LOS ANGELES, Calif., (March 30, 2009) – Disney Cruise Line announced today that it plans to reposition the Disney Wonder from its Florida base in Port Canaveral to the West Coast in 2011. The company is working with the Port of Los Angeles to finalize a two-year agreement with a three-year extension option. The contract will be considered by the Port of Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners on April 2, 2009.
If approved, the new Disney Wonder sailings could generate more than 250,000 guests passing through the Port of Los Angeles over a five-year period.
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said he is pleased to welcome the renowned family cruise line back to the Port of Los Angeles at San Pedro.
“Having Disney Cruise Line operating out of the Port of Los Angeles will provide a great boost to the local economy by generating business and tourism revenue in San Pedro and throughout the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area,” Mayor Villaraigosa said. “The return of Disney Cruise Line to our port speaks volumes about our ability to attract world-class cruise lines to the area.”
The addition of a new homeport for Disney Cruise Line is part of the overall expansion plan for The Walt Disney Company. Two new ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, will arrive in Florida’s Port Canaveral in 2011 and 2012, respectively.
“We are looking forward to returning to the Port of Los Angeles and offering our special brand of family cruises on the West Coast,” said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo. “Having a Disney Cruise Line ship based in this region is something families on the West Coast have wanted for a long time, and we’re pleased to bring the Disney Wonder to Southern California in 2011.”
Disney Cruise Line has successfully tested the West Coast market with two summer seasons of Mexican Riviera itineraries from the Port of Los Angeles. The Disney Magic cruise ship first called on the West Coast during the summer of 2005 as part of Disneyland’s 50th anniversary and returned again during the summer of 2008. Disney Cruise Line has not yet announced the details of its itineraries for 2011.
“The return of Disney Cruise Line to the Port of Los Angeles is just one more reason visitors will come to Los Angeles to help our city thrive,” added Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Geraldine Knatz, Ph.d. “The LA area is already home to Disneyland – it’s a natural fit.”
The Port of Los Angeles continues to be one of the busiest cruise ports on the West Coast. Known for its proximity to area attractions, including Disneyland Resort, and ease of convenience for transportation and nearby airports, the Port of Los Angeles provides cruisers with a great experience.
Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs. Specifically designed areas and activities for each member of the family allows for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to allow families to reconnect, adults to recharge their batteries and kids to immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create.
Known for establishing family travel in the cruise market Disney Cruise Line continues to be a leader in the industry. The Disney Wonder was recently named the top large cruise ship experience by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in the 9th annual “Reader’s Cruise Poll.” The Disney Magic, which was also ranked in the top five cruise experiences in the poll, will embark on a season of limited itineraries exploring Northern Europe and the Mediterranean in 2010. Additionally, the line continues to move forward on the construction of its two new ocean liners at the Meyer Werft yard in Germany.
CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 10, 2009) – Today at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Walt Disney Company, Disney announced the names of the company’s two new cruise ships.
“Last week, steel cutting began on our next two Disney cruise ships. Today I’m pleased to announce their names,” said Robert A. Iger, Disney president and CEO. “The Disney Dream will set sail in 2011, while the Disney Fantasy will hit the high seas in 2012.”
Similar to the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the names were chosen to celebrate Disney’s unique heritage of creating enchanting places and stories where dreams really do come true.
“The names are very telling of our brand and are part of our history,” said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. “Disney is known for making dreams come true, and for creating worlds of fantasy that go beyond the imagination. The names are a natural choice for our ships.”
As noted, Disney Cruise Line began construction on the new ships with a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The first piece of steel cut was part of the art deco inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on the existing Disney Cruise Line ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the intricate pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s, with added touches of Disney whimsy.
Since finalizing a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard to build the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering have created a truly distinctive design. Over the next few years, construction will continue, bringing the design to reality, with the Disney Dream scheduled for delivery in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy in 2012.
The new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, and specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds only Disney can create.
The expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will each be 128,000 tons.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500.
ELEBRATION, Fla. - Families looking for a fun-filled getaway this spring can set sail on the most magical ships at sea with a new Disney Cruise Line “Kids Sail for 50% Off” offer. This special offer is available on all Disney Cruise Line itineraries, including three-, four- and seven-night sailings to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.
Guests 12 and under can sail for half the price of prevailing cruise rate as quoted on disneycruise.com when accompanied by two full-fare paying guests within the same stateroom. This offer is valid for most sailings from March 26 through May 14, 2009, and covers all stateroom categories. While the cruise fare with this special offer is half price for guests 12 and under, guests who book will be responsible for Government Taxes and Fees for all stateroom occupants, including those 12 and under.
