Latest Updates from the Disney Treasure: New Details for the Haunted Mansion Parlor

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.

Updates from the Disney Treasure: Captain Minnie Mouse Bow Artwork Installed

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!

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. 

First Look at New Disney Treasure ‘Moana’ Show

We’re excited to share more details about “Disney The Tale of Moana,” which will debut exclusively at the Walt Disney Theatre onboard the Disney Treasure in December 2024. With set design and music bursting with elements of Pacific Island cultures which inspire the classic coming-of-age tale, this innovative production will immerse audiences in a transformational adventure across land and sea.

Read on for more details and a sneak peek of how “Disney The Tale of Moana” will come to life in the first stage adaptation inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film.

Towering Puppets Take Stage

To create puppetry that soars to mythical heights, Disney Live Entertainment Creative Director of puppetry and articulation, Jeff Conover, teamed up with master puppet designer Michael Curry, whose creations are featured in Disney’s Tony Award-winning musical “The Lion King” on Broadway. Te Kā, the massive, fiery villain guarding Te Fiti, will be a puppet of a scale Disney Cruise Line has never before produced. When Moana meets Te Kā and restores the heart of Te Fiti, the giant Te Kā puppet will shed its fiery shell and become the gentle island goddess, Te Fiti herself.

Practice Your “Warrior Face”

The stage show will also include a brand new song, “Warrior Face,” performed by Moana and Maui when the demigod teaches Moana how to face her fears before entering the Realm of the Monsters to face Tamatoa. “Warrior Face” will join classic favorites from the Grammy-Award winning soundtrack in the stage show, including “You’re Welcome,” “We Know The Way” and “How Far I’ll Go.”

Setting the Scene in “Innocent Warrior”

“Disney The Tale of Moana” will begin in modern day on the fictional island of Motunui, in a set design filled with hints of brilliant Pacific Island cultures that will appear throughout the show. The spirit of Gramma Tala, our narrator, will introduce her granddaughter, while through vibrant dance and songs in a mix of languages including Tuvaluan, Tokelauan and Samoan, we will learn how the ocean chooses young Moana for an incredible journey to restore the heart of Te Fiti.

Transforming The Walt Disney Theatre in “How Far I’ll Go”

In this iconic scene, The Walt Disney Theatre will transform from the island of Motunui into the open ocean as Moana’s journey moves from her home to the great voyage that she’s longed for her entire life. Twinkling stars will swirl overhead and a giant, glowing manta ray will emerge and soar above the audience as a newfound sense of courage fills Moana. The manta ray is the spirit of Gramma Tala, lighting up the sea to accompany Moana on her journey to save her people.

This show looks stunning, and we know our guests cannot wait to see Moana’s incredible story unfold in a new way on the Disney Treasure! “Disney The Tale of Moana” will join a dazzling lineup of fan-favorite shows like “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure” in the Walt Disney Theatre. Stay tuned for more details about the Disney Treasure as we count down the days until it sets sail in December 2024.

Top Things to Look Forward to in 2024

Happy New Year! This year, more than ever, we’re bringing your favorite stories to life in fun, innovative ways at our theme parks and resorts, on our cruise ships and through our amazing products and experiences around the world. From Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the launch of the new Disney Treasure cruise ship, to the first-of-its-kind Pixar Place Hotel and other highly anticipated experiences, here are some sensational things to look forward to in 2024:

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort

In 2024, the all-new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open at Disneyland park at Disneyland Resort and Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. 

This attraction brings guests into Princess Tiana’s world like never before on a musical journey inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “The Princess and the Frog.”

When the attraction opens, guests will join Princess Tiana, Naveen and jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration. Along the way, they’ll see familiar faces, make new friends and travel through the bayou to original music inspired by songs from the film as they are brought into the next chapter of Tiana’s story.

New Star Tours Attraction Characters, Stories

Star Wars was a favorite topic with Blog readers last year – so, I’m sure many guests are as excited as we are that Star Tours – The Adventures Continue is adding more stories and characters in 2024 at Disneyland Park in California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.

Also, from April 5 – June 2, Season of the Force will arrive at Disneyland Park with Hyperspace Mountain and special merchandise, themed food and beverage and more. Plus, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will give a fresh perspective on the fireworks above Disneyland Park with galactic music sweeping through the spires!

Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort

Pixar Fest is returning to Disneyland Resort from April 26 through Aug. 4, celebrating friendship and beyond with colorful décor, themed entertainment and more. Here’s a sneak peek of an all-new sculpture featuring Pixar pals like Woody and Buzz that you’ll be able to snap a photo in front of at Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland Park when the celebration begins!

This festival is highlighted by heartwarming entertainment featuring favorite Pixar stories. An all-new daytime parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” will debut at Disney California Adventure Park, and at Disneyland Park, the emotional “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” returns with some all-new scenes, including one with Mei Lee and her friends from “Turning Red.”

During the celebration, guests may also encounter new characters such as Ember and Wade from “Elemental” and more.

Pixar-Themed Hotel at Disneyland Resort

Also at Disneyland Resort, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will officially transform into Pixar Place Hotel on Jan. 30, becoming the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the United States.

