Disney Cruise Line is taking its magical voyages to the next level with plans for significant fleet expansion and exciting new entertainment experiences. During the recent D23 Expo, the company revealed a series of updates that will enrich its offerings in the coming years, captivating families and Disney enthusiasts alike.
A Growing Fleet:
Disney Cruise Line is adding four new ships to its existing fleet, bringing the total to 13 by 2031. This expansion will provide even more families with the opportunity to enjoy the company’s signature dining, entertainment, and exceptional service. While specific details on the new ships’ names, designs, and itineraries are still under development, the construction is underway at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany.Premiere of ‘Disney Hercules’ on Disney Destiny:
The Disney Destiny, set to embark on its maiden voyage in November 2025, will feature an array of experiences inspired by beloved Disney characters, both heroes and villains. The highlight of the entertainment lineup will be the premiere of ‘Disney Hercules’ at the Walt Disney Theatre. This brand-new Broadway-caliber stage show will bring the beloved Disney movie to life in a dynamic and engaging way.Audiences can expect to experience the iconic songs and vibrant characters of ‘Disney Hercules’ in a production that remains true to the original movie’s charm while introducing a contemporary twist. The Muses will reprise their role as narrators, guiding the audience through the classic struggle between heroism and villainy. The production will feature all the cherished melodies from the film, including the debut of the song ‘Shooting Star’ on stage.
The soundtrack’s blend of pop and gospel elements will be showcased in new musical arrangements crafted by a team with expertise in both the theatrical and pop music worlds. Expect spectacular musical performances, outstanding vocal talent, eye-catching visual effects, and state-of-the-art projection technology. ‘Disney Hercules’ will join two other popular productions on the Disney Destiny: ‘Frozen, A Musical Spectacular’ and ‘Disney Seas the Adventure’.
A Sneak Peek at ‘Disney The Tale of Moana’:
Disney Cruise Line has offered a sneak peek into ‘Disney The Tale of Moana,’ set to debut onboard the Disney Treasure later this year. This stage adaptation translates Moana’s epic journey from the beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios film into a live performance. Audiences were treated to a rendering of a pivotal scene, promising to bring Moana’s adventures and transformative coming-of-age story to life.The newly released scene from ‘Disney The Tale of Moana’ showcases an exhilarating climax where Moana confronts Te Kā, the antagonistic lava monster, in a breathtaking standoff. This moment is brought to life with an extraordinary fifteen-foot-tall puppet, setting a new record as the largest ever created for a Disney Cruise Line Broadway-style production. The puppet, embodying Te Kā, will transform on stage into her true form, Te Fiti, portrayed as a magnificent green goddess, symbolizing the restoration of balance and harmony.
This production will feature a variety of beloved characters from ‘Moana,’ all intricately reimagined as puppets, including a youthful Moana. The puppetry is being crafted under the guidance of Jeff Conover, Disney Live Entertainment’s creative director of puppetry and articulation, alongside Michael Curry, renowned for his work on ‘The Lion King’ Broadway show. Their collaboration promises to bring a unique and visually stunning dimension to this tale of bravery and self-discovery.