This offer is available on all Disney Cruise Line itineraries, including the new seven-night eastern Caribbean itinerary featuring Tortola. The island features centuries-old ruins, botanical gardens, sugar mills, sensational bays and beaches. The itinerary also stops at St. Thomas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
Guests wishing to experience a shorter Disney cruise vacation can take advantage of this special offer on Disney Cruise Line’s three- and four-night Bahamian itineraries aboard the Disney Wonder. The ship recently premiered “Toy Story - The Musical,” an original stage spectacular featuring a new seven-song score, amazing costumes and larger-than-life scenery.
Guests sailing with Disney Cruise Line during this period will have the opportunity to experience Disney Digital 3-D, a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience available on both the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Guests will delight as first-run Disney films leap off the silver screen and take on a whole new dimension thanks to 3-D technology installed in theatres onboard the ships.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs. Departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.
To book a vacation or to obtain complete details on the “Kids Sail for 50% Off” special offer, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com/kids50 or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. When making the reservation, guests should ask for or input booking code KHO.
PAPENBURG, GERMANY (March 2, 2009) – Disney Cruise Line began construction on two new ships today with a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. Scheduled for completion in 2011 and 2012, the new ocean liners will further advance the company’s one-of-a-kind guest experience and create more family cruise options with a brand guests know and trust.
“When we launched our business in 1998, we recognized a need in the marketplace for a cruise experience created just for families,” said Karl L. Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. “With these new ships, we are continuing to build upon that vision of providing more families with an unforgettable cruise vacation and the chance to explore new destinations with Disney.”
The first piece of steel cut for the new ships was part of the art deco inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on the Disney Cruise Line ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the intricate pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s, designed to reflect the glamour of the golden age of cruising with added touches of Disney whimsy, such as the Mickey Mouse medallion in the center of the design.
Since finalizing a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard to build the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering have created a truly distinctive design for the new ships. Over the next few years, construction will continue, bringing the design to reality. The design details will be unveiled at a later date.
Holz noted that the fleet expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will weigh 128,000 tons. Similar to the existing ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, with specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create.
Known for bringing family travel to the cruise market, Disney continues to be a leader in the industry and was recently named the top large cruise ship experience by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in the 9th annual “Reader’s Cruise Poll.” The Disney Wonder, which sails three- and four-night cruises to The Bahamas, was ranked as the No. 1 cruise ship in the “Large Ship” category. The Disney Magic was also ranked in the top five cruise experiences overall. The Disney Magic primarily sails seven-night cruises to the eastern and western Caribbean and, beginning in the spring of 2010, will embark on a season of limited itineraries exploring Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: “American Idol” phenomenon coming to life at Studios; Plans for ESPN The Weekend available online.
Disney’s Wide World of Sports: Brazilian running for sixth Disney Marathon win; Experts in running, fitness, nutrition share tips, perspectives during free seminars; Atlanta Braves spring training tickets go on sale in January, workouts begin in February; Disney’s Endurance Series introduces two running events.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy: 100 high school students to be treated to a look at interesting careers Feb. 12-15.
Walt Disney World Resort: New 16-parent Moms Panel to answer vacation questions in online forum during 2009.
Disney Cruise Line: Kids sail free on 3-night Disney Wonder sailings this spring.
Disney Resorts: Quick eats go high tech at new Disney’s Contemporary Resort cafe.
‘American Idol’ is “Going to Disney World!”
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney Parks and Resorts will create an “American Idol” attraction that will bring the television and pop culture phenomenon to life at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, according to Jay Rasulo, chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts; Simon Fuller, CEO of 19 Entertainment; and Keith Hindle, executive vice president of FremantleMedia Licensing.
“The American Idol Experience,” slated to debut January 2009, will be located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park and will follow the model of the high-energy show. Disney guests will be able to experience the challenge of auditioning, the rush of performing on stage in competition, or the thrill of judging the performances in a live interactive entertainment setting with all the glitz and glamour of the distinctive “American Idol” set.
That experience will include an audition process, open to all eligible to register, where guests perform “live” in front of a Disney’s Hollywood Studios producer for the chance to be cast in a theme park show. If shown to have that star quality during the screening process and after backstage preparation – working with a vocal coach, hair and make-up – it’s lights up and showtime for the lucky guest in front of a “live” audience and a panel of judges.
Guest performers with the highest votes will compete in an end-of-day Grand Finale show at Walt Disney World Resort, and the winner of the Grand Finale show will receive a guaranteed reservation for a future regional stadium audition – to ensure no waiting in long lines – for the “American Idol” TV show.
