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Old Cruise Ships: Where Are They Now

Published: December 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Mamie Blais

• Sustainability

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of retired cruise ships! These majestic vessels have sailed the seas, carrying thousands of passengers on unforgettable journeys. But what happens to these iconic ships once they reach the end of their sailing days? In this article, we will explore the different fates that await retired cruise ships and discover where they are now.

Retirement for a cruise ship is not as simple as docking at a harbor and being left to rust away. The process of retiring a cruise ship involves careful planning and consideration. The ship’s owner must decide whether to repurpose the vessel, sell it for scrap, or find a new role for it in the maritime industry.

Each retired cruise ship has its own unique story, bearing witness to years of oceanic adventures and memories. Some have found new life as floating hotels, while others have been transformed into entertainment venues or even museums. Let’s dive into the various post-retirement destinations that await these magnificent vessels.

But before we embark on this journey, it’s important to note that while some retired cruise ships enjoy a glamorous second life, others end up forgotten, abandoned in scrap yards, a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of maritime glory.

Join us as we unveil the captivating world of retired cruise ships and discover the diverse paths they take after their final voyage. From luxury hotels to training facilities, these retired vessels continue to make an impact, albeit in different ways. Let’s begin our exploration of old cruise ships and where they are now.

The Retirement Process

When a cruise ship reaches the end of its operational life, the retirement process begins. This involves a series of steps to ensure a smooth transition from active service to a new role or final resting place.

The first step in the retirement process is decommissioning the ship. This involves taking it out of service and preparing it for its next phase. The ship’s systems and equipment are thoroughly inspected, and any necessary repairs or upgrades are made. This ensures that the vessel is in a suitable condition for its future use, whether it be as a floating hotel or a museum.

Once decommissioned, the ship is often sold to a new owner. This can be another cruise line looking to expand its fleet or a company interested in repurposing the vessel for a different industry. The sale process typically involves negotiating the terms and conditions, including the purchase price and any additional agreements related to the ship’s future use.

If the retired cruise ship is to be repurposed, extensive modifications and renovations are often undertaken. This can include converting cabins into hotel rooms, adding new amenities and entertainment facilities, and redesigning the ship’s layout to suit its new purpose. These modifications breathe new life into the vessel, allowing it to continue serving a different clientele.

However, not all retired cruise ships find a second life. Some ships, especially those that are older or in poor condition, may be sold to scrap yards. In these cases, the ship is dismantled, and its materials are recycled or sold for scrap. It’s a bittersweet end for these vessels, as they are stripped of their former glory and reduced to their individual components.

The retirement process can be a lengthy and complex journey for a retired cruise ship. From decommissioning and sale to repurposing or scrapping, each vessel’s destiny is unique. The decision-makers involved must weigh various factors, such as market demand, historical significance, and the ship’s condition, to determine the best course of action.

Now that we understand the retirement process, let’s explore some of the fascinating paths that retired cruise ships can take. From luxury floating hotels to interactive museums, the possibilities are endless.

Repurposed as Floating Hotels

One popular fate for retired cruise ships is to be transformed into floating hotels. These captivating vessels offer a unique accommodation experience, allowing guests to stay onboard and enjoy the amenities and ambiance of a luxury cruise ship.

Repurposing a cruise ship into a floating hotel involves converting the cabins into guest rooms, refurbishing the public areas, and adapting the ship’s infrastructure to meet the needs of hotel guests. The result is a one-of-a-kind lodging option that combines the comforts of a hotel with the charm and allure of a maritime setting.

These floating hotels can be found in various locations across the globe, serving as iconic landmarks in bustling cities or serene waterfront destinations. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, indulge in onboard dining options, and even take part in activities such as spa treatments or swimming in onboard pools.

One notable example of a repurposed cruise ship is the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California. This legendary ocean liner, which once sailed the transatlantic route, has been transformed into a stunning floating hotel. Visitors can explore the ship’s rich history, admire its Art Deco design, and enjoy luxurious accommodations.

Another renowned floating hotel is the Sunborn Yacht Hotel in London. This elegant vessel offers a lavish experience with its spacious suites, gourmet restaurants, and panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline. Guests can immerse themselves in the maritime atmosphere while enjoying the convenience and comfort of a modern hotel.

Repurposing retired cruise ships as floating hotels provides a new lease on life for these magnificent vessels. It allows them to continue providing exceptional experiences to guests, albeit in a different capacity. Guests can relish the nostalgia and grandeur of a bygone era while creating new memories within the luxurious confines of a floating hotel.

Next, let’s set sail to the world of entertainment as we explore how some retired cruise ships have been transformed into vibrant party venues and entertainment hubs.

Transformed into Party Ships

Some retired cruise ships have found new life as party ships, offering a thrilling and vibrant experience for those seeking a unique entertainment venue. These transformed vessels serve as the ultimate party destinations, hosting events, concerts, and themed parties that attract an energetic crowd.

When a cruise ship is repurposed into a party ship, it undergoes extensive renovations to create a dynamic and immersive party atmosphere. The ship’s interiors are transformed with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, vibrant decorations, and themed spaces designed to enhance the party experience.

These party ships offer an array of entertainment options, including live music performances, DJ sets, dance floors, and bars serving cocktails and refreshments. Guests can dance the night away under the stars on the ship’s deck or explore different themed zones within the vessel, each offering its own unique party ambiance.

One famous example of a party ship is the Ibiza Boat Party. This retired cruise ship sails the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, offering an electrifying party experience in one of the world’s most iconic party destinations. Guests can enjoy live DJ sets, indulge in delicious cuisine, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere as they cruise along the dazzling coastlines.

Another renowned party ship is the Groove Cruise. This floating festival takes place on a repurposed cruise ship, with multiple stages hosting world-class DJs and musicians. Passengers can mingle with like-minded partygoers, revel in the energetic performances, and enjoy the amenities and accommodations provided by the ship.

Transforming retired cruise ships into party ships breathes new life into these vessels and allows them to continue creating unforgettable experiences for party enthusiasts. The combination of a unique venue, thrilling entertainment, and the allure of sailing the high seas makes party ships a sought-after destination for those seeking a truly extraordinary party experience.

Next, let’s explore how some retired cruise ships have been transformed into captivating museums, preserving their history and allowing visitors to step back in time.

Converted into Museums

Retired cruise ships hold a wealth of historical significance, and many of them have been transformed into captivating museums, preserving their legacy and offering visitors a chance to step back in time and learn about the maritime history.

When a cruise ship is converted into a museum, it undergoes a meticulous restoration process to recreate the original interiors and preserve the ship’s architectural and design elements. Exhibits are curated to tell the story of the ship’s history, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that provide insights into the vessel’s voyages, passengers, and crew.

One iconic example of a transformed cruise ship museum is the SS United States, once proudly known as the fastest ocean liner in the world. This historic ship has been converted into a museum in Philadelphia, allowing visitors to explore the vessel’s luxurious cabins, grand ballrooms, and engine rooms. The exhibits shed light on the ship’s role in transatlantic travel and its significant place in maritime history.

