Disney Destiny: Explore the New Experiences on Board

[Disney4me]

Whether you’re Team Heroes or Team Villains, the Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, has epic magic in store. From a Cruella de Vil-inspired piano bar to a “Disney Hercules” stage show — and with oodles of fun in between — you’ll find all-new adventures at sea plus plenty of returning guest favorites. 

As part of the media preview (onboard the sister ship, Disney Wish), I had the opportunity to attend the Disney Destiny Showcase and peek behind the scenes at some of the experiences onboard — and trust me, you won’t want to miss them. Some are heroic, some are a little more nefarious…but all embrace the dynamic duality of every great Disney story.

After all, as Yolanda Cade, Vice President of Communications & Public Affairs of Disney Signature Experiences, explains, “Here’s the beautiful thing about the Disney Destiny: Some of our favorite heroes and villains live in harmony on board the ship…and some in disharmony. Our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering, they have from bow to stern…infused it with all of the great inspiration from our greatest heroes and our greatest villains.”

Ready to explore? Follow along with my day and discover some Disney Destiny must-dos!

Disney Destiny Shows

Behind the Scenes of “Disney Hercules”

My favorite part of the day by far was a sneak peek at the all-new “Disney Hercules” show coming to the Disney Destiny. In an incredible panel of spokespeople from the creative team, I got all the details on how this classic Walt Disney Animation Studios film is coming to life in the Walt Disney Theater. 

There are so many elements that make this show truly unique, but I loved hearing about the contemporary aesthetic the show will embody. Show Director Kevin Wilson explained that “Disney Hercules” will feature all the same music and characters, but that “the music, we were able to make it a little more pop, contemporary.” 

There will also be a new song, “Shooting Star,” featured in the show. This song was originally supposed to be in the film but never made the final cut – meaning it will debut for the first time in a live stage show! 

The set, too, will juxtapose between a modern aesthetic and a Grecian feel. Michael Serna, Executive Creative Director, points out that staircases coming from stage right and stage left will propel scene transitions, lending a more modern touch. Meanwhile, there will be a Grecian aesthetic with pillars and a gazebo. It’s a delicate balance; as Kevin shares, “We really want elements in the show to feel fresh and new but still have the heart and soul of the story.”

As for the costumes? Think couture fashion. Show Director Marcel Wilson shares that the gods and goddesses have “beautiful, enormous headpieces that are ornate, and dramatic draping. Even our Grecian townspeople, it’s not couture fashion, but it still gives a runway vibe, so we still have the Grecian aesthetic.” And of course, expect the Disney Destiny theme of light vs. darkness to make an appearance here, too — some of the costumes will light up!

If you’ve seen “Disney The Tale of Moana” onboard the Disney Treasure, you’ll be familiar with the show’s jaw dropping puppets. Creative Director Jeff Conover explains, “We love puppetry. We love to play with scale. It brings the emotions to another level.” He shared a peek at a brand-new rendering showcasing Hercules battling the hydra – featuring puppets! 

“The concept art here, for me, captures exactly what we’re trying to achieve,” gushes Jeff. “Definitely larger than life. We’re doing some really interesting stuff, not just with the hydra, but also with some of the titans from the film and utilizing some technology here at the Walt Disney Theater that has never been used before.” I, for one, can’t wait to see the final product!

Lastly, the actor portraying Hercules himself, Corey J. Bradford, surprised us onstage for a rendition of “Go the Distance” — and he wowed me with his breathtaking voice. And Marcel left us with a little hint to mentally prepare ourselves to see Megara’s garden. “It’s going to be a spectacle,” he says. Sounds like it will be a show worthy of the gods! 

Disney Destiny Dining

Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King

I am bursting with anticipation to dine at Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King aboard the Disney Destiny, and luckily, this evening provided a taste of what’s in store! 

I was immersed in the restaurant’s atmosphere, from windows overlooking different times of day on the savanna to tranquil instrumental music playing in the background. Show Director Paul Bryant shared, “When you step into this space, you’re transformed into the Pride Lands. Can you guys hear the soundscape? We really wanted to live into the authenticity of the musicians and their instruments.” From earthly drums to lilting flutes, I was truly transported. 

We also got a peek at cast costumes, place settings, and even an adorable hyena sipper featuring Ed, and Timon popcorn bucket!

As for eats and sips, I sampled two drinks coming to Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King — Can You Feel the Rum Tonight? (a marvelously mango concoction) and Smily Yet Satisfying (a sweet, gummy-inspired beverage perfect for the kids and the kids at heart).

The evening’s eats were inspired by the Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King menu, and everything was wildly delicious. For a closer look at the restaurant’s menu, check out our Disney Eats first look. And don’t forget to bring your lion’s appetite!

When you visit the restaurant onboard the Disney Destiny, you’ll want to keep an eye out for some special, hidden details specially for fans of “The Lion King.” Principal Production Designer Jay Abruzzese shared, “There are things you’re going to discover as you walk down the hallway, as you’re entering the savanna. You may see a character in a carving on a wall, you may see a silhouette light up at different times in the show…” There’s no end to the fun you may spot. 

The night ended with a breathtaking performance of classic “The Lion King” songs, including “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Hakuna Matata.” It made me even more excited to board the Disney Destiny for this exceptional dining experience!  

De Vil’s Piano Lounge

No evening is complete without a devilish drink or two with Cruella De Vil herself. Luckily, the fiery fashionista made an appearance!

Our preview of De Vil’s lounge featured the Hollywood Regency architecture, glamorous cocktails, and spotted piano we’ll see onboard the Disney Destiny. And just like at the lounge itself, this evening’s guests were recruited for a little musical mischief!

