Disney Travel News

Marketing Materials for Disney After Hours Available on Disney Copyright

(Disney Destinations) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:04:38 -0400

Disney After Hours dates for 2026 are now on sale to the general public!

Digital marketing toolkits to support this special ticketed event at Walt Disney World are now available for download on Disney Copyright. Search "FY26 Disney After Hours."

New Updates to Audio-Animatronics Figures at Walt Disney World

(Disney Destinations) — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 09:45:39 -0400

For more than seven decades, Walt Disney Imagineering has brought beloved stories and characters off the screen and into reality through the revolutionary innovations of Audio-Animatronics figures. From classic attractions to brand-new adventures, these incredible creations are part of the fabric of iconic Disney storytelling that keeps guests coming back year after year. There’s always something new to inspire.

As we continue to invest in new and well-loved experiences, there are even more Audio-Animatronics figures updates on the way to Walt Disney World Resort!

Zootopia: Better Zoogether!

Starting at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, guests should get ready to clap their paws and click their claws when Zootopia: Better Zoogether! opens on November 7 in the iconic Tree of Life Theater.

It’s a “4D” show guests won’t want to miss, as the residents of Zootopia are gearing up for Zoogether Day, a citywide celebration. On this special day, all kinds of animals join together with performances from many of the diverse biomes that make up the city. In Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, the Tree of Life Theater is the epicenter of Zoogether Day with fast-talking, loud-howling wolf host Heidi Howler presenting a watch party where the audience of mammals big and small will catch all the festivities via livestream.

We hope everyone is ready to join in the fun, because we’re all invited to join the audience too! Thanks to the special “Carrot Vision” glasses we’ll wear as part of the watch party experience, some of guests' favorite characters from Zootopia and Zootopia 2 will “jump” off the screen … except for Gazelle’s number one fan and off-duty ZPD officer. That’s right, Benjamin Clawhauser himself will be in the theater with us, in the form of an all-new Audio-Animatronics figure.

When we met Clawhauser in Zootopia, he was sporting his ZPD uniform (and sometimes a tasty donut, too). At the Zoogether Day watch party, he’ll be decked out from head to tail with a brand-new look: glow necklaces, bracelets, and his favorite, glittery Gazelle tee shirt.

This larger-than-life fan wants nothing more than to be picked as the V.I.Z. (Very Important Zootopian – the lucky mammal who will get special access to the Zoogether Day performers). And when that doesn’t work out, he has to take matters into his own paws.

Frozen Ever After at EPCOT

In the heart of the Norway pavilion at EPCOT, Frozen fanatics have been sailing through the story of Princess Anna and Queen Elsa on Frozen Ever After since it debuted in 2016. It is full of Audio-Animatronics figures – from Sven and Kristoff, an ice-skating Olaf, Marshmellow and a whole herd of Snowgies, and of course, Anna and Elsa.

Many of these figures were groundbreaking in the world of Audio-Animatronics – not just as part of the first Frozen attraction, but also as the first attraction to have all electric Audio-Animatronics figures, and the first to combine electric motors and 3D printing. That’s a lot of firsts!

To build the attraction and make it feel like the enchanted Frozen story, it all came down to one wrist. Elsa is known for her magical, ice-forming hand gestures; for her Audio-Animatronics figure to handle the fluid movements just like Elsa does on screen, Imagineers needed enough space to run cables and motors down her arms and hands. They figured out how big Elsa’s wrist needed to be and scaled everything else in the attraction to match.

Since then, Walt Disney Imagineering couldn’t “let it go” and has built upon that very technology of all-electric motors, 3D printing, and scaling for every figure they produce – from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, to Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival at Tokyo DisneySea, and World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland.

And, in a full circle moment of innovation, the Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff Audio-Animatronics figures will soon receive new updates after ten years of delighting fans in Frozen Ever After. Taking inspiration from the advancements seen in figures at World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland, the Frozen Ever After figures will face the future of Audio-Animatronics.

Early next year, this investment will bring a more true-to-film look for these beloved characters. Just looking at the photos from Hong Kong Disneyland, we can tell we’re in for a treat here at Walt Disney World!

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets: Opening Summer 2026!

At Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, we’ll rock as we roll across Hollywood on a wild ride with the Electric Mayhem – complete with backstage chaos, high-speed thrills, that signature Muppet humor… and an all-new Muppet Audio-Animatronics figure.

Side by side with a dedicated team of penguin audio engineers, Scooter, in his capacity as band manager, will be trying hard to convince the Electric Mayhem to stop laying down tracks so they won’t be late to their own concert. This will be the first time Scooter has ever been imagined as an Audio-Animatronics figure, and we hear he might not be the only Muppet Audio-Animatronics figure joining the attraction… but we’ll have to wait to learn more about that.

And those who would like to paper that psychedelically sweet poster everywhere are in luck – The Muppets have a downloadable wallpaper here to add some rock ‘n’ roll to your desktop.