Another renowned cruise ship turned museum is the Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2), which sailed the seas for nearly 40 years. This legendary ocean liner has been transformed into a floating museum in Dubai, offering visitors the opportunity to step aboard and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the ship’s past. The QE2 museum preserves the vessel’s history through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and captivating storytelling.

Converted cruise ship museums provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors, transporting them to a different era and allowing them to explore the maritime world. As they walk through the preserved cabins, dining halls, and observation decks, visitors gain a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and innovation of these iconic vessels.

By repurposing retired cruise ships into museums, their historical significance is safeguarded, and their stories are kept alive for future generations to appreciate and admire. These museums serve as important cultural landmarks, paying homage to the maritime heritage and the remarkable achievements of these magnificent ships.

Next, let’s discover how retired cruise ships are utilized as training facilities, providing invaluable opportunities for aspiring mariners and maritime professionals.

Used as Training Facilities

Retired cruise ships are often repurposed as training facilities, offering aspiring mariners and maritime professionals a unique learning environment to gain hands-on experience and practical skills.

Utilizing retired cruise ships as training facilities provides a realistic and immersive setting for students and trainees to understand the complexities of operating and managing a vessel. These facilities offer a wide range of training programs, including navigation and seamanship, engine maintenance, safety procedures, and more.

One prominent example of a retired cruise ship used as a training facility is the SS Rotterdam in the Netherlands. This historic ocean liner has been transformed into a maritime school, providing comprehensive training programs for future deck officers, engineers, and hospitality professionals. Students have the opportunity to navigate the ship’s simulated bridge, work in the engine rooms, and learn the intricacies of customer service in onboard restaurants and accommodations.

Another renowned training facility is the Training Ship Golden Bear, a former cruise ship converted into a maritime training vessel for the California Maritime Academy. This ship offers hands-on training in various disciplines, including navigation, engineering, and maritime operations. Students live and work onboard, simulating real-life scenarios and gaining valuable practical experience.

Using retired cruise ships as training facilities offers a unique advantage over traditional classrooms and simulators. Trainees can apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, learning from experienced professionals and simulating real-world scenarios. The authentic ship environment allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and responsibilities involved in maritime professions.

Additionally, these training facilities offer a glimpse into the operational procedures and inner workings of a cruise ship, offering valuable insights into the complexities of the maritime industry. They serve as a bridge between the academic and practical aspects of maritime education, preparing students for real-world challenges and ensuring they are well-equipped to embark on their careers.

Next, let’s explore what happens to retired cruise ships that have reached the end of their useful life and are destined for the scrap yard.

Relegated to Scrap Yards

For some retired cruise ships, the end of their operational life marks a somber journey to the scrap yard. These once majestic vessels, with their rich history and captivating stories, are dismantled and recycled, bringing an end to their maritime legacy.

When a cruise ship is deemed unfit for further use or repurposing, it may be sold to a scrap yard. The ship is then towed to a facility where it will undergo the process of breaking, also known as ship breaking. This involves disassembling the ship and recycling its components and materials.

The ship breaking process is labor-intensive and meticulous. Skilled workers meticulously dismantle the vessel, salvaging valuable materials such as steel, aluminum, and copper. These materials are then recycled and used in various industries, contributing to sustainability efforts and reducing the demand for new raw materials.

Ship breaking yards, located in various parts of the world, handle the dismantling process. These yards employ safety protocols and environmental measures to minimize the impact on the surrounding ecosystems. However, concerns have been raised about the environmental and human rights aspects of ship breaking, highlighting the need for responsible and ethical practices in this industry.

While it may be a solemn fate for retired cruise ships, their journey to the scrap yard serves as a reminder of the transient nature of maritime vessels. The ship’s end-of-life is an opportunity to reflect on its history, the memories created by passengers and crew, and the impact it had on the world of cruising.

It’s worth noting that efforts are being made to repurpose and recycle retired cruise ships in more sustainable and environmentally conscious ways. Initiatives are being explored to convert retired vessels into artificial reefs, providing habitats for marine life and promoting biodiversity. These innovative approaches aim to balance the preservation of maritime heritage with environmental stewardship.

As the years go by, more retired cruise ships will likely find their way to scrap yards. However, the memories and impact of these remarkable vessels will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those who crossed their decks and experienced the wonders of a cruise.

With our exploration of the different post-retirement destinations of cruise ships coming to a close, we can reflect on the diverse paths these vessels take once their voyages come to an end. From floating hotels and party ships to museums and training facilities, each retired cruise ship finds its own unique purpose, leaving a lasting legacy in the maritime world.

The journey of a retired cruise ship goes beyond its final voyage. These magnificent vessels find new life in various forms, showcasing their resilience and adaptability. From repurposed floating hotels to vibrant party ships, captivating museums, and training facilities, each retired cruise ship takes on a unique role in its post-retirement phase.

Transformed into floating hotels, these retired ships offer guests the opportunity to indulge in the luxurious amenities and ambiance of a cruise ship while enjoying breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Party ships bring an energetic and vibrant atmosphere, hosting events and themed parties that create memories that last a lifetime.

Converted cruise ship museums preserve the history and legacy of these iconic vessels, allowing visitors to step back in time and learn about their maritime heritage. They serve as cultural landmarks, paying homage to the achievements and innovations of these majestic ships.

Utilized as training facilities, retired cruise ships provide invaluable opportunities for aspiring mariners and maritime professionals to gain practical experience in a realistic and immersive environment. These hands-on learning environments bridge the gap between theory and practice, shaping the next generation of skilled professionals in the maritime industry.

However, not all retired cruise ships find a new purpose. For some, their final destination is the scrap yard, where they are dismantled, and their materials are recycled. While this marks the end of their physical presence, their legacy lives on, reminding us of the transient nature of maritime glory.

The journey of a retired cruise ship is filled with a mix of emotions – from nostalgia to excitement, and sometimes even sadness. Yet, it serves as a testament to the lasting impact these vessels have on the world of cruising and the memories they create for passengers and crew alike.

As we bid farewell to the retired cruise ships and their post-retirement destinations, let us appreciate the beauty, history, and significance these vessels hold. Their stories continue to inspire maritime enthusiasts and remind us of the wonders of the sea.

Whether repurposed, reimagined, or relegated to the scrap yard, retired cruise ships leave an indelible mark on our collective memory and remain a symbol of adventure, luxury, and the timeless allure of the open ocean.

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BREAKING NEWS

‘Potential serial killer’ arrested after bodies of 2 women found in Orange County, sheriff says

Disney dream bids farewell to port canaveral after more than decade in service, ship moving to make way for all-new disney wish.

Landon McReynolds , Producer

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – Disney Cruise Line is preparing to welcome its newest ship, the Disney Wish , to Central Florida later this month.

In order to make room at Port Canaveral, the company is shuffling some of its cruise ships around, including the Disney Dream.

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The ship arrived back at Port Canaveral Monday morning to disembark weekend cruise passengers before heading to its new port in Miami.

“The Disney Dream will be leaving us on June 6, and the Disney Dream has always called Port Canaveral home,” Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO, said during a commission meeting last month. “So, it’s heading down to Miami and next year, it’s going to Europe - so that ship probably won’t be back for a while. It’s been a long stay since she was delivered about 10 years ago.”

