Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area

Lisa Arneill
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Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area

Crawford Lake Conservation Area just outside Milton, Ontario, offers adventure and education, which makes it perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Niagara Escarpment, this conservation area is renowned for its unique meromictic lake, rich Indigenous history, and well-preserved natural surroundings.

Discovering the Meromictic Lake

Crawford Lake’s meromictic nature means that its waters don’t mix, resulting in distinct layers that preserve its history. This unique characteristic means that the deeper layers of water remain undisturbed for centuries.

The lack of mixing allows sediments to settle undisturbed on the lakebed, providing an unbroken record of past climates, vegetation, and human activity in the area. Researchers have studied these sediments to gain insights into the history of the region, including evidence of Indigenous settlements dating back over 700 years. For this reason, the lake has a no-swim policy for visitors.

Stepping Back in Time

One of the highlights of Crawford Lake is the reconstructed Iroquoian Village.

Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area longhouses

This replica of a 15th-century settlement brings history to life, allowing visitors to explore longhouses and understand the lifestyle of the area’s early inhabitants.

Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area longhouse

The village is a fantastic educational experience, particularly for children, who can engage with interactive exhibits and participate in traditional crafts.

Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area longhouse education

Beyond the lake and village, Crawford Lake offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. A boardwalk circles the lake, offering visitors an accessible way to take in the surroundings while learning about the lake’s ecological significance.

Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area boardwalk

The lake trail, a 1km loop, also has a few lookouts with benches for those who need a rest.

You’ll come across intricately carved wooden sculptures as you explore the area.

Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area nature carving bird

These wooden carvings serve not only as artistic expressions but also as a way to honor and preserve the cultural heritage of the Indigenous peoples, offering insight into their relationship with the environment and rich traditions.

Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area nature carvings

Whether you’re up for a short stroll or a more challenging hike, the trails showcase the region’s beauty. The Nassagaweya Canyon Trail(Not a loop– 9.4 km round trip) is a popular choice, connecting Crawford Lake with nearby Rattlesnake Point for those looking for a longer adventure. This trail has some uneven sections so it’s rated as a 3 so it’s more challenging for young families.

We also did the Woodland trail(1.5km), which is stroller-friendly, and part of the Pine Ridge trail(3.6 km).

Crawford Lake is a nice destination for a family outing. The conservation area offers picnic spots, and the visitor center often hosts educational programs and events tailored to kids.

Crawford Lake is open year-round, with seasonal activities and events. Parking is available on-site, and there is an admission fee to enter the conservation area. We find that booking online is the best way as there is a reservation system that shows you if the time frame you’re looking for is available. There are also indoor washrooms on site for visitors to use.

Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area
Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area longhouse
Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area longhouses
Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area longhouse education
Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area boardwalk
Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area nature carving bird
Visiting Crawford Lake Conservation Area nature carvings

Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class Expands With Agreement For 4th Ship!

Lisa Arneill
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Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class Expands With Agreement For 4th Ship!

In an exciting development for family travelers and cruise enthusiasts alike, Royal Caribbean Group has just signed an agreement with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku to add a fourth Icon Class ship to its fleet, slated for delivery in 2027. This agreement also includes options for two additional ships, hinting at even more adventures on the horizon.

Royal Caribbean International’s highly anticipated Icon of the Seas arrived in Miami for the first time ahead of its official debut on Jan. 27.
Icon of the Seas

“Building on the overwhelming success of Icon of the Seas and the buzz surrounding its sister ship, Star of the Seas, set to debut in 2025, we’re thrilled to partner with Meyer Turku again to grow our Icon Class family,” shared Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “Icon has revolutionized vacationing with its unique blend of experiences, surpassing all expectations in guest satisfaction and financial performance.”

For Finland, this agreement marks a significant boost, as noted by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo: “Royal Caribbean Group’s continued investment in Finland underscores the strength of our maritime industry. This partnership is not only a testament to our world-class shipyards but also a critical driver of employment and economic growth.”

The Icon Class, which made its debut in January 2024, has redefined the cruise experience, offering a perfect mix of beach relaxation, resort luxury, and theme park thrills—all in one vacation. As Royal Caribbean looks to the future, the upcoming ships in the Icon Class lineup promise to deliver even more groundbreaking experiences, with the third ship arriving in 2026.

Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku, emphasized the importance of this new order: “This milestone highlights our leadership in shipbuilding and our commitment to innovation and sustainability. The success of Icon of the Seas showcases the expertise of our team and the strength of our maritime network in Finland.”

This latest order continues the longstanding collaboration between Royal Caribbean Group and Meyer Turku, marking the 21st ship the shipyard has built for the cruise line over nearly three decades. As the anticipation for these new ships grows, Royal Caribbean Group’s newbuild pipeline remains strong, with seven ships on order and plans for even more in the coming years.

Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas

“Icon of the Seas set a new standard in cruising, and we’re just getting started,” added Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “We’re committed to creating unforgettable experiences for families, with each new ship offering fresh ways to chill and thrill.”

Universal Orlando Resort Debuts New Dining-Inclusive Vacation Packages

Lisa Arneill
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Universal Orlando Resort Debuts New Dining-Inclusive Vacation Packages

If you have ever planned a trip to Universal Studios Orlando and wished you would prepay everything so there aren’t any budget surprises – it’s happening! Universal Orlando Resort has just unveiled an exciting opportunity for U.S. and Canada residents with the all-new Dining Card Vacation Package. Available for select travel dates from November 7, 2024, through April 10, 2025, this package offers a mix of accommodations, theme park admission, and a dining card valued at up to $1,000, making it easier than ever to try more of Universal Orlando’s culinary scene.

The Dining Card Vacation Package is designed to give families the best value while ensuring they can enjoy the cuisine that Universal Orlando Resort is known for. With this package, guests receive a dining card that can be used across more than 200 dining venues, offering a wide range of flavors to suit every palate. Whether it’s the picture-perfect milkshakes at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, the globally-inspired dishes at Mythos Restaurant, or the delicious baked goods at TODAY Cafe, there’s something for everyone.

Families can also enjoy meals at Universal’s top-notch hotels. The package includes options like the Strong Water Tavern at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, where you can explore a tapas-style menu paired with over 100 types of rum, or the modern Italian delights at Trattoria del Porto at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. The Kitchen at Hard Rock Hotel serves up classic American favorites with a rock-and-roll twist, ensuring a dining experience that’s as memorable as the attractions themselves.

Universal Citywalk Food

Universal Orlando Resort’s Vice President of Culinary Operations, Chef Jens Dahlmann, shares that the resort’s dining experiences are crafted to be just as immersive as the attractions. “Our dining offerings are continuously evolving, and we work incredibly hard to deliver memorable food experiences that offer something for everyone,” says Dahlmann. “From our original dining concepts to themed food inspired by beloved stories and characters, our offerings have become as much a ‘must-do’ as our amazing collection of attractions.”

Universal orlando Food

This exclusive package is available for four- or five-plus-night stays at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels. The value of the dining card varies depending on the hotel and the length of stay, providing flexibility to match different budgets. Additionally, the package includes 4- or 5+ Day Park-to-Park Tickets, giving parkgoers access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, home to more than 60 immersive attractions. Guests also have the option to add Volcano Bay, Universal’s water theme park, to their experience.

Staying at a Universal hotel comes with additional perks, such as Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Volcano Bay, complimentary transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk, and more—ensuring your family has everything needed for the best vacation!

Package Options:

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, or Loews Royal Pacific Resort
• 4-Night Package: $800 Dining Card + 2-Park, 4-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
• 5-Night Package: $1,000 Dining Card + 2-Park, 5-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort or Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• 4-Night Package: $500 Dining Card + 2-Park, 4-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
• 5-Night Package: $600 Dining Card + 2-Park, 5-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
Universal Aventura Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort, or Universal Terra Luna Resort
• 4-Night Package: $400 Dining Card + 2-Park, 4-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
• 5-Night Package: $500 Dining Card + 2-Park, 5-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites or Dockside Inn and Suites
• 4-Night Package: $300 Dining Card + 2-Park, 4-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
• 5-Night Package: $400 Dining Card + 2-Park, 5-Day Park-to-Park Ticket

More Of Walt Disney World’s Thrilling Expansions Unveiled at D23

Lisa Arneill
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More Of Walt Disney World’s Thrilling Expansions Unveiled at D23

This past weekend at D23, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro shared a list of exciting updates on what’s in store for Walt Disney World. Among the exciting announcements about the new Villans land, fans can look forward to a new adventure in Frontierland, inspired by Pixar’s “Cars.”

