COURTING DISNEY

Posted on 05/27/2016

When Disney’s Magic cruised into the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavillion mid month it was the result of a year of planning. Both the cruise line and the Sydney Ports Corporation wanted to ensure that the Cape Breton experience was a pleasant one as they welcomed the Disney vessel for the first time. The Port of Charlottetown, undoubtedly took notes as they will welcome Disney Magic for the first time next year.

Bernadette MacNeil, manager of marketing and development for the Sydney Port said of Disney, "They've done site visits in the past. They assess the port before they come into it. We know we can deliver perfection to them (today) and that's what we have aimed to do." 

The eight-hour stopover allowed a number of bus tours of Sydney, which was profitable for the cruise line as well as the suppliers. Disney Magic will make its first visit to Charlottetown in the fall of 2017. 

Corryn Clemence, business development manager with the Port of Charlottetown told CBC, "We are excited when we get any cruise line, but the Disney Cruise Line and the Disney brand has such brand power behind it and recognition that we are really excited to be able to welcome them here." 

She added, "To have those Disney characters on board the vessel coming to Charlottetown and to hear the horn on the ship play When You Wish Upon a Star, I think when we see that coming into the harbour, it is really going to be a special moment."