Following the ship’s time in Miami, Disney Cruise Line said in 2023 the Disney Dream will sail from Barcelona and Rome to picturesque ports of call throughout the Mediterranean, including a first-ever 7-night sailing to the Greek Isles with stops in the ever-popular ports of Santorini and Mykonos. Later that year, the ship will travel from Southampton and will feature cruises to a wealth of destinations including Spain, France, the British Isles, Norway and Iceland.

Construction of the Disney Dream began back in 2009. A year later, the ship was delivered to Disney Cruise Line.

Early in the morning on Jan. 4, 2011, the ship arrived to fanfare and fireworks at Port Canaveral.

Just a couple of weeks later on Jan. 26, 2011, the ship set sail on its maiden voyage from Central Florida. Since that time, the ship has taken millions of passengers on 3- and 4-night sailings to Disney’s Castaway Cay and Nassau.

At 1,115 feet, the Disney Dream is longer than the height of the Eiffel Tower in Paris and longer than the height of New York City’s Chrysler Building, making it one of the fleet’s bigger ships.

The Dream’s sister ship, the Disney Fantasy, will continue to call Port Canaveral home.

The Disney Wish is scheduled to arrive at the port on June 20 between the hours of 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. at cruise terminal 8 and 10.

The Disney Wish will be powered by liquified natural gas, or LNG, one of the cleanest-burning fuels available, officials said. At approximately 144,000 gross tons and 1,250 guest staterooms, the ship will be slightly larger than the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

When the Disney Wish sets sail this summer, it will be filled with innovative new experiences steeped in Disney storytelling, including the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, immersive dining experiences themed to “Frozen” and Marvel, and a high-end lounge set in the Star Wars galaxy.

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The Disney Cruise Line Blog

An unofficial disney cruise line news, information, weather, and photo blog..

Live Stage Shows

List of Past and Present Disney Cruise Line’s Broadway-caliber, Disney-themed live shows.  These shows are performed aboard the Disney Dream, Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, and the Disney Fantasy in the Walt Disney Theatre.  Some live stage shows are available on multiple ships.  If you cannot make the show, check your stateroom TV guide for viewing in your stateroom.

During longer itineraries the Walt Disney Theatre will play host to guest performers or screen one of Disney’s latest theatrical release movies .

Current Disney Cruise Line Shows

Retired disney cruise line shows.

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57 Replies to “Live Stage Shows”

I wonder if they would ever consider re-running a retired show? We saw Hercules: The Muse-ical on our first two sailings and loved it!

I only saw Hercules once, but a revised Muppet show would be a great idea for an opening night variety show. It would be easy to plug in the special guests such as Knight Magic.

Remember the Magic also plays on the Wonder on some itineraries.

How often do the live show itineraries change? We are thinking of booking our second cruise on the fantasy but are hesitant only because the live show schedule appears to be the same as it was almost 2 years ago? Does it ever change? Thanks so much for your input!

They do change, but not very often. Pending any drastic shakeup your cruise will have the same shows.

We’ve cruised on the Disney Fantasy 3 times (2012 & 2014 & 2016) and have seen the same shows everytime. We are cruising on the Fantasy again in 2020 and would love to see something new but expect to see the same.

The Fantasy has the new Aladdin musical! It’s great 😀

It does change from time to time, but they add new segments and it normally takes the shows to the next level.

Do you have to reserve seats at the shows on the Dream? Is there a charge? Do you have to get there like an hour early and stand in line?

Cindy, You do not need to reserve seats or a showtime. The live shows are included in the price of the cruise. Lines do form prior to the show as seats are first come first serve and saving of seats is discouraged.

I was just on the fantasy january 25-1 and loved aladdin and wishes but I can’t find a cast list anywhere I would love to know who the actors are.

Is Walt Disney: The Dream Goes On only on longer cruises? If so which length of cruise.

Does anyone know what order the shows play in on a 4 night cruise? We’re trying to schedule Remy, but I really want to see the Villains show.

Jen, Check out a set of Personal Navigators from the Disney Dream.

The Villians show on the Dream was the BEST show we saw on our cruise! The cast member who played Hades when we were there was so amazing!

I hear that they have special shows during the Holidays. Is this true or is it just the movie selection?

They have special events in the Atrium such as King Triton’s Tree lighting .

Any idea how often they replace the shows? I have friends who were on the Wonder in 10/13 and want to do an Alaskan cruise this summer, but are afraid the shows will be exactly the same..

Mindy, the shows, as a whole, do not change that much.

Do You have an estimate of how large the total cast of a play would be?

I believe the number is about 20.

thanks. Is that per play or does the same crew work on every play?

Same cast for all the shows.

33 where on the wonder in april according to the peter cruise director

We are sailing for the 3rd time on the Disney Fantasy summer 2016. Do you think there will be any new shows by then? We saw the same ones summer 2014 that we saw summer 2012. They are great but would like to see something new.

I would not expect any new shows on the Fantasy for next summer.

I agree, it’s time for something new. We skipped all the shows this past November. 3 times on the Fantasy and no new shows. The only way to see something new is to switch ships but then the problem for me is that the the spas are outdated and I love and need the Rainforest….uggg So I am going to bite the bullet and go on the Magic next to see Tangled. Thankfully I love to hang out in Keys.

Since the ships are usually running 7 days a week, the turn around in the home port is too short to uninstall an old show and install a new one. As a result if the ship has not entered a dry dock situation since your last cruise, it is highly unlikely for the shows to have changed.

Any chance the Tangled show will ever be brought to a different ship? We are hoping to go late Spring 2017 but so far it looks like the Magic is only sailing out of San Juan! 🙁 We were hoping to do Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral.

It was said during the DCL Parks Blog event that they are attempting to keep things varied across the fleet rather than duplicating shows on each ship, to help keep things fresh for repeat guests.

Any chance I can find out the time and schedule of each show? so far my search turned up nothing? I need to know the times to schedule dinner on Fantasy cruise 7 night East carib.

There are two show times each night opposite Main and Late dinning times. On some sailings there are even matinee showings.

Anyone know the running time of the shows? I mean the actual start to finish each evening?

The shows vary, but they are about 45 minutes to an hour in length.

On the Dream, 3-night cruise, do you get all 3 shows? {Believe, Golden Mickey’s, Villains Tonight}

Does the Wonder ship has more than one show as well? We are currently on a waiting list for early dining and we are hoping we don’t miss the shows. We sail Friday after Thanksgiving 2016. Thank you!

Fara, there are two dinner seatings. If you have main dining your show time will be after dinner. If you have late dinner, you will go to a show then eat. You will not miss them due to the dinner seating time.

Thank you! I can stop worrying now,?

One more question (you hope). Do we have to make reservations on any particular activity like character breakfast or pictures with the different characters?

There are a few meet and greet experiences and possibly a character breakfast depending on your ship/itinerary. DCL recently added online reservations for some of these, but as of now still offer onboard reservations on embarkation day. Check your Navigator if you do not pre-book online.

Thank you!?

Scott, any thoughts on which shows will be on the 3-night Fantasy sailing 5/17/17? Has anything been published as to any show changes during the dry dock?

