For some added Disney magic, all inside staterooms on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy feature a Magical Porthole, providing you with a real-time view of the outside of the ship that reflects the actual stateroom’s location – port or starboard. High-definition cameras placed on the exterior of the ship feed live video to an LCD flat-screen monitor with a stylized nautical frame cleverly disguised as a porthole.

Be on the lookout for enchanting surprises. From time to time, Disney animated characters may make cameo appearances in the Magical Porthole. You never know who might pop by! And when it’s time for bed (or a nap), just turn off the Magical Porthole with a quick flip of the switch.

I love some of these latest imagineering items Disney has been adding to the parks and ships. Rides like Toy Story Midway Mania, the Magical Portholes and the Muppet Caper game are all examples of innovative additions to a location that can be change rather quickly and inexpensively. Disney releases a new blockbuster animated movie? Bam! New character added to the porthole in a matter of hours. Disney has added Rapunzel from Tangled since the Dream was launched, and expect a character from this Summer’s Pixar release Brave to show up sometime soon.

The Magical Portholes can only be found in category 10 and 11 staterooms on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

While the Disney Fantasy and Dream are sister ships, and extremely similar, there are a few differences. The Disney Fantasy features a new water play area called the AquaLab. Designed to look like the construction area for the AquaDuck, Huey, Dewey and Louie seem to have left quite a mess behind after they were done. I hope there isn’t an age limit, it looks like a blast!

After traveling nearly 3,800 miles across the Atlantic from Germany, the Disney Fantasy made her grand arrival to America today, arriving in New York City early this morning. While in New York City, the Disney Fantasy will be christened before sailing to her home in Port Canaveral, Florida, for a March 31, 2012 maiden voyage.

The Disney Fantasy is the first Disney Cruise Line ship to visit New York City, making her arrival today even more magical. But the excitement in the Big Apple doesn’t stop here. In May, the Disney Magic arrives for a season of summer cruises from Manhattan.

Here’s a glimpse of the Disney Fantasy sailing down the Hudson River as New Yorkers welcome her with open arms. It’s a sight I’ll remember forever!

With the Disney Fantasy, Disney Cruise Line takes cruise ship entertainment to new heights: Performers soar and surf over the stage in aerial maneuvers … Pirates rappel from atop the ship’s funnel during a swashbuckling adventure … The evening sky lights up with a dazzling display of sound and color.

Disney Cruise Line develops entertainment designed to charm and bedazzle the entire family. Guests delight to some of the most elaborate original musicals presented at sea, over-the-top deck parties and, bursting above it all, the only fireworks spectacular aboard a cruise ship.

It’s Show Time!

Every night is show time at Walt Disney Theatre, an elegant, 1,340-seat entertainment palace that spans three decks with orchestra and balcony seating, and is resplendent with art deco styling recalling luxurious show places of a bygone era. At the same time, it is equipped with theatrical technology that makes it one of the most advanced venues on land or sea, bringing original productions and Disney stories to life in a whole new way.

The lineup of musicals presented at the Disney Fantasy Walt Disney Theatre includes “Wishes,” “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular,” “Disney’s Believe,” “A Fantasy Come True” and “An Unforgettable Journey.” Here’s a look at what’s in store:

“Wishes”

A new ship means new main stage entertainment at the Walt Disney Theatre, and “Wishes” is a spectacular production debuting on the Disney Fantasy. This signature show is a 45-minute musical journey about three best friends who discover the secret to being a grown-up is staying connected to their inner child.

The story begins as long-time best friends Kayla and Nicole along with Nicole’s twin brother Brandon visit Disneyland to celebrate their high school graduation. Each is unsure of what the future holds for them, so they make a wish to go on the “Ride of Our Lives” – the show’s original opening number.

Their wish evokes an enchanted world where a cavalcade of Disney characters – including Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Lilo, Stitch, Mulan, Hercules, Pinocchio, Timon and Pumbaa – materialize to guide the teens through their magical journey.

Full-scale production numbers and special effects bring excitement to the stage as the cast of “Wishes” performs original songs and classic Disney tunes with a contemporary twist. Notable moments include:

• In an over-the-top musical comedy production number, the song “I’ve Got a Dream” from “Tangled” sets the scene as the Snuggly Duckling Tavern comes alive with Rapunzel, Flynn Rider and a tavern full of hilarious thugs.

• In the “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” scene inspired by “Lilo and Stitch,” the stage fills with giant windsurfing sails, kites and surf boards. The infectious music inspires Kayla as she rides a surfboard, flying atop a giant blue wave silk.

• King Louie and the Monkeys perform a high-energy swing band version of “I Wanna Be Like You” from the Jungle Book.

In the final act, the trio celebrates their extraordinary journey at a graduation party as the pop tune “Breakthrough” from the Disney Channel original movie “Lemonade Mouth” keeps the revelry going.

“Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular”

New to Disney Cruise Line, “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” takes the stage on the Disney Fantasy. During this Broadway-style production, guests laugh along with the wise- cracking Genie and the characters from the classic animated Disney film “Aladdin.”

