have read on here from people trying DCL for the first time. Disney charges significantly more than other cruise lines. I do not believe it's a cost factory or a food waste issue when Disney is the only cruise line doing this.

Disney wants everyone in the dining rooms for the shows and experience whether they want to be there or not. It's how they do things. In fairness most cruise lines have multiple specialty restaurants, buffets and fast food places open. The MDR's are never full. Guests are eating at multiple venues. DCL choice a different model you either like it or you don't.

I would disagree that it’s not about cost. If it didn’t cost the cruise line extra, DCL would have that buffet open. Or at least some sort of alternative dining option up there. I think Disney is the only cruise line doing this because, with their passengers’ brand loyalty and love for the theming and characters, they’re the only line that can get away with it.

 

[Geomom]

I would disagree that it’s not about cost. If it didn’t cost the cruise line extra, DCL would have that buffet open. Or at least some sort of alternative dining option up there. I think Disney is the only cruise line doing this because, with their passengers’ brand loyalty and love for the theming and characters, they’re the only line that can get away with it.

With the rotational model and assigned dining times, and Palo/Remy, DCL doesn't think they'll have enough customers for a buffet without wasting a lot of food...and they probably wouldn't. But, I think they should have all the pool deck options open. The grill area food is cooked to order, so there wouldn't be much waste, and the salad/fruit/sandwich area is all refrigerated and can stay at the right temp for the night.

They used to occasionally have a late night buffet for late all aboard times. Our 2018 Magic cruise has an 11pm time in St Petersburg. They had a buffet in Cabanas from 10:30-11:30, and only 2/3 of the MDRs open for you to go to anytime, you didn't get your normal dining team or table.

 

[dcassetta]

They used to occasionally have a late night buffet for late all aboard times. Our 2018 Magic cruise has an 11pm time in St Petersburg. They had a buffet in Cabanas from 10:30-11:30, and only 2/3 of the MDRs open for you to go to anytime, you didn't get your normal dining team or table.

We had a similar experience on the Magic in 2017. We sailed out of New York City, and the cruise included a stop at Port Canaveral so that people could go and visit the Disney parks. The original navigator had open seating for dinner in Lumieres and Cariocas. But, so many people took advantage of staying late at the parks that we heard later they did not need to open Cariocas. Cabanas was open as a buffet until about 1 AM to accommodate the people coming back from the parks late. This particular port day was on Thanksgiving day, and it was interesting, coming back to the ship late and watching all of the crew who had gone to do some early black Friday shopping.

 

[nancipants]

I think all of us, justifiably, hold Disney to a high standard. In Orlando, I think the quality of WDW hotels and dining selections is pretty much unsurpassed. For me, they’ve lowered this bar for DCL, particularly dining wise. We all love the Disney pixie dust, but it really doesn’t seem like they’ve sprinkled any of it at Cabanas.

I think this very much depends on the hotel and restaurant you are in. I'm a WDW local, and while we dine there often, we much prefer the offerings on DCL. IMO, Cabanas >>> Chef Mickey's, even with the characters.

 

[Pixie Dust Believer]

That was last year and this is this year. Twice on the Wonder since March and they are gone.

If anyone has had a different experience this year. Let us know.

We were on the Wonder from Sydney to Honolulu this February 16th- March 1st and they had the late night appetizers each night we were in the pub.

 

[DCLMP]

I would disagree that it’s not about cost. If it didn’t cost the cruise line extra, DCL would have that buffet open. Or at least some sort of alternative dining option up there. I think Disney is the only cruise line doing this because, with their passengers’ brand loyalty and love for the theming and characters, they’re the only line that can get away with it.

Well I disagree. I believe they want everyone in the dining rooms. The older ships and the Wish have shows during meal time just about every night. I'm sure there are plenty of people that would skip it and eat at a buffet, but that is not what DCL wants. The majority of people enjoy the MDR experience including myself. I do support an alternative.

 

[DCLMP]

We were on the Wonder from Sydney to Honolulu this February 16th- March 1st and they had the late night appetizers each night we were in the pub.

An appetizer is something you eat before dinner You are describing a late night snack. They used to have them out around 6pm.

 

[Pixie Dust Believer]

An appetizer is something you eat before dinner You are describing a late night snack. They used to have them out around 6pm.

I guess I should have used the word snack. I was trying to say that the pub still does free food at times. I was never in the pub around 6 pm so I can’t confirm if they had the buffet open then.

 

[John VN]

So if not Oceania, do you have lines or ships that deliver the experience you expect (and want) for the price?