Mark, I would guess the 3 main shows will play; Aladdin, Wishes and Believe.

I’m so upset that they will be replacing ‘Villains Tonight’ with ‘Beauty and The Beast’. Nothing against the latter but ‘Villains Tonight’ is so good and funny! Thankfully, we’ll be going on Halloween on the High Seas this year to see it one last time. (Rather they had replaced the Golden Mickey’s, lol).

Scott, I know that Villains Tonight! has already ended but what is now showing in place of it till the new Beauty and the Beast show debuts? Haven’t seen any current Navigators. Thanks!

On the last 3-night the film, Disney’s Newsies The Broadway Musical was shown in place of Villains Tonight!

We are just trying to book a few things and want to be available for the shows. What times are the shows normally at? Is there anywhere that I can find a schedule. We are going Jan 6, 2018 on Fantasy !!

You can find links to previous Personal Navigators for your sailing on this page . Based on the latest navigators, showtimes on the Fantasy have been 6:15 and 8:30.

Hello, it’s Marcus again, I just want to say that my 2008 navigators have the show: “Remember the Magic: A Final Farewell”, and I was wondering if that show is still playing on the Magic/Wonder. Could you please help me on this one?

Are there any rumors on the dreamvine of the Wonder being pixie dusted with a new show? Dreams is already 15 years old, and the Golden Mickeys is nearly 20. My wife and I will be on the Wonder next Spring for an Alaskan cruise. When or how long in advance would they announce upcoming changes? It seems that quite a few were changed out after just 5 to 8 years.

DCL went through a period of making a unique, single franchise production for each ship. Tangled, Frozen, Beauty & the Beast, and to a lesser extent Aladdin. I recently heard some rumblings of a Toy Story something, but nothing that points directly to a stage production.

Hey Scott, if you have any connections pass on this idea to the imagineers. Replace the Dreams stage show onboard the Wonder and the Twice Charmed show on the Magic with a Star Wars and Marvel stage shows (different show on each). But let each one come with a twist where the World of Disney Magic (characters) help save the day in their respective universes. This could give a continual draw of Marvel and Star Wars fans to the cruise line beyond the special sailings, and at the same time let the fans of all three Worlds (Disney, Marvel, Star Wars) enjoy a crossover event. I love crossover tv episodes; why not stage shows.

With the extended shutdown due to Covid, are there any rumors about new stage shows, the same ones, or will they be put on hiatus like the parks? My wife and I have a sailing coming up in February, and we’re just curious as to what to expect.

There’s a show missing, I believe fully retired and only shown a few times. “When Mickey Dreams”, debuted for the EBTA in 2007 and shown on Med cruises, then again on the WBPC in 2008. Can’t find any reference to it existing outside of that.

I did find a reference in an old press release. I added a page for When Mickey Dreams .

The Golden Mickeys used to be on the Magic as well…

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Disney Cruise Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

Disney Cruise Line has an active fleet of four cruise ships with a further three ships on order ( Disney Wish and two currently unnamed ships).

In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and how they compare to each other.

Introduction to Disney Cruise Line

Before Disney Cruise Line became its own entity, Disney actually tried to work with both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. However, nothing really came of this and so in 1994 Disney had their first cruise ship plans drawn up.

Disney announced their first cruises would start in 1998 and commissioned familiar cruise shipbuilder, Fincantieri in Italy to build their first two cruise ships ( Disney Magic and Disney Wonder ).

In July 1998, Disney Magic performed the first maiden voyage for the cruise line – sailing from their homeport of Port Canaveral, Florida.

By 2005, Disney was using Los Angeles as their summer homeport for their ships and the gaining popularity of them was outstripping their capacity.

In 2007, they announced the building of two new cruise ships – Disney Dream , which launched in January 2011 and Disney Fantasy which started operations in 2012.

More recently, in 2016 Disney announced a new class of cruise ship – the Triton-class, which would be used for two new upcoming cruise ships. A third ship was added to the order book in 2017 and the first ship of the class, Disney Wis h is expected to join the Disney fleet in July 2022.

Disney Cruise Ships Frequently Asked Questions

What is disney’s largest cruise ship.

The  Disney Fantasy  and  Disney Dream  are the largest cruise ships in the Disney fleet currently.

What is Disney’s smallest cruise ship?

Disney Magic  is the smallest cruise ship in the Disney fleet, carrying 2,700 passengers.

Which is the oldest Disney cruise ship?

Disney Magic  is the oldest ship in the Disney fleet. It started service in 1998.

Which is the newest Disney cruise ship?

The newest Disney ship is  Disney Wish  which is due to enter service in July 2022.

What is the cheapest month to take a Disney cruise?

Generally, Jan-Mar or Nov-Dec are the off-peak season cruises with Disney and therefore cheaper to cruise!

Do you pay for dining on a Disney cruise?

No. Disney cruises are all-inclusive with no surcharges for dining. However, popcorn is extra!

Can you smoke on a Disney cruise?

You have never been allowed to smoke in the Disney staterooms. But they do have designated areas onboard each of their ships.

What Disney cruise ship is the best?

The best Disney cruise is usually the one your kids will beg you to go on! In all seriousness,  Disney Fantasy  has the highest review scores – probably because it is one of the newest with the latest facilities and technologies onboard too!

Are Disney cruise pools heated?

Yes! For your comfort, they are kept at a heat of around 75f.

Why is Disney Cruise Line so expensive?

Disney itself is quite expensive (parks and hotels) – but this is because you are paying for very high-quality experiences with exceptional guest satisfaction.

Their cruises are also more expensive because of the inclusive dining.

Disney Cruise Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Disney Cruise Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all disney cruise ships new builds.

Yes, all Disney cruise ships are brand new builds and purpose-built for Disney Cruise Line.

As Disney has exceptionally high standards you can guess that they would not be happy with taking on an older ship and converting it to their standard.

Therefore, they build each ship to their exact specification. However, they do use the same cruise shipbuilder as other lines such as Carnival and MSC Cruises use, which is Fincantieri in Italy.

Disney Cruise Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

Final thoughts.

For many, taking a Disney Cruise is an absolute bucket-list item – whether you are a seasoned cruiser or not. Who wouldn’t want to experience the magic of Disney, but at sea?

From their colorful ships to the very high customer service standards that Disney offers, a Disney cruise is perfect for kids (and adults too).

The cruise line has been slower than others to add extra ships, but with three new ships on order, they will be nearly doubling their fleet by late 2025!

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What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Here’s what you need to know about every Celebrity Cruises ship.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is among our readers' favorite mega-ship ocean lines — coming in at No. 1 in 2022 and No. 2 in 2023 as part of our World's Best Awards (WBA) — and it's easy to see why. This WBA Hall of Fame honoree truly shines with its sophisticated, tasteful decor and sleek onboard spaces, including swanky lounges, dazzling bars, gourmet specialty restaurants, and contemporary suites. Almost all Celebrity ships, except the three Xpedition-class vessels, offer standard amenities like casinos, retail shops, spas, and Broadway-level shows and entertainment. There's also the adults-only Solarium and The Retreat, the latter of which is reserved exclusively for suite guests. Paul Brady , Travel + Leisure ’s news director and cruise expert, told us, “Because its ships offer so much to do, Celebrity is a fantastic choice for families, who can choose from a huge array of well-designed staterooms and suites. Groups of friends, too, will find much to like, thanks to the brand's fantastic dining (and drinking) options.”

