Disney Cruise Line Delays Asia Debut to 2026
Disney Cruise Line’s highly anticipated first Asia cruise, the Disney Adventure, will not dock in Singapore as scheduled this December. The inaugural voyage has been postponed to March 10, 2026, due to unexpected delays in the shipbuilding process, affecting all sailings planned between December 15 and March 12, 2026.
Impact on Booked Passengers
In an official statement, Joe Schott, president of Disney Signature Experiences, acknowledged the disappointment this delay may cause to guests. He emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering an exceptional experience, which necessitated the adjustment of the timeline. Passengers who booked the original December 15 sailing will automatically be transferred to the new maiden voyage on March 10, 2026, and will receive a 50% refund. For those unable to make the new date, a full refund will be available, along with a 50% discount on a future sailing, valid for cruises departing on or before March 31, 2027. Requests for refunds must be submitted by September 21.
Other passengers affected by the delay will also receive a full refund and can rebook a sailing of their choice at a 50% discount during the same validity period. Those who booked through travel agents can request refunds or rebookings through their agents, while direct bookers can contact Disney Cruise Line via email or phone.
Details on the Disney Adventure
The Disney Adventure, which was acquired from the now-defunct Genting Hong Kong for approximately 40 million euros, is undergoing significant transformations to create a unique Disney experience at sea. Originally named Global Dream, the ship is designed to accommodate 6,700 passengers and features seven themed areas, including Marvel Landing, which will host the world’s longest roller coaster at sea, measuring over 250 meters.
Construction of the ship is taking place in Wismar, Germany, where it began sea trials on September 1. Despite the delays, Disney Cruise Line assures that the postponement will not affect other cruise offerings, including the upcoming Disney Destiny, set to sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on November 20.
In response to the delay, Jacqueline Ng, director of the Singapore Tourism Board’s cruise division, stated that the postponement will not impact Disney Cruise Line’s partnership with the board. She confirmed that DCL remains committed to homeporting exclusively in Singapore for at least five years starting in March 2026. Singapore’s cruise industry continues to thrive, contributing significantly to the tourism sector and offering diverse sailing itineraries from various cruise brands.
