Disney continues to release information on Disney Dream, the newest addition to the Disney Cruise Li, which is scheduled to set sail on Jan. 26, 2011. The ship will feature cutting-edge technology, referred to as “Techno-Cruising,” according to the latest edition of Disney Fans Insider. The article also notes programming changes that affect the Disney Dream and other ships in the fleet.
Disney Dream, currently under construction in Papenburg, Germany, will integrate state-of-the-art technology with early 20th century design to create a family cruising experience looking back at yesterday’s luxury liners and ahead to technologically innovative experiences that guests associate with Disney.
Joe Lanzisero, Imagineering Senior Vice President, sees the use of technology as enhancing the cruise experience. "For me, I see an opportunity to touch our Guests on a much deeper level than we're able to in the Theme Parks. These ships are filled with all kinds of new challenges and technologies that are different from the Parks ... the core of what we're delivering is no different from anything else we provide. And that's great Disney family entertainment."
In its previous announcements about the Dream’s one-of-a-kind features, Disney Cruise Line has heavily promoted the AquaDuck, the first onboard watercoaster for a cruise ship. It uses elements of water rides found at Walt Disney World’s water parks to create a flume ride made out of clear acrylic, giving its riders a clear view of the ocean below as they travel above and over the side of ship.
The latest technology is also being used on smaller ship details. New with the Dream are virtual “portholes,” which use cameras to provide inside cabin with real-time views of the outside. “Enchanted Art” will allow Disney works of art to change as guests view them. A similar technology will be used in the adult lounges Skyline, with shifting night cityscapes, and Pink, whose champagne-inspired décor will include shifting animation reflected in effervescent bubbles.
For tweens and teens, the presence of technology is even more obvious, as the ship’s designated areas for these groups emphasize gaming and social media applications. In intra-ship network encourages them to get connected with each other.
Technology even plays a role in the kid’s programs that go beyond the Dream’s movie screenings and computer kiosks. Children will be able to talk with Crush or Stitch in a virtual real-time environment, based on the Disney theme park’s popular Turtle Talk with Crush and Stitch Encounter. Stitch Kingdom blog speculates Jack Sparrow may also be another character to make an appearance on the Dream.
Disney Dream ship will travel from Port Canaveral to Nassau and Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, taking over Disney Wonder’s route in 2011. Condé Nast Traveler has recognized Disney Cruise Line in 2009 and 2010 in its Annual Cruise Poll.
Virtual Tour of Disney Dream's AquaDuck
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