A Closer Look at the Disney Believe: New Details from D23
Disney Cruise Line gave us a closer look at the Disney Believe during D23, and our team was there to hear the news firsthand.
The Disney Believe was announced previously, but this was our first opportunity to see how some of its spaces and signature design elements are taking shape. Scheduled to begin sailing in late 2027, the ship will feature stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios, including Encanto, Frozen, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Moana, and The Little Mermaid.
Here is what we learned at D23.
Moana Will Inspire the Grand Hall
The Grand Hall aboard the Disney Believe will be inspired by the spirit of exploration found in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana films.
A bronze statue of Moana, accompanied by Pua and Heihei, will serve as the focal point of the space. The surrounding design will draw from the beauty of the South Pacific and include artisanal Polynesian finishes that honor the cultural traditions of the region.
The Grand Hall plays an important role aboard each ship in the Wish class. It is one of the first spaces Guests experience after boarding and serves as a gathering place throughout the sailing. The early rendering of the Disney Believe’s Grand Hall feels warm and inviting, while still capturing the sense of adventure at the heart of Moana’s story.
Woody and Buzz Are Headed to the Stern
The character artwork on the stern is one of our favorite details to look for on any Disney Cruise Line ship. On the Disney Believe, Woody and Buzz Lightyear will take center stage.
The duo from Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story films will appear using oversized yellow crayons to write the ship’s name across the stern. Instead of the traditional script used on other ships in the fleet, the name will appear in lettering inspired by the familiar block style of Toy Story.
It is a fun choice for the Disney Believe and one that will be easy to spot when the ship arrives in port.
Tinker Bell Will Appear on the Bow
The bow of the Disney Believe will feature Tinker Bell as she appeared in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 1953 classic Peter Pan.
She will be surrounded by a hand painted filigree that includes silhouettes of Peter Pan, Wendy, Captain Hook, and other characters from the film. The design brings a more classic piece of Disney storytelling to the ship and ties in naturally with its focus on believing in something fantastical.
Disney Cruise Line Is Continuing to Grow
D23 also brought an early look at the next chapter for Disney Cruise Line. Three ships from an entirely new class are expected to debut beginning in 2029.
These ships will be larger than the Disney Wonder but smaller than the Disney Wish. That size could allow Disney Cruise Line to explore additional destinations and offer more itinerary options as the fleet grows.
Specific destinations and onboard experiences have not been announced yet, but we will be watching closely as Disney shares more.
What Comes Next for the Disney Believe?
We are still waiting for several of the details future Guests will want to know most, including itineraries, sailing dates, and when reservations will open.
Our Be Our Guest Vacations team will continue following the Disney Believe as new information is released. Sign up for our newsletter if you would like the latest updates, including future sailing and booking announcements, delivered directly to you.