Disney Cruise Line’s next new cruise ship, Disney Wish, reached a key construction milestone this week when the keel was laid for the new vessel.
Disney Wish will be the fifth cruise ship in Disney’s fleet and is the first of three new vessels being added by Disney Cruise Line.
“As we look to the future with anticipation and excitement for continuing our legacy of creating magical vacations for families across the globe, we are thrilled to reach this significant milestone in the ship building process and to unveil Captain Minnie as the beloved character on the bow of the Disney Wish,” said Thomas Mazloum, president of Disney Cruise Line.
Keel laying takes place when the first block, or section of a ship, is lowered into the building dock, and a newly minted coin is placed under the keel for good fortune.
The coin created for Disney Wish features Captain Minnie, who made her debut aboard Disney Cruise Line ships in 2019 as part of a collection of initiatives aiming to inspire the next generation of female leaders in the cruise industry.
Disney Wish will showcase the immersive family entertainment, enchanting storytelling and unparalleled service that only Disney can deliver. The cruise ship will be powered by liquified natural gas, or LNG, one of the cleanest-burning fuels available.
At approximately 144,000 gross tons and 1,250 guest staterooms, the cruise ship will be slightly larger than Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.
Disney Wish will debut in 2022 and itineraries for the cruise ship will be released at a later date.