Imagine stepping onto a cruise ship where heroes and villains aren't just characters on a screen, but the very essence of your vacation. That's precisely what Disney is aiming for with its newest marvel, the Disney Destiny! Prepare to be immersed in a world where good and evil collide, creating an unforgettable seafaring adventure.
The Disney Destiny, the seventh gem in Disney Cruise Line's expanding fleet, boasts a captivating heroes-and-villains theme meticulously woven into every aspect of the vessel. From the grandest public spaces to the most intimate dining venues and engaging activities, you'll find yourself surrounded by the iconic figures you love (and love to hate!).
My own journey began with a warm welcome from the crew near the Grand Hall's entrance. But the real showstopper? Spider-Man himself, perched high above on a balcony, waving to all the embarking passengers. Talk about a hero's welcome! Nearby, a statue of T'Challa, the Black Panther, stood proudly beneath a chandelier inspired by Wakanda's vibranium. Even the carpet featured panthers and Heart-Shaped Herbs, with lighting designed to shift the mood depending on who--hero or villain--happened to be around. Disney clearly intends to go above and beyond in creating a fully immersive experience!
"We're so fortunate to have so many stories within the Disney umbrella to be able to go to, so what this ship offers us the opportunity to do is to go and explore different stories that we haven't told," said Joe Schott, President of Disney Signature Experiences.
I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek during a three-night preview cruise before the official maiden voyage on November 20th. So, what makes the Disney Destiny so special?
What's New and Noteworthy on the Disney Destiny?
While the Destiny is the third ship in the Wish Class, it's far from a carbon copy. Several unique features give it a distinct personality. Let's dive in!
De Vil's: A Villainous Piano Bar: Tucked away on Deck 3, this is Disney Cruise Line's first venue entirely dedicated to a villain! Picture this: red-and-black carpeting, plush seating, and an atmosphere as elegant and wicked as Cruella herself. I indulged in an "I Live For Furs" cocktail (gin, vanilla, and raspberry – delicious!) while a pianist played on a black-and-white baby grand. And yes, Cruella herself makes appearances! But here's where it gets controversial... is Cruella really a villain, or just a misunderstood fashion icon? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
Cask & Cannon: A Pirate's Life for Me: You don't have to wait for Pirate Night to embrace your inner swashbuckler. This "Pirates of the Caribbean"-themed pub is dripping with atmosphere. Sip on a "Dead Man's Chest" cocktail (Zacapa 23 Solera rum, pineapple, lime, agave, and coconut froth) under a treasure map ceiling. Swords adorn the walls, and a banner ominously reminds you, "Dead men tell no tales." But what if the dead could tell tales? What secrets would they reveal about the Disney universe?
"Disney Hercules": A Broadway Spectacle: This hour-long Broadway-style show is a visual and auditory feast. Expect powerful vocals, larger-than-life Titans (actors in exoskeleton suits controlling massive puppets), and modern twists. Hades makes his entrance to a trap beat, and the entire theater transforms into a starry night thanks to impressive projectors. The show doesn't take itself too seriously, either, with Pegasus and Philoctetes engaging in hilarious charades. But and this is the part most people miss... is this a sign that Disney is embracing more modern and diverse musical styles in its productions?
Edna Á La Mode Sweets: Fashionably Delicious: Edna “E” Mode from "The Incredibles" has expanded her repertoire to include confectionery! Indulge in macarons, ice cream, and gelato (the "Twix cookie bar pieces" flavor is a must-try). And, of course, Edna's fashion roots are on full display with "Incredibles" costume pieces showcased in the window.
Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King: Inspired by an African boma, this dining experience places you at the heart of Simba's story. Enjoy a three-course meal while performers tell the tale of "The Lion King" on an in-the-round stage. Drummers, singers, and dancers fill the aisles, performing favorites like "Circle of Life." Silhouettes in backlit windows evoke the beauty of Simba's kingdom. But is the boma concept truly honored, or is it simply aesthetic? How well does Disney represent African culture in this experience?
The Sanctum: A Doctor Strange Hideaway: A gold marker for 177A Bleecker St. welcomes you to this cozy lounge inspired by Doctor Strange's New York Sanctum. A circular mirror window sits behind the bar, alongside the Cloak of Levitation. Relax, play trivia, enjoy live music, and sip on unique beverages like the "Eye Opener" or "The Distortion Effect." Is this the coolest themed bar on the ship? I think so.
Heroes and villains aren't confined to specific venues. You'll find Maleficent (in dragon form) adorning carpets near the elevators in the ship's front section, while Sorcerer Mickey graces the aft. The color scheme also reflects the theme, with green representing villains and blue symbolizing heroes.
"You know, villains are often associated with colors like green, purple, red, so we have green as our color there to tie all the villains together, blue for heroes, much more optimistic," said Beth Burkhardt, Interior Design Manager for Walt Disney Imagineering.
Artwork throughout the ship features characters from "The Incredibles," Thanos, and more. My cabin even had illustrations from "Big Hero 6." The AquaMouse water ride, with its 760 feet of tubes, features a new storyline called "Sing a Silly Song" featuring Disney Animation villains.
Disney Destiny: By the Numbers
- Size: 144,000 gross tons and 1,119 feet long
- Capacity: 4,000 guests
Where Will the Disney Destiny Sail?
The ship will embark on four and five-night Bahamas and Western Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.
How Much Does a Disney Destiny Cruise Cost?
Currently, cruises start at $2,043 for two guests (according to the Disney Cruise Line website). This price includes accommodations, most meals, drinks like soda, coffee, and tea, entertainment, and more.
Joe Schott hopes that guests will be "captivated by the stories that they love, and they're sorting to the ship that they take based on this." Each ship will offer signature experiences, ensuring that "'Hercules'" won't be repeated on other ships.
So, what are your initial thoughts on the Disney Destiny? Are you excited about the heroes-and-villains theme? Which venue are you most eager to experience? And, the ultimate question: Are Disney cruises worth the cost? Share your opinions in the comments below!