Disney Marathon Weekend Features Free Seminars
With Fitness & Nutrition Experts, Running Coaches, Former Olympians
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Fitness and nutrition experts, running coaches and former Olympians will share tips and perspectives – and answer questions from the audience – during the 2009 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Seminar Series Jan. 8-10 at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. More than two dozen topical sessions, typically ranging in duration from 30 to 45 minutes, will be offered without charge over the three days.
Thursday seminars start between 12:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., with Disney Marathon Race Director Jon Hughes wrapping up the day with an hour-long session covering tips and information about this year’s running events. Some highlights of the opening day include a presentation by former 10,000- and 20,000-meter world record holder and Mexico Olympian Arturo Barrios (2:45 p.m.) and sessions focusing on youth – Healthy Kids Challenge Chef presented by Cigna (3:45 p.m.) and Making it Fun for the Kids featuring world-class coach Kevin Hanson and 10-year-old daughter Samantha (4:30 p.m.).
Friday’s schedule kicks off at 11 a.m. with a discussion of ChiRunning and ChiWalking, revolutionary forms of moving that blend T’ai Chi with running and walking, presented by creator Danny Dreyer. Hughes wraps up the schedule with a session beginning at 4:45 p.m.
On Saturday, 1972 Olympian Jeff Galloway opens the schedule at 11 a.m. with a session focusing on tips to run a personal best, with Hughes, joined by Boston Marathon Race Director Dave McGillivray, wrapping up the series at 3:15 p.m.
More than 550 Brazilians Following 5-Time Champion Adriano Bastos
Into Field of 45,000 Participants for Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Five-time champion Adriano Bastos will lead a contingent of more than 550 Brazilians into 2009 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna Jan. 8-11. By winning the run through the four Disney theme parks the last four years consecutively and five times since 2003, the
30-year-old Sao Paulo runner has stirred interest throughout his country in the weekend of running and fitness events at the central Florida Vacation Kingdom.
More than 300 Brazilians join Bastos in a field of some 21,500 participants registered for the full
(26.2-mile) Disney Marathon on Sunday, Jan. 11. Another group of 250 Brazilians is among the approximately 17,000 runners set for the Disney Half Marathon on Saturday, Jan. 10. Both of those races begin near Epcot at 5:45 a.m.
In all, more than 45,000 people from all 50 U.S. states and more than 60 countries are registered for everything from the famous Diaper Dash for crawlers (12 months and under) to the new Mickey’s Mile (ages 13-under) to the distance road-running events.
Within the huge field of participants will be the most frequently honored athlete in the 16-year history of the Walt Disney World Marathon. Saul Mendoza, a wheelchair racer who was honored as Mexico’s Athlete of the Century for the 20th century, will be vying for a 10th Disney championship. Two athletes new to the Disney Marathon winner’s circle in 2008 also return: Women’s winner Melanie Peters of St. Petersburg, Fla., and women’s wheelchair winner Jacqui Kapinowski of Point Pleasant, N.J.
Disney Marathon weekend begins at noon Jan. 8 with the opening of Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo, a three-day event at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. More information about Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna is available at disneysports.com. The program is available at http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/disney/wdwmarathon09/.
Updated Information About 2009 Edition of ESPN The Weekend
Available Online at www.ESPNTheWeekend.com
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Sports fans who want to leap into planning for the sixth edition of ESPN The Weekend presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods – Feb. 27-March 1, 2009, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios –can visit ESPNTheWeekend.com for the latest information about the upcoming event.
The weekend will feature a lineup of athletes and top ESPN personalities such as Mike & Mike as Disney’s Hollywood Studios hosts a full slate of live telecasts including “NFL Live” and “Baseball Tonight.” There also will be unique sports experiences such as the Interactive Zone. All the fun is included with regular theme park admission.
While Diverse in Their Challenges and Accomplishments, 100 Students
Bring Common Trait to Disney’s Dreamers Academy: The Power to Dream
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – They come from America’s West, Midwest, South and Northeast. And their stories are at least as far-flung and diverse. There are honor roll students among them … another proud of completing 10th grade despite being homeless. An oration contest winner … and one who is speech and language impaired. One who dreams of playing professional football … another who won a dirt bike event despite being a paraplegic.
“They” are the 100 high school students selected to participate in the Disney’s Dreamers Academy of 2009, which takes place Feb. 12-15, during national Black History Month. In partnership with nationally syndicated radio personality Steve Harvey, Walt Disney World Resort will host the selected students for an innovative career inspiration program that includes interactive workshops, motivational talks, hands-on creative experiences and fun.
