One of the really fun things about Disney shows and movies is how they can take movies and stories we know so well and twist them into new and unique stories. One of the best ways Disney did this was with its hit ABC show, Once Upon a Time. Once Upon a Time aired from 2011 until 2018, and told the story of a young woman, Emma Swann, who comes to the town of Storybrooke.
What Emma doesn’t know is that Storybrooke is hiding one heck of a secret. The town is a secret town that is full of fairy tale characters who don’t remember who they are. And Emma is the only one who can help break the curse.
Throughout its seven seasons, Once Upon a Time introduced viewers to dozens of classic characters, including the infamous Captain Hook and his sidekick, Smee. The dashing Colin O’Donoghue played Captain Hook and Smee was played by English-born Canadian actor, Chris Gauthier. Together, the two took Captain Hook and Smee to new heights.
Sadly, we have learned that Chris Gauthier passed away suddenly. He was just 48 years old.
Gauthier’s reps from TriStar Appearances confirmed his death to Entertainment Weekly and said that he died after a brief illness.
“As a beloved character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film. His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally. On behalf of his family, we ask for privacy during this time so that they are able to grieve properly.”
After news of Gauthier’s death broke, O’Donoghue shared a heartfelt message.
Rest in Peace Chris! Heartbroken! My love and thoughts go out to Erin and the boys! You will be missed brother! You were the real captain!!
Chris Gauthier was born on January 27, 1976, in Luton, Bedfordshire, England. He began acting in his mid-twenties, landing his first role on the show Cold Squad. From there, he appeared in many hit films and television shows, including Freddy vs. Jason (2003), Watchmen (2009), Psych,When Calls the Heart, and A Series of Unfortunate Events.
He is perhaps most well-known for playing William Smee on Once Upon a Time and Winslow Schott/Toyman on the hit CW series, Smallville.
Gauthier leaves behind his wife Erin, and his two children, Ben and Sebastian.
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!
A new sculpture, bound for the Haunted Mansion Parlor onboard the Disney Treasure, is being crafted at a dedicated Walt Disney Imagineering workshop at Walt Disney World Resort. Who inspired this mysterious bust? The sculpture was modeled in the image of the famed Disney Legend, Rolly Crump. And the fact that today is Rolly’s birthday makes this Ship’s Log reveal all the more special as the world remembers him and his many contributions to Disney Parks.
Nicknamed “Rolly” by Walt Disney himself, during the early days of the company and played an integral role in designing the original Haunted Mansion at Disneyland Resort. Six decades later, the Haunted Mansion Parlor will unlock the next chapter of the Haunted Mansion saga for Disney Cruise Line guests. The venue will be imbued with Crump’s unique brand of humor and is a proud continuation of his legacy, celebrating the weird and the fantastical.
Part of Rolly’s larger creative concept for a “Museum of the Weird” in the Haunted Mansion, his original vision included a character that appeared to be melting like a candle. It was only fitting for the design for Rolly’s memorial bust to stem from his own ideas, which led to the sculpted drips on the side of his face and a memorial plaque that reads, “BROTHER ROLAND- FOREVER REVERED FOR EMBRACING THE WEIRD.” When the Disney Treasure sets sail, Rolly Crump’s statue will have a place of honor within the Haunted Mansion Parlor.
It’s a new year with new progress being made on the Disney Treasure at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg Germany. Last April, we revealed the Disney Treasure bow artwork. The whimsical design, which features Captain Minnie Mouse in her signature adventure-themed outfit, has now taken shape on the hull of the Disney Treasure. In step with the existing Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Treasure continues a two-decades-long tradition of carrying a unique character-inspired art piece on its bow. Its completion marks an exciting milestone for the Disney Treasure as it begins the next stage of construction. The installation process began when the shipyard team welded a number of pre-cut steel plates to the Disney Treasure’s hull. Once the framework of the design had been secured, the plates were painted by hand to obtain their iconic golden hue and sealed with a special topcoat. The artwork is just one of the many details that will distinguish the Disney Treasure when it sets sail later this year!
