The Disney Dream is headed home!
After nearly two years of construction, Meyer Werft, the ship’s builder, officially handed over the massive vessel to Disney in what was described as a “traditional maritime ceremony” aboard the ship earlier today in Bremerhaven, Germany. In keeping with custom, the Meyer Werft flag was lowered, and the Disney and Bahamian flags were raised, signifying the transfer’s completion.
The Disney Dream promises to be a ship like no other, bringing together the latest technology with the backstory and heritage that only Disney can provide. From virtual portholes in interior staterooms, to the first “at sea” roller coaster, the Disney Dream seeks to set the bar higher for the cruising industry.
At the helm of the new ship will be Captain Tom Forberg, a fifteen-year veteran of Disney Cruise Lines. Captain Forberg is no stranger to commanding a new ship, having also launched both the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.
Those wanting to catch a glimpse of the ship stateside will have to wait just a little while longer. The Dream is will remain in Bremerhaven for another week, while the crew joins the ship and more supplies are loaded. Plans have the ship departing Bremerhaven for its transatlantic voyage to Port Canaveral on December 19, with an anticipated arrival date of January 4, 2011.
Wouldn’t you like to be on that voyage? I know I would.
Once the Disney Dream arrives home in Port Canaveral, she is scheduled to sail three-, four-, and five-day cruises out of Port Canaveral to the Bahamas. The Dream’s sister ship, the Disney Fantasy, is still under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard, with an anticipated completion date of early 2012. It will sail seven-night voyages, alternating between the east and west Caribbean.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line, please visit their website.
Photo copyright Disney.
