Latest news with #DisneyCruise
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Couple speaks out after dramatic rescue by Carnival cruise ship crew
A couple is speaking out after a Carnival cruise ship rescued them, their crew and their dogs after their catamaran was damaged at sea in the South Pacific. Dustin Leonard and Helena Franczak had set sail on a journey of a lifetime -- traveling the globe on their catamaran. They were joined by two crew members and their three dogs. 'We've had the dream to try and sail around the world. And we got off to a bit of a bumpy start,' Leonard told 'Good Morning America.' Disney Cruise ship rescues 4 people off sinking catamaran in Bermuda The catamaran crew were heading to Fiji when a violent storm struck, stripping the masts off their vessel and leaving them stranded and battered by towering waves and lightning more than 170 nautical miles from the island of New Caledonia. 'Everyone was quite scared,' Leonard recalled. 'I was like, 'Everybody, calm down, listen to me. At the moment, we are safe. Yes, this is not good. This is actually quite bad.'' After shooting a flare in the sky, the crew noticed a large cruise ship -- the Carnival Splendor -- in the distance. Following a five-hour diversion, Capt. Eduardo Ferrone of the Carnival Splendor and his crew pulled off the daring rescue on May 22. Ferrone compared the dramatic event to riding an elephant through a china shop. 'Approaching with such a huge vessel on a small catamaran, it is really something that you need to do carefully because it takes a little mistake ... and you may sink them,' said Ferrone. 72-year-old who had 4 strokes on cruise ship speaks out after rescue The crew on the cruise ship reached the catamaran and pulled Leonard, Franczak, their two crew members and their three dogs to safety. 'We were on our tiny boat. We saw this floating city just coming at us and then they throw a rope ladder and I looked at it. I'm like, OK, we're gonna have to climb that and it was tricky,' Franczak said. Once on board the Carnival Splendor, the couple said the dogs became instant celebrities among the cruise passengers as they strolled the decks. 'That feeling as soon as you get on the cruise ship, there's all the staff members there and you just kind of felt this massive relief,' said Leonard. Leonard and Franczak have since gotten engaged and joked they nearly got married on the Carnival Splendor. Couple speaks out after dramatic rescue by Carnival cruise ship crew originally appeared on
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.
Daily Mail
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Couple reveals why they went on a Disney Cruise around the Caribbean... and left the kids at home
One couple took the brave decision to go on a Disney trip of a lifetime - without their children. British TV presenters Emma and Matt Willis said their 'Disney-obsessed' children, Isabelle, 15, Ace, 12, and eight-year-old Trixie, were 'so mad' when they discovered they would be staying with their grandparents instead. Emma, 49, said: 'They definitely weren't happy about it, especially when we told them it was around the Caribbean. They were like, 'How can you go without us?'' SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO Emma added: 'Matt and I had never been on a cruise before. I love nothing more than my kids being with me when the school vacations come around. 'But it's really important that you remember where your family began, and that was with the two of you, so we do things just the two of us to recenter.' At first, Emma admits she and Matt were skeptical about embarking on Disney Cruise Line's new ship, the Disney Fantasy, without the children. She said: 'We would never go to the Disney parks without them, so we were a bit like, 'Is it going to be strange, because it is so catered to kids?' 'But when we got there, it's very much like when you go to the parks. 'There are loads of adults that have grown up with Disney and still love it and don't feel like they need to be there with children to justify why they are there.' Emma was also surprised by how much was on offer for adults on the Disney Fantasy, which they could take full advantage of. She said: 'They have a designated, adults-only section, with a fine-dining, Italian restaurant and different bars, as well as quiz nights, which were really fun. 'There's also a cinema and two theatres where they put musicals on. The spa was really fantastic!' But although Emma and Matt enjoyed all the onboard facilities catering to adults, they also embraced their inner children. Emma said: 'You can't help not, because it is pure Disney. From the minute you walk on the ship, they announce your name to a whole tunnel of people, and it's slightly embarrassing but you have to fully embrace it and go with the magic and the fun. 'The characters are everywhere as the ship is pulling up to this amazing private island, you'll suddenly see Donald Duck down the other end of the boat. 'Upstairs, on the top deck where the pool is, they've got a water slide and a massive plasma screen at the end of the pool that's always playing a movie. 'So, even if you're lying on a deck chair, you're watching Moana or something like that!' One of Emma's favorite moments of the holiday was Pirate Night, where guests are joined by Captain Hook and Smee from Peter Pan. 'When I don't have the kids with me, Matt goes into that role and becomes mischievous, which was really fun, and Pirate Night was brilliant. 'Matt fully got into the spirit of it and did a full-on pirate costume. 'He looked better than Captain Hook. Seeing him have fun always makes me have fun. It was great for us to be able to do that in that environment, and not have a curfew because of the kids.'