The Disney Treasure has reached yet another milestone in construction – the completion of its last block! In case you’re not familiar with this maritime milestone, it’s important to know that cruise ships are built in blocks (sections). With the last block in place, this means that the ship is now structurally complete and outfitting work can begin.
The last block on the Disney Treasure will eventually house areas such as the adults-only Quiet Cove area (including Cove Café) and Hero Zone, a futuristic sports arena where physical activity blends with imagination, offering highly produced show experiences in addition to free-play sports.
With this latest milestone reached, the Disney Treasure can now move towards completion of its interior.
The holidays are quickly approaching, but construction of the Disney Treasure hasn’t slowed down at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Germany. In fact, a lot of progress has taken place in recent weeks, including lifting of the forward and aft funnels to their rightful place atop the ship. Complete with a coat of primer paint, the icons that are known across the entire fleet have officially found their new home, bringing the Disney Treasure one step closer to completion.
Of course, the funnels on the Disney Treasure aren’t just for looks – guests will also be able to plunge through the forward funnel while riding the AquaMouse, Disney’s attraction at sea, or even stay inside the funnel in the two-story EPCOT-themed Tomorrow Tower Suite!
In this special entry of the Ship’s Log, you’re invited to read a letter from a ghostly captain, who will call The Haunted Mansion Parlor on board the Disney Treasure home. The Haunted Mansion Parlor will be the world’s first bar themed to the classic Disney Parks attraction, the Haunted Mansion. Read on for a message from our new favorite happy haunt …
To the reader of this letter, welcome.
I have always loved the sea. As soon as I learned to walk, I toddled right into the ocean. In my later years, I served proudly as Captain of a luxurious ocean liner, every voyage its own adventure.
In fact, my fiancé and I were to be wed at sea, a celebration of my two greatest loves. But alas, it was not to be. My untimely demise saw to that.
In life, I treasured my private parlor, where I often entertained passengers and guests. I cannot enjoy it the way I did before—but mind you, I do still enjoy it.
I hope you will visit. In my parlor, all guests—dear or departed, invited or otherwise—are welcome.
Sincerely,
The Captain
NEW – In December 2024, the curtain will open on a brand-new original Broadway-style production on the Disney Treasure. Joining a dazzling lineup of fan-favorite shows including “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure,” will be none other than “Disney The Tale of Moana.” Debuting exclusively at the Walt Disney Theatre onboard the Disney Treasure, “Disney The Tale of Moana” will bring the adventurous journey of Moana, inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film, to center stage for the first time. The show will follow Moana as she embarks on an incredible journey to save her island after she is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti. Fans of the original film will recognize many beloved characters like Gramma Tala, Maui and Tamatoa when they appear on stage, as well as songs from the film’s iconic soundtrack.
More about this imaginative, one-of-a-kind show will be announced at a later date.
NEW – After traveling all the way from Poland, the Disney Treasure’s forward funnel has arrived at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany! The funnel will soon be secured in its rightful place atop the Disney Treasure and will be given a coat of shiny red paint to match the iconic Disney Cruise Line look. When the first guests set sail onboard the Disney Treasure in December of 2024, they will be able to plunge through the forward funnel while riding Disney Cruise Line’s beloved attraction at sea, the AquaMouse and watch their favorite Disney movies via the Funnel Vision screen by the family pool. Some guests may even choose to stay inside the forward funnel’s EPCOT-themed Tomorrow Tower Suite!
Today was a monumental day for all the Disney Cruise Line fans, cast members, crew members and Disney Imagineers who are eagerly waiting for the Disney Treasure to set sail in December 2024. This morning, Disney Cruise Line revealed all-new spaces that will debut on the Disney Treasure with the help of Arthur Quinn, a self-proclaimed solo adventurer who stumbled across a magical treasure map while rummaging through his grandmother’s study. With the help of fast-forward magic, Arthur was transported to the Disney Treasure, where he discovered the many exciting experiences and new stories that guests will encounter onboard. At the end of his journey, Arthur made the most important discovery of all – the true meaning of the ship’s name. The name, the Disney Treasure, represents something much more valuable than jewels or gold. The true treasure that awaits every adventurer lies in the memories made during their journey.
