Updates from the Disney Treasure: Peter Pan & Captain Hook Revealed as Stern Characters

Posted on by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

Welcome to the official ship’s log for the Disney Treasure! Follow along for an exclusive look into the complex ship building process as we document all the important milestones of the Disney Treasure’s journey. The Disney Treasure’s story began with the start of construction in January of 2023 and has continued to evolve ever since. Return here for the latest developments in the Disney Treasure’s progress as the world patiently waits for Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship to officially set sail in 2024. The adventure is just beginning!

NEW – This Disney Treasure update is coming to you from sunny Celebration, Florida, the headquarters for Disney Cruise Line. Today, the Disney Cruise Line team is thrilled to be debuting an image of the ship’s stern for the very first time! For 25 years, each Disney Cruise Line ship has been adorned with characters from beloved Disney adventures. The Disney Treasure will follow this tradition with its own signature character sculptures that honor the ship’s motif of adventure, Peter Pan and Captain Hook. Harnessing the power of Tinker Bell’s pixie dust, Peter Pan will levitate next to the Disney Treasure to add the finishing touch to the ship’s stern filigree. Meanwhile, Peter Pan’s longtime rival, Captain Hook can be seen leaning out a porthole with a vengeful expression on his face. Paintbrush and paint bucket in hand, Peter Pan sports a mischievous grin as he glances back at Captain Hook, who is dripping in yellow paint.

With the installment of the bridge block, the Disney Treasure now has everything it needs to sail through waterways around the world. The bridge block contains important navigational equipment for the ship, including the wheel! The future captain and their crew will be able to control the ship’s direction and speed from an onboard command center that looks out towards the horizon with floor to ceiling windows. This exciting update means we are one step closer to the day when the Disney Treasure will transport guests to beautiful destinations and explore the globe.

The Disney Treasure will continue the Disney Cruise Line tradition of bringing Broadway-style stage shows across the globe in a grand entertainment venue fit for original Disney musicals. However, before the curtain rises and performers dazzle future Disney Cruise Line guests, the Disney Imagineers and crew at Meyer Werft shipyard must weld what will someday become The Walt Disney Theatre to the Disney Treasure. It’s exciting to think that this space will soon be filled with Disney tunes and the heartwarming stories of favorite Disney adventurers!

Marvelous progress is taking place at Meyer Werft shipyard as the bow of the Disney Treasure was mounted to the forward section of the ship. This photo illustrates how the shipyard team carefully installs the bow block using a crane. The bow block was held in position with the help of a high-precision laser scanner until it was fully welded to the foreship. As the Disney Treasure takes form, this moment marks the first time that the iconic silhouette of the ship can be recognized. As with all ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Treasure takes its inspiration from classic ocean liners of the early 20th century with a modern flair.

The bow of the Disney Treasure has made its way to Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, having arrived aboard a barge with the aid of a helpful towboat. This photo showcases a first step in the installation process for the ship’s bow filigree, which is being protected by a large tarp. The outline of the design has already been sketched out in red ink on the ship’s surface and will be completed at a later point in the construction process.

Each ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet has its own distinct, elegant piece of artwork embossed on its bow. Revealing the unique designs created for the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and the Disney Wish marked a memorable moment for each vessel during its construction and the Disney Treasure is no different. Disney Cruise Line debuted the Disney Treasure’s captivating bow filigree for the first time. The design features a portrait of Minnie Mouse wearing her brand-new, adventure-ready ensemble as well as some hidden silhouettes of other beloved characters. Voyager Minnie’s look was designed especially for the Disney Treasure to complement its motif of adventure. Later on in the construction process, this artwork will be installed onto the bow of the ship for all to enjoy.

The weather in Germany may have been rainy, but spirits were high thanks to the completion of another maritime milestone for the Disney Treasure – the Keel Laying Ceremony. As a part of the ceremony, a newly minted coin is placed under the keel of the ship to foster good fortune for the ship and its crew in the years to come. Just like the steel cutting ceremony, keel laying traditions date back to the times of wooden ships. The coin itself is quite unique and depicts a carved portrait of Captain Minnie Mouse, sporting a fashionable new adventure outfit designed for the new ship.

The Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany received a very exciting delivery from Rostock, Germany– the Disney Treasure’s Floating Engine Room Unit! The Floating Engine Room Unit, sometimes called a FERU for short, is a critical piece when it comes to building the Disney Treasure. Upon the ship’s completion, the FERU will serve as the main source of power, housing the main motors and liquified natural gas tanks. The FERU is also where all the auxiliary machinery needed for cooling water, fuel, air supply and other essential support systems will be kept. The above picture shows the FERU during its journey from Denmark!

Another day at Meyer Werft shipyard, means they’re another step closer to completing the Disney Treasure. One way to recognize a Disney Cruise Line vessel is to look for the iconic red funnels standing proudly on the top deck. The Disney Treasure will follow the sleek, classic aesthetic of all Disney Cruise Line ships that have come before it, meaning it will continue upholding the tradition of featuring the eye-catching funnels. The second funnel has arrived at the shipyard from Poland. Pretty soon, it will receive a coat of bright red paint and be installed on the ship. It’s a thrilling time for the Disney Treasure as more and more pieces of the ship arrive.

The team at the Meyer Werft shipyard cut the first piece of steel for the Disney Treasure. Sparks were flying as a special machine called a plasma cutter, which is housed within the yard’s laser cutting room, was used to cut the steel in the shape of a Disney cruise ship. The ceremony was a huge milestone for the Disney Imagineers and crew building the Disney Treasure, marking the official start of construction.

One thing that makes this steel cutting ceremony so meaningful is it’s a continuation of a longtime maritime tradition. Ship builders have been honoring the beginning of the construction process for hundreds of years and it’s worth noting that even though the way ships are built has changed and steel has come to replace wooden materials, the spirit of the tradition lives on.  

New Disney100 Experiences Coming to EPCOT This September

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

The celebration of The Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary is underway, and we’re excited to share Disney100 will ramp up at Walt Disney World Resort beginning late September! Throughout the year, we’ve been celebrating the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy that is Disney over the last century. It’s been so fun to see all of the special surprises at Disney Parks across the globe helping fans and families relive beloved Disney memories and experience new, heartwarming stories.

Guests may have heard that EPCOT will be the center of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World, marking not only a century of magic and innovation, but also ushering in the future as the multi-year transformation of the park wraps up.

So, what’s in store for this limited-time celebration at EPCOT? Keep reading to learn about everything that will debut on Sept. 22!

Taken a selfie with any of the Disney100 backdrops located at all four theme parks and Disney Springs? Guests will be able to snap a photo with a new platinum Mickey Mouse sculpture in World Celebration with Spaceship Earth in the background. And don’t forget about the dazzling Disney100 Magic Shots and PhotoPass offerings currently available across Walt Disney World.

Be sure to check out the all-new mural at the heart of World Celebration to see how many of the 100 Disney characters Guests can find in the incredible scene. This expansive mural located along the walkway to World Showcase will feature some of your favorite characters hidden throughout the various neighborhoods of EPCOT. The rest of World Celebration will also be decked out in Disney100 platinum banners and décor.

Guests will be able to meet, hug and snap a photo with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their platinum best in the Imagination! pavilion. They won’t be the only ones sparkling in honor of the celebration. Spaceship Earth will light up each night with special colors and lights accompanied by the Disney100 anthem, a unique rendition of When You Wish Upon a Star.

Sip and savor tastes of the Disney100 celebration with four limited-time food & beverage locations during both the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays! We can’t wait to sample all of the culinary delights and delectable drinks that evoke new and timeless Disney memories.

That’s not the only exclusive food and beverage Guests will be able to enjoy during the celebration! They won’t want to miss out on the purple metallic Mickey Balloon Premium Popcorn Bucket available only at EPCOT during Disney100.

