After six years of anticipation, Disney Wish has arrived and our own Shelley Eastmer was aboard the christening cruise, which departed from Port Canaveral, Fla., on June 29. Let’s check in with Shelley on the exciting launch of Disney’s fifth and newest ship in the fleet.

Shelley, tell us, how did you get invited to attend the Disney Wish christening ceremony and christening cruise? What an opportunity!

AAA Western and Central New York works very closely with Disney Destinations. In fact, Disney World vacations are the top destination for our Club. Because of this close partnership and our commitment to Disney Destinations, AAA Western and Central New York has been designated as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, Platinum Level – one of the highest designations given by Disney Destinations.

You’ve sailed several times with Disney Cruise Line. How is the new Disney Wish different?

I’ve been blessed to sail on all five of the Disney Cruise Line ships multiple times, and while Disney remains consistent with its brand and guest amenities, they are always improving with each new ship. For Disney Wish, guests will experience artful accommodations, imaginative dining, youth activities, and elevated adult escapes with out-of-this-world attention to detail!

Guests are welcomed into the three-deck high Grand Hall by cast members who announce their arrival. It’s hard not to stop and gaze at the stunning, shimmering chandelier, complete with a wishing star. Simply breathtaking!

You mentioned the Disney Wish was designed with “artful accommodations” in mind. What type of accommodations can guests expect to find?

Disney Imagineers continue to improve with technology as well as what’s important to families when they vacation. You will still find deluxe staterooms, which offer split bathrooms (this is brilliant!) as well as staterooms that will accommodate families of five. The majority of Disney Wish’s staterooms offer a verandah, as having that personal outdoor space is a must for many travelers. You’ll also find something not found on any other cruise ship – the Wish Tower Suite. The Wish Tower Suite is a two-story suite in the funnel of the ship. Imagine, your vacation can include staying inside the ship’s funnel with all the luxury Disney can create! Of course, Disney Wish also offers guests Royal Suites as well as a one-bedroom suite.

Tell us about the “imaginative dining.” What exactly is it?

The food on the Disney Wish is plentiful! I promise, there will never be a time when you find yourself hungry with no food around. Let’s start with Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods. This quick-service meal choice offers tacos, burritos, BBQ, burgers, and so on. It serves lunch, dinner, or just a snack. Prefer casual dining? Visit Marceline Market, named after Walt Disney’s early-childhood hometown of Marceline, Missouri.

Now, let’s talk about imaginative dining! Disney Cruise Line is known for its rotational dining experience. Each evening guests move to a new themed restaurant as their waitstaff follow. On Disney Wish, guests are transported to Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure; Worlds of Marvel, a cinematic dining experience; and 1923, a sophisticated dining experience housing over 900 props, storyboards, and sketches. Looking for an adult-only dining experience? Disney Wish has this covered, too. Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement are two elegant options. Both Palo and Enchanté can be booked prior to sailing at an additional cost.

When many think of Disney Cruise Line, they think of kids. What is there for kids to do?

Just like on the other Disney ships, Disney Wish offers plenty for kids of all ages to do. Disney’s Oceaneer Club includes STAR WARS: Cargo Bay, Fairytale Hall, Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, Marvel Super Hero Academy, and Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck. One cool addition is the ability for kids to slide from deck 3 down to deck 2 to enter the club. If you’re wondering if adults can also use the slide, the answer is yes – I may have done it myself!

For those a bit older, the Edge is back for tweens ages 11 to 14. Vibe is available for teens ages 14 to 17 and The Hideaway is reserved for young adults ages 18 to 20. And for those little ones, It’s a Small World Nursery is available with interactive games or a comfy rocking chair or crib.

If you’re looking for fun for the entire family, you won’t have to look far. Disney Wish has the first Disney attraction at sea, AquaMouse. This one-of-a-kind water experience immerses guests in show scenes and special effects. Want to get out of the sun? Stop by one of the two theaters, Neverland or Wonderland, for a first-run Disney movie.

Also fun for the family are the Broadway-style shows in the Walt Disney Theatre.

Ready for some action? Be sure to check out the Hero Zone for some ping pong or basketball, or stop by the Incredi-Games for a chance to win on an Incredibles obstacle course.

Finally, for a little quieter time, deck 11 has six pools ready to cool you down!

And would you say sailing on Disney Wish is a good vacation for adults, too?

Absolutely! As many activities as there are for children, there’s equally as many for adults. Let’s start with health and wellness. Senses Spa, Untangled Salon, and Hook’s Barbery are just the ticket for those looking for a little extra pampering. Think rest and relaxation is what you need? Visit the Quiet Cove. This adults-only area features an infinity pool and poolside lounge with a stunning view.

If in need of some evening fun, be sure to check out Keg & Compass, The Rose, Nightingale’s, The Bayou, and STAR WARS: Hyperspace Lounge.

Did you know that AAA Western and Central New York has advisors who specialize in Disney Destinations? Connect with one of AAA’s “Magic Creators” who can help you fulfill your Disney vacation dreams!

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