Disney Adventure Sets Maritime Record with Historic Panama Canal Transit
Disney Cruise Line has marked a historic maritime milestone as its latest ship, Disney Adventure, became the largest passenger vessel ever to transit the Panama Canal. On February 2, 2026, this colossal cruise ship successfully completed its inaugural passage through the waterway, setting a new standard for the cruise industry.
With a measurement of 208,000 gross tons and a capacity to carry approximately 6,700 passengers, the Disney Adventure surpassed the previous record held by Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss by a staggering 40,000 gross tons—an impressive 24% increase. Spanning 342 meters in length and 46.4 meters in beam, the ship is a true marvel of engineering.
The Panama Canal Authority honored this significant achievement by presenting a commemorative plaque to the vessel’s crew at the Agua Clara Locks. This transit was part of Disney Adventure’s positioning voyage to Singapore, where the ship will commence three- and four-night itineraries in March 2026.
Built at the prestigious Meyer Werft shipyards in Germany, the vessel boasts innovative attractions including the longest roller coaster at sea and a three-deck castle installation.
This record-breaking passage is part of a larger trend, with over 40 Neopanamax cruise ships expected to transit the canal during the 2025-2026 season. This underscores the waterway’s vital role in global cruise operations.