In this fast-paced musical comedy, Aladdin is back as the “street rat” of Agrabah meeting a Genie who grants him three wishes, battling the evil Jafar, and falling in love with Princess Jasmine.

Classic scenes and songs from the movie are re-created on stage – and some of the action even spills out into the aisles, like Prince Ali’s jubilant arrival in Agrabah on the back of a stallion. Magic lamps, wise-cracking genies, princesses and evil wizards are all part of this musical production.

And of course, an Aladdin production would not be complete without a magic carpet scene. In this spectacular, mechanical wizardry and state-of-the-art projections combine to send Jasmine and Aladdin soaring as they perform a heartfelt duet of “Whole New World.”

Many of the songs from the movie are featured in the 45-minute musical production, including “Friend Like Me,” which is performed as a lively, Las Vegas-style production number featuring special effects, illusions and more than a dozen dancing genies. Composer Menken, who created the original soundtrack with songwriters Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, composed an original song for the stage production entitled “To Be Free.”

“Disney’s Believe”

“Disney’s Believe” is a stage spectacular that combines a heartfelt story with a captivating musical score. The lavish production tells the story of a workaholic father who, through the power of Disney magic, reconnects with his daughter and learns a valuable lesson about what is important in life.

“Disney’s Believe” takes guests to the garden of Dr. Cornelius Greenaway, a brilliant botanist obsessed with cultivating his precious plants. Dr. Greenaway is so preoccupied with his garden that he overlooks the birthday of his daughter, Sophia. Saddened, Sophia makes a special birthday wish and the impossible happens: Genie from Disney’s “Aladdin” appears to make her wish come true.

Joined by a host of characters, Genie takes Dr. Greenaway on an enchanting journey into the world of Disney stories. Through spirited production numbers, Dr. Greenaway learns that magic is real and is embodied in his beloved daughter.

More than 20 of Disney’s most beloved characters take the stage during “Disney’s Believe,” including Cinderella, Peter Pan, Mary Poppins, Belle (“Beauty and The Beast”), Rafiki (“The Lion King”) and Princess Tiana (“The Princess and the Frog”).

“A Fantasy Come True” Welcome Show

“A Fantasy Come True” is a 45-minute, high-energy, multimedia musical production that follows one family’s journey as they discover the amazing experiences and enchanting surprises that await them aboard the Disney Fantasy. Ultimately, they learn the greatest experience the ship has to offer is the opportunity to make memories – together as a family – that will last a lifetime.

“An Unforgettable Journey” Farewell Show

“An Unforgettable Journey” is a good-bye hug in the form of a 45-minute musical production that allows guests to reflect and savor the experience they have had onboard the Disney Fantasy. This farewell show connects the guests’ experiences to the man who started it all – Walt Disney – through audio and video clips that steep the memorable moments and distinctly Disney touches in Walt’s words and wisdom.

Party on Deck

In addition to nightly stage productions, Disney Cruise Line brings the upper decks of the Disney Fantasy to life with incredible live entertainment.

The fun begins with “Sailing Away,” a “welcome aboard” show starring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the Disney gang. The show is a celebration of the fun aboard a Disney cruise, building to the exciting sounding of the ship’s horn.

During a special night of each cruise, the Disney Fantasy transforms into a pirate ship with a night of events brimming with buccaneer fun and a fireworks spectacular.

The evening kicks off on the Donald’s Pool stage with “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean,” a family-friendly interactive show featuring the famous Disney characters. Guests become members of Mickey’s Pirate Crew as they participate in a series of pirate-themed musical numbers.

Later in the evening, Jack Sparrow from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films makes a special appearance on deck in “Hunt Fer Jack,” a thrilling live-action pirate showdown which culminates in “Buccaneer Blast” – a spectacular display of piratical pyrotechnics.

As the night rolls on, a high-tech, open-air dance party on the upper decks of the ship heats up. Guests unleash their inner pirate and dance their boots off during “Club Pirate,” a family- friendly bash featuring electrifying music, stunning visuals and special effects.

Fireworks at Sea

The only cruise line to feature fireworks at sea, Disney Cruise Line ups the entertainment ante and lights up the sky with a fireworks extravaganza.

As part of the pirate night celebration, the skies above the Disney Fantasy explode with brilliant colors during “Buccaneer Blast.” With more “bang” than ever before, the pyrotechnic spectacular is choreographed to a dramatic score featuring songs from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies.

The Disney Fantasy is making her way to New York for her christening, and then onto Florida for her Inaugural cruise at the end of March. During her voyage, Disney is providing us with a sneak peak of some of the Fantasy’s special features. As with on the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy features Enchanted Art. The Enchanted Art appears to be normal art hanging on the wall, until you walk by, and it comes to life. Rather than reuse the Enchanted Art made for the Disney Dream, imagineers started over and made brand new Enchanted Art, just for the Disney Fantasy.

