Disney Cruise Line opens reservation center for special "pre-opening" event; The line accepts more than 511 reservations on first day

Business Wire, Sept 6, 1996

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 6, 1996--Disney Cruise Line, the Walt Disney Company's first land & sea vacation experience, opened its doors briefly today to begin accepting reservations to sail on the line's first ship, the Disney Magic. Nearly 1,000 delegates attending the fifth annual Disneyana Convention lined up today to be among the first guests to make a reservation for the lines Inaugural Sailing Season which begins in early 1998. The Disney Cruise Line Reservation Center will officially open on Sept. 30, 1996.

"We knew that Disney's reputation for creating memorable vacations for all ages would have an enormous impact on how people reacted to the Disney Cruise Line, but nothing could have prepared us for the excitement and enthusiasm we saw today," said Arthur Rodney, president of the Disney Cruise Line. "Over 500 reservations were made today, not to mention thousands who have already placed their name on a waiting list for our public opening on September 30th."

The Disney Cruise Line vacation will combine the magic of Walt Disney World with the romance and adventure of an ocean voyage. Guests will enjoy three- or four-days at Walt Disney World, followed by a three- or four-day cruise aboard one of the line's magnificent new vessels. The line's first ship, the Disney Magic, will carry 2,400 guests round-trip from Port Canaveral, Fla., to the Port of Nassau and Castaway Cay, Disney's private Bahamian island.

"The Disney name implies magic and we've created a new approach to cruising that uses all of the creative resources and talents of the Walt Disney Company to create what no one else can -- Disney Magic at sea," said Rodney.

Guests will find a myriad of services and activities designed specifically for children, families and adults. Among its many features, the Disney Magic will offer original, Disney-created Broadway-quality productions; an adult oriented evening district with three themed nightclubs; a full-screen cinema offering a variety of films every day, including Disney classics and first-run releases; three themed restaurants and an adult-only alternative restaurant; an 8,600 square foot spa and salon; three pools; and activities and special events to appeal to children, families, and adults.

For more information, consumers should see their travel agent or call the Disney Cruise Line at 407/566-7000.

CONTACT: Disney Cruise Line

Amy Foley, 407/566-3687