The 15-story hotel overlooking Disney California Adventure park will offer guest rooms inspired by the artistry of Pixar, new dining from Great Maple restaurant, a rooftop pool area, play court and more.

“Fantasmic!” Returns to Disneyland Park

On May 24, “Fantasmic!” will once again illuminate the Rivers of America in Disneyland park, featuring new special effects, a thrilling new battle scene between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent, plus the return of the iconic “Peter Pan” scene.

If guests haven’t experienced it, “Fantasmic!” is an emotional extravaganza where fantastic events and images from Disney stories come to life through soaring music, dozens of live performers, character appearances and state-of-the-art pro

CommuniCore Plaza, CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT

At Walt Disney World Resort, CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza will be completed in 2024 as part of the multiyear transformation of EPCOT. 

These new spaces extend the EPCOT festivals beyond World Showcase and provide a new home for additional exhibits and entertainment, offering the perfect space to gather with family and friends.

Reimagined “The Little Mermaid” Show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

In 2024, an all-new theatrical production inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic “The Little Mermaid” is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The reimagined show will feature stunning set pieces, cutting-edge effects and a bold new design aesthetic that captures Ariel’s imagination and emotions through her unique view of the world around her. More to come in 2024!

All-Day Park Hopping, Dining Plan at Disney World

Beginning Jan. 9, guests at Disney World with a ticket with Park Hopper benefits or an Annual Pass will be able to once again visit another theme park at ANY TIME OF DAY during park hours (subject to capacity limitations).

Also, as part of our updates to improve the guest experience at Disney World, Disney dining plans will be coming back as an option for those staying at Disney Resort hotels who purchase a vacation package with us starting with stays beginning Jan. 9. Guests will be able to choose from two popular options: Packages that include either the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan.

Country Bear Jamboree at Walt Disney World Resort

This year, the Country Bears will debut new songs and a new act that pays homage to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. 

The Country Bear Jamboree will still have the same fun and friendly tone guests enjoy and it’ll introduce reinterpreted Disney songs in different genres of country music – like rockabilly, bluegrass, pop-country and other styles.

Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s Boardwalk

The Cake Bake Shop, a whimsical table service restaurant and bakery with French flair, will be opening at Disney’s BoardWalk at Disney World in early 2024. 

If guests haven’t heard, The Cake Bake Shop has counters lined with beautifully displayed handmade cakes, cookies, French macarons, brownies, dessert bars, pies and cheesecakes. Other locations have become known destinations for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, weddings, or for spending time with family and friends.

runDisney Returns to Disneyland Resort, Plus a New Halloween-themed Event

runDisney returns to Disneyland Resort Jan. 11-14 with the sold-out Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, featuring four days of exciting events.

Later in the year, runDisney haunts will make their way to The Happiest Place on Earth for a grim-grinning good time during the 2024 Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend.

Taking place Sept. 5-8, there will be four days of events, including yoga, Kids Races, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Challenge, all themed to the 2024 Halloween season. Visit runDisney.com for more details.

Disney Treasure

Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Treasure, will debut in December 2024.

As guests have probably seen, this amazing ship will bring captivating stories from beloved Disney Animation, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel and Disney parks adventures to life like never before with new venues and reimagined spaces.

The Disney Treasure sets off on its maiden voyage, a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 21, followed by an inaugural season of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral.

Disney Lookout Cay in The Bahamas

This summer, Disney Cruise Line’s newest, one-of-a-kind retreat on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, Disney Lookout Cay, will open. 

As we’ve shared, when guests step foot on this one-of-a-kind island destination, they’ll discover a celebration of Bahamian storytelling, artistry and culture.

The vibrant island retreat at Lighthouse Point will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.

Pixar Day at Sea & Marvel Day at Sea with Disney Cruise Line

In January, two themed Disney Cruise Line sailings are returning – Pixar Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea.

  • For Pixar Day at Sea, Pixar stories will come to life on the Disney Fantasy through a cowboy sing-a-long breakfast with favorite Toy Story characters, Crush’s totally awesome pool party, themed activities and treats, a Pixar Pals dance party on the upper decks, character encounters and a deck show starring the Incredibles.
  • For Marvel Day at Sea, on the Disney Dream out of Fort Lauderdale, the largest assembly of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains on land or at sea will gather for Marvel Day at Sea for an action-packed day that’ll unlock the inner superhero in all guests.

Pixar and Marvel Day at Sea offerings are included in the price of a Disney cruise. All of the regular guest favorites, including Broadway-style shows, themed rotational dining, fireworks at sea and spaces and activities for everyone in the family, will still be present on all Disney Cruise Line sailings. 

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Beginning in Summer 2024, the newest Disney Vacation Club resort, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort will open.

Tucked away in the peaceful woodlands of the Walt Disney World Resort, the refreshed cabins will make a relaxing retreat where guests can enjoy the comforts of home while staying in the great outdoors.

Adventures by Disney in Colombia

In 2024, Adventures by Disney will be taking  guests to Colombia, the country and cultures that inspired Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award-winning film, “Encanto.”