Meet the Expert

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on all things cruise.

Kari Becker is a travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels.

With a fleet of 16 ships, it can be tricky to determine which Celebrity ship is best suited for your specific needs.Travel advisor Kari Becker of Marvelous Mouse Travels explains, "Whatever your taste, there is a perfect Celebrity cruise to meet your needs." She continues, telling T+L, "There are three main classes: the Edge, Solstice, and Millennium classes, all with unique features, benefits, and advantages." The Millennium-class ships are smaller which, per Becker, may "offer a more personalized experience." Solstice is the largest class of Celebrity's fleet, says Becker. "When designed, these ships focused on innovation, with unique spaces including a real grass lawn, and unique onboard experiences, such as glass-making classes." Last but not least is Celebrity's Edge class. Per the pro, the ships in the line's newest class are "the largest of the fleet, offering more space for additional experiences and restaurants, including a massive pool deck, floating platform at sea (aptly called the Magic Carpet), and Rooftop Garden." All in all, she says, "The Edge series is for guests looking for transformative cruising and splendor with countless gourmet restaurants and immersive entertainment." 

Ahead, we’ve listed every Celebrity ship currently in service — complete with their notable amenities, launch year, guest capacity, and other need-to-know insights — to help you determine which vessel is best for your next voyage.

Celebrity Ascent

Inaugural Year: 2023

Ship Class: Edge 

Ship Capacity: 3,260 passengers

Celebrity’s newest ship is also its flashiest — in the best way possible. The Celebrity Ascent offers an expanded Retreat area (exclusive to suite guests), complete with a 40-percent-larger two-story sundeck, and the swanky Sunset Bar, which is 180 percent larger. Beyond The Retreat, there are 32 bars, restaurants, and lounges, a lush Rooftop Garden, an adults-only Solarium, the three-level Eden restaurant and entertainment venue, and the Magic Carpet, a floating platform that reaches 13 stories above sea level. Finally, stay in one of the Iconic Suites, the largest in the Celebrity fleet, for the ultimate splurge. 

Celebrity Beyond

Inaugural Year: 2022

Celebrity Beyond is nearly identical to Celebrity Ascent . Both Edge-class sister ships have the same spectacular amenities and features, including a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center that’s sure to impress wellness-seekers, who will also be happy in one of the AquaClass Sky Suites, which offer in-room yoga mats and fitness equipment. It’s also worth noting that these suite guests also enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite and a dedicated spa concierge. Don’t miss the adults-only Solarium, the Rooftop Garden, the aforementioned Eden, or the Magic Carpet, which offers the best views at sea.

Paul Brady was onboard the Beyond in October 2022. “My stateroom, 9164, was a Sky Suite, with a king bed facing a private terrace and a clever roll-open mirror that let natural light into the spacious bathroom. Dining at the Daniel Boulud restaurant Le Voyage was one highlight — with seven courses — but so too were casual cocktails at Sunset Bar, with its touch of Moroccan design influence courtesy of Nate Berkus, who dreamed up the multi-level lounge,” said Brady of his experience.  

Celebrity Apex

Inaugural Year: 2020

Ship Capacity: 2,910 passengers

The second Edge-class ship, Celebrity Apex , made its grand debut in 2020. It boasts an abundance of stylish onboard spaces, including the Rooftop Garden and the adults-only Solarium. Access to the exclusive Retreat area is reason alone to book one of the contemporary suites. Other highlights include the dazzling three-story Grand Plaza, where you’ll find the aptly named Martini Bar, one of 29 bars, lounges, and restaurants aboard Apex , along with the orange-hued Magic Carpet, which offers live music and a full bar 13 feet above sea level.  

“I was fortunate to snag one of just a handful of Royal Suites on the ship, 12105, which had the look of a chic coastal Florida cottage, elevated with pops of bright green, geometric tiling, and contemporary art on the walls. The bathroom, with a deep soaking tub and spacious shower, rivaled any I’ve seen at land-based resorts,” said Brady of his November 2021 sailing. “Same with the Grand Plaza at the heart of the ship, a gathering place with a hotel lobby vibe in the best possible sense — and a glitzy Martini Bar.”

Read More : 9 Best Cruises for Couples

Celebrity Flora

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Xpedition 

Ship Capacity: 100 passengers

Cruise the Galapagos in style aboard Celebrity Flora , which made its maiden voyage in 2019. The vessel was designed with sustainability in mind: It's built with natural materials and features anchorless technology to protect the seabed. Certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park are on board to help guests gain a better understanding of the region for an educational trip. The ship also offers a once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience, which includes dinner and drinks, a naturalist-guided stargazing session, accommodations in a cabana-turned-double bed, and a private breakfast. Plus, with its all-suite accommodations, the small ship has a mega-yacht feel.

Celebrity Edge

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Capacity: 2,918 passengers

This sophisticated ship — the first in Celebrity’s Edge class — changed the game following its 2018 debut. What’s more, Edge was the very first Celebrity ship to feature the Magic Carpet, the multifunctional Eden, and the Infinite Veranda Staterooms, which, with the touch of a button, transform your living space into your very own private balcony.

Related: 10 Best Alaska Cruises to Take This Summer, According to Experts

Celebrity Reflection

Inaugural Year: 2012

Ship Class: Solstice 

Ship Capacity: 3,046 passengers

The fifth, final, and largest Solstice-class cruise ship, Celebrity Reflection , will impress even the pickiest of travelers with its onboard activities, amenities, and spaces, including a total of 22 bars, restaurants, and lounges. In addition to The Retreat (reserved exclusively for suite guests) and The Solarium (adults-only), Reflection — along with all Solstice-class ships — boasts the Lawn Club. Located on the top deck of the ship, this chic outdoor space (which is outfitted with real grass, no less), is perfect for sipping cocktails, enjoying a leisurely lunch, listening to live music, lounging in a cabana, or playing a game of bocce or croquet. The adults-only Persian Garden area at the spa is a favorite amongst wellness enthusiasts.

Celebrity Silhouette

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Capacity: 2,902 passengers

Celebrity Silhouette is elegant in every sense, from the aptly named Grand Foyer — with its marvelous marble floors, extravagant staircase (which is prime for photo opportunities), and the first panoramic oceanview glass elevators at sea — to stylish lounges like The Hideaway or the natural light-filled Sky Lounge. While suite guests gain exclusive access to The Retreat, anyone can relax in one of the swanky pool areas or the laid-back Lawn Club. Then, when hunger — or thirst — calls, passengers can take their pick of over 20 food and drink options.

Celebrity Eclipse

Inaugural Year: 2010

Ship Capacity: 2,852 passengers

An impressive modern art collection, an expansive spa, a half-acre lawn, and top-notch dining: Find all this and more aboard Celebrity Eclipse , which debuted in 2010. This Solstice-class vessel also boasts an onboard nightclub, popular among party-centric travelers, a striking Grand Foyer, and, last but not least, the Solstice Club. Located at the highest point of the ship, the Solstice Club is a haven for R&R with its canopy lounge beds — and it’s also a popular spot for morning yoga or evening stargazing sessions.