Frontierland Explansion Walt Disney World

Before the expansion kicks off next year, guests have ample time to soak in the nostalgia of the current Frontierland. However, change is on the horizon as the iconic area prepares for a major transformation.

new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios Cars
New Themed Area Pixar Animation Studios Cars

Just beyond Big Thunder Mountain, a brand-new land dedicated to Disney Villains will emerge, offering two major attractions along with dining and shopping options. This multi-acre addition will bring fan-favorite villains to life in a dark and mysterious environment, pushing the creative limits of Walt Disney Imagineering.

These additions mark the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom’s history, but the excitement doesn’t stop there. Josh D’Amaro revealed even more attractions and enhancements coming soon to Disney World.

  • Monsters, Inc. Land: Get ready for laughs as Sulley, Mike, and the rest of the crew bring a new space to Hollywood Studios.
Pixar Animation Studios Monsters Inc. is coming to Disneys Hollywood Studios
Pixar Animation Studios Monsters Inc.
  • Reimagined Test Track: Opening in EPCOT in 2025, this updated attraction will celebrate the evolution of automation.
A re-imaged version of Test Track attraction will open at EPCOT in 2025.
A re-imaged version of Test Track attraction will open at EPCOT in 2025
  • Tropical Americas: Explore a new area in Disney’s Animal Kingdom with attractions themed around Indiana Jones and “Encanto.”
Tropical Americas at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
  • Zootopia: Better Zoogether: Join Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde in a new show at the Tree of Life Theater next winter.
  • New Nighttime Parade: A brand-new nighttime spectacular will debut on Main Street, U.S.A., in 2025.
  • New Missions for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run: Blast off with Mando and Grogu in an upcoming adventure at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
New missions will be added to Millennium Falcon Smugglers run in Star Wars Galaxys Edge
New missions will be added to Millennium Falcon Smugglers run in Star Wars Galaxys Edge
  • Two New Lounge Spaces: In 2025, Magic Kingdom and EPCOT will welcome new lounge spaces dedicated to Pirates and Spaceship Earth.
all-new lounge themed to Spaceship Earth will open at EPCOT in 2025
New lounge themed to Spaceship Earth will open at EPCOT in 2025

As part of the Frontierland transformation, the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island will be reimagined into rugged terrains, setting the stage for a thrilling rally race with iconic racers from Radiator Springs.

Michael Hundgen, Walt Disney World Portfolio Executive Producer at Walt Disney Imagineering, expressed excitement about the new “Cars” adventure: “We are thrilled to create this original Cars adventure and put our guests in the driver’s seat as we explore a new frontier in Frontierland. This new story taps into the themes of exploration and adventure that inspire us all.”

Coming to Frontierland at Magic Kingdom a new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios Cars
Pixar Animation Studios Cars

With a brand-new rally race and a family-friendly attraction, this expansion promises to be an exhilarating addition to Magic Kingdom, offering something for everyone. Get ready to embark on these new adventures as Walt Disney World continues to evolve, bringing even more magic to guests of all ages.

new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios Cars
New Themed Area Pixar Animation Studios Cars
New missions will be added to Millennium Falcon Smugglers run in Star Wars Galaxys Edge
New missions will be added to Millennium Falcon Smugglers run in Star Wars Galaxys Edge
Tropical Americas at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Coming to Frontierland at Magic Kingdom a new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios Cars
Pixar Animation Studios Cars
A re-imaged version of Test Track attraction will open at EPCOT in 2025.
A re-imaged version of Test Track attraction will open at EPCOT in 2025
Pixar Animation Studios Monsters Inc. is coming to Disneys Hollywood Studios
Pixar Animation Studios Monsters Inc.
all-new lounge themed to Spaceship Earth will open at EPCOT in 2025
New lounge themed to Spaceship Earth will open at EPCOT in 2025

