Japan is preparing to introduce a new form of family entertainment at sea with the launch of Disney Imagination, the country’s first Disney cruise ship. Operated by Oriental Land Company (OLC), the company behind Tokyo Disney Resort, the ship is scheduled to begin sailing from Tokyo in spring 2029.
The project aims to bring Disney’s storytelling, character experiences and live entertainment beyond theme parks, offering families an opportunity to enjoy a Disney holiday while travelling by sea.
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A New Chapter for Disney Entertainment in Japan
Disney Imagination will be the first vessel of Disney Cruise Line Japan, a cruise business operated by Oriental Land Company under licence from Disney.
The company plans to invest approximately ¥330 billion in construction and related costs. The ship is expected to become a new business pillar alongside OLC’s existing theme parks and hotels.
The announcement marks an expansion of the long-standing Disney and Oriental Land partnership, which has helped bring Disney-themed experiences to visitors in Japan for decades.
Designed for Families and All Generations
The central concept behind Disney Imagination is to create a family entertainment experience that welcomes guests of different ages.
The ship is expected to feature Disney characters, original entertainment productions, themed dining and dedicated spaces for children, teenagers and adults. These experiences will allow families to spend time together while also enjoying activities suited to their individual interests.
The ship’s name reflects the role of imagination in Disney storytelling, with the aim of making the journey itself part of the holiday experience.
Ariel to Feature on the Ship’s Stern
Ariel, the beloved mermaid from Disney’s The Little Mermaid, will appear on the stern of Disney Imagination alongside Sebastian and other underwater characters.
The design follows a Disney Cruise Line tradition of featuring a character on the rear of each ship. Ariel’s appearance will connect the vessel’s identity with the themes of curiosity, adventure and imagination.
A Large Cruise Ship Departing from Tokyo
Disney Imagination is expected to measure approximately 340 metres in length and weigh around 140,000 gross tonnes. Plans indicate that it will have about 1,250 staterooms and accommodate approximately 4,000 passengers.
The initial plan focuses on shorter cruises departing from and returning to Tokyo, with early itineraries expected to last between two and four nights. The Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is planned as the ship’s main departure and arrival point.
These shorter journeys could make cruise holidays a more convenient option for families looking for a getaway without taking an extended trip.
Building a New Family Entertainment Experience
Oriental Land Company hopes to establish a distinctive cruise culture in Japan, where Disney entertainment can continue throughout the day and evening in a setting surrounded by the ocean.
Beyond performances and character interactions, the ship is expected to offer dining venues, recreational facilities and opportunities for relaxation. Further details about onboard programmes, itineraries and reservations are expected to be released closer to the launch.
Reservations are expected to open approximately six months before the ship begins service.
The planned arrival of Disney Imagination in spring 2029 will introduce a new dimension to family entertainment in Japan. Combining Disney storytelling with cruise travel, the ship aims to offer an experience that brings together children, parents and older generations.
For Oriental Land Company, the project represents a major investment in expanding beyond theme parks and hotels. For families, it could provide a new way to enjoy Disney experiences while discovering the appeal of a holiday at sea.
