HONOLULU, O’ahu (May 6, 2012) – The Disney Wonder arrives in Honolulu today, marking the first time in Disney Cruise Line history that a ship has sailed to the Hawaiian Islands. This first of two special Hawaiian itineraries continues an exciting expansion period for Disney Cruise Line.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to combine the legendary guest service of Disney Cruise Line with the breathtaking beauty of the Hawaiian Islands,” said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line. “Hawai’i is one of the world’s most extraordinary vacation destinations, offering stunning scenery as well as rich cultural traditions and storytelling. Blending the enchantment of Hawai’i with the magic of Disney is a natural fit.”

In keeping with maritime tradition, a special plaque and key ceremony will be held onboard the ship, commemorating the inaugural call of the Disney Wonder on Honolulu. Captain Fabian Dib will be joined by port and community leaders, as well as Elliot Mills, vice president and general manager of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, at the ceremony.

Cast members from Aulani will also be present, as they greet guests and the crew with “e komo mai,” a Hawaiian phrase of welcome. The Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus will entertain guest and crew as they disembark with both Hawaiian and Disney songs, including some Disney tunes that have been translated into Hawaiian.

The Disney Wonder is currently sailing on a special 15-night cruise that departed Los Angeles, Calif. on April 29. The ship stopped at Hilo, Hawai’i on May 4 and Kahului, Maui on May 5. On May 7, the ship will stop at Nawiliwilil, Kaua’i, giving guests the opportunity to explore four islands during their sailing. In October, the ship will return to Hawai’i for a second time.

The ship will sail seven-night itineraries to Alaska from Seattle, Wash. this summer before heading back to Los Angeles, Calif. to sail seven-night itineraries to the Mexican Riviera in the fall. At the end of the year, the Disney Wonder will reposition to Miami, marking the first time a Disney Cruise Line ship will sail out of Southern Florida. 

Disney Heritage and Hawai’i
In August 2011, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts opened Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawai’i. A first-of-its-kind resort, Walt Disney Imagineers worked hand in hand with the Hawaiian community to create a place that celebrates Hawaiian culture, history and traditions. From contemporary Hawaiian art to myriad recreational activities, culinary programs, excursions and more, guests are immersed in the legends of the islands. Recently, Aulani was named one of the world’s best new hotels on Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s 16^th annual “Hot List.”

Disney Cruise Line
Based in Celebration, Fla., Disney Cruise Line is focused on providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. Most recently, the company was recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the top “Cruise Ships of the World,” with the Disney Magic being voted No. 1 and the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder tying for No. 2. Travel + Leisure magazine also ranked Disney Cruise Line the No. 1 Large-Ship Cruise Line for Families.

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. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.

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KO OLINA, Hawai’i (May 4, 2012) – As the Disney Wonder sails on its historic trip to Hawai’i, the ship will call on multiple ports for the first time. Keeping with maritime tradition, Captain Fabian Dib will join shipboard officers and host local port officials and community leaders aboard the vessel for a traditional plaque exchange ceremony in the following ports:

• Friday, May 4 – Hilo, Hawai’i
• Saturday, May 5 – Kahului, Maui
• Sunday, May 6 – Honolulu, O’ahu
• Monday, May 7 – Nawiliwili, Kaua’i

“Bringing the Disney Wonder to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands marks a significant milestone in our history,” said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line. “Blending the enchantment of Hawai’i with the magic of Disney is a natural fit. Hawai’i is one of the world’s most extraordinary vacation destinations, offering stunning scenery as well as rich cultural traditions and storytelling.”

 Crew members and ship officials will bring a little Disney magic to the local communities in each port as a way of celebrating this monumental occasion. These events not only mark the first call of the Disney Wonder to these ports, but the first time Disney Cruise Line is sailing to the Hawaiian Islands. Due to the overwhelming popularity of Disney’s first Hawaiian cruise, the Disney Wonder will sail a second voyage in October.

 The ship will sail seven-night itineraries to Alaska from Seattle, Wash. this summer before heading back to Los Angeles, Calif. to sail seven-night itineraries to the Mexican Riviera in the fall. At the end of the year, the Disney Wonder will reposition to Miami, marking the first time a Disney Cruise Line ship will sail out of Southern Florida. 

