Somebody better pinch me, for I fear I might be dreaming, (insert harp music here…)
You see, for months, and months I’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the beautiful Explorer Dream, now that the countdown has whittled down to weeks, I can’t quite believe she’ll soon be gliding into Sydney Harbour.
Now I know what you’re thinking, who is Dream Cruises? I can actually hear your sweet little voices, saying, “Honey, TELL US MORE!”
And more I shall. And, after I’ve commanded your attention for the next few minutes, you’ll be so excited that you’ll book a cruise on this beauty tout-suite (that’s French for right away!)
As a preface, you all know I cruised on Genting Dream in May this year and had an amazing time. Genting Dream is the big(ger) sister to Explorer Dream, which is the latest addition to the fleet.
So here’s 10 Things You Need To Know About Explorer Dream
1. Explorer Dream arrives in Sydney on October 27, 2019
Before arriving in Sydney, Explorer Dream will embark on a 21-night relocation voyage, departing Shanghai on 6 October 2019. She will make nine ports stops – Hong Kong, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Jakarta, Bali, Darwin, Cairns and Gladstone before sailing into our beautiful Sydney Harbour.
AND I WILL BE ABOARD HER MAIDEN AUSTRALIAN VOYAGE FROM SYDNEY!
2. Multi-million dollar facelift
For those who know their fair maidens, the Explorer Dream was the ship formerly known as Prince (no it wasn’t). Actually, she was the Superstar Virgo (of sister brand, Star Cruises) and a whopping $50 million buckaroonies were spent by Genting to re-badge and re-spruce the ship.
While she has undergone a massive transformation, Explorer Dream still exudes that old school, luxe charm but with enhanced opulent interiors and a grand piazza-style lobby. Staterooms have also been rejuvenated with sophisticated contemporary decor and eye-catching artwork.
3. 75,000 tonnes of pure luxury
If you’re wanting to cruise on a mega ship, Explorer Dream is not your girl. This ship can accommodate 1856 passengers and offers 928 staterooms. There are seven cabin categories ranging from interior right through to the decadent Palace Villas.
There are accessible cabins (inside category) and most balcony cabins are interconnecting. And let's not forget about the beds! Explorer Dream has the most luxurious ‘Dream beds’ at sea with sumptuous trillion-thread count linen (well, that’s what it feels like), top-notch mattresses and mountains of soft pillows.
4. You can pretend you’re royalty in The Palace
Imagine having your very own butler to bring you your every desire and treat you just like Meghan Markle in your own ultra luxurious villa? Now imagine all of this on a ship! Well just call me Princess Honey and pass me another glass of Moet dahhhling.
The Palace
If you’re looking for something a lot more special and a little more exclusive, then The Palace is for you. The all-inclusive, all-suite luxury concept on board Explorer Dream combines the charm of a five-star boutique hotel with the exclusivity of a private clubhouse. It’s the largest, dedicated ‘ship-within-a-ship’ area at sea, occupying up to 10,000 square metres. There are only two Palace Villas aboard and 44 spacious and elegantly furnished suites, so get in quick! Inclusions include:
- Dining entitlements at The Palace and specialty restaurants
- Premium beverage package
- 24-hour butler concierge service
- Private pool deck
- Selected shore excursions
- Wi-Fi throughout the cruise
- Priority check-in and embarkation
5. You don’t have to worry about tipping
Forget trying to work out how much to tip your stewards, waiters and bar staff, all of that can be taken care of before you cruise (or added on to your on-board account). Gratuities are calculated at $20 per per, per day and $25 per person for Palace guests and is included in your fare.
6. All the food!
Foodies, you’re in for a real treat! There are so many bars and dining options on-board from super casual to super posh concepts on board. Inclusive dining venues are: Dream Dining Room, Pavilion & The Lido and the specialty restaurants are: Umi Uma (Japanese), Mozzarella, Silk Road, Blue Lagoon, Hot Pot and Blue Lagoon. There’s also a gelateria and cake corner for the sweet tooths.
Plus, an exciting alfresco eatery, Seafood Grill by Aussie superstar and celebrity chef Mark Best where you can enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars at his signature restaurant.
7. Entertainment galore
Gone are the days of RSL-esque cheesy shows, Explorer Dream will be dazzling guests with Broadway-style production shows every night. Guests will embark on a journey featuring some of the finest experiences from around the world.
And, let’s not forget about the ‘Little Dreamers’ who will be spoilt for choice at kids club.
8. Money, money, money
While cruising in Australian and New Zealand water, currency on-board is the good ol’ Australian dollar. No need to be confused by currency conversions.
9. Specially designed Down Under itineraries
During her time her in Australia and New Zealand (October 2019 to March 2020) Explorer Dream will embark on a series of 7-night cruises with the option to sail north from Sydney along the stunning coast of Queensland, or journey south to Tasmania’s unique rugged landscapes. Alternatively, guests can set sail from Auckland and navigate the scenic shores of New Zealand. There are also shorter 2 and 3-night cruises for that quick getaway.
Discover new ports and new shore excursions, such as Akaroa in NZ, the historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano, Quoin Island Retreat and Turtle Rehabilitation Centre in Gladstone or a gourmet wine and food tour at the Hunter Valley.
10. The extras
Yes, there are drinks packages, (for 7-nights: Refresh $209pp, classic $329pp, Premium $599pp) a frequent cruiser program ‘Dream Elite’, laundry services, room service (nominal charge), Wi-Fi, shopping, duty free, and a super-easy App. Here’s a tip, bring your own international power plug adaptor (or you can ask your steward).
I’m truly excited about Explorer Dream, and not because I dislike any of the other lines currently cruising in Australia, but because with her arrival comes a new choice, a new brand and more options for cruise addicts like me!
8. Money, money, money
While cruising in Australian and New Zealand water, currency on-board is the good ol’ Australian dollar. No need to be confused by currency conversions.
9. Specially designed Down Under itineraries
During her time her in Australia and New Zealand (October 2019 to March 2020) Explorer Dream will embark on a series of 7-night cruises with the option to sail north from Sydney along the stunning coast of Queensland, or journey south to Tasmania’s unique rugged landscapes. Alternatively, guests can set sail from Auckland and navigate the scenic shores of New Zealand. There are also shorter 2 and 3-night cruises for that quick getaway.
Discover new ports and new shore excursions, such as Akaroa in NZ, the historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano, Quoin Island Retreat and Turtle Rehabilitation Centre in Gladstone or a gourmet wine and food tour at the Hunter Valley.
10. The extras
Yes, there are drinks packages, (for 7-nights: Refresh $209pp, classic $329pp, Premium $599pp) a frequent cruiser program ‘Dream Elite’, laundry services, room service (nominal charge), Wi-Fi, shopping, duty free, and a super-easy App. Here’s a tip, bring your own international power plug adaptor (or you can ask your steward).
I’m truly excited about Explorer Dream, and not because I dislike any of the other lines currently cruising in Australia, but because with her arrival comes a new choice, a new brand and more options for cruise addicts like me!
