The announcement by Disney Cruise Lines that it will sail in Australian and New Zealandn waters the next year has set off an exciting battle for the young cruiser.
Who would your children choose in the local waters: huge ship rides from Royal Caribbean, Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars from Disney, or “fun ships” from Carnival Cruise Lines?
The Disney Wonder, an 11-deck ship with a wide variety of dining options and themes, will provide unique sailings from two to six nights that will leave from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane in Australia as well as Auckland in New Zealand.
Launched in 1998, Disney Cruise Line promotes itself as a place where families can reunite, adults can unwind, and kids can enjoy everything that Disney has to offer. The Disney Wonder, Disney Wish, Disney Magic, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy are the current five ships in the fleet, and two more are planned.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, stated, “We are very delighted to bring the enchantment of a Disney cruise holiday close to home for visitors in Australia and New Zealand.” The Disney Cruise Line crew can’t wait to welcome passengers on board as they are immersed in their favourite stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. On these short-term sailings, the ship is the destination.
The first voyages leave Sydney on October 28, 2023. General public bookings start taking place on Thursday, September 29, 2022, at 8 a.m. AEST/11 a.m. NZDT.
While on board, Disney Cruise Line guests will be immersed in the magic of Disney with unforgettable character encounters with favourite Disney friends including Captain Mickey Mouse, Captain Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Pluto, and spectacular entertainment including original Broadway quality shows.
Guests will also enjoy incredible dining experiences with imaginative restaurants including Tiana’s Place, where guests can meet Princess Tiana herself and enjoy a taste of New Orleans cooking, and Animator’s Palate, an interactive dining experience that celebrates Disney animation.
Children will have their own “Frozen” adventures in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, along with a multi-level replica of Andy’s Room from “Toy Story” and a place to summon their inner superhero at the Marvel Super Hero Academy. Adults even have their own exclusive spaces to rest and relax, including the adults-only Quiet Cove pool, sophisticated dining at Palo and the rejuvenating Senses Spa & Salon.
All sailings will include health and safety measures considering up-to-date guidance from public health authorities in Australia and New Zealand and medical experts. Disney Cruise Line’s current health and safety protocols are outlined on disneycruise.com.
