Latest news with #DisneyAdventure
Miami Herald
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Disney Cruise Line quietly makes big plans for Texas
Right now, if you want take a Disney cruise on one of the line's buzzed-about new ships, your departure port options are mostly limited to Florida. The brand-new Disney Treasure is now sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida alongside the 2022-launched Disney Wish. And in November, the Disney Destiny, the cruise line's new heroes- and villains-themed ship will debut from Fort Lauderdale. Related: Savvy Disney vacationers use this service to save big on trips But as Disney Cruise Line continues its multi-year fleet expansion, which includes new Disney cruise vacations in Asia, too, the cruise line may be about to go bigger in Texas. Although Disney Cruise Line has not yet made any announcements about its future plans in Texas, Port of Galveston CEO Rodger Rees recently made some bold statements regarding the cruise line's plans for its sailings from the Texas port. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise. In a recent meeting with the Galveston City Council, Rees revealed that Disney Cruise Line plans to expand its cruise schedule from the port in 2027, the Galveston County Daily News reported. Rees said that in 2027, the cruise line will begin sailing year-round from Galveston, and likely on a larger and newer ship. Currently, Disney Cruise Line sails seasonal cruises to the western Caribbean from the port on board the oldest ship in its fleet, the Disney Magic. Recent incidents of plumbing leaks and backups reported on board the 27-year-old Disney Magic have left passengers wondering whether it's about time for the cruise line to retire its beloved maiden vessel. Related: Disney Cruise Line dealing with plumbing problems Considering that most mainstream cruise lines expect to get about 30 years of service out of each ship, it would make sense that Disney would replace the 2,700-passenger Disney Magic as it expands in Galveston. Rees even suggested that the bigger ship headed to Galveston could be Disney Cruise Line's biggest ship yet - the 6,700-passenger Disney Adventure megaship that the cruise line is launching in December from Singapore. However, Disney Cruise Line has previously said that the Disney Adventure will sail from Singapore for at least five years as part of a collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board. It's much more likely that a 4,000-passenger Wish-class ship will sail from Galveston in 2027 - potentially the fourth ship in the class, which the cruise line plans to launch that year. Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. Although Princess Cruises recently dropped Galveston from its future cruise itineraries after 20 years of sailing from the popular port, other cruise lines are making major investments in Texas. Cruise lines plan to invest more than $200 million in western Caribbean cruise itineraries and Galveston is well poised to facilitate much of that growth, Rees told the city council. He said that's because Florida's biggest cruise ports are running out of room to expand and more people than ever now live within driving distance of Galveston. Royal Caribbean invested in a new cruise terminal at the Port of Galveston in 2022, and other family-focused cruise lines including Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises have since inked long-term agreements with the port, too. Related: MSC Cruises takes another bold step in its ambitious growth plan Galveston is a convenient cruise departure port for many families in Texas and surrounding states who want to explore the western Caribbean, so it makes sense that Disney Cruise Line would want to increase its capacity there, too. This year, more than 400 sailings carrying around 1.75 million passengers are scheduled to depart from Galveston. Following the opening of MSC Cruises' brand-new $156 million Galveston cruise terminal in late 2025, the growing port expects eventually welcome more than two million passengers annually. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Miami Herald
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Royal Caribbean shifts strategy as Disney enters key cruise market
