In a spectacular event marked by creativity and wonder, Disney unveiled its latest cruise ship, the Disney Treasure, during a colorful ceremony held at Chelsea Piers along the Hudson River. The grand occasion included an impressive display of drones that choreographed a stunning light show, highlighting key elements from beloved Disney films. With a giant champagne bottle formed by hundreds of drones hovering above the thematic outrigger canoe reminiscent of “Moana,” the atmosphere was alive with joy, affirming Disney’s commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for families.
Disney CEO Bob Iger set a reflective tone, celebrating more than a century of storytelling that has captivated audiences worldwide. He emphasized the pivotal role of the Disney Cruise Line, initiated in 1998, in extending the brand’s legacy. According to Iger, the cruise ships serve as “brand ambassadors,” transporting Disney’s spirit and immersive storytelling beyond the walls of theme parks to diverse locations across the globe. This assertion highlights Disney’s strategic vision for expanding its influence and significance within family entertainment.
The inclusion of experiences drawn from iconic attractions like the “Haunted Mansion,” the animated classic “Coco,” and Marvel universe themes illustrates the company’s commitment to engage a variety of demographics. Through expert design and imaginative features, the Disney Treasure is positioned as a celebration of everything that resonates with Disney fans, uniting nostalgia with contemporary entertainment.
In a heartwarming nod to the company’s workforce, Iger announced that the ship’s godmothers and godfathers would be the multitude of employees—over 200,000 strong—who embody the spirit of storytelling within Disney. This recognition not only underscores the dedication of the staff but also serves as a reminder of the collaborative nature of the company’s success. Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the hard work of both the Disney Cruise Line team and the German shipbuilders at Meyer Werft.
D’Amaro further elaborated on Disney’s growth plan, announcing an ambitious effort to double the fleet by 2031. This forward-thinking move is expected to further elevate the cruise experience, allowing more families to create enchanting memories at sea.
The launch celebration was not short of entertainment, with a captivating musical performance by Jordin Sparks igniting the crowd’s enthusiasm. The synchronized drone display above the ship brought key characters and symbols to life, creatively reflecting the onboard experiences. Viewers delighted in seeing representations of Madame Leota from “Haunted Mansion,” an image based on “Coco,” and a nod to “Moana.” The finale, featuring a drone-formed champagne bottle that “popped” open to reveal the ship’s name, perfectly encapsulated Disney’s flair for spectacular storytelling.
As the ceremony closed, the ship’s horn filled the air with classic Disney melodies, including “When You Wish Upon A Star,” “A Whole New World,” and the New York-inspired “New York, New York.” These familiar tunes resonate with Disney fans, reinforcing the deep emotional connections that can evoke fond memories and a sense of wonder.
The Journey Ahead
Set to embark on its maiden voyage on December 21, the Disney Treasure promises to offer exceptional experiences, including a state-of-the-art Grand Hall featuring beloved characters from “Aladdin.” The ship will introduce diverse dining experiences like Plaza de Coco, paying homage to the enchanting world of “Coco,” as well as the Worlds of Marvel dining concept, designed to thrill fans of superhero adventures.
Onboard attractions will include themed bars and a water coaster, Aqua Mouse, with an innovative storyline designed to engage guests at every level. Moreover, the presence of Broadway-style shows, featuring performances of “Disney The Tale of Moana,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Disney Seas the Adventure,” are sure to captivate audiences.
As the sixth addition to Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, the Disney Treasure marks an exciting chapter in the company’s voyage, one that promises to blend magic, adventure, and enchanting storytelling into an unparalleled maritime odyssey. For families eager to create cherished memories together, this ship embodies the Disney promise of magic on the high seas.