Disney Heritage and Hawai’i
In August 2011, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts opened Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawai’i. A first-of-its-kind resort, Walt Disney Imagineers worked hand in hand with the Hawaiian community to create a place that celebrates Hawaiian culture, history and traditions. From contemporary Hawaiian art to myriad recreational activities, culinary programs, excursions and more, guests are immersed in the legends of the islands. Recently, Aulani was named one of the world’s best new hotels on Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s 16^th annual “Hot List.”

Founder Walt Disney had an affinity for the Hawaiian culture, which continues to influence The Walt Disney Company today. From the 1937 Mickey Mouse animated short “Hawaiian Holiday” to the Polynesian theming of Disneyland’s groundbreaking Enchanted Tiki Room attraction, which debuted in 1963 and established the Audio-Animatronics art form, to the inclusion of Disney’s Polynesian Resort at the Walt Disney World Resort, Walt often pulled inspiration from Hawai’i and the Pacific.

Disney Cruise Line
Based in Celebration, Fla., Disney Cruise Line is focused on providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. Most recently, the company was recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the top “Cruise Ships of the World,” with the Disney Magic being voted No. 1 and the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder tying for No. 2. Travel + Leisure magazine also ranked Disney Cruise Line the No. 1 Large-Ship Cruise Line for Families.

 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.  Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.

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GRAND CAYMAN (April 30, 2012) The Year 6 class from Triple C (Creative Christian Character) School celebrated their success as the winners of the 2012 Disney’s Planet Challenge (DPC), the in-school edition of Disney Friends for Change, during a special awards ceremony held today onboard the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Fantasy. This year, more than 1,300 Cayman students in 69 classes took part in DPC, to make a positive difference for the planet by taking actions at home, in the classroom and in their community.

Led by teacher Sharmaine Campbell, the Year 6 students, equivalent to the fifth grade in the U.S., developed a Save the Wetlands project to preserve local areas by providing safe habitats for a number of wildlife species, including blue iguanas, endemic to the region, whistling ducks and upside-down jellyfish. The class partnered with the local Department of Environment to better understand threatened wetland areas in the Cayman Islands. The class also hosted public events to educate their community, developed plans to battle soil erosion across the islands and organized a 5K walk to raise awareness for the protection of these threatened areas.  

 ”The difference these students are making here in the Cayman Islands is more than commendable,” said Shomari Scott, acting director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands. “The students’ hard work aligns with the Cayman Island Department of Tourism goals and we couldn’t be more proud of their dedication.”

A special awards ceremony commemorating their hard work was held onboard the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Fantasy, where Captain Marco Nogara welcomed the winning students.

“On behalf of all of my officers and crew, we are honored to recognize these young environmental heroes,” said Captain Marco. “All of us at Disney Cruise Line are passionate and dedicated to promoting positive environmental stewardship. To see these students take that extra step and show their personal initiative in their local community inspires us all.”

 While onboard the Disney Fantasy, the students took part in a hands-on science-based activity and explored the ship’s public areas, taking part in interactive experiences utilizing new technology – all while learning more about Disney’s commitment to supporting conservation worldwide. 

Earlier in April, two lucky students from the Year 6 class had the opportunity to attend a special two-day Disney’s Kids and Nature Celebration at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The one-of-a-kind youth summit brought together outstanding youth from around the globe and featured educational experiences with leading conservationists, educators and designers working to find new ways to protect the planet. 

Disney’s Planet Challenge

Created in 2003, Disney’s Planet Challenge is the result of a partnership between Disney Cruise Line and the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. The two-part program encourages children to take an active part in pledging to protect the environment and problem solve environmental issues. The program is part of a global effort to inspire children for global good, which has engaged more than one million children worldwide.

The program was created by The Walt Disney Company in 1994 to inspire students to be good stewards of the environment and empower them to make a difference – at school, at home and in their local communities. It is among Disney’s most significant inspirational initiatives, with similar programs spanning every state in the U.S. and with Disney Cruise Line, the Caribbean.

Disney’s Planet Challenge is part of Disney’s Friends for Change, a multi-platform initiative that inspires kids and families around the world to help people, communities, and the planet.

