Calling all Jedi! Sith! Troopers! Younglings! Twi’Leks! Rodians! Wampas! Taun Tauns! Droids! Rebels! Hutts!
Disney Cruise Line is introducing Star Wars themed cruises for 2016!
As an experienced cruiser (roughly 30 cruises, magic I am not even 21 yet) I know a thing or two about cruising! I actually have not traveled with Disney before, but always hear about the “magical events” and Disney themes throughout. I am also aware of other themed cruises for businesses, clubs, colleges, raves, etc, but if I am not mistaken, this might be the first geek/pop-culture/nerdy cruise that we have seen!
It fits perfect in our pop-culture history, as within the last decade, the geek and nerdy populations have sky-rocketed. Plus, the added advantage to Disney acquiring Star Wars and having Episode VII released this year, it sets up perfectly for fan-boys and girls to see the film, then head out on a trip to meet with other fans from around the world!
Now, after taking a look through Disney Cruise Line’s update and announcement, I am somewhat disappointed. Reason being, the ‘Star Wars events’ are all jam packed into one day of each cruise offered. The listed dates are the sail dates for which Disney will host Star Wars days in 2016:
- January 9, 23
- February 6, 20
- March 5, 19
- April 2, 16
It was mentioned via StarWars.com that the films would be screened during these days, but Disney states Episode VII will be a guaranteed screening for each cruise. In addition to the film(s), other activities and on-board additions include: Deck Party, Meet-and-Greet Star Wars characters, activities for younglings, “out-of-this-world” food and beverage (guessing Star Wars themed foods?), exclusive merch, and more!
Also at StarWars.com, it states younglings can partake in Padawan learner activities such as lightsaber wielding; Star Wars trivia games, arts and crafts, and the adult night-club will be turned into a Mos Eisley Cantina-esque setting. REBELS screenings, celebrity appearances for signings, as well as fireworks during the Celebration Deck party.
Now, backtracking to why I said I was slightly disappointed . . .
The fact these are “Star Wars” themed cruises, and with Disney now owning Star Wars, the new films and tv shows, etc, I was not surprised by this announcement, however, I was surprised with the fact these events are compacted to one day. Of course, the cruises are still a year away, and a lot can change, as well as a lot more can be revealed. But, I see it more fitting, more fun, and more inviting to not only Star Wars fans, but parents who are bringing their kids, to have the events span two, three maybe four days! A few cruise lines who have concert events, organizational events, and so on, will usually have a 3-4 day weekend cruise all focused on that event. I am no expert in Disney cruises, so if they offer three day cruises, by all means Disney, GO FOR IT! But even for a seven day cruise, I see it best for Disney expanding the “Star Wars” events. With all seven films, plus REBELS, it seems hard to believe they would compact it all in one day (essentially a 24 hour marathon for the films) but before the final details, we will have to wait and see!
Star Wars fans can rejoice in a new traveling experience all thanks to the acquisition by Disney. The backlash has been surreal, from the moment of the announced transition, to the Episode VII teaser; yet true, die-hard fans, will now have a place outside of their local movie theaters, outside Conventions and Celebrations, and offline in the “real world” to experience with fans from around the world, quite possibly to be the best cruising experiences upon the seven-seas and one of the best vacation options available.
And remember, the Force will be with you . . . always.
Check out the links below for the full stories and to book your cruise!
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ships-activities/onboard-activities/deck-parties/star-wars-day-at-sea/
http://www.starwars.com/news/announcing-star-wars-day-at-sea-on-disney-fantasy-sailings
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