Stepping into the Grand Hall of Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship is like stepping into a fairy tale. Okay, so maybe that’s a given. But after over six years of hard work (and a little bit of pixie dust), the Disney Wish truly embodies the company’s mission to unlock the magic. Setting sail on its maiden voyage on July 14th, 2022, families will find the theme of enchantment winding its way through the entire ship, offering more opportunities for both family fun and adult adventures than ever before.
“A dream is a wish your heart makes.”
Cinderella’s castle is a classic symbol of magic and enchantment, and from the staterooms and the forest setting of the Walt Disney Theater to the immersive storytelling and interactive adventures, the Wish embodies that spirit everywhere. “We love to see you go WOW,” says Denise Case, Disney’s Director, Entertainment Creative. “It’s all about giving the guests the experience.” And experiences are what you’ll have. There are many firsts, from the rainforest in the Senses Spa to the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, the Aquamouse, and the Disney Uncharted Adventure, a multidimensional journey that takes guests on quests throughout the ship, unlocking a hidden layer of magic around every turn.
What’s different about the Disney Wish?
The Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms, and 451 of them have connecting doors to accommodate larger groups. There are four royal suites, one of which is the Wish Tower Suite, a nearly 2,000 square-foot penthouse suite located in the forward funnel of the ship. Designed in a breathtaking Moana theme, it sleeps up to eight guests and comes with first-class amenities, a private elevator, and concierge services.
Be sure to wander from floor to floor of the ship, looking for the tiny details Disney does best. There are subtle nods to Cinderella’s castle in the Grand Hall, wooden carvings around the portals in the Keg & Compass pub, intricate illustrations of famous Disney stories and locations in the midship lobbies, and in Cargo Bay, the Star Wars-themed space in the Oceaneer’s Club, answers to questions that fans of the franchise might not have even considered.
This shouldn’t surprise you, as Disney Cruise Line is known for its amazing kids’ spaces. “There is no doubt that kids are going to have the time of their lives aboard the Disney Wish,” said Danny Handke, senior creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “The nursery is a fanciful playground perfect for curious little ones. The tween and teen clubs are so stylish that adults will wish they could hang out there, too! And where else in the world can kids explore a super hero headquarters, a royal kingdom, and an Imagineering lab in a matter of steps? Put simply, it’s great to be a kid on a Disney cruise.”
The Mickey and Friends District on Deck 11 is where guests will be able to soak up the sun and have fun. There are six pools, spread out to make more space for playing and lounging. There’s an incredible Toy Story-themed space ideal for families with younger kids that includes a splash zone, wading pool, and a family waterslide.
There’s also Disney’s first attraction at sea, the AquaMouse. This impressive 760-foot waterslide takes guests on a journey with Mickey, Minnie, and the gang. Hop on your intertube and be ready for a unique ride that includes show scenes, special effects, and of course, plenty of water.
What about the entertainment on the Disney Wish?
Disney takes its entertainment seriously, and it’ll be challenging to see it all while on your cruise. In the Walt Disney Theater, there will be two brand-new shows and a re-imagined version of a favorite.
“Disney Seas the Adventure”
On the first night of your cruise, join Captain Minnie and her pal Goofy as they set sail for an adventure. Goofy finally gets his chance to be the star in this charming production, and you’ll also see many Disney characters that, until now, haven’t had a chance to shine.
“The Little Mermaid”
This sparkling adaptation of the beloved animated film includes a colorful set, characters portrayed in a new light, and a Broadway-caliber cast.
“Disney’s Aladdin—A Musical Spectacular”
Based on the classic animated film, this live musical version is a fast-paced, delightful production featuring new sets and advanced projections.
Besides the Walt Disney Theater, two movie theaters constantly play new and classic Disney films throughout the day. In Luna, a gathering place for families and adults alike, you’ll be able to find everything from family trivia to an adults-only club at night.