Royal Caribbean is making major moves to expand its West Coast cruise offerings from California and avoiding greater competition with Disney Cruise Line in the process. Ovation of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean's newer and larger Quantum Class ships, will lead Royal Caribbean's West Coast growth. The ship will soon become the first of its kind to sail from Los Angeles as it begins a summer season of Mexico cruises featuring overnights in popular Cabo San Lucas. Related: Royal Caribbean drops popular port from months of cruises In October, Ovation of the Seas will reposition to Singapore for a season sailing alongside the brand-new Disney Adventure - Disney Cruise Line's biggest ship yet. The Disney Adventure will become the cruise line's first ship to homeport in Asia when it launches in December. But instead of returning to Singapore for the 2026-2027 season, Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas will lead an even bigger push for Mexico cruises from Los Angeles, and the cruise line will reduce its capacity in Singapore at the same time. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise. Instead of sending Ovation back to Singapore, smaller Navigator of the Seas will deploy there to sail a series of three- to 12-night cruises visiting popular destinations in Southeast and East Asia from October 2026 through February 2027. Navigator of the Seas accommodates 3,368 passengers, about half as many as Disney Cruise Line's super-sized new Disney Adventure, which will sail three- and four-night itineraries from Singapore with only days at sea. Related: Royal Caribbean casino players just got a valuable surprise Much like Royal Caribbean's newest ships, the Disney Adventure is designed to be a vacation destination in itself. It will feature seven themed areas reminiscent of the lands that make up Disney Parks. Although smaller and older than the Disney Adventure and Ovation of the Seas, which accommodates more than 4,000 passengers, Navigator of the Seas remains a popular ship for families. Highlights of the ship include two waterslides, a FlowRider surf simulator, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, the first blow dry bar at sea, original stage productions, ice skating shows, and more. Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. Royal Caribbean has strong ambitions to grow in California, and it chose Ovation of the Seas to lead that charge, swapping the ship's planned 2025 deployment to Tianjin, China for Los Angeles. In fall 2026, Voyager of the Seas will join Ovation of the Seas in L.A. to sail Mexican Riviera cruises. Voyager will replace Navigator of the Seas in L.A. as Navigator heads to Singapore. In addition to switching up its Los Angeles-based ships, Royal Caribbean will further expand its footprint on the West Coast by adding San Diego as a new California home port in fall 2026. Related: Royal Caribbean adds tracking feature to its app From October 2026 to April 2027, Serenade of the Seas will sail Mexican Riviera cruises from San Diego. Itineraries include two-, three- and four-night getaways, as well as longer seven-night cruises visiting popular ports like Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. Several of the seven-night sailings include a visit to La Paz, Mexico, a new port of call for Royal Caribbean. San Diego is also a seasonal home port for Disney Cruise Line, which offers spring Baja cruises visiting Catalina Island and Ensenada aboard the Disney Wonder. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@ or call or text her at 386-383-2472. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
CNA
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CNA
Fun, relaxation and luxury reimagined, with Disney Cruise Line's Concierge service
When Disney Adventure embarks on its maiden voyage on Dec 15, it will mark more than just the launch of Disney's first Asia-based ship – it will usher in a new era of nautical joy. And with Disney Cruise Line's Concierge service, sailing the high seas takes on an entirely new meaning. Guests familiar with Disney's signature hospitality know that every detail is considered. But Concierge service elevates the experience even further. With attentive service, elegant staterooms and access to exclusive spaces, your voyage becomes something truly extraordinary – where magic waits around every corner, in every moment. As Concierge guests, you'll unlock a new tier of luxury, whether you are adults seeking relaxation or families who appreciate a touch of extra attention from the Disney team. This is Disney magic, reimagined: Refined suites, private areas and a dedicated team that curates your experience from the very start. There's no need to stress over planning – your itinerary is tailored to your preferences, and personalised service ensures your needs are met before you even ask. The Concierge journey begins before you board. Priority check-in and seamless embarkation set a relaxed tone for the voyage ahead. On board, your spacious suite or stateroom offers room to unwind, with well-appointed amenities and refined designs inspired by Disney stories. For families, multi-bedroom layouts allow everyone to enjoy their own space, without missing out on moments