Disney to base ship in Barcelona

The Disney Cruise Line has been targeting British cruise passengers for several years, and a few months ago, there was a rumour that they might home-port a ship in the UK, but this turns out not to be happening. Instead a Disney cruise ship will be spending the next two summers in Barcelona. The announcement was made to coincide with new details about Disney’s next ship to join the fleet – Disney Dream – which will set sail in 2011.

The UK market has become increasingly important to Disney’s European growth as Britain has a highly lucrative, experienced passenger base that loves to cruise but there is a basic lack of awareness among British holiday cruise takers because the company has not invested in much UK marketing in advance of having a third ship because both Disney Magic and Disney Wonder have been fully committed to American markets. Now Disney Magic will offer a series of 12-night Baltic sailings from Dover alongside other cruises from Barcelona. There is a nice offer too – one free child place for every fare-paying adult. Disney Dream will have 14 decks, and weighs128,000-tons with 1,250 staterooms carrying 4,000 passengers and 1,458 crew. And like other Disney ships, it’s full of fascinating details. For example Disney Dream have virtual portholes in 150 inside cabins that don’t have real windows, and they will have a real-time video feed from outside the ship to give the impression of an outdoor view, but every so often an animated Disney character will appear to surprise passengers.