Some of the Enchanted Art featured on the Disney Fantasy:

• Dual circus art posters featuring Dumbo and Timothy Q. Mouse flying from one frame into the other – a nod to the Disney Fantasy stern characters.
• “Pinkie Daisy” featuring Daisy Duck inspired by Thomas Lawrence’s famous painting “Sarah Barrett Moulton: Pinkie.”
• Walt Disney animating three new clips that spring from his sketch pad, featuring the Fab Five: Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald and Pluto.
• Scenes from Disney’s classic animated film “Fantasia” depicting dancing fairies set to “Nutcracker Suite” and a frolicking unicorn and satyr set to “The Pastoral Symphony”.
• Fanciful animations of “Alice in Wonderland” inspired by Disney Legend Mary Blair’s artwork.

In addition to being Enchanted, the art is also home to the new Muppet Adventure Game that can be played onboard. Enjoy the preview of the Disney Fantasy’s Enchanted Art.

Below, find an example of the Fantasy’s Enchanted Art, with Daisy Duck coming to life:

Kids love the Disney Cruise Line. Every possible activity is planned for them, and all activities for the little kids are super supervised, so you can check the little kids into the kids club and not worry about them at all. It is pretty rare to see a kid be unhappy on the cruise, in fact, you will wish you were a kid too.

1. Youth Clubs – Disney is known for the youth clubs on the Disney Cruise, from 3 months to 17 years, all kids are covered in their separated areas, with activities just for them. From a sleep over with Goofy and personal princess time to sports and computers.
2. Pirate Deck Party – Ahoy Matey! Enjoy a special pirate deck party featuring Disney pirates, food, music and the only fireworks show at sea.
3. Disney Characters – Who doesn’t love getting their photo taken with their favorite Disney character? Disney Cruise provides plenty of opportunities to see your favorite characters, whether they are just walking around the boat, at a special character breakfast or at photo opportunities in the lobby.
4. Disney Pools – The little kids have their own Mickey pool, complete with the Mickey slide, while the families share the Goofy pool. The new Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy even have the AquaDuck water roller coaster.
5. Teen Clubs – While the little kids have their own clubs, the teens have a special place too, no adults allowed. The Edge is for tweens, 11 – 13. You will often see the Tweens running around the ship together playing games. The teens, age 14 – 17, have access to Vibe, a fantastic teen club full of video games, movies, music and fun.

Your kids will love the Disney Cruise line, they all seem to be able to find plenty of fantastical things to do.

Everyone knows the Disney Cruise line is the place to be for families. While it is hard limiting this list to the top 5, there are tons of things to do that are fun for kids and adults alike. I am sure your family will have their own top 5.

1. Entertainment – From the broadway quality shows each night to the nightclub entertainers, the entertainment is top notch. Did you know Disney shows first run movies onboard too, including in theater movies?
2. Rotational Dining – Each night, you get to eat at one of the wonderful Disney restaurants (there are three on each ship) at your dedicated table with your same waiter, who follows you around each night.
3. Game Shows – Each night, usually between dinner and the nightly stage show, Disney has great game shows in Studio Sea, check them out!
4. Deck Fun – The upper decks are covered with fun. In addition to the great pools, you can play ping pong, sports, foosball and on the newer ships, miniature golf and other fun events.
5. Family Time – Disney schedules family fun events all day long, and even into the night. Did you know you can watch movies while swimming? Probably my favorite way to end the day.

Kids of all ages love the Disney Cruise, I am sure your family will find fun and exciting ways to spend time together.

While the Disney Cruise is best known for their kids clubs and family friendly atmosphere, there is plenty to do for adults on a Disney Cruise. Let Disney watch your kids while you enjoy some adult time. Disney has compiled a list of the top 5 adult activities on a Disney Cruise.

1. Palo – The adult only restaurant (not to mention Remy on the Disney Dream and Fantasy) provide some of the best food anywhere.
2. Spa – Relax with your favorite spa treatment in the adult on spa
3. Quiet Cove – The adult only pool and bar area is usually very quiet, and a nice place to relax
4. Enrichment Classes – Disney Cruise offers classes on a daily basis from cooking your favorite Disney meal to tours of the ship not normally accessible. Always fun!
5. Nightclubs – While kids are sometimes allowed in the nightclub area, once evening hits, it is adult only!

I have been on several Disney Cruises without kids, there is always plenty to do, and often a lot more fun when you know you can plan your day around your desires.

Disney Cruise has provided us with another great video from Andi, the Disney Cruise expert on the Disney Moms Panel. In this video, Andi covers the Mexican Riviera cruises that Disney offers. I absolutely loved the Mexican Riviera cruise we did in 2011, fantastic weather, fantastic ports and plenty of Disney magic!

In her first step towards her inaugural sailing, the Disney Fantasy “Floated Out” of the  Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany for the very first time!

Thousands of visitors lined the shore, celebrating the occasion with Captain Mickey Mouse and, of course, a fireworks spectacular. This special maritime event, known as “Float Out,” marks the biggest construction milestone for the Disney Fantasy to date, less than 90 days before the ship welcomes guests for her maiden voyage.

The entire “Float Out” process took about two hours. Instead of watching a two hour video of the Fantasy moving a few hundred yards, we have a nice time lapse video for you, so you could get a glimpse at this magnificent ship as she emerged from the dock.