Welcome aboard, Nancy! I completely agree with you that a full week at sea is the best way to experience Disney Cruise Line and all that it has to offer. While I love sailing anytime with Disney, our most relaxing cruises have been the longer ones because they offer more time to explore the ship, take in all the activities and events that are offered, and not feel rushed, which means lots of relaxation time too.
I'm sorry to say that the
Disney Dream currently only offers three and four-night sailings out of Port Canaveral. Your best bet if you want to sail from Port Canaveral is booking a seven-night cruise on the
Disney Fantasy. It is the Dream's sister ship, and the same size as the Dream with many similar features. However, I see that you live in Texas. Did you know that the Disney Wonder sails out of Galveston at different times throughout the year? Some of those sailings are longer sailings of five, six and seven nights, so that's a great option too. Don't underestimate the smaller ships. In fact, I actually prefer to sail on the Magic and Wonder, because the smaller ships have a more intimate feel.
If your son is really set on the Disney Dream, but you want a seven night, I have a compromise for you! Many guests will book back-to-back Disney cruises, and I had a wonderful time when we last did this. You could easily book a three-night on the Dream, followed by a four-night sailing, and have the same stateroom. You'd only have to get off the ship in between the two sailings for an hour or two, and then you'd be the first ones back on. No need to pack your luggage in between either. Just head off into the port terminal at Port Canaveral for the couple hours, and then you're back on for another sailing.
I hope that gives you some ideas, Nancy. Please stop back if we can help with anything else!
Marcy