The “Steve Harvey Morning Show” conducted the Dreamer’s Contest to identify the participants – high school students who show promise but may need additional motivational support to excel. Parents, teachers, school administrators, church groups and even the students themselves nominated more than 4,000 aspiring dreamers from across the nation for the program. The 100 participants were selected by a panel that included educators, communications professionals and business professionals.
All of the selected students share a trait: the power to DREAM. And Disney’s Dreamers Academy aims to expose them to creative and nontraditional career opportunities in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports, while inspiring them to exceed the boundaries of their dreams and imaginations.
During Disney’s Dreamers Academy, Disney cast members, executives and celebrities will share their blueprints for success. Participants will also explore Disney’s theme parks and then end their special weekend with a graduation ceremony where a special guest will deliver a motivational address.
“With the nation’s attention on change and a spirit of renewed hope, we are very pleased with the excitement centered on this year’s Disney’s Dreamers Academy and the overwhelming enthusiasm it has generated from young people spanning America,” said Xiomara Wiley, a vice president of marketing at Disney Destinations. “We want to educate and open doors for our young dreamers by helping them to realize the power within and inspiring them to discover their dreams and follow them wherever they lead.”
[EDITORS/WRITERS: A complete list of participants is available at wdwnews.com.
Single-Game Tickets for Expanded Braves Spring Training Slate
At Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex on Sale Jan. 10
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Individual-game tickets for the Atlanta Braves’ expanded home spring training schedule at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex go on sale Jan. 10 for an 18-game slate that includes a number of marquee opponents and premier opportunities.
The schedule includes World Baseball Classic Exhibition games featuring Panama (March 3) and Venezuela (March 5), a pair of contests against the Yankees (March 4 and 28) and Mets (March 17 and 21), two visits by the World Champion Philadelphia Phillies (March 1 and 8), and the second visit ever to Champion Stadium by the Boston Red Sox (March 30). Atlanta’s 18 games at Champion Stadium mark the highest number of single spring home contests for the Braves since the franchise moved to Disney in 1997.
Individual game tickets are availablethrough Ticketmaster (online at ticketmaster.com or by calling 407/839-3900) and at the Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex box office. Prices range from $15 (general admission lawn seats) to $28 (lower reserved); please add $4 per ticket for Premium Games (Yankees, Mets and Red Sox).
Information about group tickets and mini-packs is available by calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at disneysports.com. The popular mini-packs will include both three-game and five-game options in 2009 and are currently on sale, giving fans their first opportunity to purchase tickets to specific games on the Braves’ 2009 spring training schedule. Fans may also purchase Atlanta Braves Spring Training travel packages through Spring Training USA. Travel packages include Braves game tickets, accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort and other benefits. Information is available online at springtrainingtours.com.
Braves pitchers and catchers report Feb. 14, marking the beginning of the 12th year the Braves have come to Walt Disney World Resort for spring training. Position players arrive Feb. 17, with the first full-squad workouts on Feb. 18.
It’s a Bigger Moms Panel for the Mouse: Disney Parks Selects
16 New Parents for its 2009 Walt Disney World Moms Panel
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Disney Parks launches its second Walt Disney World Moms Panel in January with an eclectic group of parents – 16 Disney-savvy people from the suburbs of New Hampshire and Louisiana to “neighbors abroad” in Ottawa and England who will share their own tried and true tips for planning a Walt Disney World vacation with families online at disneyworldmoms.com.
The interactive online forum consists of 15 moms and one dad who have proven their Disney knowledge and ability to field vacation-planning questions from all park-goers. Featuring a grandmother from Indiana who treasures celebrations at the parks to a New Jersey mom who has mastered Disney vacations with a special needs child, these Walt Disney World experts ensure that no hidden Mickey is left undiscovered.
Welcoming the Moms into their new roles is Kim LaPaglia from Annville, Pa., a member of the inaugural panel who will continue to lend her Disney smarts – this time to families sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line. For more information, visit disneyworldmoms.com.
Kids Sail Free on 3-Night Disney Wonder Sailings this Spring
CELEBRATION, Fla. – Disney Cruise Line, a leader in the family cruise segment, is making it easier than ever for families who have dreamt of taking a Disney cruise vacation to sail the most magical ship afloat with a “Kids Free” special offer on three-night cruises this winter and spring.
Guests 12 and under can sail free on three-night voyages aboard the Disney Wonder when accompanied by two full-fare paying guests within the same stateroom. This offer is valid for most sailings from Jan. 22 to May 28, 2009, and covers a variety of stateroom categories, ranging from deluxe family staterooms with verandahs to standard inside staterooms. However, there are a limited number of staterooms available for this special offer. While the cruise fare with this special offer is free for guests 12 and under, guests who book will be responsible for Government Taxes and Fees for all stateroom occupants, including those 12 and under.