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.
Get out those calendars because Disney has announced a HUGE new resort perk beginning for 2025 Walt Disney World vacations as well as the opening day for booking for 2025 vacations!
If you just can’t wait for your Disney vacation, then get ready: Walt Disney World Resort stays and theme park tickets for January to October 2025 are available to purchase beginning February 27, 2024. There is something for everyone and you can customize your visit by choosing from a wide range of options, including value Resorts like Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. Once you book your stay, start your countdown clock for your 2025 check-in day where you can enjoy fun in the sun at a Disney water park.
If you’re like me and need a dose of Disney magic in 2024, there are special offers available now for 2024 Disney Resort hotel stays and theme park tickets. Book now to get one step closer to day one of your vacation (aka the best day ever).
For me, nothing is better than the excitement that comes with the first day of a vacation. Here at the Walt Disney World Resort, we’re about to make those already awesome arrival days even better with a NEW perk.
Disney Resort hotel guests arriving in 2025 can enjoy admission to one of our water parks, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park or Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, on their check-in day – included in their stay. Our water parks have something for everyone: big thrills, lazy rivers, wave pools, interactive play areas for younger kids and even water slides the whole family can enjoy together. The fun can start on day one at a Disney water park when you stay in the Disney Resorts Collection! Click here to learn important details about this benefit and water park availability.
Tip: Be sure to check the water park operating hours closer to your 2025 arrival to plan your check-in day.
There are so many reasons why I prefer to stay at a Disney Resort hotel. Here are a few of my favorites:
Close to the theme parks: If you plan to visit one (or all) of the Walt Disney World theme parks, then nothing beats the convenience of staying at a Disney Resort hotel. Many resorts are just a hop, skip and a jump to a theme park! When I am on vacation, simplicity and ease are top planning priorities for me, so the theme parks being so close to where I sleep is perfect.
Complimentary transportation: Not only are the theme parks near my resort, but they’re easy to get to. With several complimentary transportation options, such as buses, boats, monorails and Disney Skyliner, I can get anywhere I need to go.
Extra time in the theme parks: Disney Resort hotel guests can get extra time in the theme parks with 30 minutes of early theme park entry. Guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts or Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts can maximize their time with extended evening hours at select parks on select nights. Early theme park entry and extended evening hours require valid admission, a Disney Resort hotel ID and a park reservation, if applicable. Psst – both will continue through 2025!
Early access to dining reservations: Don’t forget this perk: Disney Resort hotel guests can make dining reservations for their entire stay (up to a 10-night stay) 60 days before the first day of their vacation. This helps make planning simpler, so you don’t need to check every day for reservation openings.
Recreation & fitness activities: Even during a vacation, wellness is one of our top priorities. Our Disney Resort hotels offer several wellness activities through Disney Family Wellness. Some of my favorites include dancing to Disney songs, family fun walks and, yes, even pickleball! Check DisneyWorld.com to see what activities are available at your resort.
Of course, the magic of our Disney Resort hotels also includes the theming, attention to storytelling and world-class guest service you cannot get anywhere else.
If you prefer to pack light, then check out our MagicBands that let you enter the theme parks (with valid admission, of course), unlock your Disney Resort hotel room, link Disney PhotoPass photos, charge food and merchandise purchases to the Disney Resort hotel room you’re staying at and more – just with a tap of your band. Disney Resort hotel guests may receive a special price on a MagicBand+ if they purchase online before arriving for their stay.
You may have heard reports of a SeaWorld fire, but the real story is much worse…
WARNING: The following article mentions and/or discusses topics that may be distressing for certain audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.