Related: 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Celebrity Equinox

Inaugural Year: 2009

Refurbished in 2019, Celebrity Equinox exudes cool. On board this stylish ship, guests can sip cocktails in style at one of several hip bars, including the Martini Bar and Slush, enjoy a picnic lunch or practice their golf swing at the half-acre Lawn Club, or soak up the sun at the adults-only Solarium or the plush lounge-lined pool area. Finally, guests should consider booking a suite to access Luminae, a swanky restaurant that serves decadent dishes designed by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud.

Celebrity Solstice

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Capacity:  2,852 passengers

The first ship in Celebrity’s Solstice class currently cruises Alaska and the Pacific Coast in style. Here, you’ll find the lush Lawn Club, the adults-only Persian Garden thermal suite, and the glam Grand Foyer. Additional highlights include the Solstice Deck, an onboard nightclub, and a slew of bars and lounges, including the wine-centric Cellar Masters, where oenophiles can learn about – and taste — a wide variety of vinos from across the globe. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Hot Glass Class, featuring professional-led glass-blowing demos.

Read More : 10 of the Best Mediterranean Cruises for Every Type of Traveler

Celebrity Xploration

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Xpedition

Ship Capacity: 16 passengers

With a passenger capacity of just 16, the Xploration is Celebrity’s smallest ship. As such, cruisers can expect an intimate onboard ambiance. When not out and about exploring the Galapagos, guests can hang in the lounge, relax in their suite (some with private balconies), and soak up some rays — or stargaze — on the hot tub-equipped sundeck.

Celebrity Constellation

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Class: Millennium 

Ship Capacity: 2,184 passengers

This 22-year-old Celebrity ship offers a more refined, subdued atmosphere compared to the line’s newer ships, which boast flashier features like the Magic Carpet. The Rooftop Terrace area serves as a restaurant, bar, and outdoor movie theater, complete with cozy furnishings coupled with mouthwatering bites and sips. Meanwhile, the adults-only Persian Garden area in the spa is ideal for wellness-seeking cruisers.

Celebrity Summit

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Capacity: 2,218 passengers

Celebrity Summit, which cruises Alaska and the Caribbean, technically dates back to 2001; however, in 2019, it received a $75-million refurbishment to bring it a little more in line with Celebrity’s newest ships, including 2018’s Celebrity Edge . Expect stylish spaces galore, including the Sunset and Martini bars, plus a sleek Rooftop Terrace where cruisers can catch outdoor flicks while basking in the ocean views.

Read More : 25 Caribbean Cruises for Your Next Tropical Vacation

Celebrity Xpedition

Ship Class: Xpedition  

Ship Capacity: 48 passengers

Last refurbished in 2018, Celebrity Xpedition was purposely built to cruise the Galapagos. The immersive onboard experience includes nightly lectures by certified naturalists from Galapagos National Park, who will be on board the entire sailing. Enjoy postcard-worthy views from the Panorama Deck, or take a dip in the hot tub on the Sunrise Deck. Passengers can choose from a handful of elegant rooms and suites; however, those who want their own balcony will need to spring on the latter.

Celebrity Infinity

Inaugural Year: 2000

Ship Capacity: 2,170 passengers

Celebrity Infinity is a favorite among laid-back cruisers — primarily couples and adult friend groups. Popular onboard hangout spots include the adults-only Solarium, the buzzy Rooftop Terrace, and, for suite guests, The Retreat. The ship also has a handful of specialty dining restaurants (in addition to complimentary ones, of course). Le Petit Chef is well worth the added fee thanks to a combination of gourmet eats and exhilarating entertainment complete with tabletop animations.

Read More : 10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

Celebrity Millennium

Inaugural Year: 1999

Ship Class: Millennium  

Don’t sleep on Celebrity’s oldest ship, which includes a handful of fan-favorite amenities and spaces such as The Retreat, the Solarium, the Rooftop Terrace, and the Grand Foyer. Last refurbished in 2019, Millennium now features a more contemporary design aesthetic, similar to what you’d find on the newer ships. There are also more than 15 bars and restaurants on board.

What happens to retired cruise ships - including the giant 'graveyards' where ships go to die

This is what happens to older vessels in cruise lines' fleets when they're no longer needed

• 16:30, 28 SEP 2021
• Updated 16:33, 28 SEP 2021

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Once brand new, majestic and mighty cruise ships must eventually sail their last voyage, as they become outdated and old.

These days, a cruise ship is much more than cabin rooms aboard a ship - they now host thousands of passengers and offer a range of facilities such as casinos, rollercoasters, swimming pools and more.

Some cruise ships offer an exclusively-themed experience, such as the Disney cruise ship, Disney Magic, which offers a magical journey filled with Walt Disney's creations - and the ship's horn even plays a section of the Disney classic song “When You Wish Upon a Star” from the animated classic film Pinocchio.

Read More - Drivers' fury as Brexit blamed for fuel crisis with long queues at petrol station

Other ships offer full water parks and other epic adventures. But, of course this comes with a pressure to stay updated, from new tech to modern furnishings.

So what happens to older vessels in cruise lines' fleets when they're no longer needed?

Of course this comes with a pressure to stay updated, from new tech to modern furnishings, The Mirror reports.

We take a look at some of the options when a cruise ship is retired from service...

1. Sold to another cruise line

Newer ships tend to be sold off to other cruise lines, and then given a makeover to start afresh under a new brand.

For example, Marella Celebration was originally built for Holland America in 1984, before being sold on to TUI (at the time it was Thompson) and its Marella Cruises venture.

Fred. Olsen's newest ships Bolette and Borealis, which made their debut earlier in 2021, were both bought from Holland America and refurbished.

Meanwhile just last year Carnival Cruises announced that it had sold two ships, Carnival Fascination and Carnival Imagination although the company didn't disclose their buyer.

It wasn't the only cruise line to announce the sale of multiple ships.

Princess Cruises also announced that it had sold two of its ships, Sun Princess and Sea Princess, to undisclosed buyers in 2020, while Royal Caribbean has sold Empress of the Seas and Majesty of the Seas.

2. Turned into a hotel or tourist attraction

This is more of a rare scenario, but in some cases, ships can be transformed into attractions in their own right.

An example is Cunard's Queen Elizabeth 2 is now a floating hotel in Dubai, while the line's Queen Mary was retired in the 1960s and has since been permanently moored at Long Beach in California, where she serves as a tourist hotspot complete with restaurants and a museum.

Meanwhile, Fred. Olsen recently retired its Black Watch and Boudicca ships, which are reportedly due to be turned into 'accommodation vessels' (these typically are not hotels for the public).

3. Being sold to a cruise ship 'graveyard'

There comes a time in a cruise ship's life when it simply can't be repurposed, or its systems are simply outdated. This usually happens after 10-20 years of service, with several factors including a ship's size coming into play.

However, a cruise ship's sheer size means that it can't just be easily docked somewhere.

Instead, older ships are sold to ship breaking yards, where they are stripped and their parts sold on.

