The Dream was in St. Maarten on its final stop when it encountered a technical issue with its backup emergency diesel generator, which affected its propulsion system.
The U.S. Coast Guard says the ship has sewage and power. But according to several passengers, power is out and toilets are overflowing.
A company statement said the ship did not lose power but that there were periodic interruptions to elevators and restrooms. Otherwise, Carnival said all systems were functioning normally.
The more than 3,600 passengers were told they would not be sailing home to Florida as planned, instead they would be flying home.
In February, an engine fire crippled Carnival's Triumph, leaving thousands without working toilets or power.
The Dream was on a seven-day cruise of the Caribbean with 3,646 passengers. The ship's March 16 voyage from Port Canaveral has been canceled.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