Trips begin in the capital city of Bogota, and guests’ exploration of this beautiful country begins at the Paloquemao Market where they’ll see a bounty of flowers and colorful fruits and vegetables. They’ll also visit a fourth-generation coffee farm in the Coffee Region and learn about harvesting and roasting the beans, as well as brewing the perfect cup of coffee.

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

In 2024, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is coming to Anaheim, California with a fan experience like none other. 

From Aug. 9 to 11, this one-of-a-kind event will have spectacular shows, new venues and multiple days of entertainment and experiences that bring together all the wonderful worlds of Disney.

On Thursday, Aug. 8, the D23 kickoff celebration will take place at Disneyland Resort followed by shopping, exhibits, panels, presentations, and more on Aug. 9 – 11 at the Anaheim Convention Center during the day, with the fun extending into the evening at the Honda Center—the bigger home to marquee shows.

Tickets for the event will go on sale in Spring 2024 and more details will be announced early this year.

First-Ever Haunted Mansion Bar Coming to the Disney Treasure in 2024

At the height of spooky season, Disney Cruise Line has revealed the Haunted Mansion Parlor, an all-new bar inspired by the iconic Disney Parks attraction, The Haunted Mansion. Foolish mortals will sip spirited craft cocktails among 999 happy haunts for the first time inside this new venue on board the Disney Treasure when it sets sail in December 2024. I had a chance to learn about the upcoming bar with Imagineers and get a look at concept art and new merchandise.

The Backstory of Haunted Mansion Parlor

The one-of-a-kind experience will invite guests to partake in the next chapter of the Haunted Mansion, focused on the story of a jovial captain who entered the ghostly realm after a disastrous dinner with his beloved fiancé. A custom musical arrangement inspired by the attraction’s original score arranged and adapted by composer Shruti Kumar and Walt Disney Imagineering will set the stage for an ever-escalating anthology of illusions that immerses guests into the mysterious lore of the Haunted Mansion.

Haunted Mansion Inspiration

Legendary characters from Haunted Mansion attractions at Disney Parks around the world, as well as new seafaring arrivals, will come out to socialize in mysterious ways throughout the experience. The venue will follow the nostalgic art style of the original 1969 Disney Parks classic, and true to the original attraction, the Haunted Mansion Parlor will blend humor with Disney’s own distinct brand of spooky storytelling.

Design Elements

The design of the Haunted Mansion Parlor will be reminiscent of a first-class drawing room from the classic cruise liners of the golden age, invoking inspiration from the original Haunted Mansion with a nautical twist. The lounge will include tributes to the Disney Parks attractions, from the iconic purple wallpaper framed by wooden finishes to a mantel clock atop an inviting fireplace to a distinctive purple armchair tucked in the corner. Guests will also encounter a few new ghoulish faces in a portrait gallery depicting the Disney Treasure’s own ghostly residents.

Deliciously Chilling Drinks

At the Haunted Mansion Parlor, guests will sample from a selection of ghostly cocktails that capture the spirit of the famed theme park attraction, The Haunted Mansion.

Blood orange and sour cherry flavors will harmonize in a shimmering zero-proof cocktail served in a specialty mug aptly titled, Sympathetic Libations. Click here for the recipe.

The Ghoulish Delight will be an ube-flavored treat that everyone will be able to enjoy. The drink, with hints of sweetness and nuttiness, will incorporate decadent ube fudge, oat milk and tapioca pearls in a purple concoction garnished with a gummy eyeball and ube glitter. Click here for the recipe.

A spooky twist on a classic margarita, presented to guests amidst a swirl of flavored smoke, will be another signature drink at the Haunted Mansion Parlor. Topped with a lemon salt foam, this tequila-based cocktail will contain a secret message, only to be revealed by black light. Click here for the recipe.

Credit: Disney
Credit: Disney

Mysterious Merchandise

The new bar venue will introduce an exclusive array of haunted homewares and spooky souvenirs to the shops onboard the Disney Treasure.

The Haunted Mansion Parlor Music Box will be a keepsake inspired by the eerie music box that will play a melodic soundtrack inside the Haunted Mansion Parlor. As the rumors go, this mysterious box belonged to the captain’s bride-to-be and only opens in the presence of malevolent spirits.

Honoring the memorable grandfather clock seen in the original Disney Parks attraction, the Haunted Parlor Mantle Clock will loom over the fireplace inside the venue, instigating mysterious happenings when it strikes 13. As a part of the new merchandise collection, Disney Cruise Line guests will be able to bring home their very own mantle clock, just like the one from the parlor.

Featuring the same octopus design from the bar’s entrance onboard the Disney Treasure, the Haunted Mansion Parlor Sculpted Mug will depict an aura of intrigue and will be accented with a variety of sea life, including a hidden Mickey Mouse-shaped barnacle.

The Haunted Mansion Parlor Mirror will allow guests to take home a piece of the magic, offering a ghoulish surprise to unsuspecting users when the hitchhiking ghosts mysteriously appear.