Manatee Rehabilitation Center Opens In Clearwater

Lisa Arneill
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Manatee Rehabilitation Center Opens In Clearwater

Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) marked a major milestone today with the grand opening of its Manatee Rehabilitation Center, a cutting-edge facility designed to address the growing need for manatee care. This new center will play an important role in rehabilitating sick, injured, and orphaned manatees, including those suffering from habitat loss, boat strikes, foreign object ingestion, entanglement, and cold stress syndrome. The facility is equipped with advanced technology, such as ozone treatment and specialized medical habitats, to ensure the comfort and recovery of these gentle marine mammals.

Manatee Rehabilitation Center

“Clearwater Marine Aquarium has been committed to the conservation and protection of manatees for over 20 years. Thanks to our dedicated supporters, this vision has become a reality,” said Joe Handy, CEO of CMA. “Our team is ready to extend our efforts from research and monitoring to active rehabilitation. Whether it’s in local Florida waters or international sites like Belize and Cuba, our mission is to safeguard this keystone species. By educating our visitors and supporting research and rescue efforts, we hope to make a lasting impact on the survival of these majestic creatures.”

The center’s first two manatee patients, Yeti and Zamboni, were recently transferred from ZooTampa at Lowry Park, a fellow member of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP). With two other major manatee rehabilitation centers currently caring for over 20 manatees each, CMA’s new facility helps alleviate the pressure on these critical care spaces. As CMA continues to expand its capabilities, including plans to renovate and enhance its surgical suite, it will soon be able to accept more critical care cases.

Yeti and Zamboni’s journeys to recovery began with their rescue earlier this year due to cold stress. Yeti, rescued from Kings Bay, Citrus County, weighed 365 pounds at the time and now weighs a healthier 495 pounds. Zamboni, found in Placida Bayou, Pinellas County, has grown from 306 pounds to 440 pounds under the care of CMA.

Manatees are a flagship species, vital to the health of their aquatic ecosystems. As stewards of this endangered species, CMA’s mission is to educate the public about the threats manatees face and the importance of their conservation. Visitors to the aquarium will not only learn about these issues but will also have the opportunity to observe the manatees as they receive care and rehabilitation.

For over two decades, CMA has been at the forefront of manatee rescue, release, and tracking efforts worldwide. In 2019, the aquarium expanded its conservation efforts by launching the CMA Research Institute (CMARI), which builds on the legacy of the Sea to Shore Alliance. Under the leadership of Dr. James “Buddy” Powell, a pioneer in manatee research, CMARI is focused on advancing the protection of species and habitats globally.

“The opening of the Manatee Rehabilitation Center represents the culmination of years of dedication to manatee conservation,” said Dr. Powell, CMA’s chief zoological officer and executive director of CMARI. “We have always been involved in rescue and research, but now we are taking the critical step of providing direct care for manatees in need. Through our work, we gain valuable insights into manatee behavior and needs, which allows us to develop more effective conservation strategies. We are deeply grateful to the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership for their support and shared commitment to protecting this species.”

To date, CMARI has tagged and monitored 100 manatees as part of the MRP, gathering essential data to ensure the future health and survival of the species. The insights gained from studying both rehabilitated and wild manatees will continue to inform conservation strategies and efforts to protect these iconic animals.

With the opening of the Manatee Rehabilitation Center, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is poised to make an even greater impact on the conservation and survival of manatees, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and protect these gentle giants.

New Villains Land Coming To Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World!

Lisa Arneill
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New Villains Land Coming To Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World!

For years, Disney fans have been clamoring for a world dedicated to their favorite villains. Now, with the recent announcement that the Disney Destiny will feature a Villains and Heroes theme, those dark dreams are one step closer to reality.

Welcome to the upcoming Villains Land at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World—a realm where the shadows reign supreme.

This sinister new land promises to turn your nightmares into reality, offering two major attractions, along with dining and shopping experiences, all wrapped in a delightfully twisted package. “Be prepared, you poor unfortunate souls,” teased Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences Chairman. “This is a bold new vision of what a Disney adventure can be.”

