Calling all super heroes and super villains! The Disney Magic has just emerged from a dry-dock refurb, complete with a thrilling enhancement exclusive to this ship: Marvel Day at Sea.
This new, immersive, day-long experience will appear on a handful of five-night Western Caribbean cruises out of Miami in early 2018, and on select five-night cruises to the Bahamas and the Western Caribbean in early 2019. Here’s what you need to know:
Marvel super heroes like Spider-Man are onboard for heroic encounters during Marvel Day at Sea. The event features all-day entertainment celebrating the renowned comics, films and animated series of the Marvel Universe. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)
The idea of a themed celebration is nothing new for Disney. Other ships feature Star Wars Day at Sea and special Frozen-themed cruises in places like Norway and Alaska. But Marvel Day at Sea takes over the ship in ways you can’t even imagine. Look for everything from changes to the décor to humorous announcements over the PA system (at one point the captain proclaims that Thor has lost his luggage) to themed dinner menus. We got a kick out of dishes inspired by Thor (Mjolnir Meatballs and Pasta), the Incredible Hulk (Dr. Banner’s Greens and Lobster Salad) and even the bread, which had a swirl of super hero blue.
Marvel Day at Sea includes themed dinners (and dessert!). Image courtesy of Laura Begley Bloom.
But where Marvel Day at Sea really shines is during the creative programming that lasts from sunrise to sundown — and beyond. There are trivia contests, game shows in which family members can compete against each other and drawing classes where you can learn how to sketch out your best Ironman or Captain America. We loved watching the Little Hero Dash, where the tiniest fans — dressed up in super hero onesies — crawl for the finish line in the baby race.
Of course, this is Disney, so the character meet-and-greets are unrivaled. There’s a special ticketed event with Spider-Man, Black Panther and Iron Man. But don’t despair if you can’t snag a ticket because you’ll see Captain America, Thor, Black Widow — you name it — wandering around the ship all day.
Another exclusive Marvel moment: The Magic features a special themed pop-up shop with T-shirts, costumes and more. It’s a good save if you forgot to pack an outfit for the onboard costume contest. Pro tip: Bring your costume with you. People go all out!
You can meet Marvel super heroes like Black Panther. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)
The festivities go well into the evening. Just in time for sunset, Mickey, Minnie and friends get in on the action, donning their finest super hero garb for a big dance party on the top deck. Later in the evening, Fathoms lounge transforms into the Ravagers Club for what Disney calls “the most awesome dance party in the galaxy,” featuring Guardians of the Galaxy and Starlord.
By the time Marvel Day at Sea wraps up at midnight, you’ll be feeling like a true super hero.