Disney to Base & Operate Ship in Japan Via OLC Partnership

Disney and Oriental Land Co. (OLC) are collaborating to offer year-round Disney cruise vacations in Japan, as announced in a press release.

OLC will manage a new Disney cruise ship that will be registered and permanently stationed in Japan. According to a recently signed agreement, OLC will oversee a Disney-branded cruise operation in Japan, with services set to begin by early 2029. This represents a significant milestone in the partnership between Disney and OLC, which also owns and operates the Tokyo Disney Resort.

“Disney Cruise Line has ambitious plans to bring family vacations and Disney storytelling to more guests around the world than ever before,” stated Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences. “We are thrilled to continue the success of this expansion as we collaborate with Oriental Land Co. to introduce another distinctly Disney vacation experience to families and fans in Japan.”

“I am sincerely proud that Disney and Oriental Land will be able to work together to create a world-class cruise business in Japan,” expressed Yumiko Takano, representative director, chairperson, and CEO of Oriental Land. “Oriental Land will use their know-how from the theme park business to continue pushing boundaries and provide family entertainment cruise experiences filled with inspiration and surprise.”

The new ship will be constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, featuring designs by Walt Disney Imagineering.

As a sister ship to the Disney Wish, it will offer many beloved venues and experiences, with adjustments to cater specifically to Japanese guests. The ship will be powered by liquefied natural gas and will feature approximately 1,250 staterooms.