It’s hard to resist the magic of Disney. The entertainment giant has perfected the art of enchanting across age groups—from its theme parks to popular movie characters and even its luxurious cruises. While Disney’s ships have long sailed the waters of North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, Asia is all set to welcome its first-ever Disney cruise with the launch of the brand-new ship, the Disney Adventure. Launching in 2025, the all-new Disney Adventure will set sail from Singapore from December 15, 2025, and will homeport there for about five years.
This exciting announcement coincides with a growing interest in cruise holidays among India’s affluent traveler as Disney brings a slice of its magical voyages to this side of the world. With a capacity of around 6,700 passengers, Disney Adventure, will offer three and four-night sailings from Singapore and back, without stops at any ports during its journeys, allowing guests to fully immerse in the ship’s experiences. According to Disney Cruise Line, the idea is to offer a rich immersive experience and be a destination within itself—quite different from its sister ships, which usually have ports of call.
Disney’s entry into Asia comes at a time when Indian holidaymakers are increasingly leaning towards event-based travel such as celebratory birthdays and anniversaries—paired with luxury, entertainment, and cultural exploration. “The potential for success in this region looks promising, given the evolving preferences of Indian travellers,” a Disney spokesperson mentions.
A World of Magic Awaits
So, what exactly can you look forward to as a first-time cruiser with Disney and specifically the Adventure? Apart from the hallmarks that have made Disney cruises legendary—Broadway-style live shows, screenings of some of the latest Disney movies, interactions with beloved characters and princesses, water activities, kids and youth clubs and themed dining that leans into the universe of Marvel superheroes, Disney and Pixar—the Adventure also caters to adults looking to take a pause and relax amidst all the ongoings. The cruise also extends its offerings to discerning adults, providing several spaces to help them unwind in style. Expect adults-only dining at specialty restaurants, private decks with pools, sophisticated bars and lounges, and a curated selection of activities tailored for adults seeking a refined respite amidst the onboard magic.
At the heart of the Adventure is the Disney Imagination Garden, an expansive, open-air marvel that is designed as an enchanted valley with a three-deck tall castle. This is a first-of-its-kind on any Disney ship, with suites and staterooms, overlooking the garden—a striking departure from the traditional ocean-view cabins. Featuring a theatrical stage, a bar, and convenient quick-service eateries, the garden blends seamlessly into Disney’s signature storytelling, bringing beloved tales to life.
To cater to Indian audiences, there is a jungle book-themed restaurant called Mowgli’s Eatery, serving vegetarian favourites and other regional-inspired fare. Other themed areas include Disney Discovery Reef, Wayfinder Bay, Town Square, Marvel Landing, Toy Story Place and San Fransokyo Street. Also making its debut aboard the Disney Adventure—and a first for any Disney ship—is the Ironcycle Test Run, touted as the longest rollercoaster at sea. Here guests can enjoy a thrilling high-speed circuit, suspended 30 feet above the upper decks.
A first-hand indulgent escape at sea
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to sail on the Disney Wish (one of their newer cruise ships) to the exotic Bahamas in the Caribbean. As someone who’s been a skeptic of sailing on cruises, I was cheerily told that if your first-ever cruise happens to be with Disney, you’ve hit the jackpot. I couldn’t agree more! From the moment you step onboard, the attention to detail is nothing short of magical. From hidden Disney elements that you’re encouraged to spot across the ship to finding bits of magic, days at sea pass by in a happy blur. Disney’s unique concept of rotational dining allows guests to fully enjoy the different themed restaurants on board. Your restaurant staff accompany you across dining outlets each evening, so they are well clued to your tastes and preferences. By the end of my cruise, they knew exactly how I preferred my lemonade—perfectly balanced, not too sweet or cold—and made sure all my dietary preferences were meticulously catered to.
If you like some indulgent pampering during your stay, the Senses Spa & Salon offers a serene haven with a range of treatments, including heated ceramic loungers, showers, plunge pools, and the invigorating fridgarium—an ice lounge offering thermal therapies. If you crave some quiet time, head to Palo, an elegant, adults-only fine dine restaurant (a Disney signature), serving Northern Italian fare with an extensive wine list.
Soak in the serene views of the ocean as you luxuriate in an outdoor pool on the adults-only deck or with a cocktail at a cosy jazz bar. For those looking for more gourmet dining options, the Adventure will house a full-service Japanese steakhouse, which includes a teppanyaki room, omakase-style dining and bar, and an outdoor space serving a selection of sushi and sashimi.
Exclusive concierge services
One of the USP’s of Disney cruises is its concierge service. Guests staying in higher category staterooms and suites get exclusive access and certain benefits, including a private sundeck with a pool, quiet sanctuaries, a private fitness centre, and a concierge lounge where you can enjoy nibbles, drinks and even breakfast bites. Suites are among the first to sell out, compared to other staterooms. Your dedicated concierge ensure you get the best seats in the house when it comes to live shows, room service and even exclusive access to onboard activities. Specific to the Adventure, the concierge lounge will have an Aladdin-inspired look.
With the newest addition to its fleet, the Adventure is set to redefine cruising in this region. Couple that with some magic pixie dust and Captain Mickey and Minnie Mouse at the helm to make your first cruise with Disney in Asia a truly memorable one.
Bookings start from December 10, 2024.
Details on pricing and sailing dates will be available from November 14, 2024.