together. When it's time to explore, the Concierge team takes care of everything – from securing dining reservations to booking spa treatments and immersive experiences. Whether it's a small-group wine tasting or a surprise celebration arranged just for you, concierge guests are wrapped in Disney's signature hospitality – at its most luxe. Aboard Disney Adventure, every moment is filled with delight – from fun character encounters to unforgettable entertainment. But for those who prefer their voyage at a gentler pace, there's a different side of the ship waiting to be discovered – crafted with thoughtful spaces that invite you to slow down, reflect and simply enjoy. At the heart of this is the Concierge Lounge, open throughout the day and designed with the mythical city of Agrabah in mind, inspired by Disney's Aladdin. Gilded partitions create cosy nooks for conversation, where you can unwind over gourmet bites and curated pours from the 'magic carpet' wine bar. Younger guests can retreat to inviting alcoves painted like a starlit palace, complete with snacks and Disney films. When the sun is shining, escape to the Concierge Sundeck – a tranquil retreat at the front of the ship reserved for Concierge guests. Here, panoramic ocean views meet plush loungers, breezy cabanas, a shaded pool and a whirlpool spa, creating the perfect haven for relaxation under open skies. Wellness is also taken to new heights for Concierge guests at the Opulence Spa – Elemis at Sea. This sanctuary offers everything from facials to acupuncture, along with sauna lounges and a private yoga and fitness area. Two signature spa suites – Practically Perfect (a loving nod to Mary Poppins) and Hopps Haven – offer themed spaces ideal for larger groups to relax and recharge in style. Even shopping takes on a more curated air. Exclusive boutiques, inspired by the opulence of Agrabah, feature fine jewellery and merchandise designed for Concierge guests, including apparel, souvenirs and unique collectibles. With children engaged at the supervised Kids Clubs, adults can slip away to enjoy the ship's more grown-up escapes. Feast on Northern Italian cuisine at the seaside-inspired adults-only Palo Trattoria, catch a live game over a pint at Buccaneer Bar or reconnect with your partner over complimentary cocktails during happy hour just for Concierge guests – all with the peace of mind that the little ones are having the time of their lives. When it's time to explore, Disney Adventure reveals seven immersive themed areas that bring timeless Disney, Marvel and Pixar stories to life. Start your journey at Disney Imagination Garden. This open-air gathering space features a majestic stage for live performances and a sprawling courtyard filled with whimsical details celebrating 100 years of Disney storytelling. Then, head up to Marvel Landing on the upper deck, where you can meet iconic superheroes and take on the thrills of the longest roller coaster at sea. Craving a bite? Visit Disney Discovery Reef, where you can enjoy meals and snacks in eateries inspired by beloved aquatic friends from The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Lilo & Stitch and Luca. Whether you're dancing under the stars or watching world-class shows, Disney Adventure offers a fully packed entertainment calendar. Catch Moana: Call of the Sea, a production blending music, puppetry and water effects. Join Captain Jack Sparrow as he battles the fearsome Siren Queen in an action-packed adventure enhanced by dazzling LED visuals. And don't miss the main stage magic at Walt Disney Theatre: Remember is a new musical created exclusively for Disney Adventure; while Disney Seas the Adventure gathers Disney characters and songs into one spectacular show. The enchantment continues at every meal, with a selection of imaginative dining experiences only Disney could create. Guests will enjoy three of six unique dining venues during their voyage, such as stepping into the glamour of classic Hollywood at Hollywood Spotlight Club or embracing the golden age of cruising at the Navigator's Club. They can enjoy a dreamy evening beneath a sky of glowing lanterns at Enchanted Summer Restaurant, inspired by Disney's Tangled, or experience the magic of summer solstice in the Olaf dining room, named after everyone's favourite snowman from Frozen. Animation lovers will be delighted by Animator's Table or Animator's Palate, where the creative process comes to life through music, colour and interactive moments – even your own hand-drawn sketch becomes part of the magic. As a Concierge guest, your experience is elevated even further. With a dedicated team handling reservations and personal touches, everything flows seamlessly – so you can simply enjoy the wonder, one magical moment at a time.
