Disney Book for ISSUU

DISNEY MAGIC AT SEA

DISNEY CRUISE LINE IS COMING TO AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEA ND

©

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SAILING ON THE DISNEY WONDER

2023 Disney

The DISNEY DIFFERENCE

Disney Cruise Line will be receiving a warm welcome to Australia and New Zealand with Disney Magic at Sea sailings starting from October this year, and a special new season beginning October next year. Here’s why you should be on board, writes Lucy Jones.

F

or almost 70 years, its Parks have proudly been creating some of the happiest memories that families cherish for years to come. In 1998, Disney took that special brand of magic to the seas. This year, for the first time, Disney Cruise Line will be coming to Australia and New Zealand with Disney Magic at Sea.

This is truly an epic ocean adventure for the whole family – there is something for kids, teens, parents and even the grandparents. Here’s all you need to know.

• The Disney magic is coming close to you!

The Disney Wonder will be the first ship from Disney Cruise Line to sail in Australia and New Zealand. The 11-deck ship underwent a complete refurbishment in 2019 and has three swimming

pools, including a kids water splash and play area, plus a double looping waterslide.

There’s an outdoor basketball court and ping pong tables for sporty days in the sun, while the luxe Senses Spa & Salon is the perfect escape for some R&R.

If you’re looking for a little extra indulgence, the exclusive Concierge-level staterooms and suites offer next-level luxury and a host of benefits. Then there are the special touches that you won’t find on any other ship. Get a hug from Mickey Mouse, have tea with Cinderella and save the day with Spider-Man. Sing along with some of your favourite Disney tunes in blockbuster live musicals and dance the night away at rollicking, themed deck parties. The crew work hard to sprinkle pixie dust on every aspect

WELCOME

of your cruise. With Disney’s signature service, it makes for a voyage like no other.

Disney Magic at Sea will arrive in Australia for its first season in October this year. It’s proven so popular, a second season was recently announced and the ship will return to our waters from October 2024, sailing twoto seven-night itineraries from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland.

The second season is setting up to be spectacular, so be sure you don’t miss out and book your spot early on.

• Why a Disney cruise?

1. Showstopping Broadwaystyle entertainment every night with music from Disney films.

2. Unforgettable encounters with beloved Disney Characters from Mickey and Minnie to some of your Pixar favourites, Marvel super heroes and Star Wars legends.

3. Imaginative dining with delicious food and signature Disney storytelling, live music and interactive entertainment.

Fun fact

Like all Disney Cruise Line ships, the colour scheme of the Disney Wonder is inspired by Mickey Mouse with the black hull, white superstructure, red funnels and yellow lifeboats.

4. Fun for everyone with areas for family get-togethers, dedicated kids’ clubs and adults-exclusive retreats.

5. Spacious staterooms and suites designed to fit the whole family, some with interconnecting cabins perfect for multigenerational groups.

From left to right: A team of Disney Crew Members; the Disney Wonder at sea; Frozen, A Musical Spectacular; on board meet-and-greet with Donald Duck.

SHOWTIME!

From meeting some of your favourite super heroes to a deck party with Disney’s classic Characters, a Disney Magic at Sea cruise will enchant every member of your family.

Awhole new world of entertainment awaits on board Disney Magic at Sea. From musicals to deck parties and the chance to share stories (or cross swords) with some of your favourite Characters, you’ll find yourself in a Disney fantasy.

• Musical magic

Step into the Walt Disney Theatre on the Disney Wonder and you’ll feel as though you’ve arrived on Broadway. This vast, Art Deco-style performance space seats almost 1000 people and oozes the luxury of a bygone era. But up on stage, there’s state-of-the-art technology for performances that will captivate.

The latest musical extravaganza brings to the stage the movie Frozen, the heartwarming tale of two royal sisters and their quest to free Arendelle from eternal winter. This is a true Broadwaycalibre show, with sumptuous costumes and

sets, dramatic choreography and songs from the original score transformed into grand ensemble performances. There’s even a chance you’ll see Olaf and a few flurries of snow. The whole family will be swept up in the magic of the stage and won’t be able to resist singing along. Depending on the length of your cruise, there may be other live performances.

“Interacting with famous Disney Characters is just a part of every day on board.”

