On April 8, DCL-Disney Cruise Line reached a construction milestone marked by the keel-laying ceremony of its Disney Wish - the first of 3 new ships in DCL’s fleet expansion. The special event was held at Meyer Werft's Papenburg Shipyard in Germany.
The company also revealed that the magic of Captain Minnie Mouse would come to life for the first time via whimsical artwork on the bow of Disney Wish, a hallmark of Disney's vessels.
Keel laying traditionally takes place when the first block/section of a ship, is lowered into the shipbuilding dock, and a newly minted coin is placed under the vessel's keel for good fortune. The coin created for Disney Wish features Captain Minnie, who debuted aboard Disney boats back in 2019 as part of the initiatives aiming to inspire the next generation of female leaders in the industry.
Disney Wish is scheduled to sail her maiden voyage in summer 2022. Details on itineraries and bookings for the liner will be released at a later date.
Disney Wish will showcase the enchanting storytelling, unparalleled service, and immersive family entertainment, that according to the company only Disney can deliver. The cruise ship will be LNG-powered (by liquified natural gas), one of the cleanest-burning fuels available. At ~144,000 gross tons and 1250 passenger staterooms, the newbuild will be slightly bigger than the sisterships Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.