Straits Times
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Set sail for a magical holiday at sea: Your all-in-one cruise packed with fun and indulgence for all ages
Anticipation is building for Disney Adventure, setting sail from Singapore from December 2025 – featuring exclusive new shows, enchanting makeover moments and the longest rollercoaster at sea. PHOTOS: DISNEY CRUISE LINE BRANDED CONTENT Set sail for a magical holiday at sea: Your all-in-one cruise packed with fun and indulgence for all ages Be among the first to embark on an enchanting voyage onboard the Disney Adventure from Singapore, and experience themed dining, dreamy staterooms, world-class entertainment and fun for the entire family A world of magic, adventure and imagination is boarding soon – and you'll want to be on that ship. This December, the spectacular Disney Adventure sets sail from Singapore, marking a first-of-its-kind voyage for Disney Cruise Line in Asia. Homeporting in Singapore for the next five years, this all-inclusive cruise offers families, couples and Disney fans the chance to be among the first to experience a whole new world at sea – with bookings now open through to September 2026 aboard the brand's largest all-new ship. Expect all-new Broadway-style live shows, immersive themed areas inspired by Disney, Pixar and Marvel, an array of imaginative dining experiences – and yes, even a 250m rollercoaster. With something for dreamers of every age, it is a journey that blends timeless stories with next-level excitement. To make sure you do not miss out, book early to secure your preferred dates and get your pick of the wide range of staterooms – from spacious staterooms to elegant suites designed for comfort and charm. From themed areas to first-ever experiences, here's everything waiting for you beyond the gangway. Explore whole new worlds at sea Stepping aboard the Disney Adventure transports you instantly into a different realm shaped by imagination and creativity. The ship features seven themed areas that bring your favourite Disney, Pixar and Marvel stories to life. Thrill-seekers can head for Marvel Landing, home to Ironcycle Test Run – the longest rollercoaster at sea – before cooling off at Toy Story Place with its pools, splash pads and water slides. Zoom through Marvel Landing on the 250m Ironcycle Test Run – the longest coaster at sea and a must-ride for superhero fans of all ages. PHOTO: DISNEY CRUISE LINE Teens may gravitate towards the vibrant San Fransokyo Street, home to high-energy arcade experiences inspired by Disney's Big Hero 6, while parents can unwind at Wayfinder Bay – a relaxing open-air lounge where they can enjoy a refreshing drink and live entertainment. Over at Disney Discovery Reef, step into a mesmerising retreat that brings beloved underwater stories from Disney and Pixar to life, complete with breezy walkways, casual bites and charming cafe venues. Guests staying in designated Garden View staterooms aboard the Disney Adventure will be treated to enchanting views of the Disney Imagination Garden – an enchanted valley, charming garden and unique performance venue all in one. A first for Disney Cruise Line, the storybook castle showpiece overlooks an open-air courtyard designed for magical moments. Make sure to visit the Disney Imagination Garden, a whimsical open-air space where storybook landscapes, blooming topiaries and hidden Disney, Pixar and Marvel details bring your favourite tales to life. PHOTO: DISNEY CRUISE LINE Finally, there is Town Square, a charming enclave of themed dining, cafes and shops inspired by Disney Royals. Here, little ones can partake in a dainty spread at the Royal Society for Friendship and Tea, or dress up as Belle or a daring sea captain at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which offers gowns – including long-sleeved princess dress options – along with hairstyling, makeup, accessories and phototaking sessions. If Spider-Man or Iron Man is more your style, suit up with Marvel-inspired hair, makeup and costume transformations at Marvel Style Studio, which transforms into an adults-only lounge with curated tastings in the evening. Step into the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where your little ones can be transformed into princesses, knights or sea captains – complete with costumes, hairstyling and a touch of Disney magic. PHOTO: DISNEY CRUISE LINE Dining on board is just as enchanting and completely fuss-free. Thanks to the signature rotational dining system, guests will enjoy three distinctive dinner experiences at different themed restaurants, all pre-arranged before the trip. This means there is no need to worry about reservations, as everything is thoughtfully planned, so