In a significant milestone for the maritime industry, the "Disney Adventure," one of the largest cruise ships ever built in Germany, was successfully undocked from the ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems shipyard in Wismar on April 19, 2025. This event marks the culmination of nearly seven years of construction that faced numerous challenges, including the pandemic-induced insolvency of the MV-Werften shipbuilding group.
The "Disney Adventure" measures an impressive 342 meters in length and 46 meters in width, featuring 19 decks that can accommodate approximately 6,700 passengers. With a gross tonnage of 208,000 BRZ, it stands as the largest passenger ship ever constructed in Germany. Originally laid down as the "Global One" for Genting Hongkong in 2018, the ship's journey has been anything but smooth.
Construction of the ship began in March 2018 at the MV-Werften in Rostock, with the keel being laid in September of the same year. Genting Hongkong, a major player in the tourism and gaming sectors, envisioned a fleet of cruise ships tailored for the booming Asian market. However, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the company, leading to its bankruptcy in early 2022. This unfortunate turn of events delayed the construction of the "Global One," which was initially slated to enter service in 2021 with a capacity for 9,500 passengers and 2,000 crew members.
After the insolvency proceedings, the unfinished vessel was acquired by Disney Cruise Line in late 2022 for a reported 40 million euros, a fraction of its original construction cost. Disney subsequently invested significantly in the ship's conversion, with the Meyer Werft shipyard taking charge of the modifications required to align the vessel with Disney's design and operational standards.
Preparations for the undocking began on April 17, 2025, when the ship was moved to the outfitting quay for final installations. This included the mounting of critical components such as chimneys and even a unique onboard roller coaster named "Ironcycle Test Run," which, at 250 meters, will be the longest roller coaster at sea. The ship's maiden voyage is scheduled for December 15, 2025, with its home port in Singapore, where it will operate for at least five years, primarily catering to the Asian cruise market.
The cruises will last three to five days and will be designed as immersive experiences, featuring seven themed areas that bring the magic of Disney to life on the open seas. Notably, the ship's design takes into account cultural sensitivities, such as avoiding the number four, which is considered unlucky in Chinese culture, by omitting the 14th deck.
As the "Disney Adventure" prepares for its inaugural journey, it embodies not just the resilience of the cruise industry but also the innovative spirit of Disney. The ship promises to be a floating amusement park, appealing to families and Disney enthusiasts alike.
Safety measures were in place during the undocking process, with the city of Wismar closing the Old Port to ensure the safety of both workers and spectators. This precaution underscores the importance of safety in such complex maritime operations.
In the wake of the ship's completion, many former MV-Werften employees have found new opportunities in the shipbuilding sector, particularly with ThyssenKrupp-Marine-Systems, which has expanded its production capabilities. Between 400 and 600 workers were employed by Meyer-Werft for the conversion of the "Disney Adventure," helping to mitigate the impact of the shipyard's previous closure.
As the cruise industry continues to rebound from the pandemic, the launch of the "Disney Adventure" signifies a new chapter. It reflects a growing trend of large-scale cruise ships that not only provide transportation but also serve as destinations in their own right. With its innovative features and family-friendly attractions, the "Disney Adventure" is poised to set a new standard in the cruise industry.
The ship's completion and undocking are not just a testament to the resilience of the maritime sector but also a celebration of creativity and innovation in ship design. Disney's investment in this project highlights its commitment to providing unique experiences that blend entertainment with travel, ensuring that the "Disney Adventure" will be a sought-after choice for cruise enthusiasts around the world.
In conclusion, the "Disney Adventure" represents a remarkable achievement in shipbuilding and a hopeful sign for the future of the cruise industry. As it embarks on its maiden voyage, it will undoubtedly create lasting memories for thousands of passengers, bringing the magic of Disney to the high seas.
