A new Disney-branded cruise business in Japan is expected to begin operating by early 2029.
A sister ship to Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wish is to be built with modifications specially designed for Japanese passengers.
The new vessel, to be constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, is expected to be 140,000 gross tons and powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), with about 1,250 cabins.
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Local firm Oriental Land Co (OLC), which owns and operates Tokyo Disney Resort, will build and operate the ship.
Disney Experiences chair Josh D’Amaro said: “Disney Cruise Line has ambitious plans to bring family vacations and Disney storytelling to more guests around the world than ever before.
“We are thrilled to continue the success of this expansion as we collaborate with Oriental Land Co. to introduce another distinctly Disney vacation experience to families and fans in Japan.”
The collaboration was described as the latest evolution in an over 40-year relationship between Disney and OLC.
OLC will operate the new Disney cruise ship to be registered and based in Japan year-round.
Chief executive Yumiko Takano said: “I am sincerely proud that Disney and Oriental Land will be able to work together to create a world-class cruise business in Japan.
“Oriental Land will use their know-how from the theme park business to continue pushing boundaries and provide family entertainment cruise experiences filled with inspiration and surprise.”
More details about the maiden voyage, itineraries and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date, Disney said.
The move comes ahead of Disney Cruise Line plans to start year-round sailings from Singapore in 2025 as the five-ship line aims to adds three more vessels by the end of next year.