Disney’s New Class of Cruise Ship: What We Know So Far

Hey Disney Cruisers! Disney Cruise Line is charting a bold course forward with a brand-new class of cruise ships, offering innovation, sustainability, and expanded travel opportunities for guests. Let’s dive into the details of Disney’s new class of cruise ship, and what it means for the future of Disney’s fleet.

Smaller Ships with a Big Impact

On January 10, 2025, Seatrade Cruise News reported that Disney’s next class of ships will be smaller than the recently introduced Wish-class and even smaller than the Dream-class ships already in the fleet. These new ships will be roughly 20% larger than the Magic-class ships, such as the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, but much smaller than their Wish-class counterparts.

Why the change? Disney is designing these ships to support a variety of fuel types, furthering its commitment to reducing environmental impact. This smaller size also opens up access to ports and destinations previously off-limits to larger ships. Additionally, smaller vessels are able to reach and dock at a variety of ports of call, compared to the larger class of ships. A smaller cruise ship gives Disney Cruise Line the option to expand to new cruise routes.

What Does This Mean for the Magic and Wonder?

As we previously reported in August 2024, there’s speculation that Disney might be preparing to retire its two oldest ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, as they near their 30-year milestones. However, fans of these beloved ships shouldn’t worry just yet. Many cruise ships remain active well past 30 years, with some, like the Astoria, still sailing after 83 years!

Whether Disney chooses to retire or continue maintaining the Magic and Wonder, these iconic vessels have left a lasting legacy.

The Next Era of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line’s fleet currently includes:

• Wish-class: Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and the upcoming Disney Destiny (launching November 2025).
• Dream class: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.
• Magic-class: Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.

In August 2024, Disney announced plans to expand its fleet with four new cruise ships by 2031, bringing the total fleet size to 13 ships.

Key Features of the New Ship Class:

• Gross Tonnage: 100,000 GT (compared to 144,000 GT for Wish-class).
• Passenger Capacity: 3,000 guests (down from 4,000 on Wish-class, but slightly more than Magic-class).
• Environmental Focus: Multi-fuel capabilities to reduce carbon emissions.
• New Destinations: The smaller design enables access to ports that can’t accommodate larger ships.

Expanding the Disney Cruise Line Experience

Disney Adventure in Singapore

Disney’s Singapore-based ship, the Disney Adventure, will debut in late 2025. Purchased partially built, this ship will bring the magic of Disney to Southeast Asia.

A Disney Cruise in Japan

In partnership with the Oriental Land Company, Disney will launch a year-round cruise experience in Japan aboard a Meyer Werft-built ship. Expected to set sail in 2029, this marks Disney’s first long-term cruise offering in Asia.

Looking Ahead: 2027-2031

Three of the four new ships in development will debut under the new class, while one will remain a Wish-class ship. This strategic growth will allow Disney Cruise Line to continue leading the cruise industry with magical experiences, sustainable innovations, and exciting new itineraries.

Why This Matters

Disney’s decision to innovate with smaller, more environmentally friendly ships reflects its vision for a more sustainable future while expanding opportunities for unique travel experiences. For Disney fans and cruise enthusiasts alike, the new ship class promises the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

Stay tuned as Disney shares more details about the new Disney Cruise Line ship class—and get ready to set sail on your next magical adventure!

20% Off site-wide, plus Free Shipping on all orders of $65+

Over 75+ Designs! Your next park shirt is just a click away

Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?

Save time & money on your vacation

Your Disney vacation should create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re a first-time Disney vacationer or looking to plan your next magical adventure, it isn’t enough just to go on a Disney vacation. We want you to talk about your vacation for years to come and create memories you’ll cherish forever. Vacation is calling! Are you ready to answer?

REQUEST QUOTE

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Jonathan Cotton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I’m no stranger to Disney planning, as a Disneyland magic key holder and DVC member. I’m the person people ask for trip planning advice. But I had never been on a Disney cruise, and had heard great about Nate and decided to reach out. I’m so glad I did because we could not have been happier with our experience. His tips and insights were incredibly helpful, and he was incredibly responsive any time we had a question. Who do the Disney experts turn to when they need help? Nate, that’s who.

We’ll definitely be using him again.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Andria Skornik 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Our experience working with Nate as our Disney vacation planner was exceptional. He was responsive and thorough. He gave us insights that made the trip go much more smoothly. We were able to really relax and focus on quality time as a family and have so much fun doing it! I will definitely reach out for any future trips.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 rpwoodjr 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Could not have wanted or expected more from Nate, our Distrips and More agent as we planned our 2025 Disney World trip. Nate was VERY responsive to emails and texts and more than willing to do whatever he could to guide us and answer our questions.  On several occasions I emailed him over the weekend not expecting a response until Monday but each time he responded before the weekend was over.  He even participated in a Zoom session with our group of five seniors as we planned our trip. He also helped us at the 11th hour when we added a family member to our travel group less than a month before our trip.  Without a doubt, I will reach out to Nate when I'm ready to plan my next trip to Disney World!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Homero Rendon 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We are so thankful we used Nate to plan not only our first Disney trip, but also our second. He made the process so easy for us, especially for us since it was our first time going. There was a lot to consider and many decisions to make, such as where to stay, when to go, and what to experience. Nate really helped us narrow down what we wanted to do overall, but he didn’t stop there. He provided detailed guides to help us navigate the airport and find our transportation to the resort, as well as a guide to explore the resorts and make sure we saw the best Christmas decorations. One of the many amazing things he also did was set up our dinner reservations for us. This saved us so much stress and allowed us to get some of our top choices. From the moment we landed in Orlando to the moment we headed back home, he made sure everything went smoothly. You truly can’t go wrong with going to him for your next trip.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Lee Mathes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nate was absolutely the best planner I have ever had.  Will most definitely be using him again.   He took care of everything and kept me on track.  Was so very helpful in making all the dining reservations and everything.   Can't thank him enough.   He made our trip completely stress free!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Amanda Moran 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nathan has been an amazing trip planner for me! So helpful and responsive. I am a very type A person -- so someone who is even more on top of their game than me -- is so so appreciated! Nathan has booked 3 trips for me (1 completed 2 pending) and it was perfection. Thanks again!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Hyperion Adventures Podcast 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nate has helped us with our vacation planning for the last couple of years and we couldn't be happier with his service and expertise. We've used other travel agents in the past and none of them have done as phenomenal a job to make sure every detail is taken care of as he has. Switching to Nate was one of the best decisions we've ever made. He's always quick to answer questions and works tirelessly to make sure we get everything we want from our trips. Plus, he's just a genuinely great person who is wonderful to work with. Whether you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a Disney Cruise, or any other vacation, Nate is the guy you want putting it all together! Five stars across the board!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 7 reviews 
 
   
 
 

Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!