Marking my first break in a long while, we boarded the Dream Cruise operated by Resorts World Cruises, a subsidiary of the Genting Group. This was my very first cruise voyage, a three-night trip, and to put it mildly, I was beyond excited.
Our departure port is Marina Bay Cruise Centre, aboard the Genting Dream Vessel. While our check-in time was allocated at 4:00 PM, the whole immigration and logistical process ran close to 6:00PM. The queue was orderly but the waiting time was considerable, with the cruise ship eventually setting sail at almost 7:30 PM
The Cabin: Inner Stateroom with a Window View
Our room was an inner stateroom with a window view. Since we were positioned directly at the ship’s bow, we did experience quite a fair bit of rocking. On a positive note, we had front-row seats to wherever we were headed.
The cabin was just right for two, with plenty of storage for our luggages too. Toiletries were provided, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that the sink actually dispensed drinking water.
Food Onboard: The Best Part?
Food, food, food. There were four different menus to choose from: international buffet, Western and Chinese set menus, and an Indian vegetarian option, with Halal selections included too! There’s indeed a wide spread for most dietary preferences.
I quite liked the oriental design of the main dining area, known as Dream Dining Upper and Lower Restaurant (a large ballroom-like space split across two levels), as well as Lido with its spacious seating, and the dreamy café known as the Oasis (as shown below).
There’s also morning and afternoon snacks for anyone who missed the allocated dining times, which was a thoughtful touch. Thanks to the in-house gym (where the staff kindly let me in just to use the weighing machine despite my lacking footwear, thank you!), I can attest that I gained a full two kilogrammes just from eating. Zero regrets.
Entertainment: What’s Free vs. What Costs Extra
Most entertainment does require additional payment, such as the onboard Zouk Club, but there’s plenty of complimentary fun too. We made use of the pool (a heated jacuzzi under the night sky with a cold sea breeze was quite the experience), caught a movie screened outdoors on the open deck, and watched a dazzling performance by Trustfall, Dream Cruise’s original production blending contemporary dance with acrobatics. For quieter evenings, the in-room TV comes with a decent selection of included movies. Although there’s also a casino on board, we gave it a miss.
Redang Island: A Tropical Pitstop
This particular itinerary included a short stop at Redang Island, Malaysia. While it’s not the most common cruise layover destination, Redang draws a fair share of tourists for its clear waters and snorkelling spots. We booked a snorkelling package, snorkelling with turtles, read my full review of the experience here.
To get to the island, we took a small ferry from the ship, then transferred onto another heading to our snorkelling spot. The waves can get rather choppy here, so it’s not recommended for those prone to seasickness. Remember to bring your swimsuit, listen to the guides, and slather on plenty of coral-friendly sunscreen.
Overall: Would I Cruise Again?
It was, quite simply, a relaxing trip. Everyone says there’s not much to do on a cruise, and they’re right, but I’ve come to think that’s exactly the point. A sun lounger, a good book, the sound of waves (or music), and the strange, wonderful realisation that I was sleeping in a hotel built in a giant metal contraption sailing across the South China Sea. There’s something magical about that.
Other Information
This cruise is suited for all ages, family-friendly with plenty of activities for children, and equally enjoyable for couples and groups of friends.
Catching the Sun
Enjoy the unhindered view of the rising and setting sun paired with the endless sea of blue.
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