Disney Cruise Line Is in Its Villain Era—But That’s a Good Thing

My family is lifelong Disney Parks fans, clocking in hundreds of visits. But in recent years, we’ve developed a new obsession: cruising with Disney. We’ve since sailed aboard every ship. And even after sailing with all the major liners, it’s the mouse’s floating house we keep going back to. That quintessential Disney magic is there with the added bonus of very little planning involved.

So it was music to our ears when we found out that the rapidly growing cruise line was debuting a brand new ship: the Disney Destiny. Sailing its first trip on November 20, 2025, it’s the seventh in its fleet and the first ever ship to be heroes and villains themed.

Pairing thoughtful storytelling with pioneering innovation and the company’s applauded hospitality, it’s an ambitious feat for the family-friendly liner. Of course, there are Disney Cruise Line staples abound, including animation classes, unlimited soft serve, and the fan favorite “Pirate Night.”

I’ve had the chance to preview Disney Destiny twice and tried it all. Here’s the new fun your family can’t miss.

The Heroes and Villains Theme

The first thing you’ll encounter when you step onboard is the soaring Grand Hall. This new version of its atrium is its most advanced ever, taking cruisers into the world of Marvel’s Black Panther, evoked through cinematic-level detailing and a stunning bronze statue of T’Challa.

It’s a sort of central hub, both a gathering place and entertainment venue where many character moments arise: you can come face to face with Loki or watch a Cruella de Vil fashion show (how marvelous!). And those unique moments are extra special thanks to a new 360-degree lightning package which transforms the space depending on the character featured at that moment.

The duality of heroes and villains is woven throughout every aspect of the ship, including staterooms inspired by the likes of Mulan and Big Hero 6. I was impressed by the public corridors. The ship felt like a floating art gallery with dozens of pieces throughout hallways and stairwells.

Don’t worry about the villains being over-the-top scary; it’s family-appropriate, good-natured fun (aside from a few adults-only activities). When it comes to the good guys, do not miss Hero Minnie in her exclusive superhero look.

Reimagined Character Experiences

The Disney Destiny felt alive and that’s largely due to reimagined character experiences, blending planned encounters with unexpected surprises. Not only do the stories unfold around guests, but you are part of it. Perennial favorites are found through classic-style meet and greets, like Mickey Mouse and Stitch, but the character offerings have been plussed big time.

These new experiences offer the chance to meet and engage in ways far beyond a photo. My favorite was Dr. Facilier’s Parlor where I spent 10 minutes with the villain from The Princess and the Frog as he performed his fabled card tricks. Here, attendees weren’t merely spectators but active participants.

Also, if your family is fans of Marvel, this ship is absolutely for you. The Marvel Cinematic Universe plays a big role onboard, from characters and musical shows to a full-fledged restaurant, Worlds of Marvel.

What Else is New Onboard Disney Destiny?

With shows and rides, there are some other new features on the cruise worth exploring.

The ‘Hercules’ musical

Broadway-style productions are a highlight of any Disney cruise and a brand new stage adaptation has debuted on the Destiny. The soundtrack of the 1997 animated film Hercules is given a distinctly modern twist with pop influences and it does go the distance.

Alongside the captivating performances and beautiful sets are technological advancements, such as innovative puppetry and high-tech projection effects. It’s just over an hour, making it more manageable for tiny travelers as opposed to a full-length Broadway show.

For the best seats, arrive at the Walt Disney Theater around 20 minutes before showtime.

A ‘Lion King’ dinner show

The beloved stories of The Lion King, including the classic animated film and the Broadway adaptation, are brought to life in a new way at Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King, a new dinner theater show. The setting alone is stunning and loaded with pixie dust magic. The surrounding walls mimic “windows” that look out onto a Savanna sunset and transition as dinner progresses.

Singers, drummers, and musicians dazzled with a live show performing favorites like “Hakuna Matata” and a show-stopping “Circle of Life.” When it comes to the menu, expect African-inspired flavors—including some of the best dishes I’ve had at sea—and also approachable bites for pickier eaters (think: mini cheeseburgers and even Mickey bars).

New water coaster

Water coaster AquaMouse: Sing A Silly Song is an exhilarating ride with some seriously cool special effects. Here, you’ll join Mickey and Minnie as they encounter some famous characters of Disney lore while journeying to Villain Mountain.

Younger cruisers must be 42 inches or taller to ride, and those under age 7 must be accompanied by a partner over the age of 14. There’s also a number of pools throughout and an adorable Toy Story-themed splash pad for the younger kiddos.

Venues

Walt Disney Imagineering (the creative leg of the company) really went all out with the new themed venues on board. Bathed in red and lush textiles, De Vil’s Piano Lounge, themed to One Hundred And One Dalmatians, was mega popular on my sailings, featuring appearances from the comical villain herself and an eye-catching Dalmatian-spotted piano.

Drinks mind-bendingly levitated(!) at The Sanctum, Disney’s first ever Doctor Strange-themed space. Iconic parks attraction Pirates of the Caribbean is celebrated at Cask & Cannon, a sports pub chock full of Easter Eggs, including nods to each version of the attraction found around the world. It’s here you’ll also find one of my personal favorite details of the ship: the ceiling depicts the original concept art for the Disneyland attraction.

For the sweet tooth lover, there’s Edna A La Mode Sweets, a dessert shop inspired by the sassy-yet-lovable character from The Incredibles.

Disney Cruise Line Basics From a Seasoned Pro

• Download Disney’s official Navigator App before your sailing for up-to-the-minute schedule of activities and venue hours at your fingertips.

• Disney is a rarity in that 24-hour room service is included. You’ll find trusty basics, including Mickey bars and chicken fingers. And this can really be a lifesaver after a long day in the sun.

• The kids-exclusive clubs and play areas are returning favorites, including the Marvel-themed Super Hero Academy. It’s encouraged to register ahead of sailing.

Should You Sail on Disney Destiny?

At launch, the cruise will offer four- and five-night sailings from Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) to the Bahamas and western Caribbean, with stops at one or both of Disney’s island destinations, Disney’s Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. I highly recommend visiting both if you have the opportunity.

Is the cruise worth it? After spending over a week onboard, I believe that they went to infinity and beyond—and it worked. Everything from decor to entertainment was thoughtfully and intentionally part of storytelling. Our vacation felt like one big, cohesive adventure. Of course, if you just want to lounge around all day and stuff yourself with Dole Whip you can absolutely do that.

As the most interactive and immersive ship yet, Disney took a shot, not resting on its past successes, and it just might be my family’s favorite cruise yet.

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