Now, we can imagine guests are ready to go pedal to the metal and experience the high-speed hijinks of The Muppets in this latest story. Well, the wait will be over before you know it: Get ready to rock out when Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets speeds into Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Summer 2026!

Audio-Animatronics Figures Through the Years

All this excitement about Audio-Animatronics figures to come is the next chapter in a long, iconic story that dates all the way back to Walt Disney himself. He discovered an antique mechanical singing bird in New Orleans, and after returning to California, tasked Imagineers to learn how the little bird worked. His curiosity and the talents of his Imagineers laid the groundwork for future Audio-Animatronics figures.

The first-generation of Audio-Animatronics figures, known as the A-1, debuted in the 1960s at Disneyland in attractions like Jungle Cruise, Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland, and Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room that featured over 200 singing birds.

The technology and artistry of Audio-Animatronics figures didn’t stop there:

Next came the world’s first fully animated human figure in Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, which debuted at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair.
Then, the debut of the A-100 figure in 1989.
Fast forward a few decades and hundreds of innovations later, Imagineers introduced one of the most sophisticated figures in 2017 with the Shaman of Songs in Na’avi River Journey in Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
When Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened in 2019 at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, it marked another huge advancement in technology with the introduction of the A-1000 figure, boasting enhancements in range, speed, and overall performance.
And the latest figure has a special place in our company’s history … Walt Disney – A Magical Life features for the first time an Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt, advancing a technology he pioneered 60 years ago with Abraham Lincoln at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. This special homage opened July 17, 2025 as part of the 70^th anniversary celebration of the Disneyland Resort. And – as recently announced at Destination D23 – we will soon be able to see Walt Disney through the magic of Audio-Animatronics technology at “Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress” at Walt Disney World.

The desire to captivate, immerse, and entertain is woven into the fabric of Disney’s DNA, and the development of the Audio-Animatronics figure is proof of our goal to always do more and deliver more for our guests. Each new figure builds on the legacy of time, talent, and skill of generations of Imagineers. We continue to invest in this technology because – as someone we all know once said – we keep moving forward. We can’t wait to see the stories these new Audio-Animatronics figures will tell!

Interested in learning even more about our iconic figures and the tech that makes them tick? Take a deeper look in the We Call It Imagineering Audio-Animatronics episode on Youtube.

Walt Disney World Vacations Now Available for November and December 2026

(Disney Destinations) — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:04:51 -0400

Today, Walt Disney World Resort released November and December 2026 bookings for theme park tickets, hotel room stays and packages.

As a reminder, throughout all of 2026, guests staying at one of our more than 25 Disney Resort hotels will get a free dining plan for their kids (ages 3 to 9) when purchasing a dining plan as part of their package for the other members of their party (ages 10 and up). The kids free dining plan offering can be combined with other select special offers, meaning they may still be eligible to take advantage of other deals we later roll out for 2026.

Marketing materials for 2026 Walt Disney World vacations are available for download on Disney Copyright.

Additional Itineraries for the Disney Adventure and Disney Wonder Now Available to Book

(Disney Destinations) — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:22:33 -0400

Disney Cruise Line has released a limited number of new sail dates for the Disney Adventure and the Disney Wonder. These itineraries are now available to book. Please see below for the new sail dates for each ship.

Disney Adventure:

March 10, 2026: 3-Night Cruise from Singapore (New Maiden Voyage Date)
March 13, 2026: 3-Night Cruise from Singapore

Disney Wonder:

April 14, 2027 - 5-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego

All of the above itineraries are now available to book. As a reminder, all Disney Adventure Maiden Voyage reservations have already been rescheduled to the new Maiden Voyage date on March 10, 2026. For assistance modifying the reservation, call the Disney Cruise Line Contact Center.

Disney Destiny Updates: Entertainment Updates and Conveyance

(Disney Destinations) — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:12:58 -0400

Are you ready to meet your destiny?

The Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering teams are hard at work with the crew at Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany to bring Disney Cruise Line’s heroes and villains-themed ship, the Disney Destiny, to life.

Here on the Disney Destiny ship’s log, get an exclusive look at the shipbuilding process, along with behind-the-scenes looks at some of the exciting Disney stories coming to life inside. Be sure to bookmark this page for regular updates all the way through the ship’s maiden voyage on November 20 from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

In less than two months, the first guests will step on board the Disney Destiny, where legendary heroes and villains will take center stage. Guests will interact with these dynamic characters in venues across the ship, such as the Grand Hall, the ship’s most striking and prominent gathering place inspired by the rich lore and vibrant color palette of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther.

This space will host a variety of all-new entertainment offerings, including “Sounds of Wakanda,” a musical celebration featuring a group of traveling percussionists whose rousing rhythms are inspired by the stories, legends and culture of Wakanda.

Additional entertainment offerings in the Grand Hall and beyond will feature two traveling storytellers, Zayah and Gamble, whose enchanted trunks react to the powerful energy and magic of classic Disney villains. Zayah, a fortune teller, will make predictions and weave tales with the help of a mysterious book, while Gamble will conjure adventures with his collection of mystifying potions and elixirs.