SeaWorld stands as a premier destination, offering valuable educational opportunities for students of all ages. The park provides an immersive learning experience where students can engage with marine life up close, fostering a deep appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants. Through interactive exhibits and educational presentations, SeaWorld not only entertains but also educates, making it an ideal venue for school trips and academic excursions.
Unfortunately, one such SeaWorld school trip took a very dark turn when a bus containing students, teachers, and chaperones caught fire on its return from the field trip. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
At SeaWorld, students have the chance to witness firsthand the beauty and wonder of sea creatures, gaining valuable insights into marine conservation and biodiversity. By exploring marine habitats and observing animal behaviors, students can broaden their knowledge and understanding of the delicate balance that exists in the marine ecosystem.
Visiting SeaWorld is not just a fun outing but a valuable educational opportunity that can inspire a lifelong passion for marine science and environmental stewardship among students.
Many Florida schools take advantage of their proximity to SeaWorld and choose to visit the park on field trips. These field trips are typically magical and captivating days, but unfortunately, this one had a less-than-enchanting ending.
Last weekend, one Florida middle school bus was leaving SeaWorld when it spontaneously caught fire on the Florida Turnpike. According to officials, there were 47 students from Seminole Middle School, four adult chaperones, and the bus driver.
Florida Highway Patrol said the fire happened around 8:30 p.m. on Friday, February 16. The bus was at a rest stop when the fire erupted, so no passengers were on board when the fire erupted.
Thankfully, a quick response from fire officials and the Florida Highway Patrol allowed this bus fire to be put out in an efficient amount of time. A replacement bus soon after arrived and was able to transport the group home.
Bus carrying Florida students home from SeaWorld Orlando field trip catches fire, officials say https://t.co/PO3fWpbP1S
“All students were safe during this time and the school’s principal remained in communication with the students’ parents and guardians regarding this situation. Once the replacement charter bus arrived, the students and chaperones returned safely to the school. We are proud of the quick responses to this situation by all those involved, as the safety of students and staff is always our priority.”
The fast response of these entities, paired with the luck that no passengers were on board, made what could have been a devastating situation salvageable. As of now, the cause of the fire is unknown.
Disney World is known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” but unfortunately, it’s not immune to crime.
Stepping into Walt Disney World Resort is like entering a realm where dreams come true. From the enchanting Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom to the World Showcase of EPCOT, the meticulously crafted lands transport guests to learn about new cultures. Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can watch Fantasmic! with fan-favorite characters. Disney’s Animal Kingdom explores the circle of life.
In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in incidents of stroller thefts within the parks. Families visiting the parks often bring strollers to transport young children, and these strollers can become targets for thieves looking to make a quick profit.
Stroller thefts typically occur when families are distracted, such as when they’re waiting in line for attractions or enjoying a show. Thieves seize these opportunities to snatch unattended strollers, which may contain valuable items such as wallets, phones, cameras, and personal belongings and souvenirs.
Some Disney World guests never even notice when items run off from the stroller. When guests park their strollers and leave valuables on them, anyone or anything can swipe them.
In a social media post, one Walt Disney World guest caught a stroller thief red-handed. This cute and cuddle thief was none other than a squirrel. The comments about this squirrel talk about how he was seen taking a napkin over in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Other comments talk about how other guests have seen this happen, but if their stroller was swiped from, it is not funny.
Disney World guests are looking to take proactive steps to safeguard their strollers and belongings while visiting Walt Disney World. This includes using stroller locks or securing valuables in lockable compartments, keeping strollers within sight whenever possible, and never leaving them unattended for extended periods.
Even with cute, cuddly stroller thieves running around the parks, Disney Work has dealt with car break-ins around EPCOT and credit cards being swiped, so always be on the lookout and practice safe precautions when making your way around the theme parks.
In addition, it’s important to note your stroller can be moved around while in stroller parking. Disney cast members will move strollers to keep walkways clear and to maintain order in the stroller parking area. When you come back from an attraction, you can always find your nearest cast member to help locate your stroller if you’re having trouble finding it.
