Disney Fantasy, set to enter service in 2012

New Cruise Ships for 2012

Watch Throughout the Year for These New Cruise Ship Launches

While the cruise ships scheduled for launch in 2012 are all new vessels, each one is almost identical to existing sister-ships (for instance, Carnival Cruise Lines’ Carnival Breeze is a Dream-class ship). Brand-new classes won't be making an appearance until 2013 when Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line are set to launch Royal Princess and Norwegian Breakaway, respectively. Despite that, the introduction of a new ship into a cruise line's fleet is always exciting.

Without further ado, Cruise Diva is happy to preview the Class of 2012.

2012 New Ship Launches:

• Disney Fantasy—The first new ship to launch in 2012, at 128,000 tons, Disney Dream's double occupancy is listed at 2,500, but she can carry up to 4,000 passengers. Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship is a sister-ship to Disney Dream, which was introduced in 2011, and is distinguished for its classic early 20th-century design—reminiscent of the golden age of ocean travel—and state-of-the-art technology. Playful design accents cleverly incorporate the images of Disney characters and themes without overpowering the stylish décor. Artwork showcases the creativity of Disney artists and animators. The atmosphere is never stuffy. As on their earlier ships, vast areas are devoted to children's activity centers, outdoor activity areas, and swimming pools. The AquaDuck is a 765-foot-long water coaster that propels kids and adults alike on an thrill filled ride up, down and around four outside decks, over the side of the ship and through the forward funnel. Don't worry, you'll still find adults-only hideaways.
• Carnival Breeze—The third ship in Carnival's Dream-class—set to sail this summer at 130,000 tons and 3,690 passenger capacity—Carnival Breeze incorporate the new layout and distinctive profile introduced on Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic. Features include Ocean Plaza, an indoor/outdoor café and live music venue featuring a large circular dance floor, a half-mile, open-air promenade encircling the ship where four “scenic” whirlpools are cantilevered out over the sea, a two-level Serenity adults-only retreat, and a huge Carnival WaterWorks aqua park. The RedFrog Pub, a Caribbean-inspired watering hole with its own private label ThirstyFrog Red beer and bar snacks is a popular feature introduced on Carnival Magic last year. Additionally, Carnival Breeze will sport a new Caribbean-inspired accommodations decor.
• Oceania Riviera—At 66,084 tons and carrying 1,250 passengers, Riviera is the second brand new ship built for Oceania Cruises and is a sister-ship to Marina (introduced in 2011). While it’s a larger ship than its original fleetmates, it includes the basic deluxe features found on the smaller ships—specialty dining in intimate restaurants, country club casual ambience, and enrichment programs. The emphasis is on destination cruising in style and the décor is classic and comfortable. With a larger ship, designers expanded some of the elements, such as the staircase in the grand foyer and luxurious suite accommodations.
•  Celebrity Reflection—The slightly larger fifth and final sister in the Solstice-class, Celebrity Reflection won't fit her 126,000 tons through the Panama Canal. However, with an added deck and more space, there will be a lot on board for her 3,052 passengers to enjoy when she launches cruises in November. Get a glimpse of the other Solstice-class sisters at Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Eclipse.
• Costa Fascinosa—A sister-ship to the Concordia-class vessels, among the largest ships built for Costa at 114,500 tons and capable of carrying 3,012 passengers, the fabulous Costa Fascinosa will launch with a 20,500 square foot spa, spa accommodations, and a dedicated spa restaurant, along with two swimming pools (each to have a retractable roof—the largest such pools at sea), a huge outdoor movie screen, and a Grand Prix racing simulator.
• MSC Divina—At approximately 140,000 tons, the third vessel in the Fantasia-class is set to launch this spring. MSC Cruises' goddess of the seas, MSC Divina, is named in honor of screen legend and the ship's “godmother” Sophia Loren. Modeled from her sister-ships, MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia, she features some remarkable enhancements. Her 3,502 passengers will enjoy the The gorgeous Infinity Pool in the aft of the ship, with its “beach zone” adjoining the glass balustrade offering a unique view of the ship’s wake fading into the sunset. Passengers booked in the expanded MSC Yacht Club can relax in style in the Top Sail Lounge.

What Else Is New?

Instead of star-gazing for answers or predictions of what's to come, Cruise Diva will continue to report the latest in Cruise News and Cruise Diva's Blog to keep you up to date.

Happy New Year!

Image Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

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