Oriental Land Co. and The Walt Disney Company have revealed that the first ship for Disney Cruise Line Japan will be named the Disney Imagination.
According to a press release, the Wish-class ship will offer itineraries in Japan from Tokyo starting in spring 2029.
The companies stated that the newbuild “will be powered by the creativity and optimism of imagination,” bringing “magical cruise vacations” to Japanese families for the first time.
Yumiko Takano, chairperson and CEO of OLC, was joined by Ryotaro Shiiba, president of Oriental Land Cruise Co.; Natacha Rafalski, president of Disney Signature Experiences; and Tracy Wilson, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Cruise Line Operations, for a special ceremony in Tokyo to announce the name and celebrate this milestone.
“Today’s announcement of the Disney Imagination marks a significant milestone in the continued expansion of Disney Cruise Line and in our long-standing relationship with Oriental Land Group,” said Natacha Rafalski.
“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,” she added.
The companies also revealed that the new ship will continue its tradition of featuring a Disney character at its stern.
Reflecting the vessel’s theme, Ariel from Walt Disney Animation Studio’s The Little Mermaid was chosen for the Imagination.
According to Disney and Oriental Land, the feature will pay tribute to her curiosity, creativity and adventurous spirit.
The companies said that the 2,500-passenger ship will offer “dazzling entertainment, exceptional dining, and renowned guest service,” with further details about its deployment and features set to be revealed at a later date.
As previously reported by Cruise Industry News, Disney Cruise Line Japan was launched earlier this year as a Disney-branded cruise business in Japan.
The company is operated by Oriental Land Co., which also runs Tokyo Disney Resort under license from Disney.
Ordered in mid-2024, the Disney Imagination will be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.