Disney Dreams: An Enchanted Classic features

Characters and songs from Pinocchio, Peter Pan, Aladdin and Cinderella. With the same highlevel production value, costumes and special effects, you’ll be moved and inspired as a little girl learns to believe in herself. On sailings of three or more nights, Golden Mickeys brings a touch of Hollywood glamour to Disney Magic at Sea. Styled as an awards show, Guests are encouraged to dress up for the red-carpet arrivals.

• Deck parties

The fun starts on your first night aboard with Mickey’s Sail-A-Wave Party! (available on select itineraries). It’s the perfect way to celebrate the start of your Disney adventure. With two high-energy hosts, a live DJ and Disney legends Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto on deck, you won’t be able to resist the dancefloor. Pirate Night features a swashbuckling menu in all main restaurants, games and trivia, and a boisterous deck party. The kids’ clubs will also host pirate-themed activities, so the grown-ups can enjoy a Caribbean cocktail or mocktail in peace. Deck parties will happen during select itineraries of three or more nights, where you may even experience fireworks.

• Character experiences

Step aboard Disney Magic at Sea and you’re entering a world of fantasy. Disney’s ships are the only ones where you may see Belle, Woody or Thor wandering the decks. Interacting with famous Disney Characters is just a part of every day on board and it has the power to create magic in unexpected moments. Kids and adults alike will get a thrill when they recognise a childhood favourite.

There are a range of interactive Character experiences and meet-and-greets. Check the Navigator App or the lobby noticeboard to see when they’re scheduled for your voyage. Appearances happen by the pool, in the Lobby

Atrium and at the kids’ clubs. Dedicated Princess Gatherings star a selection of Disney’s iconic royalty on sailings of three or more nights. Little ones are encouraged to come dressed up for the occasion. Budding super heroes will have the chance to save the world alongside Marvel Characters. These special interactive experiences include fun games and activities, photo opportunities, and time to talk to Spider-Man, Thor and more.

Two-night sailings may have modified or limited entertainment offerings. Additional costs may be required for some experiences and may need to be booked in advance. See the website and check closer to the sailing date for more.

Clockwise, from far left: Golden Mickeys live show; the Sail-A-Wave Party!; fireworks on select sailings; meet Princess Tiana or Chewbacca.

LEARN MORE

What’s for DINNER?

Family meals together are a joy on board Disney Cruise Line with delicious options for all ages – and entertainment as well.

As Disney’s most famous gourmand, Winnie the Pooh, once said – “What could be more important than a little something to eat?” There are delicious moments waiting for you on board Disney Magic at Sea, from the unique Rotational Dining system in the main restaurants to all the Mickey-shaped ice cream you can eat.

The majority of your dining options (including all three main restaurants and most casual dining spots and room-service items) are included in the fare, along with most soft drinks, tea and brewed coffee. Expansive menus and excellent options for the kids mean the whole family can dine together. But if you’d like to treat yourself to an adultexclusive meal, the ship’s fine dining restaurant won’t disappoint.

• Main dining

There are three main restaurants on board Disney Magic at Sea: Tiana’s Place, Animator’s Palate and Triton’s. Each has its own signature style, menu and experience.

Tiana’s Place is a raucous celebration of Southern American cuisine inspired by The Princess and The Frog. Tuck into hearty plates of bouillabaisse and buttermilk beignets while tapping your toes to the swinging sounds of a New Orleans live jazz band.

The state-of-the-art technology in Animator’s Palate brings Disney Characters to life before your eyes, with Sorcerer Mickey transforming the black and white interior into a riot of colour. The menu here is a fresh fusion of Pacific Island, Asian and Californian cuisine, with a focus on seafood and indulgent desserts.

Triton’s, named after Ariel’s father in The Little Mermaid, offers fine dining with a Franco-American

Bar; dining at Palo.

Words: Lucy Jones.

twist, plating up duck confit and three-cheese lobster macaroni. Triton’s also serves a la carte breakfast and lunch daily.

Seasoned cruisers will be familiar with the concept of assigned seating, but Disney Cruise Line does things a little differently. Rotational Dining ensures that all Guests get to dine at each of the main restaurants at least once during their cruise. Using the Navigator App, each Guest is assigned a restaurant schedule and table number for each day. Your wait staff move with you each night, so they’ll get to know you and your preferences. Whether that’s your favourite wine or that sneaky second helping of dessert, they’ll make every meal special.

Casual dining & snacks

You’ll feel right at home at Cabanas, a relaxed buffet-style restaurant serving breakfast and lunch. You can dine on Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles, made-to-order omelettes, sandwiches, salads, burgers, pizza, steak and dessert. Grab a table by the windows for sea views as you eat. On the pool deck, there are plenty of options.