We currently cruise MSC Yacht Club. 51st Anniversary cruise next month and the All-Inclusive Experience is what we expected from Oceania in a *Penthouse Cabin* that was not delivered ---

This all-inclusive experience includes:
UNLIMITED DRINKS in all bars and restaurants of the ship
24-hour butler and concierge service
Private restaurant with all-inclusive dining at flexible times (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Priority check-in and check-out in a dedicated area (we arrive at 9:30am, escorted to check-in and are escorted 1st on ship directly to Top Sail Lounge) --
Exclusive Top Sail Lounge offering finger foods, desserts, afternoon and midnight snacks (complete bar open 6:30am to midnight+)
Private top deck swimming pool/hot tubs and complete bar + Grill for Breakfast and Lunch + snacks
Luxury suites with Egyptian cotton linens.......

also Private Section on Ocean Cay Island Reserve, Private restaurant for lunch on Island, Internet for 2 devices for each of 2 in cabin and more relaxing than one can hope for

Pricing at times around DCL Verandah Cabins and often thousands less than DCL Concierge

 

[auntlynne]

We currently cruise MSC Yacht Club. 51st Anniversary cruise next month and the All-Inclusive Experience is what we expected from Oceania in a *Penthouse Cabin* that was not delivered ---

This all-inclusive experience includes:
UNLIMITED DRINKS in all bars and restaurants of the ship
24-hour butler and concierge service
Private restaurant with all-inclusive dining at flexible times (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Priority check-in and check-out in a dedicated area (we arrive at 9:30am, escorted to check-in and are escorted 1st on ship directly to Top Sail Lounge) --
Exclusive Top Sail Lounge offering finger foods, desserts, afternoon and midnight snacks (complete bar open 6:30am to midnight+)
Private top deck swimming pool/hot tubs and complete bar + Grill for Breakfast and Lunch + snacks
Luxury suites with Egyptian cotton linens.......

also Private Section on Ocean Cay Island Reserve, Private restaurant for lunch on Island, Internet for 2 devices for each of 2 in cabin and more relaxing than one can hope for

Pricing at times around DCL Verandah Cabins and often thousands less than DCL Concierge

I have heard excellent things about MSC Yacht Club. I have been on two 7-night MSC Seashore cruises. The last one was a balcony cabin just for me with my sister in the connecting cabin. Each $1K. Nice deal. and the Status Match to top loyalty level for my Disney Platinum was appreciated.

Maybe one day I will decide to splurge. The biggest draw is actually priority boarding. But I did get that with my Diamond status.

 

[John VN]

I have heard excellent things about MSC Yacht Club. I have been on two 7-night MSC Seashore cruises. The last one was a balcony cabin just for me with my sister in the connecting cabin. Each $1K. Nice deal. and the Status Match to top loyalty level for my Disney Platinum was appreciated.

Maybe one day I will decide to splurge. The biggest draw is actually priority boarding. But I did get that with my Diamond status.

Did you eat at Butcher's Cut for the Diamond dinner? DW enjoys her Shrimp Cocktail, Filet Mignon and Chocolate Lava

 

[auntlynne]

Did you eat at Butcher's Cut for the Diamond dinner? DW enjoys her Shrimp Cocktail, Filet Mignon and Chocolate Lava

Ha ha. Yes. Both cruises - filet. Had a great Caesar salad. But went with chocolate chip cookie once. Ate the ice cream in the restaurant, took the cookie with me to drink later with milk.

They even boxed my leftovers (1/2 the steak) that I ate for breakfast the next day. I’m thinking there may have been cheesecake second visit.

My sister and I shared my free dinner; I just added an additional side (maybe it was a salad so we each had one). We typically share a petite filet meal wherever we are. Not needing so much food. And especially on a cruise where it’s food, food, food.

(Nice mistake on their part - she status matched when she was DCL Gold. The next cruise, they hadn’t applied her MSC status to her reservation and seemingly lost it. By then, she was Platinum on DCL - and was granted a match to MSC Diamond - in the spot. Now to cruise MSC within 3 years or lose our status.)

 

[John VN]

Ha ha. Yes. Both cruises - filet. Had a great Caesar salad. But went with chocolate chip cookie once. Ate the ice cream in the restaurant, took the cookie with me to drink later with milk.

They even boxed my leftovers (1/2 the steak) that I ate for breakfast the next day. I’m thinking there may have been cheesecake second visit.

My sister and I shared my free dinner; I just added an additional side (maybe it was a salad so we each had one). We typically share a petite filet meal wherever we are. Not needing so much food. And especially on a cruise where it’s food, food, food.

(Nice mistake on their part - she status matched when she was DCL Gold. The next cruise, they hadn’t applied her MSC status to her reservation and seemingly lost it. By then, she was Platinum on DCL - and was granted a match to MSC Diamond - in the spot. Now to cruise MSC within 3 years or lose our status.)

Caesar all the time for me. I have the Cheesecake plus shaved Parmigianino Reggiano. The combo really is very good. The Parm-Reg is also wonderful with the warm Apple Crisp/Vanilla Ice Cream and 2 double espresso for YC dinner dessert.

Hoping you-all continue enjoying all of your cruising.