DREAM SEA TRIALS

The 130,000-ton Carnival Dream, Carnival Cruise Lines’ largest ship, is shown here conducting sea trials in the Adriatic Sea in preparation for its Sept. 21 debut from Europe.

Currently under construction by the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, near Trieste, the 3,646-passenger vessel had a full contingent of officers, technicians and engineers on board who thoroughly tested the Carnival Dream’s sophisticated navigation and mechanical systems. Following sea trials, Carnival Dream returned to Monfalcone, where it will undergo final interior outfitting.

Carnival Dream will usher in an exciting new era of “Fun Ship” cruising and offer a host of innovations, including Ocean Plaza, an indoor/outdoor café and entertainment venue, cantilevered whirlpools that extend out over the ship’s sides, and a variety of accommodation categories, including cove balconies that are closer to the water line and five-berth, two-bathroom staterooms that will be ideal for families.

Carnival Dream is scheduled to enter service in Europe Sept. 21 operating a series of Mediterranean cruises before repositioning to New York for eight-day cruises Nov. 15 and 23. The ship will operate a special nine-day cruise from Port Canaveral Dec. 3 then launch year-round seven-day Caribbean cruises from that port Dec. 12.