Experience Rich Culture and Adventure on Europe and Norway Sailings with Disney Cruise Line
Published: March 23, 2017 / Last Updated: March 23, 2017 / By: Arvid Bux
Disney Cruise Line invites families to explore culturally rich and exciting locales with Port Adventures like only Disney can do during its Europe and Norway sailings, beginning May 2017 when the Disney Magic returns to Europe for the summer.
Guests exploring these ports will be treated to richly diverse destinations showcasing iconic locations, tantalizing cuisine and unrivaled experiences. To enhance guests’ experiences while at port, Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures entertain and inspire both children and adults—in true Disney fashion—with an extra dash of pixie dust.
Experience the Inspiration for Disneyland at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark
Exclusive to Disney Cruise Line, a behind-the-scenes tour invites guests to walk in the footsteps of Walt Disney and experience Tivoli Gardens as he did during his visit in 1950. The age-old amusement park inspired Walt to imagine the beginning of something grand and magical – the plans and designs for Disneyland Resort. With a variety of attractions – everything from merry-go-rounds and whimsical rides to a 100-year-old roller coaster – Tivoli Gardens inspires visitors with the beauty and enchantment that sparked the beginning of Disneyland and beyond.
See the Ceremonial Necklace Worn by Princess Leia in Helsinki, Finland
New to Disney Cruise Line in 2017, guests have the unique opportunity to see the ceremonial necklace worn by Princess Leia in the legendary final throne room scene in “Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope.” Chosen by Star Wars creator George Lucas, the necklace is an iconic piece that is sure to awe Star Wars fans as they experience an up-close look at this movie history icon. Art aficionados can admire other impressive works of Finnish artist, jewelry designer and sculptor Björn Weckström as they’re greeted by the artist himself in his private residence.
Encounter Brave Adventures at Edinburgh Castle in Greenock, Scotland
An adventure to the medieval Edinburgh Castle gives Disney Cruise Line guests an exclusive opportunity to meet the courageous Princess Merida from the Disney-Pixar “Brave” film and feel the excitement while they interact with the fearless young heroine. While visiting the iconic Scottish landmark, nestled high atop Castle Rock with views of the Old Town, guests can tour the former royal residence and fort, dazzle at the magnificent great hall and admire the Scottish crown jewels, first used for the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots in 1543. Exclusive for Disney Cruise Line, courageous kids can join Youth Counselors from the ship for an exciting shield-decorating activity during this day-long adventure.
Get a Glimpse of 18th Century Royal Luxury in St. Petersburg, Russia
Guests are invited to partake in an extravagant royal ball inside Catherine Palace during the Disney Magic’s visit to St. Petersburg. Complete with a live orchestra and dances with royal courtiers, the gala offers regal festivities to all who attend. In a setting of gilded walls, hand-painted ceilings and period artwork, guests are immersed in 18th century palace life as they experience what it was like to live like royalty in 1750s Russia.
Join in “Frozen” Festivities and Viking Ventures in Ålesund, Norway
Disney Cruise Line guests join Anna, Elsa and Kristoff from the animated hit “Frozen” in Norway, the land that inspired their story. Disney guests are invited to revel in an exclusive Norwegian summer celebration at the Sunnmøre Open Air Museum where the festivities culminate in the grand arrival of the beloved sisters and their ice-loving companion. After being personally greeted by their “Frozen” friends, and surrounded by the idyllic beauty of Norway, guests dance to local musicians and sample tasty Norwegian specialties, including svele, a traditional sweet pancake from the region.
Another Ålesund adventure exclusive to Disney Cruise Line includes a quest to a Viking village on the island of Giske, where guests head back in history to meet the village chieftain and experience the Viking world. Adventurers find themselves in the middle of daily Viking life and mingle with members of the Norse families, experiencing first-hand the traditions, authentic food and games that come with being a Viking. Guests also learn traditional Viking handiwork and put it to practice by crafting their own leather bags.
Experience the Great Outdoors of Geiranger, Norway
From the port of Geiranger, the crowning jewel of the Norwegian fjords, comes an experience exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests – a visit to the Gjaera Mountain Farm where a local family provides an up-close look at daily life. Children join Disney Cruise Line youth counselors to create one-of-a-kind decorative pillows in the farm’s printing studio using handmade wooden stamps that have been passed down through the family’s many generations. Meanwhile, adults explore the farm and its microbrewery, sampling fresh brews. After building up an appetite, everyone reunites for a taste of traditional Norwegian foods produced at the farm including juices, breads, creams and cured meats.
Another journey brings Disney Cruise Line guests to the Herdalsetra Mountain Farm, where on the way to a nearby scenic valley they will enjoy a spectacular view of the Geirangerfjord and the Seven Sisters waterfall made famous in Norwegian folklore. Guests tour the enchanting farm brimming with 30 farmhouses and more than 450 sprightly goats scampering around the property. They also sample the farm’s fresh cheeses including Norway’s famous brown cheese – similar to sweet fudge.
Those looking for even more adventure will find it kayaking through the Geirangerfjord. Gliding over dazzling turquoise waters, guests will get an up-close look at stunning waterfalls roaring down into the fjord and the majestic mountains along the water’s edge.
The Disney Magic sails to destinations throughout Europe and Norway throughout the summer.