Disney Magic at Sea – UK Cruise Staycations Announced!
Disney Cruise Line are jumping on the bandwagon of the likes of P&O Cruises and Cunard Line to offer a series of “staycation” cruises here in the UK this summer! *screams internally*
Introducing “Disney Magic at Sea” – a series of two, three and four-night staycation cruises
These UK-only sailings will depart from London (Tilbury), Southampton, Newcastle and Liverpool on select dates throughout the summer. Note these are cruises to nowhere – you won’t be visiting any ports of call but can enjoy magical-filled days at sea. These cruises are exclusive to UK residents only.
UPDATE 16th APRIL: General bookings will now open on Friday, April 30 at 09:00 BST
“Our teams are bringing tremendous ingenuity and fun to these new cruises, tailoring them with care to the times we are living in, yet filling them with everything you’d expect from Disney, from great service and entertainment to immersive dining experiences and magic for the whole family,” – Thomas Mazloum, President of Disney Cruise Line.
What we know so far:
Guests will remain aboard the Disney Magic for the duration of each cruise and have the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience with world-class accommodations, dazzling entertainment and a variety of included dining options. *cough* Lot’s of Mickey Waffles *cough*
From the (terrifying AquaDunk) to Disney’s Oceaneer Club, Senses Spa and an array of lounges – a Disney cruise has so much to offer for ALL ages. I’ve sailed with Disney Cruise line twice before (I even got to visit the bridge of the Disney Magic) and had a blast, so I am VERY excited by this. Maybe this time I’ll be brave enough to experience the AquaDunk waterslide?!
If you are worried what the Disney experience will be like in these weird times, I wouldn’t worry too much. The website indicates plans for a celebration with Mickey and Minnie, a Frozen flurry of fun with Anna, Elsa and Olaf, and an “epic” encounter with some of Marvel’s greatest Super Heroes. Sign me up Cap!
Guests will be able to grab a physically-distanced photo with Captain Mickey, wave hi to the Princesses and enjoy West End-style shows in the Walt Disney Theatre.
The Disney Magic has so much to offer, it’s really impressive how much the imagineers crammed into the 83,000 ton ship! From adult-exclusive bars and eateries, to enjoying first-run movies in the Buena Vista Theatre – there is magic is everywhere!
Health and Safety
The Walt Disney Company are renowned for their high levels of guest service, safety and security. Disney Cruise Line will be implementing multiple layers of health and safety measures which takes into consideration the latest guidance from the authorities and medical experts. DCL’s approach brings together five elements to promote health and safety for everyone:
- Health & Wellness
Emphasising a combination of health and safety measures. This includes COVID-19 testing, health screenings, face coverings, reduced Guest capacity and physical distancing. (As with other cruise line operations, it’s likely face coverings will be required in public areas when you are not actively eating or drinking).
- Cleaning & Disinfecting
Disney Cruise Line is operating at elevated cleaning and sanitation levels, with an emphasis on high-touch surfaces.
- Innovative Technology
Harnessing the power of the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to promote health and safety.
- Crew Member Training
Adopted a number of new policies and practices for Crew Members.
- Working Together
Giving Guests the resources they need to navigate Disney Cruise Lines’ new policies and do their part.
COVID-19 Testing
According to Disney Cruise Line’s website, ALL passengers will be “required to complete a Lateral Flow Rapid COVID-19 test. Once you and your party have tested negative, you will be able to embark. The test will be conducted before entering the terminal”.
Bottom Line
I’m delighted to see Disney Cruise Line making the most of the current awful situation we find ourselves in. The fact they are looking to bring a little Disney magic to UK residents and Disney fans who are longing for an escape is Fantasmic!
The cruises are set go on sale beginning 30th April at 09:00 BST.
If you are a Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club member or select Disney Guest (Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney and Golden Oak member) – you can take advantage of an advanced booking window. Keep an eye on the Disney Cruise Line website or speak to your travel agent if you are interested. I have a feeling these are going to be popular.
Will you be planning a Disney Magic at Sea Staycation this Summer? I know I am tempted!
Certain experiences, services and amenities may be modified, have limited availability or remain closed. Subject to government approval. Enhanced health and safety measures are in place to promote cleanliness, physical distancing and reduced contact.
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In other news this week, the Disneyland Resort announced DisneylandForward, a campaign to update restrictive permits which currently restrict how the resort can expand. Read more here.
We’ve done Disney Cruiseline twice & LOVED the trips and would be all over this if an option in the US. I actually think not stopping at the ports is a positive as port days on the cruises I’ve done have always been a letdown. I much prefer the sea days to lounge outside and enjoy the ship.
We were recently at WDW and were very impressed with their commitment to Covid safety and cleanliness. I’d have to assume they’ll take it even further on the cruises. It will be interesting to see if they require the vaccine or if they plan to test guests before and during the cruise.
We get our second vaccine shot Monday and I would totally be booking this if I was on your side of the pond!