Disney Cruise Line Environmental Programs

Disney Cruise Line is committed to promoting positive environmental stewardship through efforts focused on utilizing new technologies, increasing fuel efficiency, minimizing waste and promoting conservation worldwide. Each year, cast and crew members assist with separating and processing 1,200 tons of cans, bottles and other recyclables. Annual volunteer coastal cleanups remove additional thousands of pounds of garbage and debris from shorelines each year, while other company programs, like Disney’s Planet Challenge, promote waste minimization and global conservation efforts. Learn more about our Disney Cruise Line’s ongoing commitment to the environment at http://dclnews.com/about/environment/

Disney Cruise Line

Based in Celebration, Fla., Disney Cruise Line is focused on providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. Most recently, the Disney Dream won the top spot for “Best Bahamas Cruises” and “Best Cabins” in the 2012 Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards.  Disney Cruise Line was recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the top “Cruise Ships of the World,” with the Disney Magic being voted No. 1 and the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder tying for No. 2. Travel + Leisure magazine also ranked Disney Cruise Line the No. 1 Large-Ship Cruise Line for Families.

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.  Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.

CELEBRATION, Florida (April 20, 2012) – For the first time, Disney Cruise Line guests will have the opportunity to join crew members onboard Disney ships and on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, as part of the “Walk for Wildlife” campaign. This year, Disney Cruise Line will donate $5,000 on behalf of guests and crew members to the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund to support JGI’s chimpanzee conservation efforts.

Starting today and throughout next week, the guests and crew of all four Disney ships will have the opportunity to participate in a two-mile “Walk for Wildlife” either while visiting Castaway Cay in the Bahamas or while onboard the ship, completing six laps around the promenade deck. 

“We are truly excited to provide this unique opportunity for our guests and crew members to connect with nature while raising money and awareness for a great cause,” said Rena Langley, Vice President of Public Affairs for Disney Cruise Line. “This is the fourth consecutive year our crew members have participated in ‘Walk for Wildlife,’ and we are confident that this year’s event will be even more special because our guests are participating for the first time.”

Nearly $30,000 has been given to environmental charities, as a result of company and personal crew member donations, since the program began three years ago. The walks first began as events exclusively for crew members, allowing them to show their commitment to conservation by making personal donations to environmental causes. Whether onboard our ships or on land, Disney Cruise Line promotes wildlife conservation, works to protect native animal species, shares environmental programs with guests and ports of call worldwide and educates others to inspire environmental action in daily life.

In honor of Earth Month, Disneynature has joined forces with the Jane Goodall Institute for a special “See ‘Chimpanzee,’ Save Chimpanzees” program. For every moviegoer who sees “Chimpanzee” during the film’s opening week (April 20-26), Disneynature will make a donation to the Jane Goodall Institute through DWCF.

Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund
The Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF) has advanced Disney’s legacy of conservation to inspire people and partnerships to protect the world’s wildlife. To date, DWCF has granted more than $18 million to support programs in 111 countries. DWCF is a Disney initiative to conserve nature for future generations and is not a US 501 © (3) public charity. More information about DWCF’s efforts for wildlife, wild places and the people linked to their survival is available at www.disney.com/conservation.

The Jane Goodall Institute
Founded in 1977, the Jane Goodall Institute continues Dr. Goodall’s pioneering research on chimpanzee behavior, research that transformed scientific perceptions of the relationship between humans and animals. Today, the Institute is a global leader in the effort to protect chimpanzees and their habitats. It also is widely recognized for establishing innovative community-centered conservation and development programs in Africa, and Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots, the global environmental and humanitarian youth program, which has groups in more than 120 countries. For more information, please visit www.janegoodall.org.

Disney Cruise Line
Based in Celebration, Fla., Disney Cruise Line is focused on providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. Most recently, the Disney Dream won the top spot for “Best Bahamas Cruises” and “Best Cabins” in the 2012 Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards.  Disney Cruise Line was recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the top “Cruise Ships of the World,” with the Disney Magic being voted No. 1 and the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder tying for No. 2. Travel + Leisure magazine also ranked Disney Cruise Line the No. 1 Large-Ship Cruise Line for Families.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit www.disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888-DCL-2500.  Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or visit http://www.disneytravelagents.com.

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Media Contacts:                                                                              
Lauren Falcone                                                                      
Disney Cruise Line Media Relations                                      
407-566-6811                                                                         
lauren.falcone@disney.com

CELEBRATION, Fla. – For the first time ever, Disney Cruise Line is setting sail from three new ports in 2012 – New York, Seattle and Galveston, Texas – making the Disney family cruise vacation more accessible to guests around the country.  Additionally, the cruise line will offer more choices than ever before with several new itineraries planned.