The duo will host a variety of immersive storytelling experiences throughout each voyage, like “With Great Power: A Marvel Comedy Show” in the Saga entertainment lounge. Curated exclusively for adults, this sketch comedy show will invite guests on an interactive journey through some of the most iconic moments of the Marvel Cinematic Universe using comically low-budget props, homemade sound effects, and sight gags to bring the stories to life.

With the Disney Destiny’s maiden voyage now less than two months away, stay tuned for more details on how this heroes and villains-themed ship will come to life this November!

After approximately two years of construction, it’s time for the Disney Destiny to depart from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. But before heading to its Disney Cruise Line year-round homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the ship must complete its next milestone, known as conveyance – the process of transporting the ship to open water for the first time.

During conveyance, the Disney Destiny will travel around 20 miles down the Ems River through a series of locks and channels to reach the shores of Eemshaven, Netherlands. Over the course of the next few weeks, the ship will undergo a series of tests called sea trials to ensure it is ready to embark on its two-week transatlantic voyage.

With the November 20 maiden voyage inching closer, be sure to check back for the latest updates on the ship’s journey to Fort Lauderdale!

The inaugural Disney Destiny Walt Disney Theatre cast has arrived in Papenburg, Germany! The group headed onto the ship for a first look at the venue where they will spend the coming weeks putting the finishing touches on three Broadway-style stage shows, including fleet favorites “Disney Seas the Adventure” and“Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” and the all-new “Disney Hercules.”

Before going the distance to Germany, the cast spent 11 weeks at Disney Cruise Line’s entertainment facility in Toronto, Canada, learning dialogue, choreography, and other show material for “Disney Hercules.” They prepared high-energy numbers, like “Zero to Hero,” using rehearsal puppets, sample costume pieces, and scenic elements similar to those on the Walt Disney Theatre stage.

As the cast steps into the spotlight at the Walt Disney Theatre, they will begin incorporating technical elements into their rehearsals, including costumes, sets, and state-of-the-art puppetry, to help bring the Walt Disney Animation Studios film to the stage like never before.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to raising the curtain aboard the Disney Destiny!

Guests aboard the Disney Destiny won’t need a magic compass to locate the most swashbuckling pub on the high seas. Cask & Cannon, the brand-new “Pirates of the Caribbean”-inspired lounge, is well underway, and today we’re sharing new design details and sneak peeks… beginning with the latest concept art of the space.

Inside Cask & Cannon

Stepping into Cask & Cannon will feel like entering a true pirate’s tavern filled with trinkets, treasures, and a trove of “Easter eggs” inspired by the iconic Disney Parks attractions.

The pub will be decked out in wooden planks — evoking the interior of a pirate ship — and outfitted with an eclectic mix of mismatched furniture and antiques, presumably pillaged by the pirates themselves. Nautical motifs and pirate iconography will be found throughout, from treasure maps and fishing nets to barrel stools, rum bottles, and skull-and-crossbones insignias.

Eagle-eyed fans will have much to discover in the intricate carvings framing the venue’s portholes that are cast in a charred wood look, a nod to the attractions’ burning village scene, while the most well-traveled buccaneers will spot distinctive lanterns inspired from the namesake attraction in Disneyland Paris.

There will even be a few fun nods to the beloved film series, such as the stacked treasure chests that make up the bar front, which take inspiration from the treasure rooms and Captain’s Quarters in the films. Around the corner from the bar will be a set of thirteen drawers filled with treasure maps, each labeled with different scenes representing the global parks and attractions, including The Ghostly Grotto, Port Royale, Talking Skull Bay, Blue Bayou (California), and Treasure Cove (Shanghai).

Cask & Cannon Details

And don’t forget to look up and down in the quest to uncover every design gem. The ceiling of Cask & Cannon will feature a fantastical treasure map of the Caribbean Sea inspired by original artwork by legendary Disney artist and animator Marc Davis.

The drawing has been specially modified for this venue with several new additions, including seven pirate ships that represent the number of ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet with Disney Destiny joining as the seventh. And down below, cleverly woven into the carpet design will be each of the pirate lords’ Pieces of Eight as well as Captain Jack Sparrow’s compass — though whether it points to your heart’s desire is only for you to tell.

New Pirates Merch on the Disney Destiny

If spending time in Cask & Cannon has guests singing “a pirate’s life for me,” then they’ll want to stock up on this all-new merchandise collection debuting aboard the Disney Destiny.

This swashbuckling assortment will offer one-of-a-kind bar tools and novelty drinkware (just add rum!) along with swaggering adult apparel, an adventure-ready tote bag for carrying your everyday treasures, and more, while supplies last.

The Disney Live Entertainment Costume Design & Development team has been hard at work putting the finishing touches on the entertainment costumes for Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King, and today, we’re sharing an exclusive first look for ship’s log readers!