There is plenty of active entertainment happening in the all-new Hero Zone, a sports arena that hosts various challenges (be sure to try the Incred-Games and the Diaper Dash), and game-show-style family competitions.
What about the food on the Disney Wish?
There are three brand-new family restaurants on the Disney Wish, but the concept of rotating through each one with the same team of servers hasn’t changed. “Sharing a 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 of hotel operations, Disney Cruise Line. “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, ” he says.
Worlds of Marvel
Be ready for interactive superhero missions (and a few shenanigans) with Ant-Man and the Wasp as they welcome guests on behalf of The Avengers for the first time. You’ll learn about Pym technology and see items like luggage, dessert, and maybe even the ship itself shrink and grow with the push of a button. You’ll also get an insider’s peek at iconic characters’ weapons, like Black Panther’s suit, Thor’s Hammer, and Iron Man’s Arc Reactor. When an unwelcome villain attacks the Disney Wish, dinner guests get help from Captain America, Ms. Marvel, and Captain Marvel. The menu is inspired by the Marvel Universe: New Asgard, Ta Lo, Wakanda, and more.
Arendelle: A Frozen Adventure
Disney’s first theatrical-themed dining experience takes guests back to the Arendelle palace to continue the story of “Frozen.” You’ll walk down a long corridor designed to look just like the movie, with portraits and all, before you make your way into the dining hall to join the fun for Queen Anna and Christof’s engagement party! Join Oken, Olaf, Elsa, and “local musicians” for a night of revelry and fun. Choose your dinner from a variety of Nordic-inspired cuisine, and for the adults, the “Frozen Fractal” cocktail adds an extra sparkly touch to the evening.
1923
From the original sketches to the art deco decor, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time into the golden era of Hollywood when you dine here. The cuisine is California-inspired: burrata appetizers, Napa romaine salad, rack of lamb, pasta, and much more.
Marceline Market
This buffet-style restaurant has plenty of options for parents and kids alike. Set on an upper deck, it’s right by all the outdoor fun and serves breakfast and lunch.
Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods
The outside dining is just as good as what you’ll find indoors, and the new additions, Mickey’s Smokestack BBQ and Donald’s Cantina are a must-try. Plus, you’ll find Disney’s world-famous chicken tenders here!
Joyful Sweets
The sweetest stop on the Disney Wish has to be Joyful Sweets. Inspired by Pixar’s Inside Out, there are not only almost 40 flavors of gelato and ice cream (and toppings) but macarons and candy and cupcakes that represent the five emotions.
Where is the adult fun?
On the Disney Wish, adult spaces are spread out, and it’s easy to find a place to spend time without the kids.
Quiet Cove
The upstairs adults-only pool area has an infinity pool, bar, and cafe, plus plenty of spots for lounging in the sun.
The Bayou
This gathering place is inspired by The Princess and the Frog and offers not only a full bar, but you can also find beignets here! Located near the Grand Hall, you can hear live music that ranges from Disney tunes to classic country.
Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge
One of the most buzzed about spots on the Disney Wish, this bar is designed to make patrons feel as if they’re been whisked through the Star Wars galaxy. Yes, that infamous $5,000 drink is available, but you’ll get just as many thrills from other offerings like The Chancellor.,
The Rose
You’ll find this chic lounge near Palo Steakhouse and Enchante restaurants, the exclusive adults-only dining spots on the ship.
Nightingale’s and Keg & Compass
Nightingale’s is a piano bar inspired by the story of Cinderella, and Keg & Compass celebrates stories of the sea; you’ll find three craft beers created just for the Disney Wish.
What else do I need to know?
The Disney Wish heads out on its maiden voyage on July 14th, 2022, from Port Canaveral, FL for three-and four day cruises to Nassau and Castaway Cay. Make a reservation for your adventure at disneycruise.disney.go.com/why-cruise-disney/wish
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This cruise was paid for by Disney Cruise Line, but all opinions belong to the writer.
