Disney Cruise Line has confirmed the acquisition of Global Dream – the unfinished, 9,000-passenger cruise ship previously being built by Genting Hong Kong.
Under the terms of the acquisition deal, Disney has committed to complete construction of Global Dream at Genting Hong Kong’s former MV Werften shipyards in Wismar, Germany. The ship’s future had been in doubt ever since Genting Hong Kong entered liquidation in January.
In announcing the acquisition, Disney said the ship will be renamed with “certain features reimagined under the world-renowned expertise of Walt Disney Imagineers”, including a large space previous planned to house a casino. Expected to set sail in 2025, the ship will also feature “innovative Disney experiences along with the dazzling entertainment, world-class dining and legendary guest service that set Disney Cruise Line apart.” The exterior will be adorned in the iconic, Mickey Mouse-inspired colors of the fleet, complete with signature red funnels, it added.
“Our cruise ships give us the unique opportunity to bring Disney magic to fans no matter where they are, and the addition of this ship will make a Disney Cruise Line vacation accessible to more families than ever before,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.
Noting that Global Dream’s former owner, Genting Hong Kong, had filed for bankruptcy, Disney said it had been able to secure the ship at a favorable price and “within the capital expenditure guidance” provided on The Walt Disney Company’s recent earnings call.
According to cruise industry media outlet The Maritime Executive, Disney Cruise Line will become just the third cruise line globally to boast a ship of over 200,000 gross tons, with Global Dream to become the 11th largest cruise ship in the world.
The company will also convert Global Dream to be one of the first cruise ships to be fueled by green methanol, described as one of the lowest emission fuels available.
As part of its internal renovation, Disney Cruise Line will reduce passenger capacity from 9,000 to 6,000, with around 2,300 crew members, it added.
