Meyer Werft bags Disney Cruise Line's four-ship order

It is the largest order in Meyer's history.

The newbuilds, set to arrive between 2027 and 2031, were heralded over the weekend at D23, Walt Disney Co.'s big annual fan event.

Eight ships for DCL 

'We are very happy to continue our partnership with Disney Cruise Line and build four additional outstanding ships over the next seven years. We now have eight ships for Disney Cruise Line in our orderbook, which reflects the trust in our capabilities and hard work of our team,' Bernard Meyer said. 

The eight include the 208,000gt Disney Adventure (originally World Dream), which Meyer is completing at the former MV Werften.

'Our Disney cruise ships are the true ambassadors for our brands and beloved by families the world over,' said Thomas Mazloum, president, New Experiences Portfolio and Disney Signature Experiences. 'As we embark on this ambitious and unprecedented expansion for Disney Cruise Line, we are delighted to work with Meyer Werft once again.'

Follows order for Japan ship

The order closely follows one for a fourth 144,000gt Wish-class ship by a new customer, Oriental Land Co., which owns and operates Disney parks in Tokyo, and comes at a critical time for the Papenburg yard, which has been facing near-term financial difficulties. That ship is scheduled for late 2028 delivery.

Meyer and Disney's relationship began with Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, delivered in 2010 and 2012. Disney Wish arrived as the first Wish-class ship in 2022. Sisters Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny are currently under construction in Papenburg, with Treasure due for delivery this year and Destiny in late 2025.

10 cruise ships in Papenburg

With this order, Meyer Werft's Papenburg yard has 10 cruise ships (seven for Disney, Asuka III for NYK Cruises and two Excel class for Carnival Cruise Line), a research vessel and four offshore converter platforms in its orderbook for delivery until 2031. The total value is more than €11b.