16 AUGUST 2026: Disney Cruise Line has shared the first public preview of a new three-ship class scheduled to debut from 2029, as the cruise line continues an expansion that will increase its fleet to 13 ships over the coming years.
The preview was presented during the Disney Experiences Showcase, Horizons: A Carousel of Progress, at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Disney had originally announced the wider fleet expansion at D23 in 2024, but the latest presentation provided the first public look at the new class.
New Class Sits Between Existing Disney Ships
Disney said the new vessels will occupy a position in size between its classic ships and its newer additions.
Claire Weiss, speaking during the D23 presentation, said the ships will be “right in the middle of our classic ships and our newer ones. That gives us some amazing opportunities to visit new places and reach brand new audiences we haven’t before.”
Disney described the size comparison as placing the new class above Disney Wonder but below Disney Wish. The cruise line has not yet announced the names, itineraries or detailed onboard experiences for the new ships. However, the company said their size is intended to provide greater flexibility as Disney Cruise Line expands into additional destinations around the world.
First Ship Scheduled to Debut in 2029
The three vessels will form an entirely new class within the Disney Cruise Line fleet, with the first scheduled to debut in 2029. Guests attending the D23 showcase were shown a teaser of the new design that Disney said had not previously been released publicly.
Further details about the ships and the itineraries they will operate are expected to be announced at a later stage.
Fleet Expansion Continues Through Coming Years
Disney Cruise Line currently operates eight ships worldwide: Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure.
Disney Believe is scheduled to set sail in 2027 as the fourth ship in the Wish class.
From 2029, three unnamed vessels in an entirely new class will begin joining the fleet. Disney Cruise Line says its wider expansion will increase the fleet to 13 ships over the coming years.
Source: Disney Cruise Line official annoucement on Disney Parks Blog, 16 August 2026
