Cruising on the Disney Destiny: Our First Look at Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Heroic Adventure

Dream Builders Travel
10 hours ago
4 min read

If you’ve been dreaming of a vacation that blends legendary Disney storytelling with next-level cruise innovation, let us introduce you to the Disney Destiny - Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship and home to an unforgettable world of heroes, villains, and everything in between.

We had the chance to preview the Destiny, and trust us… this ship is something special.

Start Your Adventure in Fort Lauderdale

The Disney Destiny sails from Fort Lauderdale, Disney Cruise Line’s newest home port. This location is a breeze for travelers:

Fly directly into FLL
Stay just minutes from port
Enjoy beachfront relaxation before you sail

For a pre-cruise stay, we loved the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa.Walk right out the back of the resort and you’re steps onto a soft, beautiful stretch of beach. It’s also an incredible spot to watch boats glide through the marina, and if you time it right, you can even see cruise ships heading out to sea.

When you’re ready to board, simply use Disney Cruise Line transfers for the smoothest, most seamless arrival at the Destiny.

A Ship Built on Heroes, Villains, and Bold Storytelling

The Destiny introduces a brand-new theme for Disney Cruise Line, and it is everywhere in the best possible way.

The Grand Hall

Inspired by Marvel Studios' Black Panther, the Grand Hall is a stunning tribute to Wakanda, with a statue of the hero himself greeting you as you enter. And here’s a fun detail: After your family’s name is announced during boarding, look up! There’s a little balcony above the stage where a character waves down—often Spider-Man or Hero Minnie. Many guests miss it!

Forward vs. Aft: A Tale of Two Sides

The ship is cleverly divided:

Forward: Disney villains
Aft: Disney heroes

From the stairwells to the elevator landings, and even the carpets, these details shift depending on where you are. There’s a full story that ties it all together (we didn’t get the full experience on our sailing, but we can’t wait to explore it more!).

Stateroom Themes

Every stateroom celebrates a different Disney hero through custom artwork and subtle touches. Themes include:

Hercules
Mulan
Brave
Big Hero 6
Raya and the Last Dragon
The Incredibles
Fantasia

Lounges & Bars: Some of Disney Cruise Line’s Best

The Destiny may have the most immersive and playful lounge lineup yet.

De Vil’s

A stylish piano bar inspired by 101 Dalmatians. Watch for the first notes of Cruella’s theme above the exit and keep an eye out… Cruella herself may make an appearance.

Café Merida & Café Megara

Walk-up bars perfect for coffee and quick drinks.

Haunted Mansion Parlor

A can’t-miss experience. Paintings come to “life” with classic Haunted Mansion effects, and yes - grim grinning ghosts absolutely materialize.

Cask & Cannon

A Pirates of the Caribbean sports pub with fun theming and hearty snacks (additional charge). Look closely for the famous dog holding the keys!

The Sanctum

A Doctor Strange–inspired space for live music, trivia, and magical vibes.

The Rose

Elegant and tucked between Palo and Enchanté. Look for the glass-encased rose—it changes subtly between the Wish, Treasure, and Destiny.

Cove Café

Adults will love the calm setting and the gorgeous Te Fiti mural from Moana.

Rotational Dining: A New Star Joins the Lineup

The Destiny’s dining experiences are some of the most theatrical Disney has ever done.

Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King

A musical dining experience retelling The Lion King with live performers, music, and unforgettable energy.

Worlds of Marvel

A feast celebrating iconic heroes—complete with Baby Groot and the perfect soundtrack: the Awesome Mix.

1923

Elegant, nostalgic dining surrounded by sketches, props, and stories of Disney’s greatest heroes and villains.

Entertainment & Shows

The Destiny debuts a brand-new Broadway-style show:

Hercules – exclusive to the Disney Destiny

Plus returning favorites:

Frozen: A Musical Spectacular
Disney Seas the Adventure

Character Interactions: Heroes, Villains & Surprises

Of course, all your Disney favorites are on board: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Pluto, Chip & Dale, the Princesses, and more.

But the Destiny brings something extra: Special hero & villain appearances like Cruella De Vil, Maleficent, Dr. Facilier, Loki, Black Panther, Spider-Man, and more.

Disney’s Oceaneer Club

Kids can slide into the club from the Grand Hall—literally!The entrance features Ralph and Vanellope from Wreck-It Ralph, setting the tone for a fun, playful space designed just for little adventurers.

So, Who Is the Disney Destiny Perfect For?

While there’s something for everyone, this ship especially shines for:

Families with older kids who can appreciate the heroes/villains theming
Marvel fans (you’ll be in heaven!)
Teens and adults wanting something more immersive and “grown up”
Guests who love energetic, story-driven experiences
Anyone looking for a great 4–5 night sailing

Our Final Thoughts

The Disney Destiny is the next evolution of Disney Cruise Line: bold, immersive, and completely reimagined. From the theming that stretches into every corner of the ship to the entertainment and characters you won’t find anywhere else, this sailing truly feels like stepping into a living story.

When you’re ready to plan your own heroic getaway, we’d love to help you choose the perfect itinerary and make the magic effortless.