Guests who sail during this time period will enjoy a whole host of new offerings on the Disney Wonder. The ship recently launched a 3-D cinematic experience in both the Walt Disney and Buena Vista theaters where guests can enjoy first-run, full-length 3-D films such as Walt Disney Pictures’ “Bolt” and the upcoming “Jonas Brothers: The 3-D Concert Experience.” This past spring the Disney Wonder premiered a lavish theatrical production, “Toy Story-The Musical.” Additionally, young cruisers will delight in new activities at the Oceaneer Club and Lab featuring characters and storylines from popular Disney Channel movies.
To book a vacation or to get complete details on the “Kids Free” special offer, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com/kidsfree or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Guests should mention or input booking code “FREE” when making the reservation.
Disney’s Endurance Series Introducing 2 Road-Running Events
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Road-running enthusiasts will have new opportunities to run for fun at Walt Disney World Resort this spring as Disney’s Endurance Series introduces ESPN The Weekend 5K Feb. 28 and Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Lady Foot Locker March 6-8.
The ESPN The Weekend 5K at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will include special appearances by ESPN talent, and a portion of every entry fee will benefit the V Foundation for cancer research. Kids races are also offered.
The Princess Half Marathon Weekend will bring women of all ages together to participate in an event designed just for them – with the Disney Princesses as the inspiration. The weekend includes a half marathon, a family 5K, kids races and an expo.
Food at the Touch of a Screen at New Contempo Cafe
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Quick-service eats go high tech at the new Contempo Cafe in the Grand Canyon Concourse at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Walt Disney World guests peruse the menu on electronic boards with color photos, then place orders at touch screens and head directly to a cashier. Seating is in a casual 147-seat dining area with red and blue accents and views of the Disney monorail passing through the famous hotel, and a 9-story mural with 18,000 hand-painted tiles by artist and Disney Legend Mary Blair.
A pager blinks when food is ready for pickup at the counter. Thin-crust pizzas, hearty deli sandwiches on ciabatta and house-made soups of the day are among selections, as well as a healthful grilled mahi sandwich with citrus-apple slaw or vegetable bake with feta cheese. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there also is a “grab ‘n go” area with drinks, salads and fresh fruit.
Prices are not on menu boards but on the touch screens, where guests can order in Spanish or English. Diners can choose a salad with dressing on the side, for instance, different kinds of cheeses for burgers, or salad or chips with sandwiches.
Contempo Cafe is open daily from 7 a.m.-10 p.m., serving breakfast until 11 a.m. The “grab ‘n go” is open 6 a.m.-midnight. The restaurant is part of Disney’s Contemporary Resort revitalization that includes the new Wave restaurant on the first floor and a new game arcade and refurbishment of the Outer Rim lounge on the fourth floor concourse.
CELEBRATION, Fla. – Disney Cruise Line, a leader in the family cruise segment, is making it easier than ever for families who have dreamt of taking a Disney cruise vacation to sail the most magical ship afloat with a “Kids Free” special offer on three-night cruises this winter and spring.
Guests 12 and under can sail free on three-night voyages aboard the Disney Wonder when accompanied by two full-fare paying guests within the same stateroom. This offer is valid for most sailings from Jan. 22 to May 28, 2009, and covers a variety of stateroom categories, ranging from deluxe family staterooms with verandahs to standard inside staterooms. However, there are a limited number of staterooms available for this special offer. While the cruise fare with this special offer is free for guests 12 and under, guests who book will be responsible for Government Taxes and Fees for all stateroom occupants, including those 12 and under.
“At Disney Cruise Line, we pride ourselves on offering a vacation that caters to the individual needs of every member of the family,” said Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin. “This special offer is a great value – perfect for families that have never experienced the magic of Disney at sea, or those who want to come back to create new memories.”
Guests who sail during this time period will enjoy a whole host of new offerings on the Disney Wonder. The ship recently launched a 3-D cinematic experience in both the Walt Disney and Buena Vista Theatres where guests can enjoy first-run, full-length 3-D films such as Walt Disney Pictures’ “Bolt” and the upcoming “Jonas Brothers: The 3-D Concert Experience.” This past spring the Disney Wonder premiered a lavish theatrical production, “Toy Story-The Musical.” Additionally, young cruisers will delight in new activities at the Oceaneer Club and Lab featuring characters and storylines from popular Disney Channel movies, such as “High School Musical,” and Disney•Pixar films.
Departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., guests sailing on the Disney Wonder will experience a cruise vacation that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs.