Amanda Avila, Associate Costume Designer with Disney Live Entertainment, is the creative mind behind the costumes and accessory pieces for the all-new dining experience coming to the Disney Destiny. “The costumes take inspiration from the various regions of Africa, with a mix of both contemporary and traditional silhouettes and details,” said Amanda. “We wanted them to feel elevated and regal with nods to both the characters and the culture.” For example, many of the pieces feature cowrie shell details, which draw inspiration from the country of Benin in West Africa. In Benin, the shells symbolize prosperity, wealth, good luck, and destiny – a fitting representation of Simba’s story and the name of the ship itself.

The costumes and accessories will play an important role in the retelling of Simba’s journey from cub to king. Throughout the performance, the storytellers will wear specific accessories to embody the personalities and attributes of various characters from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film. For example, the Scar accessories are the only pieces in the collection that incorporate the color black, inspired by his distinct black mane. His headdress will feature a single red feather above his left eye, which Amanda designed to represent his scar.

Guests will have the chance to see Amanda’s exquisite designs up close when Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King debuts on the Disney Destiny this November!

Hallo aus Deutschland, which means hello from Germany!

That’s right, this special edition of the ship’s log is coming straight from Papenburg, Germany, where Disney Cruise Line experienced not one, but two exciting milestones for our growing fleet this weekend.

The Disney Destiny left the hall for the first time on Saturday, Aug. 9, floating out of Meyer Werft Shipyard and into the harbor. Hero Minnie greeted the heroes and villains-themed ship as it inched aft-first out of the yard, led by Spider-Man and his Spider Bots on the stern.

Not only is Float Out a significant milestone in the construction process, it’s also a time-honored maritime tradition that means the ship is one step closer to setting sail for the first time.

While the ship is docked outside Meyer Werft, work will continue on the upper deck and the vessel’s interior spaces, and we are happy to share one of the first looks inside the ship.

While the Disney Destiny is well on its way toward its maiden voyage, another ship in the Disney Wish class had a moment of its own on Friday. Joe Schott, president of Disney Signature Experiences, joined Philip Gennotte from Walt Disney Imagineering, Bernd Eikens from Meyer Werft and Cruise Director Carly Scott to cut a piece of steel for the next addition to our fleet.

With the help of special guest Captain Mickey Mouse, sparks flew within the yard’s laser cutting room, revealing the shape of a Disney cruise ship. Steel cutting is another revered maritime tradition dating back hundreds of years, meaning the construction process is underway for the vessel that is expected in 2027. Like its sister ships the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny, the ship will be approximately 144,000 gross tons, accommodate 4,000 guests and be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Captain Mickey’s work wasn’t done in Papenburg with the steel cutting ceremony, though. On Friday he also sprinkled some extra magic at a VoluntEARS event at nearby St. Lukas Heim, a center for individuals with varying disabilities from ages 6-21 years old whose mission is to allow everyone to participate in community life. VoluntEARS from Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney Cruise Line joined 50 participants from the center for activities, including story time with donated Disney books, face painting and creative mask making.

While Papenburg was full of activities this past week, the work isn’t done! Keeping check back for more updates as the Disney Destiny inches closer to its heroic maiden voyage this November.

Five, six, seven, eight: “Bless my soul, Herc is on a roll!”

That’s right, “Disney Hercules,” the brand-new, Broadway-style Disney Cruise Line stage show, is indeed on a roll, preparing to raise the curtain exclusively onboard the Disney Destiny. But before the ship launches this November, the cast are hard at work at Disney Cruise Line’s Toronto-based entertainment rehearsal facility, where every show – from a deck party to a Broadway-style musical spectacular – comes to life before being performed on any ship in Disney Cruise Line’s growing fleet.

While in Toronto, the Disney Destiny entertainment team is preparing for three shows in The Walt Disney Theatre: “Disney Seas the Adventure,” “Frozen: A Musical Spectacular” and “Disney Hercules.”

Today, we’re unveiling an exclusive, behind-the-curtain look at “Disney Hercules” rehearsals, plus an all-new rendering of the stage show.

Here’s a look at a depiction of the show’s iconic battle with the Titans. Learn more about the epic exo-skeleton innovations behind “Disney Hercules” Titans here.

After the Cast completes rehearsals in Toronto, they will travel to Germany to begin preparations to perform in the Walt Disney Theatre for the first time this November.

Spider-Man and his Spider-Bots have made their way onto the Disney Destiny! Earlier this week, the shipyard team installed the first-ever Marvel stern character in Disney Cruise Line history, using cranes to hoist the larger-than-life sculpture up and securely bolt it to the back of the ship.

The figure depicts Spider-Man swooping into action as he teams up with three Spider-Bots to add the finishing touches to the ship’s geometric filigree. The sharp edges and crisscrossing designs in the filigree are a playful nod to Spider-Man’s web-slinging skills. The Spider-Bots are equipped with yellow-dipped paintbrushes and some must-have cruise accessories, including sunglasses and a snorkel mask.