Usually the ship 'breaking' process begins at the bow, with workers making their way through the ship until they reach the stern.

The process usually takes around six to eight months.

There are a number of these 'cruise ship graveyards' around the world, with famous spots including Alang in India, Chittagong in Bangladesh and the Aliaga ship breaking yard in Turkey.

These yards aren't specifically used for cruise ships. Usually they will feature hundreds of giant ships including cargo ships, tankers, and even old floating hotels.

This is often used as a last resort when a cruise line has retired one of its ships.

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How to retire on a cruise ship

As I approach retirement age, the thought of retiring on a cruise ship has crossed my mind. Okay, who am I kidding? It's a daily obsession.

Retirement living is generally broken into three phases: the active healthy phase where you are fully independent, the phase where you need some assistance with meals and household chores, and the phase where you need a far greater level of care. Cruise retirement life obviously suits the independent phase, but it also closely resembles the assisted living option most people consider on land.

Both cruise ships and retirement communities include food, lodging, utilities, housekeeping and social gatherings, plus enrichment activities like guest lecturers, movies and art, computer or dance classes. Add to that the ability to travel the world without bothering with airplanes and hotels, and it makes sense that many people view living on a cruise ship as an ideal retirement plan.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

But how do you go about it? Clearly, you can live on a cruise ship — any good travel agent will happily book you on a year's worth of cruises at a time. But there's no "How to Retire on a Cruise Ship" guidebook to help you make informed decisions about the cost and feasibility of living out your golden years at sea.

What is the best way to go about full-time cruise ship travel? What other considerations should be taken into account? I dug in with some good old-fashioned research to see where that led me. Here's what I learned about how to retire on a cruise ship – and whether it's a good idea.

What does it cost to retire on a cruise ship?

When it comes to a retirement budget, commercial independent and assisted living facilities that provide extras like meal plans, housekeeping services, activities and transportation start on average around $60,000 per year per person, or $164 per night. (Obviously, this pricing will vary based on where you live, inclusions and luxury levels.) I set out to determine if retiring onboard a cruise ship could match (or beat) what's available on land, so I compared facilities with amenities and payment structures closest to what you could get on a cruise ship.

Retiring on a traditional cruise ship

While negotiating with cruise lines for a lower fare on a long-term arrangement is possible in many cases, I found that even without any special deals with the cruise line, I could book 52 back-to-back seven-night Caribbean cruises from Miami on Carnival Cruise Line 's newest ship, Carnival Celebration , for around $43,000 per person in an inside cabin. That's around $118 per person per night. (Think carefully whether you can stand to live year-round in a windowless room.)

Shopping for Carnival's cheapest cruises on older ships, I could get the average below $50 per person per night in inside cabins and around $110 in balcony cabins, including port taxes and fees. That means your cruise fare could be as little as $18,250 per person per year. Unfortunately, the fare is not your only cost to consider.

You would need to budget for flights between ports and occasional hotel stays if you decide to return home or swap ships. Plus, there are tips for staff to consider, which can total thousands per person during the course of a year.

All that puts the minimum for a couple or a single traveling alone (which requires single supplement charges in double occupancy cabins) just over the $50,000 per year mark.

Related: Best cruises for seniors who love to travel by sea

Obviously, there's no upper limit to how much you could spend on retirement on either land or sea, but here are some examples of what I found: A year on Cunard 's Queen Elizabeth in a balcony stateroom would run about $64,000 or $175 per night per person. A year onboard P&O Cruises' Britannia in a balcony cabin could be arranged for roughly $53,000 or $145 per night per person. Both options would allow you to see a great deal of the world.

By contrast, a year onboard a luxury cruise line like Silversea, Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas will cost a minimum of $200,000 per person ($548 per person per night). The good news about that price is that cruising on those lines includes things like tours, gratuities, alcoholic beverages and most specialty dining, as well as laundry.

Retiring on a residential ship

An alternative to sailing on a traditional cruise line through your retirement years is to buy or lease a cruise ship cabin on a luxury residence ship. The most well-known of these is The World, but there's been recent buzz about startup company Storylines and its residence ship, MV Narrative, which is set to launch in 2025. Victoria Cruises Line is also planning to turn two refurbished vessels into residential ships for long-term living, with a proposed launch in spring 2023.

Ownership simplifies a few things logistically, and your only additional costs are likely to be port expenditures and/or travel when you opt to leave the ship. You might also be able to rent out your cabin when you aren't using it, helping offset the cost of your cabin.

Storylines, for example, is selling staterooms either for the life of the ship or for quarterly seasonal shared ownership. Twenty-four-year lease options are also available. In addition to the initial purchase or lease cost, residents will pay an all-inclusive living fee per person per month that covers food and beverages, housekeeping, laundry, Wi-Fi, and, of course, fuel for the ship.

How does this option compare, pricewise? To purchase a 237-square-foot inside cabin with a virtual window for the life of the ship costs $1 million on average. A twenty-four-year lease is around $650K. Storylines also charges an additional all-inclusive living fee to cover onboard services (food, housekeeping, Wi-Fi, etc.); for an interior stateroom, this mandatory charge is $2,586 per person per month, based on double occupancy, or $62,064 annually for two people living together. Purchase prices for a one-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom unit averaged $2.7 million, with $111,000 in living fees.

For purposes of comparing the costs to traditional cruise ships, the living fee in the inside cabin on MV Narrative is $85 per person per night and the one-bedroom suite is $152 per person per night. These figures are in addition to the upfront costs of buying or leasing.

If you can invest in ownership or lease of a stateroom, your cost per night (beyond your purchase or rental price) can be lower than cruising traditionally. However, as MV Narrative is not yet under construction and is not slated to be built at one of the main cruise ship-building yards, you'll definitely want to talk to an advisor about investing your retirement savings in a startup company that has not yet brought a product to market.

What's so desirable about retiring on a cruise ship?

We talked about what's included on the ship and the potential of retiring for the same or even less than what you'd expect to pay for land-based retirement accommodations. That may be enough incentive for some, but what else makes retiring on a cruise ship an attractive choice?

For many, it's travel itself. Changing scenery every day can be an inspiring way to live. Even an option that visits the same ports over and over might be more appealing than staying at home for some people.

Simply not having to worry about grocery shopping, meal preparation or home maintenance tops most people's lists of retirement goals, and all of those would fit into a cruise ship retirement. Avoiding weather extremes is another retirement priority. It's possible to plan your retirement cruise itinerary to ensure you are always headed away from cold and snow.

The atmosphere on board a cruise ship is another plus. It's a whole other vibe from your average senior living facility. Whichever ship you choose is likely to be filled with people excited to be on board. That attitude can be infectious. Being surrounded by young people, not just folks of retirement age, can also make cruise ship life more appealing.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

Living on a cruise ship presents the opportunity to meet new people. In some cases, it would be a shipload of new faces every week or two. Imagine how many new friends you could make in a year. Some cruisers make friends with crew members on every cruise they take. The opportunity to stay onboard and foster those relationships for long stretches might be irresistible.

Then there are people who enjoy being in the company of others, while maintaining nothing but passing interactions with them. Even an introvert might find the social scene of a cruise ship a better arrangement than a more solitary retirement scenario.