To book a vacation or to get complete details on the “Kids Free” special offer, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com/kidsfree or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Guests should mention or input booking code “FREE” when making the reservation.
CELEBRATION, Fla. (Nov. 17, 2008) – Disney Cruise Line is revolutionizing movie entertainment at sea with the debut of Disney Digital 3-D, a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience premiering exclusively onboard the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder.
Guests will delight as first-run Disney films leap off the silver screen and take on a whole new dimension thanks to Disney Digital 3-D technology being added to both the Walt Disney Theatre and Buena Vista Theatre. Disney Cruise Line is the first cruise line to introduce 3-D entertainment onboard its ships. Disney Digital 3-D will premiere onboard the Disney Wonder during the Nov. 20 sailing and on the Disney Magic during the Dec. 6 sailing.
Leveraging this new technology, Disney Cruise Line will take 3-D into uncharted waters in early 2009 with the debut of an exciting new cinematic experience that combines full length Disney Digital 3-D films with in-theatre effects. Tridimensional images will combine with lasers, fog, streamers, and special lighting effects to create an immersive movie-going experience like no other at sea. During these once-a-cruise special engagements, guests will feel the rush of being part of hottest show in town as in-theatre effects enhance 3-D films featuring popular Disney popstars in concert.
“With Disney Digital 3-D we can provide extraordinary cinematic experiences for our guests that no other cruise line can offer,” said Tom McAlpin, president of Disney Cruise Line. “Innovation and high-quality family entertainment are Disney Cruise Line hallmarks, and the addition of Disney Digital 3-D perfectly complements our industry-leading collection of entertainment options already onboard our ships.”
Disney Cruise Line will celebrate the debut of Disney Digital 3-D by hosting a special screening event for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ newest animated feature, “Bolt,” onboard the Nov. 20 three-night Disney Wonder cruise. As the calendar turns from Nov. 20 to Nov. 21, guests will be invited to a special midnight screening of “Bolt” at the Walt Disney Theatre – complete with meet-and-greet opportunities with lovable walk-around characters from the film.
The film features super-dog Bolt (voice of John Travolta), whose every day is filled with adventure, danger and intrigue – at least until the cameras stop rolling. When the star of a hit TV show is accidentally shipped from his Hollywood soundstage to New York City, he begins his biggest adventure yet – a cross-country journey through the real world to get back to his owner and co-star, Penny (voice of Miley Cyrus). Armed only with the delusions that all his amazing feats and powers are real, and the help of two unlikely traveling companions – a jaded, abandoned housecat named Mittens (voice of Susie Essman) and a TV-obsessed hamster named Rhino (voice of Mark Walton) – Bolt discovers he doesn’t need superpowers to be a hero.
“Disney Cruise Line picked the perfect time to introduce Disney Digital 3-D to its guests,” said Mark Zoradi, president, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Group. “ ‘Bolt’ kicks off an extraordinary lineup of 3-D movies debuting over the course of the next year, including ‘Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience,’ Disney•Pixar’s ‘Up,’ ‘G-Force,’ Disney•Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’ and ‘Disney’s A Christmas Carol.’ The 3-D immersive experience is better than ever.”
Disney Digital 3-D is the latest enhancement to join the robust menu of premium guest experiences and amenities included with a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Dazzling Broadway-style musical spectaculars, over-the-top deck parties with the only fireworks display at sea, a unique rotational dining concept, first-run movie releases and fantastic kids programming are just some of the advantages of cruising with Disney.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs. Departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at Walt Disney World Resort are also available.
CELEBRATION, Fla. – This holiday season, give a gift that’s both nautical and nice: a cruise on the Disney Magic or the Disney Wonder, both decked to the “raft-ers” with holiday cheer.
From Thanksgiving and continuing through to the new year, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to both ships, from traditional “turkey day” fanfare to Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas. But the best part might just be relaxing on deck instead of shoveling snow.
The spirit of the season surrounds guests the moment they arrive at Port Canaveral, Fla., with Disney characters in their finest holiday attire welcoming guests to the beautifully decorated private Disney Cruise Line terminal.
Special stem-to-stern holiday events on both ships, beginning Nov. 22, include:
Nightly “King Triton’s Tree Lighting” in the atrium lobby, where a young guest will help Disney characters light the glittering, three-deck-tall tree.
An afternoon Tropical Pool Party every day with Santa and Mrs. Claus with fun, food, games and activities. Plenty of Disney characters join the celebration, including Lilo and Stitch, Chip ‘n Dale, Mickey and Minnie, Goofy and Pluto. Be sure not to miss the “Winter-Sunnyland” conga line around the pool.
