Star Wars families, take note. To immerse yourself in all things Star Wars, you don’t need to travel to a galaxy far, far away. Instead you can just hit the high seas, thanks to the Disney Cruise Line.
Through April 16, Star Wars fans – from those who know their Alderaans from their Hoths to those who have only been converted with the release of Star Wars: A Force Awakens – can take an epic vacation aboard the Disney Fantasy and experience Star Wars at Sea.
The seven-day journey includes activities you might expect such as snorkeling in Cozumel, swiming with stingrays in Grand Cayman and relaxing on Disney’s private island Castaway Cay in the Bahamas. But the most exciting destination for fans of the Force, is the ship itself for the Star Wars Day at Sea.
Dress for the Day
First of all, costumes are encouraged. Think toddlers dressed up as mini Jedis, daughters donned in their Rey costumes and moms pulling off their best Princess Leia, it’s a sight to see (at sea).
Star Wars Characters Visit From Far, Far, Away
Kids can also take a selfie with one of the Star Wars characters they love, or love to hate. An intimidating Darth Vader, a creepy Darth Maul, a towering Chewbacca, a stoic Boba Fett, the always charming C-3PO and R2–D2 and fresh from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Captain Phasma. While sailing there will also be opportunities to meet “insiders” from the Star Wars universe from films, Lucasfilm and/or the people responsible for making Star Wars Day at Sea a reality. Throughout the day, characters wander the ship, from Stromtroopers guarding the pool deck to Sand People wandering the halls. Photo ops abound.
Party with the Force
At night, “Summon the Force,” a huge party, takes place on the upper decks of the Disney Fantasy. Iconic characters Darth Vader, C-3PO, R2-D2 hit the stage along with characters like Sabine Wren from the popular animated show Star Wars Rebels.
Look to the Skies
At the end of the stage show, the attention will be on the skies as an over-the-top fireworks display takes over. The pyrotechnics is set to a medley of John William’s oh-so-iconic Star Wars score for a moving end to the evening.
The Kids Can Train Like a Jedi
Most of the kids will, no doubt, be feeling the Force. “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple” is there to help harness these powers. Similar to the “Jedi Training Academy” at Disney Parks, kids learn the ways of the Jedi and put their skills to the test in a battle with Darth Vader.
Play and Craft with the Force
Of course, Star Wars related activities are the star attraction at Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, the Disney Cruise Line’s kids' club. In the “Padawan Mind Challenge,” youngsters will play trivia games and kids can do Star Wars-themed arts and crafts, like making jet fighters out of paper plates.
Play Star Wars Catch Up
Need to catch up on your lore? At the Art Deco-themed theater every movie in the franchise, including the latest release, will be screened in 3D. And really, who can resist watching Star Wars: The Force Awakens one more time?
Dine with the Force
Dining is always a highlight of any cruise and a Star Wars Day at Sea is no exception. The dinner menu includes the Sand People salad, Bantha steak empanadas, Opee Sea Killer shrimp cocktail and Qui-Gon’s crisp chicken. For dessert they offer up a Calrissian velvet cake, Cloud City macarons and a frozen carbonite sundae (that comes with Han Solo chocolate). Adults can indulge in one of the specialty Star Wars-themed beverages such as the colorful Galaxy in a Glass (made with rum, coconut, mango and strawberry) and nonalcoholic beverages are available in collectible cups like a BB-8 sipper and a Chewbacca stein.
Star Wars Party for Adults
While the kids are getting crafty in the kids club, adults can grab a nightcap at the adults only event at the Tube nightclub. Star Wars-themed specialty cocktails, are served up while cantina music fills the room and fans test their Star Wars knowledge with an epic trivia challenge.
May the Merch Be with You
Of course, exclusive Star Wars at Sea merchandise is available in many forms on the cruise ship. But these items can’t be bought at the mall, they’re only available on board the Fantasy.
Ready to cruise? You can find out more about the Star Wars Day at Sea here.