When guests arrive at the Disney Destiny’s home port in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. later this year, the stern character will be their first glimpse into the magic that awaits aboard the ship, setting the scene for an adventure full of experiences inspired by legendary Disney heroes and villains.

Earlier this year, we revealed new villainous entertainment experiences coming to the Disney Destiny, including two ways that future cruisers will encounter the fabulously over-the-top Cruella de Vil around the ship.

Those who can’t get enough of this diabolical diva can also enjoy a lavish evening at De Vil’s – an all-new piano lounge that pays homage to Cruella’s fashionista legacy. Today, we’re sharing details about how Walt Disney Imagineers are bringing this glamourous new space to life.

Just beyond the Grand Hall, a marquee will spell out “De Vil’s” in letters designed to look like piano keys, setting the scene for an evening of live music and chic cocktails. As guests enter the lounge, a floor mosaic will read Cruella’s infamous catchphrase, “How Marvelous,” surrounded by 15 paw prints.

Inside the lounge, each detail will reflect Cruella’s flair for style and wickedly bold attitude. The uniquely shaped furnishings will have a luxurious feel with rich textures and couture fabrics, drawing inspiration from her signature color palette of black and white with red accents. The carpet will feature an intricate design that appears ink-splotched and hand-drawn as a tribute to Ken Anderson, the artist who oversaw the stylized designs of the characters in Disney Animation’s “One Hundred and One Dalmatians.” 

An eye-catching spotted piano will be the focal point of the venue. As a special treat for ship’s log readers, we’re sharing a downloadable wallpaper with the spotted pattern from the piano to help guests embrace their villainous side as we eagerly await the debut of De Vil’s in November.

When young cruisers slide into Disney’s Oceaneer Club on the Disney Destiny, they’ll be transported to the candy-filled world of Sugar Rush from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film, “Wreck-It Ralph.” Disney Imagineers are bringing the video game to life at the entrance of the Youth Activities area by incorporating colorful sweets into every detail, from the candy-shaped lighting fixtures to the custom carpet designed to look like the speedway from the film (with chocolate and caramel sauce outlining the racetracks!).

To tie the space together, Walt Disney Imagineering will bring in life-size statues of the film’s villain-turned-hero, Wreck-It Ralph, and his spirited sidekick, Vanellope von Schweetz. This duo perfectly embodies the dynamic duality of the ship’s heroes and villains theme, reminding us that even the so-called “villains” can be heroes in their own right.

Imagineer Meg Tracy, one of the creative minds behind the statues, is pictured reviewing the paint treatment to ensure each shade perfectly matches the animated characters from the film. With the finishing touches complete, the statues will soon be installed on Deck 2, ready to greet your little ones as they gear up for adventure!

Show development for “Disney Hercules” is in full swing! Earlier this month, Disney Live Entertainment traveled to Nashville, Tenn. to record the music for the new Broadway-style stage show, debuting exclusively on the Disney Destiny.

A small group of singers from Orlando, Fla. joined forces with a 17-voice choir of some of Nashville’s greatest gospel singers to reimagine the iconic soundtrack from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film with a soulful, high-energy twist. A fresh take on the musical arrangements was brought to life by an orchestra of nearly 70 talented musicians, plus a 10-piece marching band drumline.

The group dedicated more than 50 hours to producing the 55-minute soundtrack for the show, which includes an all-new theatrical rendition of “Shooting Star” – a song originally written for the film that didn’t make the final cut! With the music complete, the team will continue developing show elements like props, choreography and costumes in preparation for future cruise guests this November.

At Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenberg, Germany, new milestones are being reached every day as the Disney Destiny takes shape. Meanwhile, teams around the world are working on all the magical, yet-to-be-installed details that will bring beloved Disney stories to life onboard for future guests. Hannah Loflin is a Senior Concept Artist/Illustrator for Disney Live Entertainment and one of the many creatives collaborating on custom art for the ship.

Loflin, who turned her childhood passion for art and Disney animated films into a career designing works for Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line, is currently creating a collection of three Easter egg-loaded still life paintings inspired by revered Disney Villains – Captain Hook, Prince John and the Evil Queen. Each piece captures the essence of the character with symbolism pulled directly from classic Walt Disney Animation Studios films.

From an artist’s perspective, Loflin enjoyed creating the dynamic textures present in the piece honoring Captain Hook, including the lavish gold, silks, jewels and feathers found in Hook’s private quarters. She also hopes guests will notice some of the intentional details she wove into the artwork, like a lantern door left slightly ajar, as if Tinker Bell just made her escape as she did in the Disney Animation film.

Hannah’s wicked still life collection is just one way that the Disney Destiny’s unique theme of heroes and villains will come to life onboard. Once she puts the finishing touches on the art, the pieces will be installed on Deck 4 in a corridor near Hook’s Barbery.

The shipyard team is making great progress on the interior of the Disney Destiny, and new spaces are coming to life every day. One of those spaces is Café Megara, one of two new walk-up cafes just off the Grand Hall, and today we’re giving a behind-the-scenes look at how Walt Disney Imagineering is drawing inspiration from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Hercules” to create this heroic venue.