During the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, D’Amaro shared that Imagineers are hard at work bringing this dark dream to life. “We have Imagineers around the world working on these projects, and I want to make it clear: everything you hear tonight is actively in development.”

This new land will be a haven for the Disney Villains we love to hate from classic Walt Disney Animation Studios films—meaning that “happily ever after” might be more elusive than ever. With so many infamous villains vying for power, the stories that unfold in this thorny new realm will be anything but predictable. Visitors should brace themselves for the chaos and excitement that awaits.

Disney Cruise Line Adding 4 New Cruise Ships!

Lisa Arneill
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Disney Cruise Line Adding 4 New Cruise Ships!

Disney Cruise Line is making waves with some exciting news: four brand-new ships are joining their fleet!

In an exciting announcement during the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase, Josh D’Amaro, with a special appearance by the iconic musical group All-4-One, revealed that Disney Cruise Line is expanding its fleet with four new ships set to debut between 2027 and 2031. This will bring the fleet’s total to 13 ships, offering even more opportunities to experience the magic of Disney at sea.

Currently, Disney Cruise Line boasts five ships, with four more already in development. These additional ships will further elevate the cruising experience, though the names, designs, and itineraries are still under wraps. But one thing’s for sure—there’s plenty to look forward to!

Josh also shared some exciting updates at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. The highly anticipated Disney Destiny, which begins sailing next year, will feature a signature production of “Disney Hercules,” bringing the beloved characters and music from the classic film to life on stage.

Meanwhile, the Disney Treasure, launching later this year, will captivate guests with the brand-new stage show “Disney The Tale of Moana.” One of the highlights? A stunning 15-foot-tall puppet of Te Kā, the largest ever created for a Disney Cruise Line show.

“At Disney Experiences, Imagineers dream, create, design, and build these stories into real places,” said Josh D’Amaro. “We have Imagineers working around the world right now, turning these dreams into reality. Everything we’ve shared is actively in development—plans are drawn, and the magic is already taking shape.”

Royal Caribbean Announces 100 Million Dollar ‘Glow Up’ For Allure of the Seas

Lisa Arneill
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Royal Caribbean Announces 100 Million Dollar ‘Glow Up’ For Allure of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas is finally getting her moment! Originally slated for a significant refurbishment in 2020, it had its plans halted due to the global pause in cruising brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, Allure remains the only ship in the Oasis class without waterslides, setting it apart from its sister ships. However, vacationers can now look forward to a whole new way to experience Europe when a newly amplified Allure of the Seas sets sail in April 2025.

Allure of the Seas glow up

With over $100 million invested, this reimagined ship is expected to offer a spectacular European adventure. From new dining options and thrilling activities to breathtaking Mediterranean destinations, Allure’s transformation promises to create the vacation of the summer. Travelers can look forward to exploring iconic spots such as Provence (Marseille), France; Florence/Pisa (La Spezia) and Rome, Italy; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain, all while enjoying everything the ship has to offer!

Allure of the Seas glow up

As Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer of Royal Caribbean International, notes, “With the new Icon and Utopia of the Seas, and now the transformation of Allure, we’ve elevated the vacation experience even further. Allure will blend Royal Caribbean’s best features with exciting new experiences, ensuring it remains a favorite among travelers.”

Allure’s revilatization will feature something for every type of traveler, whether they seek thrills, relaxation, or a bit of both:

Thrills and Chills for All Ages

Allure of the Seas new waterslides
  • Poolside Fun: The newly designed pool deck will offer resort-style pools, a variety of seating options, and shaded areas perfect for lounging. For those seeking an adult escape, the Solarium will feature new amenities, including the popular Samba Grill and dedicated bars.
  • The Perfect Storm: This trio of waterslides – Cyclone, Typhoon, and SuperCell – will offer thrilling rides with twists and turns sure to excite the whole family.
  • Splashaway Bay: Designed for tots and tweens, this water park area includes slides, water cannons, fountains, and even double-drench buckets for extra fun.
  • The Lime & Coconut: This poolside bar, spread across two locations, will be the go-to spot for tropical cocktails, live music, and good vibes all day and night.
  • El Loco Fresh: Satisfy your cravings with poolside tacos, burritos, and quesadillas at this fiesta of flavors.
Allure of the Seas resort style pool deck

