As the cruise industry continues to bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship the Disney Wish was recently christened on an initial sailing. With Disney-style entertainment, a variety of activities and diverse food options and even a ride attraction on board, the Disney Wish is a magical experience at sea.
Earlier this month, Disney Wish was christened during a celebration filled with musical performances, special guests and characters from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars and Pixar stories. Tony Award-winning entertainer Anika Noni Rose, known for voicing Tiana in “The Princess and the Frog,” performed a rendition of the beloved Disney Parks ballad “Wishes.”
Disney Cruise Line honored Make-A-Wish children past, present and future in the prestigious role of godchildren for the Disney Wish, redefining the longstanding maritime tradition of appointing a ship “godmother.” Three ambassadors—Colby, 10; Megan, 16; and Jenna, 13—represented all Disney Wish godchildren.
“The Disney Wish embodies the incredible magic that only Disney can deliver,” said Bob Chapek, chief executive officer, The Walt Disney Company. “It celebrates nearly 100 years of Disney storytelling excellence, bringing fantastic worlds and beloved characters to life like never before through innovative technology and new approaches. Every element of the Disney Wish reflects our relentless focus on our guests, and everything they love about Disney.”
Among the many activities on board are a royal celebration during a theatrical dining experience with “Frozen” friends; the Avengers Marvel cinematic dining adventure; a first-of-its-kind Star Wars experience; an interactive, multidimensional adventure into Disney and Pixar worlds; rediscover beloved Broadway-style stage spectaculars; and dedicated kids’ clubs and adult escapes.
The ship features a brand-new, Disney design concept inspired by tales of wishes come true. The motif of enchantment—a theme found at the heart of so many cherished Disney stories—manifests in wondrous ways throughout the ship, from the magical forest setting of the Walt Disney Theatre to storybook-inspired staterooms to the fairytale castle-inspired Grand Hall, where a dazzling wishing star descends from the chandelier above.
“We’re constantly innovating and creating big, bold experiences for our guests that connect them to our stories in amazing new ways,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks experiences and products. “With the Disney Wish, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with awesome new entertainment and experiences and combining them with Disney Cruise Line fan-favorite offerings. This new ship is one more symbol of our incredibly bright future, and just the beginning of where we can go.”
However the main attraction on the vessel is a Disney first. Guests immerse themselves in “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse” animated shorts aboard the first Disney attraction at sea, AquaMouse. Complete with show scenes, lighting and special effects, this water ride takes passengers through 760 feet of winding tubes suspended high above the upper decks.
The ship includes 1,254 staterooms offering an ocean view—including 877 (70%) with a verandah—and 451 connecting doors to accommodate larger families with adjoining rooms.
The Disney Wish has various options for onboard dining from casual to more formal. With the debut of three brand-new family dining concepts ranging from theatrical entertainment to cinematic adventure to sophisticated elegance, dinner on board the Disney Wish gives travelers a chance to interact with favorite Disney stories in exciting new ways only Disney Cruise Line can cook up. New restaurants include Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, Worlds of Marvel and the upscale 1923.
In addition to themed, upscale restaurants, the Disney Wish offers a variety of dining options for families ranging from quick bites at the open air Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods and casual dining at Marceline Market to 24-hour room service and specialty treats.
“Sharing a delicious meal together is an important part of family life, and we love finding surprising new ways to show our guests a magical time as they dine on each of our ships,” said Ozer Balli, vice president, hotel operations, Disney Cruise Line. “For the Disney Wish, our three new family restaurants are a feast for the heart as well as the palate, and all meals are served, of course, with the incredible care and attention to detail that families expect from our world-class Disney Cruise Line service team.”
The Disney Wish sailed its maiden voyage this week, followed by a season of three- and four-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, from Port Canaveral, Florida.