Special family time with holiday crafts such as decorating stockings, making holiday cards and creating holiday animation cells.
Holiday storytellers sharing tales of diverse holiday traditions, from Hanukkah and Kwaanza to the Bahamian Junkanoo. Plus, an all-new story just for Disney Cruise Line guests about the magical feeling of the holidays on a ship.
Traditional holiday feasts in Disney’s three themed dining rooms.
“ ‘Til We Meet Again,” a special holiday edition of Disney Cruise Line’s cheerful farewell on the final night of each cruise with beloved Disney characters and the ship’s crew in an engaging musical finale led by Mickey Mouse.
And when cruises during the holiday period put in at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, the celebration continues:
Guests will delight with “snow flurries,” decked-out Christmas trees, Disney character meet-and-greets and holiday carolers.
Youngsters will be busy with holiday-themed activities such as making candy cane reindeer, paper plate angels and snowflake mobiles.
Disney Cruise Line will kick off the holiday cheer with special Thanksgiving voyages setting sail Nov. 22 with a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise on the Disney Magic and Nov. 26 with a 4-night Bahamian cruise onboard the Disney Wonder. Guests will enjoy a sumptuous Thanksgiving Day feast, with Mickey, Minnie and friends dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire. Activities throughout the day include holiday crafts for youngsters and the big NFL football games broadcast live on Ariel View Television, the 24-by-14-foot screen located above the Goofy Family Pool on deck 9.
The Disney Magic will host a 7-Night Holiday Caribbean Cruise departing Dec. 20, with visits to Cozumel, Grand Cayman and, as a special holiday treat, two stops at Castaway Cay. The Disney Wonder 4-night Christmas cruise departs Dec. 24, with visits to Nassau and Castaway Cay. On Christmas morning at the lobby tree, Santa Claus and his elves will have surprises for all the kids, along with cookies and milk. Guests can attend sunset Hanukkah services and Christmas services, including midnight mass on Christmas Eve.
To celebrate the new year, Disney Magic departs on its 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary Dec. 27; Disney Wonder departs Dec. 31 for its 4-night cruise. These voyages will feature a special New Year’s Eve party to ring in 2009, complete with DJ music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes, confetti and balloon drop, and a midnight countdown.
NEW YORK (Oct. 6, 2008) – In response to guest demand, Disney Cruise Line will reposition one of its ships, Disney Magic, to Europe for an unprecedented five-month season of Northern European and Mediterranean cruises in 2010.
With a wide variety of European itineraries in 2010, families have the ability to explore exotic and unexpected destinations with the safety and comfort of traveling with Disney Cruise Line, the leader in family cruising.
For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will offer a 12-night Northern European Capitals cruise, where guests can experience breathtaking fjords, historic city centers and Viking lore at enchanting Scandinavian ports such as Oslo, Copenhagen and Stockholm. The ship will also sail to Warnemunde, Germany, gateway to Berlin, and to St. Petersburg, Russia. The Disney Magic will overnight in St. Petersburg, allowing Disney Cruise Line guests time to experience the city known as the “Cultural Capital of Russia” or use the second day to book a shore excursion to Moscow.
“The Northern European Capitals itinerary provides our guests with an amazing collection of destinations to explore,” said Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin. “We’re excited to bring the rich history, culture and folklore these ports offer to life for our guests in a family-friendly way only Disney Cruise Line can deliver.”
Departing out of Dover, England, the Disney Magic will sail a total of four 12-night cruises to the Northern European capitals in June and July 2010. Rates for the 12-night Northern European Capitals itinerary start at $3,649 per person for a category 11 stateroom.
Book-ending the summer season in Northern Europe, the Disney Magic will once again return to the Mediterranean with 10- and 11-night cruises, but with three new ports of call not offered when Disney Cruise Line last sailed the Mediterranean. In addition to popular ports in Italy, France and Spain, the Disney Magic will visit Tunis, in Northern Africa, the island nation of Malta, and Corsica, an island oasis off the southern coast of France known as the birthplace of Napoleon.
“The response from guests who sailed on our Mediterranean voyages in 2007 was overwhelmingly positive,” said McAlpin. “We’re thrilled to bring the ship back and look to make the 2010 season in the Mediterranean even better, with new destinations and more one-of-a-kind Disney experiences for our guests.”
Departing out of Barcelona, Spain, the Disney Magic will sail four 10-night and four 11-night cruises in the Mediterranean in April, May, August and September. Rates for the 10- and 11-night Mediterranean cruises start at $2,529 per person for a category 11 stateroom.
Disney Cruise Line will also offer four repositioning cruises including two 14-night transatlantic voyages, a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Dover, England, and an eight-night cruise from Dover back to Barcelona.
