Disney Cruise Line - Part III

These two following ships have yet to set sail, but I did my best to uncover some information about them, primarily The Disney Dream!

THE DISNEY DREAM

(AND SIMILARLY… THE DISNEY FANTASY)

The Disney Dream will be a much larger ship than its two older fleet-mates. Also the Disney Dream will have wi-fi throughout the ship, and every stateroom will have a flat panel TV. The Disney Dream's horn signal will be the first seven notes of When You Wish Upon A Star, along with the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the horn is considered the most recognizable ship horn of all ships at sea. The Dream will have 1,250 staterooms. The ship will also feature the first water coaster at sea, called "The Aquaduck". The Disney Dream is 45,000 tons larger, 5 decks higher (3 passenger decks), 151 feet longer, it will hold up to 4,000 passengers (over 1,600 more than its sister ships), and has 555 more crew members than the Disney Magic, and Disney Wonder. It will set sail on January 26, 2011!

DINING

Cabanas-- this indoor/outdoor Casual Dining restaurant serves a culinary confection of fresh food favorites. At breakfast and lunch, Cabanas boasts the finest in made-to-order dining; at dinnertime, the restaurant is transformed into a table-service dining room serving Main Dining specialties.

Enchanted Garden-- serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Inspired by the picturesque gardens of Versailles, Enchanted Garden magically transforms from day to night during dining.

Palo-- an adult-exclusive restaurant that serves Northern Italian cuisine for dinner. Additionally, brunch and high tea are offered on select cruises. (sample menu)

Remy-- is a luxurious adult exclusive restaurant offering the most upscale and romantic dining experience available onboard; the restaurant serves the finest in French-inspired cuisine for dinner. Remy, named after the main character in the movie Ratatouille, and incorporate Remy in the Art Nouveau design of the restaurant.

Royal Palace-- inspired by classic Disney films like Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty, Royal Palace serves a mouthwatering menu of culinary delights—fit for a king or a queen—for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

NIGHTCLUBS & LOUNGES

687-- this contemporary sports bar is a sophisticated yet friendly venue where families can partake in activities and games during the day, and adults can unwind with a cocktail at night.

Bon Voyage-- this relaxing bar is a cozy space where families can enjoy a refreshing beverage or snack throughout the day.

Cove Cafe-- this adults-only lounge is a casual hotspot where Guests 18 years of age or older can enjoy mixed drinks, gourmet coffee or snacks while perusing a magazine, watching television or surfing the Internet.

Currents-- this cozy bar is a breezy spot with a commanding view where Guests can relax and unwind while sipping a cool cocktail.

District Lounge-- this lively bar is an intimate nighttime spot with an attractive modern design. During the day, Guests of all ages can enjoy a variety of refreshing beverages; while at night, adults are invited to mingle over mixed drinks.

Evolution-- this dance club is a butterfly-themed hotspot celebrating all styles of music. During the day, Guests of all ages can partake in a number of fun-filled games and activities; while at night, adults are invited to dance, enjoy a mixed drink or sing karaoke.

Meridian-- this adults-only bar is an intimate nighttime spot inspired by the early days of sea travel, where Guests can enjoy a pre- or post-dinner cocktail amid an indoor ocean view setting or breezy outdoor deck.

Pink-- this adults-only bar is an elegant nightspot designed to look like the inside of a Champagne bottle, where adults can savor a cocktail and relax.

Skyline-- this adults-only cocktail lounge is a cosmopolitan sky bar boasting sweeping—and magically transforming—views of some of the world's most famous cities, where adults can savor a selection of the world's finest beverages.

Vista Cafe-- this cafe/bar is a cheery onboard destination for Guests looking to enjoy coffee and a pastry in the morning and a pre- or post-dinner cocktail at night.

Waves-- this breezy bar is a scenic spot overlooking Mickey's Pool where Guests of all ages can relax with a refreshing beverage.

POOLS

AquaDuck-- the first water coaster at sea, is a thrilling 765-foot-long water coaster that propels Guests on an exciting journey up, down and around 4 decks, over the side of the ship and through the Forward Funnel.

Donald's Pool-- a family pool including an 5 ft. deep main pool with a delightful picture of Donald Duck on the pool bottom. There will be a huge 30 x 18 ft LCD screen facing Donald's Pool.