What might make you think twice about living full-time on a cruise ship?

For some, the best part of retirement is spending time with family — especially the grandkids. Cruise retirement doesn't rule that out, but it does make it a bit more complicated. It's hard to be the type of granny who can frequently babysit when you live on a cruise ship, potentially thousands of miles away from where the grands live. If your family wants to visit you, they'd have to pay for cruise fare for everyone.

The same holds true for developing lasting relationships. Passengers and crew come and go on ships, so your relationships will be fleeting. Retired singles may find it difficult to find the next love of their life floating around the Caribbean on a ship full-time. For introverts, it can be exhausting to continually make the effort to meet people.

If you prefer the company of animals to people, you're out of luck. In most cases, you can't take pets with you on a cruise, so that can be a drawback for many retirees.

Related: Are dogs allowed on cruise ships? These are the cruises that allow pets

A feeling of confinement is tops on the list of reasons people I talked to said they couldn't retire on a cruise ship. Even on a large ship, you can only go where it goes, plus the room you call your own is likely to be far smaller than what you are used to. There's a certain loss of freedom, but that's common with many forms of retirement living.

Plus, the cabin you book might not be designed for senior living, the way apartments at a retirement home or senior living community would be. You'll also have fewer options for cable TV plans and phone calls and Wi-Fi costs will be pricier than on land.

Though cruise ships have a medical staff, they aren't equipped to handle serious health issues. You'd have to manage prescription medications from a distance for long periods of time, and schedule time off the ship for routine checkups. Any medical emergencies might require you to be airlifted from the ship, and the distance to the nearest hospital could be quite far.

Related: Do cruise ships have doctors, nurses, medical centers or hospitals?

And in most cases, you won't be able to rely on Medicare for your health coverage while out of the country. For that, you'll need a travel or ex-pat health insurance plan, with costs ranging from around a hundred per month to thousands, depending on your coverage specifics. Plus, your cruise retirement could be cut short at any point by health issues. They won't hesitate to kick you off the ship if you need more appropriate care on land – and then you'd need to quickly find a new place to live while suffering from medical concerns.

Besides the health aspect, you'll always need to have a solid backup plan. Things like mechanical breakdowns, disaster-related shutdowns and cruise line business decisions can drastically affect your plans — more so than in most land-based living situations. You would need annual travel insurance as well as enough available money to cover hotels and transportation from almost anywhere on the globe.

How to start planning for a cruise ship retirement

Taking an extended cruise is a good first step toward deciding if you want to make cruising a more permanent retirement option. I met a woman last year when I cruised on Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas who was in the planning stages for the cruise line's 274-night world cruise. This woman was testing out several storage products she hoped would make life easier on her extended cruise. From drawer organizers to under-bed rolling plastic bins, she was traveling with things most weeklong cruisers would never think of.

She was also working on boosting her loyalty status with Royal Caribbean . There are perks available to the highest loyalty levels that would save money when retirement time arrives. Complimentary laundry tops the list of valuable perks at the top levels on the mainstream lines, along with spa treatments and specialty restaurant meals, Wi-Fi discounts and free or discounted cruise nights. Even luxury lines like Silversea and Seabourn offer top loyalty members discounts and free nights.

The higher your status when you retire, the more perks you start out with – though you'll quickly climb through the loyalty ranks if you sail on the same line for an entire year.

The woman I met was using low-cost solo cruises (which earn double points) on Royal Caribbean's smallest ship to boost her status point total. Status is shared with domestic partners or spouses living in the same household, regardless of whether they went on the same number of cruises. Other ways to boost status would include taking advantage of double points offers like the one Celebrity Cruises is running this year on European cruises or by cruising in upper-level suites.

Related: A beginner's guide to cruise line loyalty programs

Initial steps toward cruise ship retirement might also include selling one's home (or preparing it for becoming a rental), disposing of excess possessions and re-homing pets. You will also want to consult with a financial advisor to help with residency laws and money management that might allow you to cruise even longer into retirement.

Bottom line

Retiring on a cruise is an intriguing possibility, whether you book a year's worth of back-to-back cruises on a traditional cruise ship or purchase a floating apartment on a residential ship. Either way, retirement at sea comes with both advantages and disadvantages. While you will have the opportunity to explore the world and meet lots of new people, you may find yourself missing the people you left behind.

The financial aspects, particularly when it comes to health insurance, are likely to be tricky, requiring careful planning with expert advice. And you'll need a backup plan should your health at some point prevent you from remaining on board.

The best plan is to plan well ahead, starting with a few long cruises to make sure it's a good fit. Many of the steps you would take in planning for a world cruise would be the same things you would do to pave the way for a full cruise ship retirement. Once you're convinced you're cut out to cruise year-round for years on end, you can begin to make the arrangements to dismantle your old life on land and build a new one at sea.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Disney Cruise Line names its newest cruise ship

I t was bound to happen sometime, but Disney Cruise Line waited until its last of three new sister ships to name one Disney Destiny.

The sister ship to Disney Wish, which debuted out of Port Canaveral in 2022 and the soon-to-debut Disney Treasure arriving in Central Florida this December, the third ship in what was originally called the Trident class had its keel laying ceremony Wednesday at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.

It won’t start sailing until 2025, and its home port has yet to be named, but among the details revealed for what will be the eighth ship in the cruise line’s fleet was the theme of the vessel, “Heroes & Villains.”

As such, the filigree artwork for the bow will be of Minnie Mouse wearing a superhero-style outfit complete with a cape.

The cruise line said among the characters from which it will mine features on board will be classic Disney animation films, “The Lion King,” “Hercules” and “One Hundred and One Dalmatians.”

Disney of course owns plenty of good vs. evil intellectual property including Star Wars and Marvel.

“The Disney Destiny will celebrate our most legendary Disney stories and characters, bringing them to life in new and exciting ways exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager for the cruise line, in a press release. “As we continue to expand our fleet, the Disney Destiny will further strengthen our position as a leader in family cruising.”

Just like Disney Wish and Treasure, Disney Destiny will be powered by liquefied natural gas, a cleaner burning fuel that’s part of the cruise industry’s efforts to reduce emissions.

All three are the 144,000 gross-ton, 1,254-stateroom vessels but still targeting the 4,000-passenger capacity of its older ships, 2011’s Disney Dream and 2012’s Fantasy. The line’s first ships are the smaller Disney Magic that debuted in 1998 and Disney Wonder in 1999. They come in at 84,000 gross tons with 875 staterooms.

The line also is finishing construction for an Asia-bound cruise ship named Disney Adventure that will be the largest in the fleet at 208,000 gross tons.

Disney Wish became the line’s first new ship in more than a decade. It continues to do short three- and four-night Bahamas sailings while Disney Treasure will pick up seven-night trips to the Caribbean.

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Celebrate Disney Heroes and Villains

Your legend begins on the Disney Destiny!">Be inspired by the powerful tales of Disney heroes and villains on the Disney Destiny—the newest ship to join the Disney Cruise Line fleet. This ship is a tribute to the dynamic duality at the core of beloved stories from Disney, Pixar and Marvel. Your legend begins on the Disney Destiny!