Disney Magic 2010 European Schedule
12-Night N. European Capitals
Departure Dates: 6/12/10, 6/24/10, 7/6/10, 7/18/10
Depart – Dover England, At Sea, Oslo, Copenhagen, Warnemunde (gateway to Berlin), At Sea, St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, Helsinki (6/12, 7/6) or Tallinn (6/24, 7/18), Stockholm, At Sea, At Sea, Return – Dover, England
11-Night Mediterranean
Departure Dates: 4/24/10, 5/15/10, 8/7/10, 8/28/10
Depart – Barcelona, At Sea, Malta, Tunis, Naples, Civitavecchia (gateway to Rome), At Sea, La Spezia (gateway to Florence), Corsica, Villefranche, At Sea, Return – Barcelona
10-Night Mediterranean
Departure Dates: 5/5/10, 5/26/10, 8/18/10, 9/8/10
Depart – Barcelona, At Sea, Malta, Tunis, Naples, Civitavecchia (gateway to Rome), La Spezia (gateway to Florence), Corsica, Villefrance, At Sea, Return – Barcelona
Disney Wonder 2010 Schedule
The Disney Magic isn’t the only Disney ship embarking on new itineraries in 2010. For the summer of 2010, the Disney Wonder will shift to four- and five-night cruises sailing to Nassau, Key West and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The shift is designed to accommodate guests looking for slightly longer cruises with Disney Cruise Line while children are enjoying their summer break. Rates for the special five-night voyages to Key West or two stops at Castaway Cay start at $899 per person, while the four-night voyage begins at $849 per person for a category 11 stateroom.
Disney Wonder Summer 2010 Schedule
4-Night Bahamian Cruise
Departure Dates: 6/4/10, 6/18/10, 7/2/10, 7/16/10, 7/30/10, 8/13/10
Depart – Port Canaveral, Nassau, Castaway Cay, At Sea, Return – Port Canaveral
5-Night Double Castaway Cruise
Departure Dates: 5/30/10, 6/13/10, 6/27/10, 7/11/10, 7/25/10, 8/8/10
Depart – Port Canaveral, Castaway Cay, Nassau, At Sea, Castaway Cay, Return – Port Canaveral
5-Night Key West Cruise
6/8/10, 6/22/10, 7/6/10, 7/20/10, 8/3/10, 8/17/10
Depart – Port Canaveral, Key West, At Sea, Nassau, Castaway Cay, Return – Port Canaveral
Guests will be able to book all Disney Cruise Line itineraries for the 2010 season beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 14.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs.
CELEBRATION, Fla. – An exciting collection of enhancements awaits the Disney Magic as the ship heads into dry dock Sept. 6-24, 2008. The 2,700 passenger cruise ship will undergo a series of upgrades for guests of all ages.
Here is a glimpse at what’s in store:
Indulgence and Relaxation
Quiet Cove, the serene pool retreat reserved for the enjoyment of adults, will undergo a makeover including upgrades to Cove Café, the pool and the deck area. Cove Café, the ship’s sophisticated coffee lounge, will incorporate a new seating area with plush, comfortable chairs providing the perfect venue to relax while sipping a cup of gourmet coffee. Meanwhile, the adult pool will be outfitted with soothing, cascading waterfalls from the two hot tubs. Teak deck and lounge chairs with plush cushions will line the pool, creating an inviting, stylish ambiance in line with the Vista Spa and Salon.
Fun for the Little Ones
The Oceaneer Club, a Neverland-themed play space for 3-7 year olds, and the Oceaneer Lab, a whacky and interactive laboratory exclusively for 8-12 year olds, will be enhanced with new registration areas that make the check-in process more efficient and hassle-free. This sets the stage for incorporating Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in the youth activity areas later this year, which will further enhance and streamline the check-in process. The technology uses RFID tags embedded on wristbands, allowing children to simply tap a sensor to check in and out of the clubs.
Even the youngest cruisers will have a splashtacular time in “Mickey’s Splash Zone,” a new toddler water playground inspired by Fantasia’s Sorcerer’s Apprentice. This 385-square-foot extension to the Mickey Pool on deck 9 will feature star- and moon-shaped interactive fountains, a soft play surface and whimsical splash zones; creating an inviting environment for children not yet toilet trained and in swim diapers.
New Conveniences
The guest staterooms onboard the Disney Magic are receiving an infusion of technology with the installation of flat-screen LCD television sets. The new 22-inch units will be mounted on a swivel arm to allow easy viewing from multiple locations within the stateroom.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at the Walt Disney World Resort are also available.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500.
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