Disney Cruise Line pulled back the curtain a little further on the Disney Believe at the 2026 D23 Expo, giving fans their first look at key design elements for the ship, which is scheduled to set sail in late 2027. Imagineer Claire Weiss, Portfolio Executive Creative Director for Disney Cruise Line, took the stage during the Horizons: D23 Disney Experiences Showcase to share the news.
The centerpiece of the reveal is the Grand Hall, which will carry a Moana theme inspired by Disney Animation's South Pacific films. A bronze cast statue of Moana, accompanied by Pua and Heihei, will anchor the space, surrounded by artisanal Polynesian finishes meant to honor the cultural traditions of the region. As the fourth ship in the Triton class — joining the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny — the Believe follows a design tradition of giving each vessel its own signature Grand Hall character and theme.
The ship's stern will feature large-than-life sculptures of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story, shown working together to write the ship's name in the franchise's signature block-style lettering using oversized yellow crayons — a playful departure from the elegant looped calligraphy seen on the rest of the fleet. Up at the bow, a hand-painted filigree depicts Tinker Bell as she appeared in the 1953 Walt Disney Animation Studios classic Peter Pan, flanked by silhouettes of Peter, Wendy, Captain Hook, and other characters from the film.
Disney has previously confirmed that the Believe will also bring to life the worlds of Encanto, Frozen, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and The Little Mermaid somewhere aboard the ship. A full, dedicated reveal for everything else — rotational dining, stage shows, lounges, staterooms, and more — is planned for October 7, 2026.
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This story is based on reporting from Disney Tourist Blog.
