Disney Cruise Line and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have
announced a groundbreaking partnership that will see the American cruise
line debut in Southeast Asia with its first homeport and new cruise
ship in the region.
The new ship, the eighth in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, will be
exclusively homeported in Singapore for at least five years beginning in
2025.
“This landmark collaboration marks Disney Cruise Line’s debut in
Southeast Asia,” said S. Iswaran, Minister of Transport and
Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations in Singapore. “It speaks volumes
of our region's significant potential for cruise tourism.”
The new ship will be the largest in the Disney Cruise Line fleet,
with a passenger capacity estimated to be approximately 6,000 and around
2,300 crew members. Families will be able to create unforgettable
memories with beloved Disney characters such as Captain Mickey Mouse and
Captain Minnie Mouse, Disney Princesses, Marvel Super Heroes, and more.
It is expected to be among the first in the cruise industry to be
fuelled by green methanol, one of the lowest emission fuels available.
"As we like to say: in Disney Cruise Line is 'where magic meets the
sea'," said Disney Parks' chairman of experiences and products, Josh
D'Amaro. “For many guests, our ships are the true destination, with
Disney Kid clubs, Broadway style shows, interactive character moments,
themed restaurants and fine dining and rejuvenating spots."
“Disney Cruise Line was a pioneer in family cruises and is still the
leader in the segment today. Thanks to its immersive storytelling and
signature service, the Singapore tourism board and Disney World join
forces to deliver fun and memorable experiences tailored for regional
markets,” said Iswaran.
Disney Cruise Line has confirmed that the as-yet unnamed ship that
will sail in Singapore's waters is that of the unfinished Global Dream
acquired last year. The construction of the ship is expected to be
finished at the MV Werften shipyard in Wismar, Germany. Meyer Werft, the
Papenburg-based company responsible for building the Disney Dream,
Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish, will manage the project. Additionally,
Meyer Werft is currently constructing two other Wish-class ships.
The
addition of a Disney Cruise Line ship in Singapore is a significant
milestone for the country and reflects Disney Cruise Line’s strong
confidence in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
The exclusive partnership is expected to have a major impact on the
Southeast Asian tourism industry, attracting millions of local and
foreign cruise passengers to the region over the next five years.
“This collaboration affirms our position as the region's premier
cruise hub and major player in cruise tourism,” said Iswaran.
“World-class air connectivity and port infrastructure make us an ideal
choice, especially for fly-cruise passengers who arrive in Singapore by
air and then hop onto a cruise.”
As part of the Memorandum of Understanding between Disney Cruise Line
and the Singapore Tourism Board, more details about the maiden voyage,
itineraries, and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date.
“We eagerly anticipate your inaugural sailing in Southeast Asia in
2025,” said Iswaran to Disney Cruise Line. “We look forward to a long
and successful collaboration between Disney and Singapore with many more
significant milestones in the years ahead.”