Getting Goofy in Alaska

This is, unquestionably, one of the more anticipated deployments in the cruise industry. Not necessarily among all cruise aficionados, but certainly among Disneyphiles in general and loyal Disney Cruise Line guests in particular. With the exception of a handful of West Coast and Europe/Mediterranean departures, Disney Cruise Lines has consistently sailed in the Caribbean and Bahamas since its inaugural cruise in 1998. There is a tremendous amount of pent up demand for new itineraries, and according to Disney Cruise Line President, Karl Holz, Alaska was Disney’s most requested future cruise destination. The decision to go to Alaska was based on guest feedback.

Behind the Caribbean and Europe, Alaska is the third largest cruise market. People go to Alaska to see thundering glaciers, whales, wilderness, mountains, and wildlife. They want experience a culture influenced by Native American and Russian history and the turn-of-the-century gold rush. They want to embark on high adventure excursions like dog sledding, zip-lining, white water rafting, and kayaking. They want to see bears in the wild, fly over glaciers in a helicopter, ride on a train, hike, go salmon fishing or live the “World’s Deadliest Catch.” Alaska is one of those “life-long” dream destinations and is listed in the book, “1,000 Place to See before You Die.” It’s “America’s Last Frontier” and “the Land of Wonder.” It’s no wonder why Disney would want to cruise there. Pixar Studios couldn’t create more colorful backdrop of dramatic scenery.

Disney ships have 10 decks and pay homage to the grand era of the ocean liner, with Art Deco and Art Nouveau themes featuring touches of Disney magic. They have 877 staterooms and accommodate 1,750 passengers. Staterooms are configured especially for families – many of which are able to accommodate 4 or 5 guests in one stateroom. They all have plenty of extra storage and most have scenic ocean views, balconies and split bathrooms to make getting ready for the day or dinner much easier.

Several youth activities and clubs promise age-appropriate fun for kids from 3 months to 17 years old. There is a multitude of dining options, and Disney’s unique Rotational Dining system offers a fun way to enjoy most of them. Entertainment includes original Disney Broadway-style musicals and the latest Disney Digital 3-D movies. Adults get a taste of nightlife with nightclubs and lounges that offer dancing and entertainment.

And, if that was not enough to whet your appetite. Disney currently has two ships under construction at the Meyer Werft Shipyards in Germany. The two, 122,000-ton ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, will each have 1,250 staterooms carry 4,000 passengers. They will be two-decks taller than the Disney Magic and are scheduled to arrive in 2011 and 2012.

For more information call your personal cruise consultant at 1 -800- I CRUISE (800 427-8473)  or click here: DisneyAlaskaCruises