Disney has long been known for its ability to bring magic to life, but now it's taking to the seas with its much-anticipated Disney Adventure cruise line. This new venture promises to cater to families and Disney fans, offering experiences wrapped around beloved characters and immersive storytelling. Set to launch its inaugural Asian voyage in December 2025, the Disney Adventure will be based out of Singapore, marking the company's first foray directly targeting the vibrant Asian cruise market.
Bookings for the Disney Adventure will open on December 10, 2024. Prices for three-night cruises will start at $958 for two adults, climbing as high as $3,298 for concierge staterooms. Families can expect additional costs for various upgradable experiences and amenities during their stay, boosting the overall vacation budget up to $2,876 for four nights in ocean-view accommodations.
The ship is no ordinary cruise liner. It can accommodate 6,700 passengers, featuring numerous themed areas inspired by the vast Disney universe, including zones dedicated to Disney classics, Pixar narratives, and Marvel heroes. Guests can splash around at Toy Story Place, immerse themselves at San Fransokyo Street, or take thrilling rides at Marvel Landing, home to Disney's first-ever sea rollercoaster.
A standout of the Disney Adventure is its commitment to creating memorable interactions between guests and Disney characters. Life-sized princesses, animated superheroes, and beloved sidekicks like Chip and Dale will roam the decks, ensuring photo-worthy moments are around every corner.
To coincide with the cruise launch, United Overseas Bank (UOB) has announced their collaboration with Disney Cruise Line, making them the first ASEAN bank offering exclusive benefits to UOB cardholders. This partnership, highlighted during UOB's recent announcements, aims to enrich the experience for families planning their cruise vacations.
UOB's benefits kick off immediately, facilitating discounts and unique offers for bookings made on the Disney Adventure through their travel partners, including UOB Travel Planners, Klook, Traveloka, and Trip.com. This three-year collaboration expects extensive engagement, with over 100,000 queries already registered from interested customers eager to join the cruise's first sailings.
“UOB is thrilled to team up with Disney Cruise Line on our quest to provide cardholders with unique privileges,” said Ms. Jacquelyn Tan, UOB's Head of Group Personal Financial Services. This partnership aligns with the bank's mission to cater to the lifestyle preferences of its customers and reflects their goal to expand their customer base to ten million within three years.
UOB is enhancing the magic of the upcoming cruise experience through the "Let the Magic Begin" campaign. This year-end event launched at UOB Plaza promises not just discounts but also exclusive plush toys inspired by notable Disney characters, redeemable through specific spending thresholds and activities.
The bank is betting on the increasing interest for cruises throughout Asia, capitalizing on the industry's remarkable resurgence post-pandemic. With the global cruise sector bouncing back, evidenced by Cruise Lines International Association's report of 31.7 million cruise passengers last year, UOB and Disney's collaboration is perfectly timed to draw both seasoned and new cruisers.
Sarah Fox, Vice President and Regional General Manager for Southeast Asia at Disney Cruise Line, remarked on the significance of these cruises, stating, “We look forward to welcoming travellers from the ASEAN region to experience the magic of Disney.” The anticipation from both UOB and Disney reflects broader trends of consumer enthusiasm for unique travel experiences, particularly aimed at families and younger audiences eager for memorable adventures.
While planning their trip, families will also be able to collect stamps at UOB branches across Singapore, each linked to the themed areas of the Disney Adventure. Completing the stamp card will grant customers access to various Disney-themed gifts and possible entries to win the grand prize of another cruise.
UOB's collaboration with Disney Cruise Line is not just about the immediate benefits but is also expected to keep cruise travel at the forefront of customer appeal, especially as travel continues to grow across ASEAN. With sustainable tourism on the rise, both entities aim to craft experiences deeply rooted in enjoyment, bonding, and the irreplaceable charm of Disney's storytelling.
The launch of the Disney Adventure is set to be more than just another cruise; it's anticipated to be the start of a magical new chapter, promising adventures at sea immersed with the very best of what Disney has to offer.