Mickey's Pool-- a children's pool with Mickey Mouse's famous profile and smiling face and, nearby, a twisting one deck high slide.

Nemo's Reef-- this a whimsical water play area is a fun-filled splash deck for younger ones featuring pop jets, bubblers and fountains--starring characters from the hit Disney•Pixar film, Finding Nemo.

Quite Cove Pool-- an adults-only pool featuring a 4 ft. deep main pool. It will include a swim up bar and a series of connecting pools with depths ranging from 4 ft to 6 inch sun-bathing pools.

SPAS AND FITNESS

Senses Spa & Salon-- provides tranquility, pampering and relaxation in an expansive ocean-view sanctuary. Experience a multitude of spa treatments and beauty salon services such as massages, facials and much more

Fitness Center-- a full-service facility hosting a wide variety of aerobic, yoga and Pilates classes, as well as health seminars. Lift on the latest weight machines, step it up on TV-monitor-equipped ellipticals or book an individual session with a personal trainer.

Goofy's Sports Deck-- this open-air activity center is a scenic spot boasting recreational activities such as a 9 hole mini-golf course, walking track, and digital sports simulators that will provide virtual game experiences such as soccer, tennis, basketball, and golf. There will also be a full-sized basketball court that can be converted for use as a soccer pitch, vollyball court, or foosball/table tennis area.

There is no Entertainment section since that has yet to be chosen, but whatever shows will be on The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are sure to be amazing!

Have a Magical Day!

Disney Cruise Line - Part II

THE DISNEY WONDER

This ship is the second cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line and was launched in 1999. The Disney Wonder alternates between 3- and 4-night cruises. Visiting Nassau and Disney's own private island Castaway Cay, with the 4-night cruise offering an additional day at sea. The Disney Wonder will be relocated to Los Angeles, California. The arrangement will be for two years, with a potential extension for three additional years. On September 11, 2009 Disney Cruise Line announced that the Wonder will have 18 and 7 night sailings to Alaska during the 2011 summer.

DINING

Animator’s Palate (also my favorite restaurant)-- which celebrates the magic of Disney animation. This dining experience starts off with the room being black and white, and as your meal progresses, the magic of Disney takes hold and by dessert, you are enveloped in the beautiful and colorful animation from beloved Disney films. (sample menu)

Triton’s (my 2nd favorite restaurant on the ship)-- serves contemporary American fare for breakfast and lunch, and continental cuisine with a French flair amid a more elegant setting for dinner. The restaurant is themed after the hit Disney movie, The Little Mermaid. (sample menu)

Parrot Cay-- Inspired by the relaxed feel of the tropics, Parrot Cay boasts classic American fare for breakfast and lunch, and Caribbean island grill house specialties for dinner. (sample menu)

Palo-- an adult-exclusive restaurant that serves Northern Italian cuisine for dinner. Additionally, brunch and high tea are offered on select cruises. (sample menu)

Other quick service eateries include: Goofy’s Galley, Pluto’s Dog House, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Preludes, and Beach Blanket Buffet.

ENTERTAINMENT

All Aboard: Let the Magice Begin, a 50 min. live show featuring variety acts, musical performances, and a cavalcade of Disney characters. It plays on Embarkation Day on 7-night or longer cruises.

The Buena Vista Theatre is an elegant cinema featuring plush seats, a giant movie screen, and advanced projection with Dolby sound. It screens first-run movies and digital 3-D films.

Character Greetings-- yes you can meet your favorite characters onboard as well. Of course, it wouldn’t be Disney without it.

Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic is an award-winning, 50-minute musical live show celebrating the value of dreams, starring some of your favorite Disney Characters. It has two showings and is performed in the Walt Disney Theatre.

The Golden Mickeys-- an approximate 50-minute, musical live show presented as an awards ceremony in which characters from Disney movies are nominated in a series of categories. It also has two showings and is performed in the Walt Disney Theatre. This show is always a fun one! They even have a ‘red carpet’ to walk down with a reporter asking all the juicy questions!

Toy Story--The Musical is an approximate hour-long, musical live show based on the hit Disney•Pixar film. The light-hearted story of Woody and Buzz Lightyear's friendship has two showings and plays exclusively in the Walt Disney Theatre. I’m not a Toy Story fan, but it is still a rather good show.