Dining and Entertainment Upgrades

Allure of the Seas pesky parrott
  • Pesky Parrot: Following its debut on Utopia of the Seas, this Caribbean tiki bar will bring its signature rum, tequila, and gin cocktails to the Allure, along with frozen drinks and other surprises.
  • Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade: A family-friendly spot where you can catch live games, enjoy classic arcade games, and savor bar fare and ice-cold brews.
  • The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar: Previously only found on Wonder and Utopia of the Seas, this restaurant will serve up Southern comfort food, live country music, and more.

Adventure Awaits

Allure of the Seas new teen club
  • Ultimate Abyss: This thrilling slide will take adventurers on a 10-story journey full of twists, turns, and sensory experiences, with Wipe Out Bar offering shaved ice treats to cool off afterward.
  • Royal Escape Room – Apollo 18: Lunar Landing: This immersive experience will challenge families and friends to solve puzzles and land Apollo 18 on the moon before time runs out.
  • Laser Tag: Studio B will transform into a glow-in-the-dark laser tag arena where vacationers can battle it out in the “Battle for Planet Z.”
  • Adventure Ocean: Kids can immerse themselves in new adventures across redesigned spaces, including the climbable Play Place, the AO Theater, hands-on Workshop, interactive Arena, and more.
  • Social298: The revamped teen space will feature video games, music, movies, and plenty of spots to hang out with new friends.

Allure will also get the Ultimate Panoramic Suites that offer stunning 200-degree ocean views, enhancing the already impressive lineup of stateroom options.

Allure of the Seas the Ultimate Panoramic Suites

Returning favorites like the FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing, and the ship’s signature entertainment across air, ice, water, and stage will continue to captivate guests.

After its European season, Allure of the Seas will return to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 2025. Vacationers can then choose from a selection of Caribbean itineraries, including 6- to 8-night voyages to the eastern Caribbean and The Bahamas, featuring stops at the award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay and the soon-to-open Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau.

Day Three Disney Destiny Announcements – Marvel Coming in Hot!

Lisa Arneill
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Day Three Disney Destiny Announcements – Marvel Coming in Hot!

Exciting news is unfolding this week as Disney Cruise Line reveals more details about its upcoming ship, the Disney Destiny. Following announcements about Edna Á La Mode Sweets, Café Megara, Café Merida, and Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King, today’s reveal is all about the Marvel-themed experiences that will make this ship truly stand out.

The Disney Destiny is set to embark on its inaugural voyage in November 2025, offering four- and five-night cruises to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. With bookings opening to the general public on September 12, 2024, this ship is shaping up to be an adventure unlike any other.

disney destiny ocean

The Disney Destiny will be a celebration of the timeless battle between heroes and villains, with a special focus on the Marvel Universe. The ship will feature a Grand Hall inspired by the “Black Panther” films, showcasing the rich cultural elements of Wakanda, complete with a striking statue of T’Challa, the Black Panther himself. The hall will be more than just a gathering space; it will be a dynamic theater where guests can interact with characters in immersive, interactive shows.

Grand Hall of the Disney Destiny

One of the ship’s highlights will be the Sanctum, a lounge inspired by Marvel’s “Doctor Strange.” This centrally located parlor will offer a magical atmosphere, featuring cocktails, spirits, and unique surprises from Doctor Strange’s New York Sanctum.

In a first for Disney Cruise Line, Spider-Man and his Spider-Bots will be the signature stern character of the Disney Destiny, adding a playful touch to the ship’s exterior.

disney destiny stern

The ship will also boast the Destiny Tower Suite, a Marvel-inspired penthouse that honors Iron Man’s legacy. With luxurious design elements and nearly 2,000 square feet of living space, this suite will offer guests a premium experience, complete with exclusive access to the Concierge Lounge and private sun deck.

