Disney Cruise Line is setting sail into the future with an exciting expansion plan that includes a fourth Wish-class ship and an entirely new ship class. These innovative vessels, scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2031, promise to combine Disney’s signature charm with advanced technology and sustainability.
The new ship class marks a strategic move for Disney Cruise Line. Each of the three vessels in this class will accommodate approximately 3,000 guests and measure around 100,000 gross tons. This size positions them between the Magic-class ships (84,000 gross tons) and the larger Dream-class (130,000 gross tons) and Wish-class (144,000 gross tons) ships.
The decision to create smaller ships reflects Disney’s intention to expand its reach to more global ports and destinations. According to Thomas Mazloum, president of New Experiences Portfolio and Disney Signature Experiences, the reduced size will enable the ships to dock at locations that prefer smaller vessels, making them ideal for accessing unique and less crowded destinations.
Disney’s new ship class is a leap forward in eco-conscious cruising. These ships will feature cutting-edge power and propulsion systems designed for maximum energy efficiency. They will also be equipped with shore power connectivity, allowing them to reduce emissions while docked.
In an industry-first move, the vessels will have the capability to operate on a variety of fuels, including hydrotreated vegetable oil and renewable methanol. This flexibility will allow Disney Cruise Line to adapt to future advancements in sustainable fuel technologies, ensuring these ships remain at the forefront of environmental responsibility.
Alongside the new ship class, Disney is expanding its popular Wish-class fleet with a fourth ship set to debut in 2027. This sister ship to the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny will mirror their grandeur, boasting a capacity of 4,000 guests and a size of approximately 144,000 gross tons. Like its siblings, it will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a cleaner-burning fuel that underscores Disney’s commitment to sustainability.
Disney Cruise Line currently operates six ships, with plans to add the Disney Destiny to the fleet later this year. The company is also gearing up for the launch of the Disney Adventure, which will sail from Singapore by the end of the year.
Looking further ahead, Disney has partnered with Oriental Land Company to introduce cruises from Japan in 2028, including a fifth Wish-class ship tailored for the region.
All four new ships, including the Wish-class addition and the three ships in the new class, will be constructed at the renowned Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The designs will be brought to life by Walt Disney Imagineering, ensuring they embody the magic, innovation, and storytelling that Disney is known for.
With this expansion, Disney Cruise Line is not only enhancing its fleet but also redefining the cruise experience. By prioritizing sustainability, technological innovation, and global accessibility, the company is poised to delight guests while contributing to a greener and more inclusive future for travel.
The countdown to this new era of Disney magic at sea has begun and the future looks bright for adventurers and Disney fans alike.