Pete’s Boiler Bites specialises in American classics like burgers and hot dogs, or grab a slice of pizza from Pinocchio’s Pizzeria. Daisy’s De-Lites serves up salads, wraps and fruit. And what’s a holiday without some ice cream? Named after one-eyed monster Mike Wazowski from Monsters, Inc., Eye Scream Treats offers soft-serve ice cream and toppings around the clock.

• Room service

Feel like breakfast in bed or a late-night snack while watching a favourite Disney movie? Room service is available 24 hours a day so you’ll never go hungry. The best part? Most of these items are included in your cruise fare!

Two-night sailings may have modified or limited dining offerings. Additional costs may be required for some experiences and may need to be booked in advance. See the website and check closer to the sailing date for more.

Something special

Dress in your best for an evening at Palo (pictured above), The Disney Wonder’s adult-exclusive restaurant that’s a slice of Venetian elegance at sea. Serving northern Italian cuisine, you’ll find antipasti, seafood and fresh pasta on the menu, as well as the signature dish –dover sole, prepared tableside. While Palo isn’t included in your cruise fare, the opulent design, with gold inlays and paintings of Venice, accompanied by live piano music makes for a memorable night out and is well worth the extra charge.

Treat the kids to the Royal Court Royal Tea, a refined afternoon tea of sweet and savoury delights accompanied by music, entertainment and a meet-and-greet with some of the Princesses. While this does come at an extra cost, the smiles are worth every penny.

There’s no such thing as a dull day on a Disney Magic at Sea cruise. With fun kids’ clubs and dedicated adult-exclusive spaces, your whole cruise crew will have the time of their lives.

• Fun & games

Cruises are mainly throughout the summer months when sailing in local waters, so you’ll be heading to the pool deck. Goofy’s Pool is an on board oasis with a main pool and two whirlpools. It’s also the spot for poolside movies and games hosted by Crew Members. Get a thrill from the Twist ’n’ Spout doublelooping waterslide while little ones frolic in the sprinklers, tipping buckets and shallow pools. Shoot some hoops on the basketball court or challenge your family to a ping pong tournament on the sports deck.

• Kids’ clubs

Every cruise is a fantasy playground for children. In the Oceaneer Club (age 3-12) kids can play, dance and sing with some their favourite Characters. For kids who love to learn, the Oceaneer Lab is a pirate-themed space where

Snapshot of the fun on board

• Three swimming pools

• Kids’ waterplay area

• Waterslide

• Sports deck with basketball court and ping pong tables

• Fitness centre

• Running track

• Kids’ clubs for ages 3-17

• Nursery for ages 6 months to 3 years

they can draw, build, cook and create. Even hardto-please tweens (age 11 to 14) will be charmed by their cool, urban loft-inspired space. All of these areas are open late with full supervision.

Book kids aged six months to three into the It’s a Small World Nursery. And the best part is, access to these are already included in your fare.

• Adult exclusive

The Quiet Cove Pool is a hidden retreat where you can sip cocktails or mocktails in deckchairs, soak in the whirlpools or swim a few sedate laps. Also for adults are the nightclubs, bars and lounges, and a fitness centre. The Senses Spa & Salon is another adult-exclusive that comes at an extra cost, though once you’re completely relaxed, will be entirely worth it.

You won’t be short of things to do on a Disney Magic at Sea voyage where there’s fun to be had for all the family.

The Twist ’n’ Spout (above); fun in the Kids’ Club (left); Quiet Cove Pool (below).

Sweet DREAMS

Whether you’re cruising as a couple, travelling with the kids or bringing the grandparents, there’s a Disney stateroom to suit you.

On a Disney cruise, your stateroom becomes a home away from home, the perfect place to relax and recharge before another busy day at sea. All rooms feature a Premium Plush Euro-top mattress, 300-thread-count cotton sheets, 22” LCD TV, fridge and individual climate control. Custom artwork and linens bring a little Disney magic to your private retreat. There are a number of adjoining rooms, accessible staterooms across all categories and split bathrooms that allow for multiple people to get ready at once.

comfortable for an attractive price. They offer more space than you’d find on comparable ships, sleeping up to four Guests with a living area and a full bathroom with a tub. there’s also a living area and a split bathroom with a tub. Larger groups will like the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, which sleeps up to five Guests.