“In 2012, we’re making it easier than ever for families to enjoy a Disney Cruise Line vacation by offering cruises from a variety of regional homeports,” said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz.  “Guests can now enjoy a magical, one-of-a-kind Disney cruise experience with the convenience of departures from their own backyard.”

Bahamas, Canada and Weekend Getaway from New York

Beginning May 25, 2012, the Disney Magic will sail a total of 20 cruises from New York – including eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and five-night cruises up the New England coast to Canada plus two-night cruises that will give a sampling of the Disney Cruise Line experience over a weekend:

• The eight Bahamas cruises will include a day at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay; Nassau, Bahamas; and a stop at Port Canaveral, Fla., giving guests an opportunity to visit the nearby Walt Disney World Resort.  As part of this itinerary, each guest will receive a one-day Walt Disney World Park Hopper ticket and roundtrip transportation between their Disney ship and the resort.

Departure Dates: May 25, June 2, 22, 30, July 20, 28, Aug. 17, 25

Rates for the eight-night Bahamian cruise itinerary departing from New York start at $1,480 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

• The nine five-night cruises up the New England coast will call at Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick.  In these popular Canadian ports, guests can soak in splendid natural vistas, explore historic sites, visit quaint cafes and charming shops, and browse Canada’s oldest farmer’s market.

Halifax highlights include Peggy’s Cove, a famous fishing village renowned for its lighthouse, and the family-friendly Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. In Saint John, guests can marvel at the world-famous Reversing Falls and take a high-speed jet boat ride on the rapids.

Departure Dates: June 10, 17, July 8, 15, Aug. 5, 12, Sept. 2, 7, 12

Rates for the five-night Canadian cruise itinerary departing from New York start at $715 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

• Three two-night cruises out of New York are perfect for families looking for a quick getaway with a day at sea over a weekend. Rates for the two-night cruises start at $512 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Departure Dates: June 15, July 13 and Aug. 10

Western Caribbean from Galveston

Beginning Sept. 22, 2012, the Disney Magic will sail 12 seven-night cruises from the Port of Galveston to the Western Caribbean. Ports of call include Grand Cayman and Mexico’s Costa Maya and Cozumel.

A Caribbean cruise on the Disney Magic offers families a tropical getaway with world-class entertainment and impeccable guest service found only on a Disney Cruise Line vacation.  Guests will enjoy three magical days at sea to explore all of the fun aboard the Disney Magic and three days in port to lounge on warm, golden beaches, to swim and snorkel in azure waters or to shop to their heart’s content in exotic marketplaces.

Departure Dates: Sept. 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24, Dec. 1, 8

Rates for the seven-night Western Caribbean cruise itinerary departing from Galveston start at $840 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Alaska from Seattle

Beginning May 28, 2012, the Disney Wonder will sail a total of 14 seven-night cruises from the Port of Seattle to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia.

These cruises will combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience found on a Disney Cruise Line ship.  Disney Cruise Line works closely with Alaskan tour operators to create exclusive-to-Disney family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience Alaska’s natural beauty and rich history.

On their Alaskan adventure, guests may catch a glimpse of a brown bear, bald eagle or humpback whale. They can explore magnificent glaciers and fjords in Juneau. In Ketchikan, guests can fish for some of the largest wild salmon in the world and learn about local culture through hand-carved totem poles. In Skagway, Disney Cruise Line guests can traverse panoramic landscapes by railway, or pan for gold like miners from the famous Klondike gold rush.

Departure Dates: May 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27

Rates for the seven-night Alaska cruise itinerary departing from Seattle start at $917 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles

The Disney Wonder is scheduled to continue sailing seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles for the majority of the year – throughout winter, spring and fall.

Rates for the seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary departing from Los Angeles start at $791 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Additionally, the Disney Wonder will sail four seven-night Pacific Coast cruises from Los Angeles (on Sept. 16, Sept. 23, Sept. 30 and Oct. 7), calling on San Francisco, San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico.