Destiny Tower Suite will honor the mighty legacy of Iron Man
Destiny Tower Suite will honor the mighty legacy of Iron Man

In addition to these new features, the Disney Destiny will bring back fan-favorite experiences from the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, including Worlds of Marvel, a dining experience featuring Rocket and Groot from “Guardians of the Galaxy,” and the Marvel Super Hero Academy, where kids can train alongside their favorite Avengers.

As Disney continues to expand its cruise line fleet, the Disney Destiny promises to offer some out-of-the-box experiences not seen before with any cruise line.

Day Two of Disney Destiny Announcements: Unveiling the Darker Side of Disney at Sea

Lisa Arneill
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Day Two of Disney Destiny Announcements: Unveiling the Darker Side of Disney at Sea

As anticipation builds for Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Destiny, guests are in for a voyage unlike any other. This ship, inspired by Disney’s iconic heroes and villains, promises an array of immersive experiences that celebrate the most legendary schemers, scoundrels, and specters from across the Disney universe.

Onboard the Disney Destiny, the timeless struggle between good and evil takes center stage, echoing the dynamic tension that drives every great Disney story. The ship’s themed venues and entertainment draw inspiration from a diverse cast of characters from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel. Whether it’s relaxing in a lounge dedicated to Cruella de Vil or raising a glass in a Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired pub, every corner of the ship is designed to bring these beloved—and sometimes feared—characters to life.

Disney Cruise Line’s Senior Vice President and General Manager, Sharon Siskie, captured the essence of the Disney Destiny: “The Disney Destiny is all about celebrating the bold, charismatic, and driven characters at the heart of our favorite stories. And who are our beloved heroes without the antagonists who challenge them to prevail? We want our guests to have fun with the unique theme of this ship, and we are having a blast creating spaces and entertainment experiences that pay tribute to the villains, anti-heroes, and mischief-makers who have captivated Disney film and theme park audiences for generations.”

For an evening of elegance with a touch of wickedness, guests can step into De Vil’s, a piano lounge that embodies the lavish, over-the-top style of its namesake, Cruella de Vil.

Inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ One Hundred and One Dalmatians and the 2021 live-action film, this adult-exclusive lounge is a tribute to Cruella’s flair for fashion and her bold, unapologetic attitude. Adorned in her signature red, black, and white color palette, and featuring a sultry piano, guests can sip trendy martinis and chic cocktails while enjoying the sophisticated ambiance.

For those looking to embrace their inner buccaneer, Cask and Cannon offers a taste of pirate life inspired by the beloved Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. This eclectic pub is filled with treasures “acquired” by the most infamous pirates during their adventures. With an extensive menu of specialty rums and “bootlegged” brews, guests can share tales of their own high-seas escapades while enjoying live sporting events and the cozy, treasure-laden surroundings.

Disney Cruise Line’s signature attraction at sea, AquaMouse, will take on a mischievous twist aboard the Disney Destiny. The new show, Sing a Silly Song, features Mickey and Minnie on a whimsical adventure up Villain Mountain.

As they encounter notorious villains like the Queen of Hearts, Scar, and Chernabog, the duo’s silly antics turn ominous situations into hilariously unexpected surprises. This family-friendly ride combines music, special effects, and splashes of fun for an unforgettable experience.

Throughout the Disney Destiny, both heroes and villains will come to life in a variety of shows, meet-and-greets, and special events. Whether it’s dancing the night away at Oogie Boogie’s lair or participating in a villain-themed trivia challenge, guests will have countless opportunities to interact with some of Disney’s most memorable characters.

Debuting first on the Disney Treasure and then aboard the Disney Destiny, the Haunted Mansion Parlor is a must-visit for fans of Disney’s classic attraction.

This bar, reminiscent of a first-class drawing room from the golden age of cruise liners, will feature ghostly cocktails and a new storyline centered on a ship captain. With its nostalgic art style and a custom musical arrangement inspired by the original Haunted Mansion score, this experience is sure to send shivers down your spine.

A New Era of Disney Cruising

The Disney Destiny is the latest addition to Disney Cruise Line’s expanding fleet, joining the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and the upcoming Disney Adventure, which will homeport in Singapore. With future plans including cruises to Japan and a new island destination in the Bahamas, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, the Disney Destiny is set to be a cornerstone of Disney’s next chapter on the high seas.

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