On Tuesday, July 9, DCL-Disney Cruise Line and Oriental Land Co Ltd (OLC) announced a new agreement to bring year-round Disney cruise vacations to Japan.
Under the recently signed agreement, OLC will build and operate a Disney-branded cruise business in Japan, anticipated to commence by early 2029.
This development marks the latest chapter in a 40-year relationship between Disney and OLC, which owns and operates Tokyo Disney Resort. The introduction of a locally based Disney cruise ship will provide Japanese Disney fans with the opportunity to enjoy magical voyages, featuring the entertainment, dining, and guest service that distinguish Disney cruises.
OLC will operate a new Disney ship registered/flagged and based in Japan year-round.
Constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, the vessel will feature signature designs by Walt Disney Imagineering. As a sistership to Disney Wish, the newbuild will incorporate many guest-favorite venues and experiences with modifications tailored for Japanese guests.
The vessel is expected to be ~140,000 gross tons (volume), powered by LNG-liquefied natural gas, and will offer ~1250 staterooms.
Details about the maiden voyage, itineraries, and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date.