Rates for the seven-night Pacific Coast itinerary departing from Los Angeles start at $770 per person for a deluxe inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

For the first time, the Disney Wonder will offer two special voyages to Hawaii from Los Angeles, calling on Hilo; Kahului, Maui; Honolulu, Oahu; Nawiliwili, Kauai and Ensenada, Mexico. The 15-night Hawaiian itinerary, which includes nine days at sea, departs April 29, 2012. The 14-night Hawaiian itinerary, with eight days at sea, departs Oct. 14, 2012.

Rates for the Hawaiian cruises start at $1,834 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Caribbean and Bahamas from Port Canaveral

The Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will continue to sail a variety of Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries departing from Port Canaveral.

The Disney Fantasy will depart on her maiden voyage March 31, 2012, and will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries – alternating eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel).  Special Eastern Caribbean sailings in November and December 2012 stop at St. Thomas and San Juan, Puerto Rico. All Disney Fantasy itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Rates for the seven-night Caribbean cruise itineraries on the Disney Fantasy start at $959 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

The Disney Dream will sail three-, four- and five-night cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.  Five-night itineraries include two stops at Castaway Cay.

Rates for three- and four-night Bahamian cruises on the Disney Dream start at $513 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Until she is repositioned to New York, the Disney Magic will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries and four- and five-night Bahamian cruises.

All pricing reflects a standard inside stateroom, Government Taxes and Fees not included.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent.

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PORT CANAVERAL, Florida (March 15, 2012) – Disney Cruise Line presented a $250,000 donation to Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida in honor of the newest and fourth ship in its fleet, the Disney Fantasy. The donation is earmarked for a new Boys & Girls Club location in Cocoa near Port Canaveral, the homeport for the Disney Fantasy. Last year, Disney hosted a benefit cruise on the sister ship of the Disney Fantasy, the Disney Dream, raising $750,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs. Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and Captain Tom Forberg were joined by Gary Cain, president of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, and several Club families who will have the opportunity to sail on the Disney Fantasy later this month.

“Disney Cruise Line has been a long-time supporter of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida,” said Holz. “As our fleet has expanded and our business has grown, it has been our pleasure to help the Clubs grow as well, so they can continue to inspire and empower young people. We are excited that this donation will assist in the development of a new facility close to our homeport, which will allow our crew members to continue supporting the Clubs through Disney VoluntEAR efforts.”

The contribution will help fund programs at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida that teach children character and leadership, develop life and health skills and expand their creativity and cultural awareness through the arts. Both Disney and Boys & Girls Clubs share the same values in championing the happiness and well-being of children, as well as motivating them to make a lasting, positive change in the world. The relationship between Boys & Girls Clubs and The Walt Disney Company started more than 50 years ago when Walt Disney was made an honorary member of the organization’s national board of directors.

“We are proud to serve children at Clubs in Brevard County where there is a need  for comprehensive, dedicated youth development services and where all young people can come to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens,” said Cain. “We are very grateful for this generous contribution from Disney Cruise Line, which will have an immediate impact on our community and encourage the next generation of local leaders. The opportunity to sail on the Disney Fantasy will create magical memories for these children and their families.”

Plaque and Key Exchange
In keeping with maritime tradition, Disney Cruise Line also hosted a plaque and key exchange with members of the port and community leaders commemorating the inaugural call of the Disney Fantasy on Port Canaveral.  

Port Canaveral and the Central Florida region are experiencing sizeable economic benefits with the addition of the Disney Fantasy. The ship’s arrival is expected to generate more than 500 jobs in the region in 2012, according to a study by Martin Associates released earlier this month.

Disney Fantasy
After 18 months of construction in Germany, followed by a trans-Atlantic journey to New York for a Christening celebration, the Captain and crew of the Disney Fantasy are busily preparing to sail alternating seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s own private island in The Bahamas, beginning March 31.

The Disney Fantasy is the second of two new and significantly larger ships that have joined the Disney fleet, with a tonnage of 130,000, a length of 1,115 feet and a passenger capacity of 4,000 guests. Innovative entertainment, activities and dining abound, including two new Broadway-style stage spectaculars, an adults-only entertainment district inspired by the nightspots of Europe, an interactive adventure quest with The Muppets, and an opportunity for guests to become Disney animators for a night in Animator’s Palate restaurant. Guest favorites like the AquaDuck, the first water coaster at sea, can be found onboard the Disney Fantasy as well.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida
Since 1944, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida has provided children from the local community between the ages of 6-18 with a safe place to learn and grow. Its membership totals more than 10,000 youth at 15 Clubs and 14 middle school sites in Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties. The mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. For more information or to find out how you can support the Boys & Girls Clubs movement, call 407-841-6855 or visit www.bgccf.org.

