Disney Imagination: First Disney Cruise Ship for Japan

(eap) Japan’s Oriental Land Co., Ltd., owner and operator of Tokyo Disney Resort, and its subsidiary ORIENTAL LAND CRUISE Co., Ltd. have announced the name of the first Disney cruise ship for the Japanese market. Named “Disney Imagination”, the new vessel is scheduled to set sail for the first time in spring 2029. The Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is set to serve as the ship’s home port and main departure point. The new cruise offering will operate under the “Disney Cruise Line Japan” brand.

“Disney Imagination is a ship of dreams and wishes filled with the power of ‘imagination’ – the heart of Disney’s storytelling. The name embodies the hope for guests of all generations to enjoy their voyage while experiencing the ‘imagination’ of Disney,” Oriental Land explains in its announcement.

The ships stern will feature “Ariel” from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “The Little Mermaid”. © Concept Image: Disney

On board Disney Imagination, guests can look forward to a wide range of entertainment for the whole family. Planned facilities include a theatre with more than 1,300 seats for elaborate stage productions, additional entertainment on the outdoor decks and meet-and-greet opportunities with popular Disney characters. Dedicated activity areas and programmes for children will be complemented by exclusive retreats for adults.

The new vessel will also offer an extensive range of dining options, with around 30 restaurants, cafés and bars planned, including three main restaurants, each featuring its own distinctive theming and menu concept. A selection of shops selling Disney merchandise, including exclusive Disney Imagination products, will round off the onboard offering.

The German shipbuilder MEYER WERFT, based in Papenburg, has been commissioned to build the new cruise ship. The shipyard recently celebrated the keel-laying ceremony for “Disney Believe” on 6 October. The fourth vessel in the “Wish” class is scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale in South Florida on 18 December 2027. ■