We can’t wait to welcome Guests to EPCOT to see the ongoing transformation of the park and join the excitement of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World from Sept. 22 to Dec. 31, 2023. Be sure to share favorite Disney100 memories on social with #Disney100. And stay tuned to the Disney Travel News for details about even more new experiences debuting during the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival and EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

Cheshire Cafe: Where Wonderland Magic Meets Whimsical Delights

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Magic Kingdom

Tucked away in the heart of Fantasyland at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, the Cheshire Cafe beckons visitors with its enchanting charm and whimsical offerings. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic tale, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” this delightful quick-service eatery invites guests of all ages to embark on a culinary journey filled with color, flavor, and a touch of magical madness.

As you approach the Cheshire Cafe, you are greeted by a larger-than-life, grinning Cheshire Cat perched above the entrance, setting the whimsical tone for what lies inside. The cafe’s design draws inspiration from the vibrant world of Wonderland, with playful colors, psychedelic patterns, and endearing details scattered throughout the venue. The seating areas are adorned with oversized tea cup-shaped chairs and whimsical decor, making guests feel as if they’ve stepped right into the pages of Lewis Carroll’s beloved story.

Cheshire Cafe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. The menu boasts an array of delectable snacks and beverages to satisfy every craving. Guests can indulge in the iconic Cheshire Cat Tail, a flaky pastry filled with chocolate chips and drizzled with colorful icing that resembles the mischievous feline’s tail. For those seeking a refreshing drink, the Mad Hatter’s Refreshments offers iced tea, frozen lemonade, and seasonal slushies, perfect for quenching your thirst on a warm day.

Beyond its delightful treats, Cheshire Cafe also offers enchanting character encounters, allowing visitors to meet some of Wonderland’s most beloved inhabitants. Throughout the day, Alice herself may make an appearance, bringing the magic of her fantastical world to life. These whimsical moments create lasting memories for guests of all ages, adding an extra layer of joy and enchantment to the dining experience.

]Cheshire Cafe is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Fantasyland. With its enchanting ambiance, mouthwatering treats, and character encounters straight out of Lewis Carroll’s imagination, this whimsical eatery captures the essence of Wonderland magic, ensuring that every visit is a fantastical and unforgettable journey down the rabbit hole.

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe: An Intergalactic Dining Experience

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Magic Kingdom

Nestled in the heart of Tomorrowland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe is a futuristic quick-service restaurant that takes diners on an out-of-this-world culinary journey. With its cosmic-themed decor, live entertainment, and diverse menu options, this iconic eatery offers an intergalactic dining experience that captivates visitors of all ages.

Step into Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, and you’ll find yourself transported to a space-age wonderland. The restaurant’s unique design features futuristic architecture, sparkling star lights, and a rotating stage that hosts an animatronic alien lounge singer, Sonny Eclipse, entertaining guests with catchy tunes. The menu is as diverse as the galaxy itself, offering interstellar options like the hearty Galactic Cheeseburger, crispy Chicken Nuggets, and the delightful vegetarian-friendly Plant-Based Sloppy Joe. Whether you crave classic American fare or cosmic-inspired dishes, Cosmic Ray’s has something to satisfy every palate.

Beyond its captivating ambiance and diverse menu, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe sets itself apart with its emphasis on customer experience. The ordering process is seamless, with multiple ordering stations that ensure guests spend less time waiting and more time enjoying their meals. The spacious dining area accommodates a large number of visitors, making it an ideal spot for families and groups. Disney’s renowned attention to detail extends to the cleanliness and organization of the restaurant, guaranteeing a pleasant and hassle-free dining experience.

The heart and soul of Cosmic Ray’s is undoubtedly Sonny Eclipse, the talented animatronic alien lounge singer. Sonny’s lively performances, complete with quirky humor and catchy tunes, elevate the dining experience to new heights. Families and children gather around the stage, mesmerized by his intergalactic melodies and interactive banter. From playful renditions of classic songs to his original space-inspired compositions, Sonny Eclipse creates magical moments that guests cherish long after they leave the cafe.

