Disney And Oriental Land Co. Expand Their 40-Year Partnership With New Cruise Venture In Japan

Published on July 9, 2024

Today, Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd. (OLC) have announced a new partnership to introduce year-round Disney cruise vacations in Japan. Under this newly inked agreement, OLC will launch a Disney-branded cruise business in Japan, expected to commence operations by early 2029.

This collaboration marks the next chapter in a relationship spanning over 40 years between Disney and OLC, renowned for owning and managing Tokyo Disney Resort. The addition of a locally based Disney cruise ship aims to offer Japanese Disney enthusiasts and global visitors unforgettable voyages, featuring Disney’s renowned entertainment, world-class dining, and exceptional guest service that define the Disney cruise experience.

“Disney Cruise Line has ambitious plans to bring family vacations and Disney storytelling to more guests around the world than ever before,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Experiences. “We are thrilled to continue the success of this expansion as we collaborate with Oriental Land Co. to introduce another distinctly Disney vacation experience to families and fans in Japan.”

“I am sincerely proud that Disney and Oriental Land will be able to work together to create a world-class cruise business in Japan,” said Yumiko Takano, representative director, chairperson and CEO, Oriental Land. “Oriental Land will use their knowhow from the theme park business to continue pushing boundaries and provide family entertainment cruise experiences filled with inspiration and surprise.”

OLC will operate a new Disney cruise ship, which will be registered and based in Japan year-round. The ship, built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, will showcase creative designs crafted by Walt Disney Imagineering. As a sister ship to the popular Disney Wish, it will incorporate many beloved venues and experiences from its predecessor, with select modifications tailored specifically for Japanese guests. Anticipated to weigh approximately 140,000 gross tons, the ship will be powered by liquefied natural gas and accommodate about 1,250 staterooms.

Further details regarding the maiden voyage, itineraries, and onboard offerings will be disclosed at a later time.

Disney Cruise Line’s fleet currently sails to premier destinations including The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, Hawaii, the South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand. Additionally, plans are underway to commence year-round cruises from Singapore starting in 2025.