The Disney Treasure, the latest ship from Disney Cruise Line, is making waves as it embarks on its inaugural voyage this Saturday, marking a historic moment for Disney.

This ship is not only the first to offer experiences inspired by Disney parks while at sea but is also bringing classic Disney film narratives to life in innovative ways that pay tribute to the real individuals behind these tales.

Jason Roberts, a senior producer from Walt Disney Imagineering, shared with YSL News during a preview sailing, “Our aim is to tell diverse and engaging stories, including those you might not anticipate.”

Here’s a glimpse into what film enthusiasts can expect aboard the Treasure.

Plaza de Coco

Plaza de Coco features Disney’s inaugural theatrical dining experience inspired by “Coco,” designed to span two nights of dining onboard the Disney Treasure.

“We had a unique chance to pick up the story three years later, showcasing Miguel as a teenager and exploring how music has deeply influenced the Rivera family,” noted Juan Cantú, the show director for Disney Live Entertainment.

Guests will notice thematic artwork leading to the dining space, which resembles a warm public square. Both Hector and Imelda are featured prominently on a family tree, and Hector is included once more in a stunning ofrenda, mirroring the film’s conclusion. The first night’s dining experience embraces themes of family and togetherness.

“On the second night, we honor Dia de Muertos. As a Mexican American, being part of this authentic storytelling is an honor since it reflects a culture deeply celebrated in Mexico,” said Cantú. “The beauty of culture is that it’s meant to be shared.”

While enjoying a menu featuring traditional and easily enjoyed dishes like mole, birria, and blistered poblano, diners will be entertained by folklorico dancers, live mariachi music, and melodies from Miguel along with his ancestors.

“Being someone who focused on musical theater, I didn’t always find stories that included roles for someone like me,” Cantú reflected. He described his opportunity to contribute to authentic storytelling as the ultimate honor, bridging connections with guests from all backgrounds.

‘Disney The Tale of Moana’

“For us, it’s significant because representation in storytelling is often lacking. It’s rare to see our narratives on big screens or stages,” expressed Kaenaonālani Kekoa, who portrays Moana in “Disney The Tale of Moana” aboard the Treasure, marking Disney’s first stage adaptation of the film. “It’s a dream come true to be that inspiration for a young girl or boy of color.”

Although Moana is a fictional character and her island of Motonui is imaginary, the cultures and communities they represent are real. Hence, the creative team has diligently integrated genuine Polynesian voices throughout the show’s development.

Jenny Weinbloom, vice president of Live Entertainment for Disney Signature Experiences, mentioned that along with Broadway talents like director Connor Gallagher and puppet designer Michael Curry, the team consulted with cultural leaders from the Pacific Islands including choreographer Peter Rockford Espiritu and music consultant Aaron Salā.

“I must also highlight our incredible cast, many of whom hail from Hawaii or the Pacific Islands, or are part of the Hawaiian diaspora,” she stated. “Their presence has been immensely uplifting and impactful in shaping this narrative, starting from our initial readings to the ongoing workshops.”

Kekoa, a Native Hawaiian, expressed her deep sense of duty to preserve and share her ancestors’ stories, emphasizing how much she cherishes this responsibility.

“The journey of Moana reflects a girl’s courageous act of leaving her island and family, stepping away from her comfort zone for the sake of others,” she remarked. “In Polynesian culture, it’s not about seeking a grand adventure for oneself but about family, ohana. The journey is for them, and upon returning, it’s essential to give back. I aspire to do just that.”

She hopes that the audience members feel as if they have been welcomed into the community, too.

“That’s how we do it in the Pacific,” she explained.

Scat Cat Lounge

A notable feature on the Disney Treasure is the stylish Scat Cat Lounge, the cruise line’s inaugural bar inspired by “The Aristocats.”

“It’s a fantastic movie,” remarked Alyssa Markfort, a senior show manager with Walt Disney Imagineering. “The film is filled with great music.”

In the lounge, visitors will notice charming wallpaper featuring characters from “The Aristocats.” If they keep their eyes peeled, they might even find Roquefort, the lovable mouse from the film, instead of the usual hidden Mickeys. The paw prints on the piano serve as a fun twist, left by the actual cats of Imagineers, including one in memory of a cat owned by Markfort that has since passed.

“All those paw prints and the intricate patterns draw inspiration from the choreography of ‘Ev’rybody Wants to be a Cat.’ We carefully matched the paw prints to reflect their playful movements on the piano,” she mentioned.

Every paw print corresponds with one of the “Aristocats” kittens, with the smallest one representing Marie.

“The more you observe, the more delightful details you’ll uncover,” said Markfort. “This theme extends into the corridor too, featuring a poster in the style of Thomas O’Malley, with all those feline figures representing our team members’ pets.”

It’s important to clarify that this piano bar is unrelated to the Scat Cat’s Club at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, which is inspired by New Orleans.

Jumbeaux’s Sweets

Visitors will only encounter fictional characters at Jumbeaux’s Sweets, a shop themed around “Zootopia” on the Disney Treasure.

“Setting up Jumbeaux’s, even though it represents just a small segment of the movie, perfectly illustrates the charm of bringing it to life,” noted Jay Abruzzese from Walt Disney Imagineering, who contributed as the creative director for Jumbeaux’s Sweets and Plaza de Coco.

While there is an entire Zootopia area at Shanghai Disney Resort, this may be the first occasion for many guests to experience this world.

“It’s truly thrilling to get to take a picture with life-size figures of Nick and Judy,” he mentioned.

At Jumbeaux’s Sweets, a prominent statue of Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps greets shoppers, but keen-eyed guests will notice other hidden gems throughout the shop.

“As you enter, the music will set the scene, and you can spot Jumbeaux in a corner, spying on the staff,” Abruzzese added. “There are pawsicles on display, lemmings running about, and even an elevator tube for them. They each have their exclusive little entrance tucked away in the corner… It’s just the little details that enhance the experience.”

“We enjoy revealing the hidden aspects that only Disney can uniquely highlight.”

The journalist who covered this article was granted access to the ship by Disney Cruise Line. YSL News retains full editorial independence over reviews.