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Yahoo
Disney Cruise Line technical glitch creates boarding headaches
When my family and I took our first Disney cruise from Port Canaveral just a few weeks ago, the check-in and boarding experience gave us a wonderful first impression. Disney's expertise in queue management shined during both the embarkation and disembarkation process during our Disney Fantasy sailing.A sophisticated online check-in system and well-organized port arrival and boarding process minimized wait times and got us onto the ship and into relaxation mode more quickly than I expected, based on my past experiences sailing with other cruise lines. But occasionally, technology fails even the savviest of companies like Disney. Unfortunately for passengers on a few recent sailings, a technical glitch with Disney Cruise Line's online check-in system required some vital pieces of the process to be completed all over again in person at the cruise terminal, leading to wait times that were much longer than usual.'Due to a technical issue with Online Check-in for your sailing, we will need to verify all Guests' documentation during the check-in process at the terminal on embarkation day. This includes reviewing citizenship documentation and capturing photos for each Guest. Please be sure to bring all required identification and travel documents with you,' the cruise line wrote in an email to passengers on affected sailings. Cruises impacted by the technical glitch included the May 12 and May 16 sailings of the Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale and the May 16 sailing of the Disney Wish from Port Canaveral.'As a result, Guests may experience an extended wait during the check-in process. Please plan to arrive at your assigned Port Arrival Time, and travel with any convenience items you may need should you encounter a delay at the terminal,' the cruise line advised passengers. 'The entire process took 2 hours and 14 minutes from our assigned 12:30 port arrival time to walking onto the ship,' Browniegirl23 shared in the DCL community on Reddit about boarding the Disney Dream on May 12. Passengers reported that the issue led to a slight delay in the Disney Magic's departure from Port Canaveral on May 11, boarding the Disney Dream on May 16 reported much better boarding news, however. 'Just boarded the Dream and had no issues. Even though we received the email warning us [of] possible delays, we had no wait at all. Hopefully those arriving after us and future cruise passengers encounter the same flawless boarding experience,' Proud-Spite-5891 posted in the Reddit community. According to a Reddit user who appeared to be a Disney cast member, the cruise line's team had been working tirelessly to resolve the issue. 'We worked 16 hours yesterday until 2 a.m. to fix that issue because we really wanted you to have a smooth embarkation! Have a magical trip and thanks for posting this! It means a lot to see that we made a difference,' sonnyz the Reddit thread, passengers also took the opportunity to let sonnyz and the Disney Cruise Line team know that their efforts are much appreciated. 'The thanks should go to you and everyone involved for working so diligently to solve the problem! IT issues are tough to resolve. We know it wasn't your fault or the crews' fault. We appreciate all of you,' Proud-Spite-5891 replied. 'You're amazing! Thank you for your efforts. People may not thank you when things go smoothly but they certainly notice when they don't. I hope you know you and your team are appreciated,' 317ant added. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) , or email Amy Post at or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
Daily Mail
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Emma Willis reveals why she and Matt Willis went on a Disney Cruise around the Caribbean - and left the kids at home
As a child, if your parents said to you, 'We're going on a Disney cruise,' you'd likely assume you were going with. So it's no wonder Emma and Matt Willis ' 'Disney-obsessed' children, Isabelle, 15, Ace, 12, and eight-year-old Trixie, were 'so mad' when this happened to them in March, only for them to discover it was an adults-only trip and they were staying with Nanny and Grandad instead. 'They definitely weren't happy about it, especially when we told them it was around the Caribbean' Emma, 49, says in an exclusive interview with MailOnline. 'They were like, 'How can you go without us?' 'It was just that Matt and I had never been on a cruise before - and had been talking about it for a while - and we were offered it during term-time, so we couldn't take the kids out of school.' The TV presenter continues: 'I love nothing more than my kids being with me when the school holidays come around – I'm not one of these parents that can't wait for them to go back, I want them to be off for longer, and when I go away, most of the time, I want them with me. 'But I do think it's really important that you remember where your family began, and that was with the two of you, so we do try to always remember that and do things just the two of us to recentre, so it was really nice when that was offered.' At first, Emma admits she and Matt were sceptical about embarking on Disney Cruise Line's new ship, the Disney Fantasy, without the children – having only ever been to Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando with the kids in tow. She says: 'We would never go to the Disney parks without them, so we were a bit like, 'Is it going to be strange, because it is so catered to kids?' 'But then, when we got there, it's very much like when you go to the parks. 'There are loads of adults that have just grown up with Disney and still love it and don't feel like they need to be there with children to justify why they are there. Emma was also surprised by how much was on offer for adults on the Disney Fantasy, which they could take full advantage of as 'there was no pressure to do whatever the kids wanted to do' during their break. She says: 'They have a designated, adults-only section, with a really great, fine-dining, Italian restaurant and different bars, as well as quiz nights, which were really fun. 'There's also a cinema and two theatres, where they put musicals on. We watched Frozen, which was brilliant. 'There's also a spa which was really fantastic!' But although Emma and Matt enjoyed all the onboard facilities catering to adults, they also embraced their inner children. 'You can't help not, because it is pure Disney,' she says. 'From the minute you walk on the ship, they announce your name to a whole tunnel of people, and it's slightly embarrassing but you have to fully embrace it and go with the magic and the fun. 'The characters are everywhere – as the ship is pulling up to this amazing private island, you'll suddenly see Donald Duck down the other end of the boat. 'There are Mickey waffles every single morning on the buffet, and when you go to the coffee shop, the coffee art is always a different Disney character. 'Then upstairs, on the top deck where the pool is, they've got a water slide and a massive plasma screen at the end of the poo that's always playing a movie. 'So even if you're lying on a deck chair, you're watching Moana or something like that!' One of Emma's favourite moments of their holiday was Pirate Night, where guests are joined by Captain Hook and Smee from Peter Pan. She says: 'When I don't have the kids with me, it's like Matt goes into that role, and he becomes really mischievous, which was really fun most of the time, and Pirate Night was brilliant. 'Matt fully got into the spirit of it and did a full-on pirate costume. 'He looked better than Captain Hook, and seeing him have fun always makes me have fun, and it was great for us to be able to do that in that environment, and not have a curfew because of the kids.' Emma says: 'Matt fully got into the spirit of Pirate Night and did a full-on pirate costume. He looked better than Captain Hook, and seeing him have fun always makes me have fun' Despite really enjoying their time away without the kids, Emma and Matt are planning to go on their next Disney cruise as a family. 'I don't have a choice, because they're so mad!' she laughs. And they won't have to travel too far if they go this summer, as the Disney cruise is setting sail from Southampton, around Europe, from August.