Disney Cruise Line
Based in Celebration, Fla., Disney Cruise Line is focused on providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. Most recently, the Disney Dream won the top spot for “Best Bahamas Cruises” and “Best Cabins” in the 2012 Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards.  Disney Cruise Line was recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the top “Cruise Ships of the World,” with the Disney Magic being voted No. 1 and the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder tying for No. 2. Travel + Leisure magazine also ranked Disney Cruise Line the No. 1 Large-Ship Cruise Line for Families.

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.  Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.

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Media Contacts:                                                                              

Lauren Falcone                                                                      
Disney Cruise Line Media Relations                                      
407-566-6811                                                                      
lauren.falcone@disney.com                                                  
Tina Ashe
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida
407-451-5735
tashe@bgccf.org

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. (March 6, 2012) – Disney Cruise Line welcomed its fourth ship, the Disney Fantasy, early this morning to its new homeport in Port Canaveral, Fla. after a 19-day trans-Atlantic voyage from Germany and a stop in New York for its Christening last week.

With the addition of the Disney Fantasy, Port Canaveral and the region is experiencing sizeable economic benefits. The Disney Fantasy is expected to generate more than 500 direct, indirect and induced jobs in the area and attract thousands of additional cruise guests to the port, according to an economic impact study by Martin Associates.

“Not only is the arrival of the Disney Fantasy an important milestone for our business, it will also have a positive impact on the Central Florida community,” said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line. “With our fourth ship, we are able to generate more jobs and economic activity for the region while delivering even more cruising options for families to share unforgettable cruise experiences with us.”

To accommodate the expanded operation, new ships and increase in guest capacity, Disney Cruise Line worked with Port Canaveral to expand the dock area and terminal facility in early 2011. Along with the construction of a new parking structure and a sky bridge walkway, guests experience a state-of-the-art facility, making the transition from land to sea relatively seamless.

“We are excited to welcome the Disney Fantasy home,” said Port Canaveral Chief Executive Officer Stan Payne. “The arrival of the Disney Dream last year made a significant economic impact on Central Florida and we know the Disney Fantasy will add to that dramatically. We have seen our local businesses benefit when a ship of this magnitude and special Disney magic becomes part of our community.”

Beginning with its maiden voyage on March 31, the Disney Fantasy will embark on seven-night sailings, alternating between Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, with a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s own private island in The Bahamas.

With a tonnage of 130,000 and a guest capacity of up to 4,000, the Disney Fantasy is the second of two new, and significantly larger, ships that are being added to the Disney fleet. The Disney Dream arrived in early 2011 and is currently sailing three-, four- and five-night itineraries to the Bahamas, also from Port Canaveral.

Disney Cruise Line established the blue-print for family cruising when the business launched in 1998.  The first two ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, which were launched in 1998 and 1999, respectively, were purposely built for families to reconnect, adults to recharge and kids to immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create.

With the addition of the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line will celebrate 2012 with its most diverse sailing itineraries to date. New in 2012, the Disney Magic will offer eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and five-night cruises up the New England coast sailing from New York, and seven-night western Caribbean itineraries departing from Galveston, Texas. The Disney Wonder will continue sailing seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles, while spending its second summer sailing Alaskan itineraries from Seattle.

Most recently, the Disney Dream won the top spot for “Best Bahamas Cruises” and “Best Cabins” in the 2012 Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards.  Disney Cruise Line was recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the top “Cruise Ships of the World,” with the Disney Magic being voted No. 1 and the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder tying for No. 2. Travel + Leisure magazine also ranked Disney Cruise Line the No. 1 Large-Ship Cruise Line for Families.

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. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.

