Disney Cruise Line has announced significant changes to the schedule of the Disney Fantasy, resulting in the cancellation of four sailings. These changes are due to an unexpected adjustment in the ship’s dry dock timeline.
The affected voyages are scheduled to depart on 20th October, 2nd November, 7th November, and 12th November 2025. Passengers booked on these sailings have been contacted and provided with alternative options to mitigate the disruption.
Initially, the Disney Fantasy was planned to enter dry dock on 29th September 2025. This maintenance period was to follow its summer season in Europe, where it operated from popular homeports like Barcelona, Rome, and Southampton.
After dry dock, the ship was expected to resume service on 20th October with a 13-night transatlantic crossing from Southampton to Port Canaveral, Florida. This sailing would have marked the ship’s transition to its winter schedule of 4- and 5-night Bahamian cruises.
Refunds and Discounts for Affected Guests
Guests booked on the cancelled sailings are receiving a full refund to their original payment method. In addition to this, Disney Cruise Line is offering a 20% discount on a future booking as compensation.
However, the discount comes with restrictions. It cannot be applied to certain blackout dates, and it excludes maiden voyages of upcoming Disney ships, such as the highly anticipated Disney Destiny. The Disney Destiny is set to debut in Fort Lauderdale in November 2025.
About Disney Fantasy
The Disney Fantasy is one of Disney Cruise Line’s most iconic vessels. This 129,750-gross-ton Dream-class ship debuted in 2012 and has since been a favourite among families.
With a capacity for 2,500 guests at double occupancy and a maximum of 4,000 passengers, it is well-equipped to provide unforgettable holiday experiences. The ship features a crew of over 1,400 international staff, ensuring Disney’s signature magic and service at sea.
Revised Transatlantic Itinerary
Disney Cruise Line has confirmed plans for a revised 13-night transatlantic sailing aboard the Fantasy. This sailing will be available for booking from 6th February 2025.
While specific details about the updated itinerary have not been released, the original route included stops in La Coruña and Vigo in Spain, as well as Ponta Delgada in the Azores. It is expected that the revised voyage will feature similar destinations.
This rescheduled transatlantic journey will bring the Disney Fantasy back to its homeport in Port Canaveral, Florida. From there, it will resume its regular itineraries to the Bahamas.
Possibility of Additional European Sailings
It is not yet clear if new European sailings will be introduced before the rescheduled dry dock period. The change could present an opportunity for additional cruises in the region, which would delight fans eager to sail closer to home.
Alternatively, the extended dry dock might reflect the need for additional maintenance or upgrades. Longer maintenance periods can also be attributed to labour shortages or increased work demands at the shipyard.
Guest Reactions and Dry Dock Impact
Dry dock delays and schedule changes are not uncommon in the cruise industry. However, the cancellation of multiple sailings is rare, particularly when it impacts as many as 27 days of planned itineraries.
Guests affected by these changes will undoubtedly be disappointed, especially those who planned to enjoy the ship’s European routes or its transatlantic crossing.
Fortunately, Disney Cruise Line’s full refunds and the offer of a discounted future cruise provide some consolation for the disruption. The company remains committed to ensuring guest satisfaction despite the unexpected adjustments.
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