LNG Powered Disney Destiny Debuts in Florida in 2025

Arriving ahead of its debut, the LNG-powered Disney Destiny highlights advances in eco-friendly cruising and expands Disney’s commitment to innovative, family-focused vacation experiences.

LNG Powered Disney Destiny Debuts in Florida in 2025
Image Credit: Disney Experiences

The Disney Destiny, the highly anticipated latest addition to the Disney Cruise Line fleet, is currently making its way across the Atlantic to its homeport in Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ahead of its maiden voyage. Officially delivered by Germany's Meyer Werft shipyard during a formal ceremony in Eemshaven, Netherlands, on October 15, 2025, the LNG-powered Disney Destiny represents a major step forward for Disney Cruise Line in terms of sustainability, technological advancement, and family-focused entertainment.

Delivery and Voyage to Florida

The delivery of the approximately 144,000-gross-ton Disney Destiny marks another milestone in Disney Cruise Line's partnership with Meyer Werft, one of the world’s leading shipbuilders. This is the sixth ship Meyer Werft has built for the iconic cruise line, and the seventh ship in Disney Cruise Line's fleet. The ship departed Eemshaven on October 20, 2025, beginning a 13-night, 5,000-nautical-mile transatlantic journey. Its itinerary includes a brief technical call at Funchal, Madeira, on October 25, and a scheduled technical stop at Port Canaveral, Florida, on November 2, before its arrival at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, its permanent homeport through at least May 2027.

According to Disney Cruise Line, Captain McRonald is in command during this delivery voyage, and the ship's crew of approximately 1,555 is performing final operational checks and preparations to welcome passengers. Short media and VIP preview events are expected shortly before Disney Destiny’s official maiden voyage, planned as its first revenue sailing, on November 20, 2025.

Maiden Voyage and Regular Itineraries

Disney Destiny’s inaugural cruise will be a four-night sailing to Disney Cruise Line’s private Bahamian islands, Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Following its premiere voyage, the ship will embark on a series of four- and five-night itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas. These routes will include port calls at Nassau, Cozumel, and both of Disney's exclusive tropical destinations, creating a blend of relaxation and adventure for families and Disney fans alike.

  • Homeport: Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
  • Guest Capacity: Approximately 4,000
  • Crew Capacity: About 1,555
  • Flag State: Bahamas
  • Itineraries: Bahamas and Caribbean, including Disney’s private islands

Onboard Features and Entertainment

Disney Destiny stands out with its state-of-the-art entertainment and immersive experiences. The onboard activities cater to multigenerational families and Disney enthusiasts, featuring themed entertainment inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Marvel characters. Onboard highlights include:

  • Exclusive Stage Production: Hercules, a lively reimagination of Disney’s beloved animated film, blending comedy, music, and iconic characters onstage.
  • Themed Dining: The “Pride Lands” restaurant offers a musical retelling of The Lion King during dinner, engaging guests with performers and dynamic storytelling.
  • Recreation Spaces: The ship is outfitted with 10 pools and water play areas, designed to enhance family-friendly fun on deck.

Accommodations continue Disney's tradition of combining luxury with whimsy, ensuring that guests of all ages experience unforgettable moments onboard.

Sustainability and LNG Propulsion

Disney Destiny is the third LNG-powered ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, following the Disney Wish (2022) and Disney Treasure (2024). LNG, or liquefied natural gas, is considered a cleaner alternative to conventional marine fuels, significantly reducing carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions. This aligns with Disney Cruise Line’s broader sustainability goals, which focus on reducing its environmental footprint without compromising guest experience.

“The delivery of the Disney Destiny underscores our commitment to both innovation and sustainability in the cruise industry,” the company stated. In addition to its LNG propulsion technology, Disney Cruise Line has committed to developing even more eco-friendly vessels, with future ships planned to adopt advanced technologies, such as green methanol capabilities.

Fleet Expansion and Future Plans

As Disney Cruise Line celebrates the imminent debut of Disney Destiny, its fleet expansion continues apace. The Disney Adventure, set to become the largest ship in Disney's lineup at approximately 208,000 gross tons, will debut on March 10, 2026, focusing on short cruises in Southeast Asia from its homeport in Singapore. Originally ordered by Dream Cruises and later purchased by Disney following the previous owner's bankruptcy, Disney Adventure will be the first Disney vessel equipped to run on green methanol, marking a new milestone in the company’s exploration of alternative fuels. The ship was floated out of Meyer Werft’s Wismar yard on April 19, 2025. Its maiden voyage was initially scheduled for December 15, 2025, before being postponed to the 2026 debut.

Furthermore, a fourth Wish-class ship is currently under construction at Meyer Werft’s Papenburg yard, with delivery slated for autumn 2027. This vessel will be a sister ship to Disney Destiny and Disney Treasure. Collectively, these developments emphasize Disney Cruise Line’s strategic efforts to maintain its position as a leader in family-oriented cruising, while also addressing growing environmental concerns within the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Disney Destiny’s capacity?

Disney Destiny is designed to accommodate approximately 4,000 guests, supported by a crew of around 1,555.

When will Disney Destiny begin operations?

The ship’s maiden voyage is scheduled for November 20, 2025. It will be a four-night sailing to Disney Cruise Line’s private islands in the Bahamas, with short media and VIP preview events anticipated shortly before this inaugural cruise.

What makes Disney Destiny environmentally friendly?

The ship utilizes liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion technology, which reduces emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and sulfur oxide (SOx), making it more sustainable than conventionally powered cruise ships.

What destinations will Disney Destiny visit?

Disney Destiny will offer year-round itineraries from Port Everglades, including visits to Nassau, Cozumel, and Disney's private islands, Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Port Canaveral is a scheduled technical stop during delivery but is not a regular itinerary port for guests.

Are there additional Disney ships being built?

Yes, Disney Adventure will debut on March 10, 2026, offering cruises in Southeast Asia. Additionally, a fourth Wish-class ship is set to launch in autumn 2027 to continue Disney’s fleet expansion.