Disney Cruise Line has revealed plans for its future fleet expansion with a new class of ships designed to access more destinations and enhance environmental sustainability. The company announced the construction of a fourth Wish-class ship, set to debut in 2027, which will be a 144,000gt vessel with a capacity for 4,000 passengers. This will be followed by the introduction of a new class of three ships in 2029, 2030, and 2031, each with a smaller size of approximately 100,000gt and designed for 3,000 passengers. These ships will be 20% larger than Disney’s original ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, but smaller than the Dream and Wish classes.

The new ships will not run on LNG but will be versatile, capable of using various fuels like hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and renewable methanol, with provisions for future fuel innovations. They will also incorporate advanced technology for energy efficiency, including a streamlined hull, next-generation power and propulsion systems, and a battery system to supplement main engines, allowing for engine shutdown and use of shore power in ports.

Thomas Mazloum, president of New Experiences Portfolio & Disney Signature Experiences, emphasized the importance of offering diverse vacation experiences and accessing a broader range of destinations with these smaller ships. Philip Gennotte, from Walt Disney Imagineering, highlighted the environmental focus of the new designs, which will use lighter materials and energy-efficient technologies.

By 2031, Disney Cruise Line’s fleet will expand to 13 ships, including the Disney Treasure (debuting in December), Disney Destiny, and the significantly larger Disney Adventure (formerly Global Dream). Additionally, a Wish-class ship built by Meyer Werft for Oriental Land Co. will begin cruising in Japan in early 2029. This expansion reflects Disney’s commitment to both expanding its cruise offerings and advancing its environmental goals.