The newest addition to the Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Destiny, has officially begun her transatlantic voyage. The 13-night crossing will bring the 4,000-guest vessel from Eemshaven, Netherlands, to her new homeport in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, marking a significant milestone before her maiden voyage in November.
Key Takeaways
- Disney Destiny is sailing over 5,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic.
- Her first port of call will be Funchal, Portugal, on October 25, 2025.
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will serve as her sole homeport until at least May 2027.
- The ship will embark on its maiden voyage on November 20, 2025.
Setting Sail from the Netherlands
The Disney Destiny departed Eemshaven on October 20, 2025. This departure follows a period where the ship underwent final preparations and successfully completed sea trials. She was formally delivered to Disney Cruise Line on October 15, 2025, after leaving Germany’s Meyer Werft Shipyard in September.
The journey spans more than 5,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean. This extended voyage allows the crew to finalize all onboard systems and conduct training sessions for the many new employees joining the vessel.
Ship Specifications
- Gross Tonnage: 144,000
- Guest Capacity: 4,000
- Crew Members: Up to 1,555
- Class: Wish-class cruise ship
First Port Call and Florida Arrival
The Disney Destiny will make her first ever port call in Funchal, Portugal, on October 25, 2025. This stop is a significant event for the new ship before she continues her journey towards the United States.
Following her stop in Portugal, the vessel is also expected to make an additional call in Port Canaveral, Florida, on November 2, 2025. This provides another opportunity for final checks and potentially some early media engagement.
"Over the next two weeks, the Disney Destiny will sail more than 5,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean to its future year-round homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, making a brief stop along the way at its first port of call in Funchal, Portugal," Disney Cruise Line stated.
Her arrival date in Port Everglades and the official naming ceremony details are yet to be announced by Disney Cruise Line. However, the ship is expected in Florida in early November.
Crew Preparations and Training
During the transatlantic crossing, the up to 1,555 crew members onboard are actively engaged in final preparations. This period is crucial for ensuring all ship functions are operational and ready for guests. It also serves as an important training opportunity for newer employees.
"Throughout the crossing, cast and crew onboard will make final preparations to ensure the Disney Destiny is in shipshape for its arrival in Florida in early November and its upcoming maiden voyage on November 20," a DCL representative confirmed.
The Wish-Class Fleet
The Disney Destiny is part of Disney Cruise Line's Wish-class. These ships are known for their innovative design and immersive experiences, catering specifically to families. The class aims to enhance the magical elements of a Disney vacation at sea.
Upcoming Maiden Voyage and Itineraries
While there may be short preview events for VIPs and media, the Disney Destiny's first revenue sailing is scheduled for November 20, 2025. This inaugural voyage will be a 4-night itinerary.
The maiden voyage will visit both of Disney's private islands in the Bahamas: Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. This allows guests to experience exclusive Disney destinations right from the start of the ship's service.
For at least the next few years, the Disney Destiny will operate 5- to 7-night sailings. These itineraries will focus on the Bahamas and the Caribbean, offering a variety of family-friendly cruise options from Fort Lauderdale.
Future of the Disney Cruise Line Fleet
The launch of the Disney Destiny is a key step in Disney Cruise Line's ongoing fleet expansion. The company has further plans for new ships.
The next ship to launch will be the Disney Adventure, scheduled for March 10, 2026. Originally set for December 2025, its maiden voyage was delayed. The Disney Adventure is notable as the largest Disney ship to date and the first specifically designed for the Asian market.
Additionally, a fourth Wish-class ship, a sister vessel to the Disney Destiny, is currently under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard. This unnamed ship is expected to be delivered in 2027, further growing the Disney Cruise Line's capacity and offerings worldwide.