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe is more than just a place to refuel during a day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. It’s an immersive intergalactic dining adventure that delights visitors with its cosmic atmosphere, diverse menu offerings, and captivating live entertainment. For an unforgettable meal that’s truly “out of this world,” Cosmic Ray’s is a must-visit destination for Disney enthusiasts and space explorers alike.

Trespassing Guest Crashes Carousel of Progress

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Magic Kingdom

An uninvited Guest with a sense of entitlement reportedly crashed the Carousel of Progress attraction at Magic Kingdom, and he didn’t even have a park ticket.

When General Electric approached Walt Disney about the prospect of creating attractions for its pavilion at the New York World’s Fair, the genius visionary was excited at the prospect of collaborating again with GE. The two entities had previously worked on plans for an extension of Main Street, U. S. A., at Disneyland, but the idea was scrapped when it was decided that the technology necessary to bring Walt’s plans to fruition simply wasn’t available. But Walt tucked the idea for his so-called “Edison’s Square” into the recesses of his mind, and when GE and Disney partnered to bring four innovative attractions to the New York World’s Fair in 1964 and 1965, that idea served as the inspiration for what would soon be called the “Carousel of Progress.”

The newly-revived Disney-General Electric partnership ultimately gave birth to the development of four attractions: it’s a small world, Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln, Ford’s Magic Skyway, and the Carousel of Progress. The 1964-65 New York World’s Fair was held in Flushing Meadow Park in Queens, New York, from April to October 1964 and again from April to October 1965. Housed inside the General Electric pavilion called “Progressland,” the Carousel of Progress attraction opened on April 22, 1964, to inquisitive fairgoers, and the response was overwhelming. The attraction accommodated approximately 200 visitors every four minutes.

For the second season of the World’s Fair in 1965, a covered queue was built adjacent to the General Electric pavilion on an open lot in an effort to keep visitors out of the heat from the sun as Disney’s Carousel of Progress was equally as popular as it had been the year before, and wait times were sometimes high.

disney's carousel of progress attraction at the new york world's fair with crowds

The attraction features a unique stage show with various acts, each one performed on a different part of a stationary stage that is partitioned off from the rest of the stage. At the end of each act, the audience seating area rotates around the stage, much like a carousel. (Hence, the name “Carousel” of Progress.) The show made use of animatronic human figures that moved in sync with a recorded script. Each act highlighted electricity and its effects on man’s progress over the years. In the original version, the acts took place in the 1880s, 1920s, 1940s, and 1964, the first year of the New York World’s Fair. It was so popular that following the conclusion of the fair, Disney had the massive attraction dismantled and moved across the country to Disneyland in Anaheim, California, where it opened to park Guests in July 1967.

disney's carousel of progress

The Carousel of Progress wowed Guests at Disneyland until 1973, when it was closed to move it to Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park, where it reopened in 1975. Then in 1993, it was renamed “Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress” to honor Walt. The attraction today is a 21-minute production with the same premise—a look at the role electricity and technology have played in man’s progress, though a few minor changes have been made over the years, most of them barely noticeable.

Last month, the final scene of the attraction was rumored to have new additions that included elements to make the scene more “diverse” and “inclusive.” The reported changes were said to have upset some Guests who didn’t feel the new “woke” scene elements should be added. But the rumor was found to be false.

On Wednesday, however, a new addition to the attraction was witnessed by several Guests who were visiting Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom at Disney World. According to Entertainment Weekly, an uninvited Guest “crashed the Magic Kingdom’s Carousel of Progress attraction.”

According to the news outlet, a squirrel was seen scurrying around one of the show’s scenes. The out-of-place critter ran around the feet of John, the audio-animatronic dad and narrator of the show, as the father of two continued the recitation of his lines, as if he never even saw the unticketed, uninvited Guest on the stage floor.

carousel of progress with squirrel

It’s not clear from the report whether any attempts to interview the squirrel or John were made, and as of the time of this publication, there’s no word from either. As such, one can only assume the squirrel was only looking for his Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow as well.