Disney Cruise Line made waves at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, unveiling plans for a brand-new class of ships set to begin launching in 2029. The yet-to-be-named vessels will sit between the 2,713-passenger Disney Wonder and the 4,000-passenger Disney Wish in size — a deliberate choice, according to Disney Experiences Chairman Thomas Mazloum, who told USA TODAY the smaller footprint gives the fleet access to destinations larger ships simply can't reach. By late 2030, Disney expects to operate 13 ships total, opening the door to guests around the world.
Before those new ships arrive, Disney Cruise Line's next big launch is the Disney Believe, a fourth Wish-class ship set to debut in late 2027. A few signature design details were unveiled at D23's Disney Experiences Showcase: Tinker Bell and fellow Peter Pan characters will grace the bow in a hand-painted filigree, while Buzz Lightyear and Woody — appearing to scrawl the ship's name in Toy Story-style lettering — will adorn the stern. Inside, a bronze statue of Moana, accompanied by Pua and Heihei, will anchor the Grand Hall. More details on the Believe's features are expected this October.
Disney Cruise Line is also growing its presence along North America's West Coast. Both the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are set to return to Alaska in summer 2027, and the Disney Wish will make its European debut visiting all-new ports. Meanwhile, the line plans to roughly double its annual sailings out of San Diego under a port agreement that runs through at least 2031, with the Magic sailing October through November and the Wonder homeporting there from October through April 2027.
Travel advisors are already excited about the San Diego expansion. Stephanie Goldberg-Glazer of Live Well, Travel Often noted it pairs naturally with a Disneyland visit — the Anaheim resort sits just over an hour's drive north — and offers a low-hassle embarkation option for California residents who want to sidestep larger hub cities.
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Full details on itineraries and onboard features for both the Disney Believe and the forthcoming new ship class are still to come. This story is based on reporting by USA TODAY.