you can simply relax and enjoy each evening. Each night brings a new setting and story. At Animator's Palate or Animator's Table, guests can look forward to a one-of-a-kind show where their own drawings come to life and star alongside beloved characters in a stunning animated finale. The Navigator's Club or Hollywood Spotlight Club offer character appearances paired with live musical performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere for all ages. During the day, buffet-style breakfasts and lunches are served. By night, restaurants such as Enchanted Summer Restaurant and Pixar Market Restaurant transform into the main dining venues, setting the stage for a magical dinner surrounded by some favourite stories. What makes this experience even more special? The same dedicated wait staff will accompany your dining rotation each evening, getting to know you and your family's preferences – ensuring consistent, personalised service. The rotational dining system ensures you won't miss out on the three themed dining experiences onboard, such as the Enchanted Summer Restaurant, where two distinct rooms transport you into the worlds of Frozen or Tangled. PHOTO: DISNEY CRUISE LINE For casual bites, there are Quick-Service Restaurants offering everything from bubble tea to burgers. Looking to treat yourself? Premium options like Mike & Sulley's – Flavors of Asia offer sushi, teppanyaki and omakase menus worth the indulgence. Day-to-night fun, from all-new stage shows to spa time Bellies full and spirits high, you'll find there's even more magic waiting to be discovered. From spontaneous storytelling sessions to full-scale stage productions, entertainment on board the Disney Adventure unfolds throughout the day. There are plenty of live performances for the whole family, including new shows like Captain Jack Sparrow and the Siren Queen, a swashbuckling spectacle; and Duffy and The Friend Ship, a heartwarming production starring Mickey's beloved bear and friends. Catch all-new live shows on board, including Captain Jack Sparrow and the Siren Queen, a swashbuckling spectacle packed with pirates, sea lore and high-seas adventure. PHOTO: DISNEY CRUISE LINE Guests of all ages can take part in the Duffy and Friends Discovery Quest, a ship-wide treasure hunt filled with surprises and storytelling. To join the adventure, simply purchase the activity guide and start your journey. Afterwards, bring home exclusive keepsakes from the Duffy and Friends Shop. Indeed, little ones have always been special to Disney and this is reflected in the plethora of activities organised for them. In addition to thrilling rides, water fun and video games, there are also movie screenings and deck parties. If you have children aged three to 10, they will have a ball at Disney's Oceaneer Club, where Disney Youth Counsellors will guide them through arts and crafts sessions, special visits from familiar Disney characters and creative experiments at the Imagineering Lab. Older kids can head to Edge, a dedicated space for tweens aged 11 to 13, or Vibe, a cool hangout for teens aged 14 to 17 – both designed for making friends, playing games and enjoying their own kind of fun. It all makes for a real holiday for parents, who can kick back and relax with some serious me time. Whether it is a yoga session, a spa treatment in the Infinite Bliss Spa – Elemis at Sea, or an intimate Italian dinner at Palo Trattoria, there are plenty of adult-friendly experiences on board. Bars and lounges also offer a range of atmospheres – enjoy a pint at Buccaneer Bar, sip on a Snow White's Evil Queen-themed cocktail at Spellbound or head to Tiana's Bayou Lounge for a beignet and Bellini combo. Unwind in comfort with a range of thoughtfully designed staterooms – from cosy inside cabins to spacious suites – all featuring Disney touches, with 24-hour room service. PHOTO: DISNEY CRUISE LINE When it is time to turn in, guests can retreat to their staterooms – whether you are looking for an elevated stay in a Concierge Suite, a Verandah room with spectacular views of the ocean, Disney Discovery Reef or Disney Imagination Garden, or an Inside Stateroom that's conveniently close to the entertainment, dining and shopping options. Each space is thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience, featuring Disney's signature split-bathroom concept that allows two people to get ready at the same time, along with elevated bed frames for easy luggage storage. One of Walt Disney's most famous quotes is: 'Don't sleep to rest, sleep to dream because dreams are to be fulfilled.' And as you drift off into slumber, you can do so knowing that your dream of a perfect Disney vacation is indeed coming true. Sailings from December 2025 to September 2026 are now open. Book early to secure your preferred dates and be among the first to experience this all-new cruise holiday from Singapore. *Certain experiences require reservations and are subject to additional fees. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
