In the last few weeks there was a ripple of Disney gossip spreading amongst our Have Wheelchair Will Travel readers. Word on the internet was that Disney would be bringing their cruises to Australia. We know our readers are a smart bunch and today I received email confirmation that for the first time, Disney Cruise Line is going to offer Magical Sailings in Australia and New Zealand in late 2023 through to February 2024. Cruise bookings open on 29 September and you can be guaranteed that there will be a high demand for cabins, especially the accessible cabins.
Disney cruises launch Australia and New Zealand Magical Sailings
We know from our many visits to Walt Disney World Resorts that no-one can create magic like Disney, and nothing will change for passengers taking to the high seas on a Disney cruise. While I don’t have news on the accessible features as yet, be assured I’ll do my best to find out. We know that cruising is a popular way of travelling for our community because of the ease it offers. And for those of you that find air travel difficult, or impossible, this is your chance to experience the magic of the Disney Parks without the hassles associated with flying to the US.
Disney promises that “The ‘Disney Magic at Sea’ sailings will bring all of the magic of Disney to one amazing holiday experience with favourite characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars on board, plus imaginative dining and spectacular entertainment – all in one cruise. The special sailings aboard the Disney Wonder range from two to six nights and will depart from four home ports: Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia, as well as Auckland, New Zealand.”
“We are so excited to bring the magic of a Disney cruise vacation close to home for guests in Australia and New Zealand,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “On these limited-time sailings, the ship is the destination, and our amazing Disney Cruise Line crew can’t wait to welcome guests on board as they are immersed in their favourite stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars.”
While on board, Disney Cruise Line guests will be immersed in the magic of Disney with unforgettable character encounters with favourite Disney friends including Captain Mickey Mouse, Captain Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Pluto, and spectacular entertainment including original Broadway-quality shows.
Guests will also enjoy incredible dining experiences with imaginative restaurants including Tiana’s Place, where guests can meet Princess Tiana herself and enjoy a taste of New Orleans cooking, and Animator’s Palate, an interactive dining experience that celebrates Disney animation.
Children will have their own “Frozen” adventures in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, along with a multi-level replica of Andy’s Room from “Toy Story” and a place to summon their inner super hero at the Marvel Super Hero Academy. Adults even have their own exclusive spaces to rest and relax, including the adults-only Quiet Cove pool, sophisticated dining at Palo and the rejuvenating Senses Spa & Salon.
All sailings will include health and safety measures considering up-to-date guidance from public health authorities in Australia and New Zealand and medical experts. Disney Cruise Line’s current health and safety protocols are outlined on disneycruise.com.
For any Disney fans, I suggest being ready to make a booking on 29 September when bookings open. I’m thinking these cruises will sell out fast. As always, I suggest you get an obligation free quote for travel insurance before paying for your cruise. You can do this in advance and it is always advisable for anyone living with existing medical conditions. Please remember a disability is considered by most travel insurers an existing medical condition.
The inaugural sailing of this limited season departs October 28, 2023 from Sydney. Bookings open to the general public from Thursday September 29, 2022 at 8am AEST / 11am NZDT. For more information on the all new ‘Disney Magic At Sea’ Australia and New Zealand sailing itineraries and booking details, please visit Disney Cruise Line
I took my children on a Disney cruise from Miami a few years ago and it was amazing. They really looked after my daughter who at 2 years old couldn’t walk or talk and even looked after her for a few hours whilst I took my son to their island in the Caribbean at no extra cost. As they aim towards young children it is very pram friendly so would think there would be good wheelchair access as well. The food and entertainment was spectacular. Our pediatrician mentioned he enjoyed going on Disney cruises as there was no one in the adults area sections and it was like he was on his own private cruise!!
Hi Vicki
I love all of this so much. I had a good giggle about your pediatrician too. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Julie