From the barstool and lounge chair fabrics to the accent wall tiles, each design detail in Café Megara is handpicked by Imagineers to create a vibrant space with nods to the ancient world of Greek mythology and legendary heroes. The color palette is inspired by the film’s iconic characters, Megara and Pegasus, and incorporates shades of purple and blue.

Walt Disney Imagineers Beth Burkhardt and Rachel Willcoxon can be seen reviewing textile samples that will come together to transport future café guests to Mount Olympus, including a custom cloud-like carpet pattern and wallpaper with hidden designs of Pegasus leaping through the clouds. As the Imagineers finalize their selections, the shipyard team transforms the space from zero to hero!

For the first time in Disney Cruise Line history, a Marvel Super Hero will be the signature stern character on the Disney Destiny, a hallmark design feature that represents each ship’s unique theme and personality. Now in its final stages of completion, this larger-than-life sculpture will eventually be installed among the filigree on the back of the ship, showcasing Spider-Man and his Spider-Bots attempting to assist with decorating the stern.

Walt Disney Imagineer Jay Abruzzese, principal production designer, recently met with the production team for a creative review of our friendly neighborhood stern character. Check out this video on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at the process.

Like its sister ships, the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, a fan-favorite focal point of the Disney Destiny’s staterooms will be the oversized custom art piece mounted in place of a headboard above the main bed. Inspired by the ship’s theme of “heroes and villains,” these murals will depict the alluring duality and epic journeys of famous Disney and Pixar legends, such as Hercules, Mulan and Merida — the designs for which were revealed today for the first time.

Walt Disney Imagineering has dreamed up two incredible statues destined for Edna Á La Mode Sweets, an all-new confectionary inspired by Pixar Animation Studios’ “The Incredibles.”

Taking cues from the “Auntie Edna” short film, the statues showcase Edna Mode — fashion designer for the world’s most famous Supers — hard at work while attempting to entertain the unpredictable super baby Jack-Jack with sweet treats.

Imagineers partnered with Pixar Animation Studios to create the sculptures, from sketch to digital model to reality. When finished, they’ll be transported to the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany for installation and finally prepared for the sweetest of photo ops aboard the Disney Destiny.

A defining trait of every Disney Cruise Line ship is the signature character statue that welcomes guests as soon as they step on board. For the first time ever, the Disney Destiny will feature a Marvel Super Hero in this place of honor: T’Challa, the original Black Panther.

Walt Disney Imagineering is currently putting the finishing touches on this stunning depiction of T’Challa standing strong atop a jut of rock, the feline form of a black panther at his feet. To set this bronze statue apart, Imagineers designed a textured black finish with silver and purple accents that infuse the sculpture with a sense of life, capturing the power and grace of the King of Wakanda. Check out this video on Instagram for a first look!

This one-of-a-kind statue will ultimately take its place in the Wakanda-inspired Grand Hall, beckoning cruisers into a brand-new world of heroes and villains … and legendary vacation memories.

The countdown to the Disney Destiny’s maiden voyage on November 20, 2025 is on! For ship’s log readers that simply can’t wait to set sail and Disney fans alike, the Disney Destiny has taken over the official Disney Cruise Line playlist on Spotify, featuring a collection of songs that speak to the exciting venues onboard and the ship’s unique heroes and villains theme.

Hits from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Lion King will help future guests build up their appetite and get ready to dine at the all-new restaurant opening on the ship, Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King. The playlist also features iconic favorites from the Disney Animation film, Hercules, to go the distance in preparation for the high-energy, Broadway-style stage show set to debut at the Walt Disney Theatre. And who can forget about Cruella De Vil’s memorable theme song from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ One Hundred and One Dalmatians, which will set the tune for De Vil’s, an adult-exclusive piano lounge.

Fans can discover the full playlist on Spotify now!

Last week, the Disney Destiny completed another exciting construction milestone at Meyer Werft Shipyard when it touched water for the first time. The process, known as “float up,” began by flooding the building dock with water from the Ems River in order to lift the Disney Destiny from the floor of the chamber. The ship was then guided to another position in the hall, where the team will begin testing different systems onboard, including the main engines. In the coming months, the shipyard team will continue to focus on building out the legendary interior spaces coming to the Disney Destiny.

With the final block of the Disney Destiny in place, the team at Meyer Werft shipyard can turn their attention to installing the unique exterior features that will distinguish the ship. First on the list is a whimsical art piece on the Disney Destiny’s bow, which depicts Minnie Mouse striking a valiant pose in her new heroic ensemble. With her cape billowing behind her, Minnie Mouse’s outfit symbolizes the Disney Destiny’s first-of-its-kind “Heroes and Villains” design theme.