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Contact:      
Disney Cruise Line Media Relations
Rebecca Peddie
407.341.4697 / 407.566.3655
rebecca.peddie@disney.com

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NEW YORK (March 1, 2012) – The Disney Fantasy, the fourth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, was christened today during a star-studded christening celebration at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

On a night filled with celebrity performances from the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Neil Patrick Harris, Nick Cannon and Heather Headley, it was Disney Fantasy godmother, Mariah Carey, who took center stage for the christening moment.   Similar to the famed New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square, Carey led the audience in a countdown that triggered a 6-foot tall bottle of champagne in the Atrium Lobby to erupt and shower onlookers with confetti and streamers as a traditional bottle of champagne broke against the ship’s hull.

“The Disney Fantasy is a spectacular addition to our fleet and builds on the creativity, innovation and artistry that are hallmarks of the Disney Cruise Line,” said Walt Disney Company President and CEO Bob Iger. “Like her sister ship, the Dream, the Fantasy will connect guests to iconic Disney characters and storytelling, creating unforgettable, one-of-a-kind vacation experiences for the entire family.”

“At Disney Parks and Resorts, we strive to be the most trusted and highest quality provider of shared travel and leisure experiences in the world,” said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs. “From stem to stern, the Disney Fantasy was designed and built with the singular purpose of surprising and delighting our guests, helping them make memories to last a lifetime.”

When the Disney Fantasy begins sailing on March 31, 2012, it will continue the innovative approach Disney Cruise line brought to family cruise vacations with a collection of new guest experiences specifically developed for the ship’s seven-night itinerary.

Highlights include:

Technological Wizardry. . .

• Animator’s Palate on the Disney Fantasy brings the magic of Disney animation into the dining room with a new show called “Animation Magic.”  At dinner, families are encouraged to draw a character of their own on a specially designed placemat.   Once the placemats are collected, the magic begins as Mickey takes to the screens and brings the guests’ characters to life as they march across screens around the dining room and even step into scenes from beloved Disney movies side-by-side with characters such as Mickey Mouse, Jiminy Cricket, Cinderella and Snow White.
• The Muppets are coming to the Disney Fantasy!  Guests can join the world-famous Muppets for interactive adventure quest to find missing show props by uncovering clues via more than a dozen pieces of Enchanted Art around the ship.   Guided by a map and holding a unique game card in front of select pieces of Enchanted Art, guests unveil games and clues to find the missing items.  “The Case of the Stolen Show” is a self-paced adventure game that features several possible endings and multiple randomized events – so each time a guest plays, they have a different game experience.

Splashtacular Family Fun. . .

• Soaring above the upper decks of the Disney Fantasy, guests will find the AquaDuck a 765-foot long, twisting-and-turning water coaster that has been a huge hit with guests sailing on the Disney Dream.   Several new water surprises are set to debut on the Disney Fantasy including AquaLab — a water play area on the upper deck filled with a variety of water “experiments,” created by Donald Duck’s nephews, designed to drench, soak and saturate guests.  This fanciful 1,800-square-foot space features pop jets, geysers, bubblers, falling water, squirting walls and more.
• On Deck 13 forward, guests 18-years of age and older will find a new relaxing respite. Satellite Falls is a circular splash pool with benches and a gently falling rain curtain that provides cool comfort and is surrounded by ample deck space where adult guests can soak up the sun in loungers or relax in the shade under a canopy.

World-Class Entertainment. . .

• The launch of a new Disney ship includes the premiere of two new Broadway-style stage spectaculars in the lavish Walt Disney Theatre. The signature show “Disney Wishes” is a 45-minute musical journey about three best friends who discover the secret to being a grown-up is staying connected to their inner child. “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” is a fast-paced musical comedy where Aladdin, the “street rat” of Agrabah, meets a Genie who grants him three wishes, battles the evil Jafar and falls in love with Princess Jasmine.

Club Hopping Across Europe. . .

• Nightlife takes a European twist with Europa – an entertainment district of high-energy, sophisticated clubs and lounges inspired by the night spots of Italy, France, Ireland and London. Europa is a continent of adult nighttime fun without borders. La Piazza is a lounge that draws inspiration from stylish Italian plazas. Skyline is a chic bar that provides ever-changing birds-eye views of European cityscapes. O’Gills Pub is a rollicking Irish bar and Ooh La La is an elegant French champagne bar. The Tube transports guests to a vibrant metropolitan club reminiscent of swinging London.

The Disney Fantasy will sail from Port Canaveral, Fla. on seven-night Caribbean itineraries that alternate eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel). All itineraries will include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent.

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