In a landmark move, Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd. (OLC) have announced an expanded partnership to bring Disney Cruise Line to Japan, setting sail by early 2029. This collaboration, the latest chapter in a four-decade-long relationship, aims to create an unparalleled cruise experience for Japanese Disney enthusiasts.

Renowned for owning and operating Tokyo Disney Resort, OLC will now venture into the cruise industry, managing a Disney-branded ship explicitly designed for the Japanese market. The new ship, expected to be approximately 140,000 gross tons with about 1,250 staterooms, will offer an array of magical voyages featuring the signature entertainment, dining, and exceptional guest service that Disney cruises are celebrated for.

“Disney Cruise Line has ambitious plans to bring family vacations and Disney storytelling to more guests worldwide than ever before,” stated Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences. “We are thrilled to continue the success of this expansion as we collaborate with Oriental Land Co. to introduce another distinctly Disney vacation experience to families and fans in Japan.”

Yumiko Takano, representative director, chairperson, and CEO of Oriental Land, expressed her excitement: “I am sincerely proud that Disney and Oriental Land will be able to work together to create a world-class cruise business in Japan. Oriental Land will use its know-how from the theme park business to continue pushing boundaries and providing family entertainment cruise experiences filled with inspiration and surprise.”

The new Disney cruise ship, registered and based in Japan year-round, will be constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. Walt Disney Imagineering crafted the ship’s design, which will incorporate elements from the popular Disney Wish and be tailored to the preferences of Japanese guests. It will also be powered by liquefied natural gas, underscoring a commitment to sustainability.

While specific details about the maiden voyage, itineraries, and onboard experiences are still under wraps, anticipation is building among fans eager for this new chapter in Disney Cruise Line’s global journey. The fleet already sails to top-tier destinations such as The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, and more, with year-round cruises from Singapore set to begin in 2025.

This announcement underscores Disney’s dedication to expanding its magical experiences worldwide, ensuring that more families can create lasting memories through the enchanting world of Disney cruises.

For further information on Disney Cruise Line and upcoming voyages, visit Disney Cruise Line.

Written by: Michelle Warner

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