The elegant, hand-painted filigree continues a longstanding Disney Cruise Line tradition dating back to the fleet’s first ship, the Disney Magic, with every Disney Cruise Line vessel having a distinct character-inspired image embossed on its bow. In the lead up to the Disney Destiny’s maiden voyage in November of this year, the team at Meyer Werft shipyard will continue to add details to the ship’s exterior and interior.

Today, we are bringing you a first look at this ship’s progress and are excited to share that the final blocks (i.e. sections of the ship) were put into place in late 2024. That’s right – with the last piece of the ship in place, the ship’s exterior is now structurally complete and outfitting work has begun on the interior. Take a look at this timelapse construction footage to see the Disney Destiny’s progress, including a look at how it was built alongside the Disney Treasure in the shipyard.

Stay tuned for more updates about the next ship to join the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Your destiny awaits!

UPDATED: Updates to Travel Protection Plans for Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort

(Disney Destinations) — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:04:13 -0400

Beginning October 1, 2025, the Travel Protection Plan rates will adjust for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. All current benefits, coverage and policies will remain the same with this update.

The updated rates are $99 per adult at Walt Disney World Resort and $89 per adult at Disneyland Resort. As a reminder, all of these rates are inclusive of children up to age 17.

The Travel Protection Plan continues to be a commissionable add-on.

Save Up to $250 Per Night with This 2026 Disney World Package

(Disney Destinations) — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:26:13 -0400

There is nothing like a visit to Walt Disney World, where first-timers and long-time visitors can do something new every day. And now, Disney World has a new deal to help guests do just that.

A New Way to Save

We always provide a wide variety of ticket, dining and hotel options, and promotional offers throughout the year, as part of our commitment to welcome as many families as possible.

Beginning Sept. 30, guests can save up to $250 per night on a 4-night or longer Disney Resort hotel stay when also purchasing a 4-day or longer theme park ticket. This Walt Disney Travel Company package deal is available for visits select nights between January 4 and July 25, 2026.

This deal is the perfect way to experience everything Walt Disney World has to offer. This room and ticket package gives guests the chance to stay at a Disney Resort hotel (which is like extending the magic of the theme parks to where they sleep) and see the latest our theme parks have to offer.

Enjoy All Disney World Offers

Here’s just a taste of all guests can enjoy in a day:

World-class attractions for both the thrill-seekers and easy-going riders.
The best of entertainment, from musicals to parades and fireworks.
Guests' favorite Disney characters (Like Mickey Mouse or Tiana or Elsa or Chewbacca or Woody or...).
Delicious food and drink. We have everything, like trendy bites perfect for sharing on social media, immersive experiences and even the basics for picky eaters (or when they just need some chicken nuggets).

When guests visit Walt Disney World, they create your own experience based on what’s important to them.

Looking for more than just a glimpse of everything guests can see and do at The Most Magical Place on Earth? We broke down some top recommendations by each park. Use them as inspiration to plan guests' vacations.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Must-do's:

Disney Villains: Unfair ly Ever After stars iconic Disney villains, and guests can choose who is the most unfairly of them all. Then, they can swim on over to The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure to relive Ariel’s fin-tastic story.
Whether guests are a huge Star Wars fans or don’t know the difference between the Resistance and the First Order, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is a thrill. Guests can ride in the the Millennium Falcon on a spectacular flight. Plus, beginning May 2026, join The Mandalorian bounty hunter and Grogu on a new mission.

Best Bites:

Guests who want dinner and a show can check out the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, where they can eat all-American cuisine in a '50s-style car (it’s a table, we promise) parked at a drive-in theater.

EPCOT

Must-do's:

Guests should buckle up for a thrilling trip on the newly reimagined Test Track presented by General Motors. They can discover how the future of technology shapes how we connect with each other on this unforgettable joy ride.
Guests can fly through space and time with the Guardians of the Galaxy on this family-thrill attraction! Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind features Disney’s first reverse-launch and promises fun around every corner... plus, they get to jam out to some groovy tunes.

Best Bites:

Guests can stop by the Rose & Crown, a family-friendly British pub that offers famous favorites, like fish and chips or bangers and mash. They can’t go wrong! They should just be sure to leave room for the sticky toffee pudding (trust us).

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Must-do's:

When visiting our wildest theme park, guests must check out Zootopia: Better Zoogether! (opening on November 7!). This new 4D show stars Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde for fun in the Tree of Life Theater. The citizens of Zootopia will come together for Zoogether Day, where all in attendance will laugh and let loose.
Guests can board a banshee and embark on a 3D journey over Pandora on Avatar Flight of Passage. Bonding with a banshee is a huge moment for a Na’vi hunter on Pandora. Now, guests have the very same chance to rise to the challenge. Sivako!

Best Bites:

Guests can make their journey to Pandora – The World of Avatar even better with a meal at Satu’li Canteen. This former RDA mess hall supplies all the comforts of home in a brand-new way (cheeseburger pods, anyone?)