Remember the Magic: A Final Farewell is an approximate 50-minute live show that revisits some of your cruise's most memorable moments, starring a host of variety acts, theatre performers and Disney Characters from your cruise. It plays the day before Debarkation on 7-night or longer cruises.

NIGHTCLUBS & LOUNGES

Cadillac Lounge-- this piano bar is an intimate spot with a classic Cadillac theme, where adults can listen to live music, enjoy a cocktail, and unwind.

Cove Cafe-- this adults-only lounge is a casual hotspot where Guests 18 years of age or older can enjoy mixed drinks, gourmet coffee or snacks while perusing a magazine, watching television or surfing the Internet.

Diversions-- a sports pub and lounge is a cozy venue where families can take part in fun-filled activities or watch a televised sporting event during the day; and adults can sing karaoke or enjoy a cocktail at night.

Outlook Bar-- this adults-only bar is a breezy, scenic spot where guests 21 years of age or older can relax and unwind with a refreshing cocktail.

Promenade Lounge-- this elegant Art Deco venue is the perfect place for families to enjoy a refreshing beverage or snack, surf the Internet or partake in fun activities that occur throughout the day.

Signals-- this adults-only bar is a cozy spot where guests 21 years of age or older can unwind with a refreshing cocktail or snack.

Wavebands-- this club is a futuristic-looking venue that resembles the interior of a giant radio. During the day, Guests of all ages can participate in a number of fun-filled games and activities; while at night, adults are invited to mingle over mixed drinks, dance or sing karaoke.

POOLS

Goofy's Pool-- a 4 ft. deep family pool and the ship's main pool hosts a charming portrait of Goofy on he pool bottom. It has 2 whirlpool spas as well.

Mickey's Pool-- a children's pool with Mickey Mouse's famous profile and smiling face and, nearby, a twisting one deck high slide.

Quite Cove Pool-- an adults-only pool featuring a 4 ft. deep main pool.

SPAS AND FITNESS

Vista Spa & Salon-- features a decadent assortment of world-class spa treatments and salon services. It's where you can treat yourself to a rejuvenating deep-tissue massage or any number of hair and beauty care offerings.

Fitness Center-- a full-service facility hosting a wide variety of aerobic, yoga and Pilates classes, as well as health seminars. Lift on the latest weight machines, step it up on TV-monitor-equipped ellipticals or book an individual session with a personal trainer.

Wide World of Sports-- holds fitness and recreational sports activities for all age groups.

Have a Magical Day!

Disney Cruise Line - Part I

I thought that I'd continue with the trilogies/sagas/what-chama-call-its, this time with the Disney Cruise Line. There are two ships: the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. A third ship, the Disney Dream is scheduled to set sail in 2011, and a fourth ship, the Disney Fantasy, is scheduled for 2012. There are different lengths of cruises you can take ranging from 3-14+ days--depending on which destination you are looking for--Bahamas, Europe, Transatlantic, Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, and Alaska & Pacific coast. Disney also owns its own island, Castaway Cay.

Everyone knows about the magic the theme parks of Disney brings to people, young and old. However, what I am most excited about and is sometimes overlooked is the Disney Cruise Line. I have been on only two cruises--both on the Disney Wonder--and both times have been some of the best times ever. Disney has a certain caliber of excellence that the Carnival, Princess, and Royal Caribbean cruises I’ve been on have failed to match.

THE DISNEY MAGIC

Built in 1998 by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, the Disney Magic can hold approximately 2,400 passengers. Since the summer of 2000, the Disney Magic has been offering weekly cruises to Castaway Cay and multiple Caribbean islands.

