Think Disney cruises are just for kids? Think again! Disney’s latest ship, ‘The Destiny,’ is proving that adults can have an equally magical, if not more luxurious, experience at sea. This new vessel seamlessly blends beloved Disney characters and stories with top-notch entertainment, dining, and activities specifically curated for adult travelers.
A Celebration of Black Culture and Voices
From the moment you step aboard, the influence of ‘Black Panther’ is palpable, setting a powerful tone with a statue of T’Challa greeting guests. The ship’s heroes and villains theme is intentionally infused with a strong Black Panther aesthetic, creating an immersive atmosphere. What makes ‘The Destiny’ truly special is its commitment to showcasing Black culture and talent, a vision brought to life by top Black voices involved in the ship’s creation, from performances to decor and musical dinners.
Yolanda Cade, Vice President of Communications for Disney Signature Experiences, highlighted this intentionality, stating, “Black voices are being told like never before.” Disney actively listened to Black consumers, resulting in an experience designed to be celebrated and enjoyed by the community.
Adult-Only Havens for Relaxation and Indulgence
The adult-only areas on ‘The Destiny’ are far from an afterthought. They are meticulously designed to provide a true luxury experience. My personal journey began at the Senses Spa, where I enjoyed a fantastic facial and explored the state-of-the-art Rainforest room, complete with saunas and an ice room – perfect for ultimate relaxation and restoration.
The 13th floor houses the adult-only pool area, a tranquil oasis featuring hot tubs, a quaint coffee shop, and a bar. Corey Bradford, who stars as Hercules in the ship’s phenomenal Broadway show, praised this space for its tranquility. “Where the adult area is, especially on the Destiny, they also have Cove Cafe. I just love to be out there and just have tranquility,” he shared.
Unique Themed Bars and Unmatched Dining
The ship’s bars are a highlight, each uniquely inspired by different Disney movies. ‘The Rose,’ nestled on the 12th floor with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows, offers a ‘Beauty and the Beast’ vibe. The ‘Haunted Mansion’ bar provides a cool, ghostly experience with ever-changing visuals and special guest appearances. ‘De Vil’s’ bar, inspired by Cruella de Vil, features live piano music and specialty cocktails, sometimes even with Cruella herself making an appearance.
The dining experiences were equally impressive. Shows like ‘Pride of the Lions’ (Lion King) and Marvel-themed performances complemented the culinary offerings. Paul Bryant, show director for ‘Pride of the Lions,’ spoke emotionally about the groundbreaking experience of seeing a cast that looked like him bringing the beloved show to life. “To put [Lion King] on stage with people who like me, sound like me, and have fun doing it was groundbreaking for me,” he shared, emphasizing the company’s growth towards inclusivity.
Castaway Cay: An Adult Escape
The journey continued to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. Here, adults can escape to Serenity Bay, an exclusive, adult-only beach located a good distance from the family beaches. Like other adult areas on the ship, it features a bar and restaurant with attentive staff who remember your name. Disney masterfully creates an environment where adults can embrace their inner child without judgment, all while enjoying the tranquility of an adult-only space.
Would you consider a Disney cruise designed specifically for adults? What Disney-themed bar or dining experience would you be most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below!