Magic Kingdom

Must-do's:

Set. Launch. Enter the Grid at TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise. Guests climb aboard their very own Lightcycle and take off on an exhilarating high-speed race. This is one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park – they won’t want to miss it!
Guests can close out the most magical day ever with Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, a new nighttime parade. They can watch in awe as their favorite Disney and Pixar stories, like Moana, Peter Pan, Encanto, Frozen and Pinocchio unfold draped in dazzling lights and a touch of magic.

Best Bites:

Guests can enjoy New England favorites and more at Columbia Harbour House, dining on classics like the New England clam chowder, a lobster roll or the chicken platter. And they shouldn't forget to add the black garlic, truffle and parmesan fries as a side!

Disney Resort Hotels

For guests looking for Disney Resort hotel deals, starting September 30, save up to 25% at select Disney Resort hotels for visits select nights between January 4 and April 30, 2026. We also have special deals on rooms for Annual Passholders and Florida Residents. Check them out on DisneyWorld.com/Offers.

Plus, when staying at a Disney Resort hotel in 2026, guests can get a free dining plan for kids (ages 3 to 9) when they purchase a dining plan for guests ages 10 and up. This is combinable with other deals, so they can buy any of the offers mentioned in this article and still qualify to get a free dining plan for kids. Get all the details on the Walt Disney World offers page.

Looking for more Disney World deals? Check out DisneyWorld.com/Offers.

Save on Vacations to Walt Disney World This Spring

(Disney Destinations) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 07:01:34 -0400

Save on vacations to Walt Disney World this Spring with three great offers!

This spring, save up to $250 per night on a 4-night, 4-day (or longer) Walt Disney Travel Company room-and-ticket package at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels, for stays most nights from February 22 to July 25, 2026.

Other savings are available for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 4 to February 19, 2026.

See full offer details here.

Spring into magic with this room offer for select Disney Resorts Collection hotels!

Save up to 25% on rooms for stays most nights from February 22 to April 30, 2026
Save up to 20% on rooms for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 4 to February 19, 2026

See full offer details here.

Florida residents can spring into magic with this special offer at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels!

Save up to 30% on rooms for stays most nights from February 22 to April 30, 2026
Save up to 25% on rooms for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 4 to February 19, 2026

See full offer details here.

There is also a special offer for Annual Passholders to save up to 35% on select rooms. Find details on DisneyWorld.com.

Marketing materials are available for download on Disney Copyright, and a Job Aid for travel advisor use only is available here.

Fall 2025 Disney Cruise Line Disney Visa Cardmember Offer

(Disney Destinations) — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:28:28 -0400

This fall, Disney Visa Cardmembers can book a cruise on the Disney Wish, Disney Dream, Disney Magic or Disney Fantasy on select dates and receive $250 onboard credit. This offer is combinable with the Categories with Restrictions offer and 50% 3rd and 4th Guest offer. This offer is valid on select October, November and December 2025 dates - book now through December 1, 2025.

This offer is valid on the following sail dates. As a reminder, the most up-to-date list of sailings and complete offer details can always be found here.

Disney Magic

Dec. 15, 2025

Disney Dream

Nov. 3, 2025
Nov. 8, 2025
Nov. 12, 2025
Nov. 17, 2025
Nov. 26, 2025
Dec. 8, 2025
Dec. 15, 2025
Dec. 19, 2025
Dec. 26, 2025

Disney Fantasy

Dec. 17, 2025
Dec. 21, 2025
Dec. 26, 2025
Dec. 31, 2025

Disney Wish

Oct. 17, 2025
Oct. 20, 2025
Oct. 24, 2025
Oct. 27, 2025
Oct. 31, 2025
Nov. 3, 2025
Dec. 19, 2025
Dec. 22, 2025
Dec. 26, 2025

Itinerary Change for the Sept. 26, 2025 Disney Wish Sailing

(Disney Destinations) — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:17:25 -0400

Due to the forecasted track of a weather system that is predicted to produce tropical storm force winds in The Bahamas later this weekend, the decision has been made to change the itinerary for the Sept. 26, 2025 Disney Wish sailing. On Saturday, instead of visiting Nassau, Guests will now visit Disney Castaway Cay. On Sunday, the ship will enjoy a day at sea.

The revised itinerary is as follows:

Friday, 9/26/25	Port Canaveral, Florida
Saturday, 9/27/25	Disney Castaway Cay (previously Nassau, Bahamas)
Sunday, 9/28/25	Day at Sea (previously Disney Castaway Cay)
Monday, 9/29/25	Port Canaveral

Any Port Adventures that were pre-reserved in Disney Castaway Cay will automatically be adjusted to fit the revised itinerary. Any Port Adventures that were pre-reserved in Nassau will automatically be removed from Guest onboard accounts. Guests who wish to reserve any additional experiences ashore in Disney Castaway Cay may do so once onboard the ship through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app or at the Port Adventures desk.

At this time, no other itinerary changes have been made. Disney Cruise Line will continue to monitor the weather and advise if any additional changes are made. A Seamail will be sent to Guests and Travel Agents advising of the itinerary change.