Unexpected Trouble Forces Disney Cruise Back to Port

Disney Cruise Line is one of the most well-regarded vacations at sea and extremely safe. However, sometimes, the unexpected can happen in the ocean. Guests sailing on the September 2, 2023 itinerary for the Disney Fantasy recently were told the ship was immediately returning to Port Canaveral as fast as possible due to an engine problem.

A Disney Cruise Line Vacation

The Disney Fantasy is arguably the best ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, renowned for its enchanting blend of classic Disney nostalgia and modern amenities. Its crew members and various onboard entertainment options offer an unforgettable vacation experience for families and Disney enthusiasts.

The final stop of the Disney Fantasy‘s itinerary often includes visiting Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. Castaway Cay is a tropical paradise with several great beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a host of exciting activities for guests to enjoy. It’s the perfect culmination of a Disney cruise, where passengers can relax in a picturesque setting while still indulging in Disney’s signature hospitality.

However, certain situations sometimes prevent Disney cruises from making this stop. Normally, this is due to weather, but the most recent Disney Fantasy sailing skipped the stop for a more dire reason.

Related: Guest Issues Warning for Sailing on a Disney Cruise Right Now

Disney Fantasy Engine Trouble

Late Thursday evening, guests aboard the Disney Fantasy were alerted to an engine technical challenge. The problem caused a major loss of speed, and the ship was skipping Castaway Cay and heading straight back to Port Canaveral. While guests were not in any danger, it was a frustrating experience for vacationers anticipating the best stop on the trip. One guest showed the notification Disney provided them on the r/DCL subreddit:

This is Captain Michele. I apologize for such a late message; however, I have some important information to share with you. Earlier this evening we experienced an engine technical challenge. This has resulted in a loss of speed. There is no cause for any concern and our safety is in no way compromised. Due to our loss of speed, we will not be able to make our call at Castaway Cay and we will proceed directly to Port Canaveral to arrive as per our original schedule. A letter detailing more information will be delivered to your stateroom overnight. Please continue to enjoy your evening. Thank you for your understanding.

Disney Fantasy Not Stopping At Castaway Due To ‘Engine Technical Challenge’
byu/Calxiyn indcl

Furthermore, a passenger posted a photo of a letter they received in their stateroom detailing the compensation Disney Cruise Line provided for the inconvenience. Guests will receive 25% off a future cruise and a $250 onboard credit. They also get a refund on any expenses accumulated for Castaway Cay, such as port fees or booked Port Adventures. Here is the official letter given to each passenger:

As we shared earlier, due to a technical issue with the ship’s propulsion system, the Disney Fantasy is sailing at a reduced rate of speed. Regrettably, it is necessary to adjust our itinerary and we will no longer be able to visit Castaway Cay on Friday.

We know that this is disappointing news and apologize for the modification to our itinerary. To show appreciation for your understanding, we will be providing an onboard credit of $250 for each stateroom to use during the sailing. The credit will automatically appear on the stateroom account and can be used onboard towards the purchase of shipboard services, merchandise, food and beverages, or Port Adventures.

Additionally, each reservation will receive a 25% discount on a future cruise taken prior to September 2, 2025. Port feed for Castaway Cay will be refunded to your original form of payment, as well as any pre-reserved Port Adventures at Castaway Cay.

We appreciate your understand and are dedicated to ensuring that you and your family have an enjoyable rest of your vacation onboard the Disney Fantasy.

Here is the letter we got in regards to not going to Castaway pic.twitter.com/TeQIkE8TQ1

— Calxiyn |❄️🦊 Arctic Fox Era |🍦DESSERT OASIS CEO (@Calxiyn) September 8, 2023

It is unknown how bad this Disney Fantasy engine trouble is or if it will affect the next sailing. Hopefully, Disney Cruise Line can resolve the issue quickly to avoid having any further disgruntled passengers on their next voyage.