CNN
26-04-2025
- CNN
Record-breakers, from the world's tallest bridge to the world's smallest park
In travel news this week: the world's smallest park, Spain's greatest food, plus North Americans who started new lives in Mexico and Germany. Taller, higher, larger, bigger: This week we bring you a roundup of new record-breaking projects and endeavors around the world. The world's tallest bridge will open in China's Guizhou province this June, a mountainous region that is already home to nearly half of the world's top 100 tallest bridges. The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge stands 2,051 feet (625 meters) above river level, which is 947 feet taller than France's Millau Viaduct, the current bridge title holder. China says its new bridge will reduce travel time over the canyon from two hours to one minute. Singaporean watering hole LeVel33 was last month named the world's highest microbrewery inside a building. Beer-brewing equipment, including 12 tanks, two copper brewhouse kettles and a cooling machine, had to be brought up to the 33rd floor of Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower by crane, but for guests, the epic views over the Singapore skyline are worth it. A more unusual new Guinness World Record holder can be found in the Philippines: the largest building shaped like a chicken. It's also a hotel, which is fine if you like fully air-conditioned 114-foot-tall avian sculptures but don't care so much about windows. Disney's biggest ever cruise ship will set off on its maiden voyage later this year. Most Americans will have to take a long flight to experience the 6,000-passenger Disney Adventure, which will be the cruise line's first ship to homeport in Asia. From big to small, the world's tiniest park has been recognized by Guinness World Records. Found in the Japanese town of Nagaizumi, about 68 miles southwest of Tokyo, the park is just 2.6 square feet and comprises an itty bitty stool and a fun-size patch of greenery. Finally, a couple of epic missions: Saudi explorer Badr Al Shaibani trekked 600 kilometers (370 miles) solo across his home country's Empty Quarter, the largest area of continuous sand in the world. Watch here. If that sounds like thirsty work, Irishman Colm Dalton has just the ticket. He's set himself the task of visiting every Irish pub in the world and has made it to 47 countries so far. After losing her job, Canadian woman Brooke Gazer convinced her husband Rick to move to Mexico and open up a bed-and-breakfast together. 'Everybody else was terrified for us,' says Brooke, but here's what happened next. Two other Canadians didn't travel so far for their hospitality adventure. Sisters Kristen and Kathryn Groom, aged 27 and 35, bought a century-old inn in Ontario, despite having no industry experience. Three years on, business is thriving, thanks to the pair becoming an international social media hit. Some people are turning their homes into their fortunes by swapping their residences with strangers instead of using hotels or Airbnbs. Many see it as a solution to the overtourism problem driving up rents everywhere from New York to Barcelona. You can trick out your own vacation rental with the help of these tips from our partners at CNN Underscored, a product reviews and recommendations guide owned by CNN. From candles to white noise sound machines, it has everything you need to get fully stocked. In CNN's new original eight-part series 'Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain,' the award-winning actor, producer, director and activist goes on a gastronomic pilgrimage around her ancestral homeland. From pintxos in San Sebastián to blonde beef in Galicia to cider in Asturias, she samples the finest dishes Spain has to offer, and also catches up with family who still live in her namesake town of Longoria. Audiences also get a peek into her new Spanish home in Marbella as she hosts friends for a feast of local delicacies. The show premiers on Sunday, April 27, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on CNN. Here's the truth about 'chalet girls.' What it's like tending to the needs of Europe's wealthy skiers. A New Yorker ditched the United States for Germany. She says it was the 'best decision' she ever made. First class isn't dead. Meet the airlines keeping the long-haul luxury dream alive. 'Special forces travelers' are mobilizing in China. They can make or break a tourist destination.
