By Zach Johnson
This fall, Disney Cruise Line will make our dreams come true when it brings the world of The Princess and the Frog to life with some exciting new enhancements aboard the Disney Wonder.
The new French Quarter Lounge will perfectly complement Tiana’s Place restaurant, which opened its doors in 2016. Its jazzy ambiance will evoke an airy outdoor space in New Orleans, surrounded by touches of iconic architecture (think wrought-iron balconies, classic brick walls, and shutter-framed windows). Decorative details include a life-size trolley car and nods to the film, with signs and icons on the walls that add to the mood of the space. Days and nights will get a touch of bayou hospitality at the French Quarter Lounge, as guests will enjoy live music on the gazebo stage and sip specialty drinks at an updated whimsical bar. The story will continue through the lounge with special New Orleans-themed family activities, trivia, and character encounters. You might even catch a glimpse of Princess Tiana herself as she welcomes guests!
Vibe, a club reserved for teens ages 14–17, will transform into a contemporary place to kick back with friends while sailing the high sea. The space will have a timeless feel with an open, bright redesign, a light color palette, and industrial metal work. A new coffee bar and updated virtual reality technology add to the list of activities for teens to enjoy in this exclusive hangout.
Cove Café, an adults-only lounge, will be transforming its look and feel into a local coffee shop, complete with warm, comfortable, and trendy décor. Ample seating and a relaxed atmosphere will invite guests to indulge themselves in this peaceful retreat. The redesigned Cove Café will be the perfect place to sip specialty coffee or tea during the day or partake in wine, cocktails, and light bites at night. Adult beverage tastings will be available at select times for an added fee. A few steps away, Signals Bar will be undergoing its own transformation with a similar look.
The new enhancements debut September 30, 2019, on the Disney Wonder’s four-night sailing from Vancouver to San Diego. Guests sailing on the Disney Wonder can experience a variety of itineraries and ports of call throughout the year, including summer sailings to Alaska, cruises to the Mexican Riviera, and voyages to the Bahamas and Caribbean. The Disney Wonder will also call New Orleans home in 2020, with Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries departing February 7.
