Disney Cruise Line will launch the Disney Imagination, its first Wish-class vessel sailing from Japan, in spring 2029. This ship inaugurates Disney Cruise Line Japan’s operations.
Operator Oriental Land Co., Ltd. to Run Disney Cruise Line Japan
Oriental Land Co., Ltd., which holds the license to own and operate Tokyo Disney Resort, operates Disney Cruise Line Japan under the Disney brand. The partnership extends the long-term collaboration between Disney and Oriental Land Group to introduce Disney’s cruise vacations to the Japanese market.
Ship Specifications and Design Based on Disney Wish
Measuring approximately 140,000 gross tons, Disney Imagination will carry about 4,000 guests in roughly 1,250 staterooms, supported by a crew of around 1,500. The ship is based on the
existing Disney Wish design with customizations tailored for Japanese guests. It will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), offering a modern and cleaner propulsion system. Walt Disney Imagineering provided the ship’s design, and the vessel is being built by Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany.
Homeport, Itineraries, and Pricing
Disney Imagination will be homeported at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, operating primarily on short cruises ranging from two to four nights. Pricing is expected to range from ¥100,000 ($645) to ¥300,000 ($1,935) per person depending on the stateroom category. The ship is scheduled to enter service in fiscal year 2028 under Japanese registry.
Onboard Features and Entertainment Prioritized for Japanese Market
The
ship will feature Ariel from The Little Mermaid on its stern alongside Sebastian and other characters reflecting the ship’s imaginative theme. Entertainment offerings include stage shows in a theater with seating for over 1,300 guests, outdoor deck shows featuring Disney characters, and interactive onboard programs. Dining options will include approximately 30 unique food and beverage venues, with three themed main dining restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops selling exclusive merchandise. Dedicated areas for children and adults will cater to different guest groups.
Investment and Partnership Background
The total investment for Disney Imagination stands at ¥290 billion ($1.87 billion) with an additional ¥40 billion ($258 million)
allocated for contingencies. Disney Cruise Line Japan is operated by Oriental Land Co., Ltd., which also owns Tokyo Disney Resort under license from Disney. This development builds on the enduring relationship between Disney and Oriental Land Co., strengthened by leadership including Yumiko Takano, Chairperson and CEO of Oriental Land Co., Ltd., Ryotaro Shiiba, President of Oriental Land Cruise Co., Ltd., and Tracy Wilson, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Cruise Line Operations.
Official Statements
“Today’s announcement of the Disney Imagination is part of the continued expansion of Disney Cruise Line and strengthens our long-standing relationship with Oriental Land Group,” said
Natacha Rafalski, President of Disney Signature Experiences. She added, “We are honored to extend the magic of Disney cruising to fans in new markets and create opportunities for Japanese guests to experience a Disney vacation at sea.” Oriental Land Co., Ltd. emphasized the ship will be powered by creativity and optimism to offer magical cruise vacations to families in Japan.