DINING

Animator’s Palate (also my favorite restaurant)-- which celebrates the magic of Disney animation. This dining experience starts off with the room being black and white, and as your meal progresses, the magic of Disney takes hold and by dessert, you are enveloped in the beautiful and colorful animation from beloved Disney films. (sample menu)

Lumiere’s (a restaurant I’ve been wanting to eat at, badly!)-- serves contemporary American cuisine for breakfast and lunch in a casual setting, and French-inspired continental cuisine amid a more refined atmosphere for dinner. The restaurant is elegantly themed after the hit Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast. (sample menu)

Parrot Cay-- Inspired by the relaxed feel of the tropics, Parrot Cay boasts classic American fare for breakfast and lunch, and Caribbean island grill house specialties for dinner. (sample menu)

Palo-- an adult-exclusive restaurant that serves Northern Italian cuisine for dinner. Additionally, brunch and high tea are offered on select cruises. (sample menu)

Other quick service eateries include: Goofy’s Galley, Pluto’s Dog House, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Preludes, and Topsider Buffet.

ENTERTAINMENT

All Aboard: Let the Magice Begin, a 50 min. live show featuring variety acts, musical performances, and a cavalcade of Disney characters. It plays on Embarkation Day on 7-night or longer cruises.

The Buena Vista Theatre is an elegant cinema featuring plush seats, a giant movie screen, and advanced projection with Dolby sound. It screens first-run movies and digital 3-D films.

Character Greetings-- yes you can meet your favorite characters onboard as well. Of course, it wouldn’t be Disney without it.

Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic is an award-winning, 50-minute musical live show celebrating the value of dreams, starring some of your favorite Disney Characters. It has two showings and is performed in the Walt Disney Theatre.

The Golden Mickeys-- an approximate 50-minute, musical live show presented as an awards ceremony in which characters from Disney movies are nominated in a series of categories. It also has two showings and is performed in the Walt Disney Theatre. This show is always a fun one! They even have a ‘red carpet’ to walk down with a reporter asking all the juicy questions!

Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story is an approximate 50-minute, Broadway-style, song-and-dance extravaganza which re-imagines the classic Cinderella story. It also has two showings and is performed in the Walt Disney Theatre.

Remember the Magic: A Final Farewell is an approximate 50-minute live show that revisits some of your cruise's most memorable moments, starring a host of variety acts, theatre performers and Disney Characters from your cruise. It plays the day before Debarkation on 7-night or longer cruises.

NIGHTCLUBS & LOUNGES

Cove Cafe-- this adults-only lounge is a casual hotspot where Guests 18 years of age or older can enjoy mixed drinks, gourmet coffee or snacks while perusing a magazine, watching television or surfing the Internet.

Diversions-- a sports pub and lounge is a cozy venue where families can take part in fun-filled activities or watch a televised sporting event during the day; and adults can sing karaoke or enjoy a cocktail at night

Outlook Bar-- this adults-only bar is a breezy, scenic spot where guests 21 years of age or older can relax and unwind with a refreshing cocktail.

Promenade Lounge-- this elegant Art Deco venue is the perfect place for families to enjoy a refreshing beverage or snack, surf the Internet or partake in fun activities that occur throughout the day.

Rockin' Bar D-- is a roadside-themed club celebrating all styles of music amidst a fun, rowdy atmosphere. During the day, Guests of all ages can partake in a number of fun-filled games and activities; while at night, adults are invited to listen to live music, dance or sing karaoke.

Sessions-- this piano bar is a romantic nighttime spot in an attractive Art Deco theme where adults can listen to live music, savor the flavor of a mixed drink, and unwind.

Signals-- this adults-only bar is a cozy spot where guests 21 years of age or older can unwind with a refreshing cocktail or snack.

POOLS

Goofy's Pool-- a 4 ft. deep family pool and the ship's main pool hosts a charming portrait of Goofy on he pool bottom. It has 2 whirlpool spas as well.

Mickey's Pool-- a children's pool with Mickey Mouse's famous profile and smiling face and, nearby, a twisting one deck high slide.

Quite Cove Pool-- an adults-only pool featuring a 4 ft. deep main pool.

SPAS AND FITNESS

Vista Spa & Salon-- features a decadent assortment of world-class spa treatments and salon services. It's where you can treat yourself to a rejuvenating deep-tissue massage or any number of hair and beauty care offerings.

Fitness Center-- a full-service facility hosting a wide variety of aerobic, yoga and Pilates classes, as well as health seminars. Lift on the latest weight machines, step it up on TV-monitor-equipped ellipticals or book an individual session with a personal trainer.

Wide World of Sports-- holds fitness and recreational sports activities for all age groups.

Have a Magical Day!