I had the chance to sample the strawberry shortcake popcorn and two specialty cocktails coming to the lounge, and my darlings, you’re in for a treat. My favorite was the Fashionista, which consists of strawberry and banana infused tequila and was surprisingly fruity! However, the zero-proof Fearless Sir Galahad held its own with its syrupy sweet scent and spicy flavor profile. 

I’m so excited to experience De Vil’s onboard the Disney Destiny – and you should be too! Get more of the dreadful details on this paws-itively delightful space on the Disney Parks Blog.   

The Sanctum

Venture into a world of powerful sorcerers inside The Sanctum, a lounge inspired by Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange.” I got to immerse myself in this experience with a first look at a new rendering of the space! Designers were inspired by the New York Sanctum, and you’ll recognize some details from the film’s Chamber of Relics, plus suspended spell books and other enchanting Easter eggs.

I also tried some of the sips that will be up for grabs including the Vapors of Valtorr, which was divine. But while the drinks themselves are impressive, even more breathtaking are the interactive elements that give this space an otherworldly feel. Sophie Leroux, Assistant Cruise Director, laughs, “The first time I saw this [Circle of the Cosmos], I thought, ‘Is that glass supposed to be upside down?’ It absolutely is. That’s one of the coolest parts!”

Edna Á La Mode Sweets

For my last bites, I ventured to Edna Mode’s lab to try some of the sweet treats you’ll be able to savor at Edna Á La Mode Sweets. While Mr. Incredible’s Cupcake – a concoction of double chocolate fudge cake, chocolate truffle mousse, and a dark chocolate gold finish – was my favorite, every choice is super in its own way.

For a more in-depth look at the food and beverage offerings on the Disney Destiny, check out our Disney Eats first look!

Heroes on the Disney Destiny

Heroic Characters Onboard

To see what super adventures the Disney Destiny has in store, I visited the Hero Zone: a one-stop-shop for the heroic entertainment, where I was able to eat some exciting eats and see some of the legendary characters that will be on board. The day included a visit with our favorite web-slinger, Spider-Man, and Black Panther himself.

As an epic surprise, Hero Minnie even made an appearance, rocking her all-new look! You won’t want to miss the chance to meet these three heroes on your own Disney Destiny adventure. 

Disney Destiny Stern Character

You may have seen that Spider-Man is the stern character on the Disney Destiny, and he’s the first Marvel character to be a part of this Disney Cruise Line tradition! After giving us a behind-the-scenes peek at their creation, Principal Interior Designer Beth Burkhardt shared that both Spidey and his Spider-Bots are “packed up and making their way to Germany now to be installed on the ship.” When you see them in person, keep your eyes peeled for whimsical twists: some Spider-Bots have donned nautical gear like a snorkel mask or life ring!

Disney Destiny Grand Hall

Another Marvel Super Hero makes an appearance in the Grand Hall: T’Challa, aka Black Panther! While the Grand Hall statue is the bronze sculpture typical of all Disney Cruise Line Grand Halls, this is the first time the team is bringing in silver accents, reminiscent of the Black Panther’s suit. You can also see purple accents in the video below — that’s the vibranium activating in the Black Panther’s suit, powering him up for an adventure. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Walt Disney Imagineering (@waltdisneyimagineering)

Beth says of the Grand Hall, “This is a whole new look and feel. Lighting is used in a new way, so we can completely transform the space.” Sophie adds, “That’s one of my favorite parts about this: the 360 lighting. It’s going to be changing to each hero or, very possibly, some villains making their way to the Grand Hall.” Expect epic shifts in lighting for our heroes and a more eerie transformation for certain villains…plus, a breathtaking chandelier inspired by the meteorite that brought vibranium to Wakanda. This is a Grand Hall you won’t want to miss!

Disney Destiny Staterooms

After a grand day of adventures at sea, you’ll retire to your stateroom — where you’ll find even more hero-inspired design elements! The oversized custom art pieces mounted in place of headboards depict the epic duality of famous Disney and Pixar legends. Beth shares that “they all have some kind of play on light and dark.” From the Fantasia-inspired artwork in the concierge suite to the Hercules, Mulan, and Merida art in the staterooms, each piece will take your breath away. 

Plus, keep an eye out for character-inspired number placards identifying your stateroom door.

Disney Destiny Heroes Merch

If you want to take home a souvenir of your favorite hero, don’t forget to shop around for some hero-inspired (and Disney Destiny themed) merch!

I got a peek at several different collections, and from the Spider Man-inspired ship collection to the fun, playful artwork in the Super Character collection, there’s something for everyone. I can’t wait to snag that spirit jersey from the inaugural collection! Check out a more in-depth look at the Disney Destiny merch on the Disney Parks Blog.

Villains on the Disney Destiny

I already mentioned the Grand Hall will transform based on which characters make an appearance…and that’s also because you’ll spot some villains on board! In addition to the delightfully evil De Vil’s lounge, there are a few other nefarious personalities to encounter. Loki, the god of mischief himself, and Dr. Facilier will make their way around the ship…plus, you’ll be able to see Maleficent in one of the ship’s entertainment lounges. 

But it would be wicked of me to spoil all the fun. For all the diabolical details, check out more villainous experiences onboard!

Don your capes and pack your potions, because the Disney Destiny is an adventure you won’t want to miss. We’ll be sharing more details and behind-the-scenes moments on the Disney Parks Blog ahead of the ship’s maiden voyage on November 20, so stay tuned! You can also check out more experiences coming to the Disney Destiny, or visit DisneyCruiseLine.com to book your sailing now. 

The post Disney Destiny: Explore the New Experiences on Board appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

View the full article