• Concierge Stateroom and Suite

• Inside Stateroom

For the cruisers who plan to spend most of their time out and about, the inside staterooms will keep you

• Oceanview Stateroom

From soothing sea views to tropical island vistas and the postcard panorama of Sydney Harbour, every day is a new discovery in an Oceanview Stateroom. Sleeping up to four Guests, these spacious staterooms have a living area, a split bathroom including a bathtub and one or two portholes.

• Verandah Stateroom

Step out onto your own little piece of oceanfront real estate in a plush Verandah Staterooms. With ample space for four,

If you want to splash out on your Disney cruise, book one of the luxurious Concierge-level staterooms and suites. The one- and two-bedroom suites feature a whirlpool tub, a stocked wet bar and walk-in wardrobes. The indulgent Royal Suite is the ultimate in Disney decadence at sea, sleeping up to seven people across more than 90 square metres. Concierge-level accommodation also come with signature Concierge services. Find out more on page 10.

The Staterooms (from top): Verandah; Oceanview; Inside; and Concierge Verandah.

SP SH OUT

Want to cruise like real Disney royalty? Concierge service is for you.

Every Guest on Disney Magic at Sea gets to enjoy great food, exciting entertainment and exquisite service, but there’s a special tier that gets sprinkled with a little extra pixie dust. Welcome to Concierge.

• Staterooms and suites

There are four categories available in Concierge: Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, One- and Two-Bedroom Suites with Verandah, and the two-bedroom Royal Suite with Verandah. These are the most spacious accommodations on board, indulgent retreats offering sophisticated décor and elegant furnishings. Larger groups can take advantage of the interconnecting rooms on this level, adding adjoining one-bedroom suites. In Concierge, there’s fluffy feather doonas, a choice of pillows, plush bathrobe and slippers, free WiFi and an expanded complimentary room service menu is available throughout the cruise.

• Personalised service

Before you even set foot on board, you’ll experience the magic of Concierge service. Concierge Guests can book on board activities and services up to 120 days prior to departure. The exclusive Concierge Team can also organise something special for a celebration and are on hand to help during your cruise.

• Extras on board

Priority boarding means you’ll have access to dedicated check-in areas on embarkation day. You can then meet the Concierge Team and your fellow passengers at a special welcome reception. Concierge Guests also have access to priority disembarkation.

The Concierge Lounge is an exclusive hideaway open only to Concierge Guests. It’s the place to relax, have a snack from the buffet or a complimentary beer or wine for those 18 years or older during happy hour.

The perks: Concierge Team (above), suites and lounge.

Are you eady for a little MAGIC?

rom the Frozen fanatic to those who don’t know Aurora from Ariel, every day on board Disney Magic at Sea is a whirl of dazzling entertainment, fun experiences, great food and joyful parties.

F

This is the place to create lasting memories. Sing along to songs where everyone knows the words. Splash about in the sunshine on the pool deck. Meet legendary Characters that have been beloved by every generation. Have tea with a princess or or sit back, relax and watch the sunset.

Fares include just about everything on board from dining and entertainment to recreation and the spacious staterooms that have flexible layouts to suit everyone.

Dine at a different restaurant each night with Disney Cruise Line’s unique Rotational Dining concept. With menus that range from California fusion to spicy Creole and French fine dining, you won’t eat the same meal twice. In between, snack on burgers, pizza, salads and ice cream, or relax with room service.

Enjoy Broadway-calibre musicals, bringing iconic Disney movies to life on the stage. Dance the night away at one of the dazzling deck parties. And when the family needs some all-important time apart, there are kids’ clubs, teen hangouts and adult-exclusive retreats that give everyone the perfect day at sea. As Mickey Mouse once said, all you need is a little bit of magic.

• Set sail

With 30 sailings scheduled for the 2024/2025 season, there’s bound to be a Disney Magic at Sea cruise to suit you. The Disney Wonder will sail from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland between October 2024 and February 2025. There’s a mix of short itineraries where you’ll get to spend the whole time on the ship, longer loops that take in one or two ports, oneway journeys, and 6-7night itineraries that will take you to Tasmania, the Sapphire Coast and even New Caledonia.

Health and safety measures, ports of call and offerings may change at any time without notice. On board venues, experiences, services and offerings may be modified or limited in capacity or availability, and are subject to restrictions, cancellation or closure without notice. See disneycruise.com/updates.

Sail away with SpiderMan; cruising with all the family (below).

Every cruiser will fall under the spell of Disney Magic at Sea.

LEARN MORE