ABOARD THE DISNEY DESTINY -- Disney cast members were leading guests in the "Cupid Shuffle" during the sailaway party when the music suddenly stopped. A sinister crackle wiped the video screen behind them.
Spider-Man at the Disney Destiny’s sail away party. Photo Credit: Teri West
It was Electro, but luckily, Spider-Man wasn't far behind him. He swung down in front of the screen, protecting guests from the villain so the Disney Destiny's first sailaway celebration could continue.
Disney Cruise line's third Wish-class ship has a heroes-and-villains theme. From the sailaway experience to a dramatic Grand Hall entrance to decor in public spaces and staterooms, guests have become well acquainted with it just a day into the sailing.
The Grand Hall, where guests enter the ship, is Black Panther-themed, with a statue of the Marvel hero and navy-and-gold carpeting. The artwork above the bed in my stateroom is also hero-themed. The Incredibles watch over me as I sleep.
Looking down at the Destiny's Grand Hall. Photo Credit: Teri West
The most exciting villain appearance was when Loki descended the stairs of the Grand Hall in the middle of a performance by the ship's traveling storyteller characters Zayah and Gamble. He captivated the room. Audience members engaged with Loki and quoted his lines from the Marvel films.
"You saw the scenery change when he came on stage," said Jack Sharp, director of travel agency sales at Disney Experiences.
A Marvel-themed sketch comedy show was interrupted mid-performance, just like at the sailaway party. This time it was the anti-hero Deadpool. A screen behind the performers crackled before Deadpool appeared and bantered with them.
On the to-do list: The Disney Destiny's entertainment, including the debut of "Hercules" in the Walt Disney Theatre, and dinner at Pride Lands, a Lion King-themed restaurant with performances woven into the experience.
During the christening ceremony on Nov. 10, Disney swapped the usual lengthy speeches and formalities for spectacle. A chorus of performers sang a Disney medley with hits from favorites including "The Lion King," "Frozen" and "Hercules," while a drone show and projection onto the ship was a stunning visual pairing.
Cocktails on display at The Sanctum, a Dr. Strange-themed bar. Photo Credit: Teri West
New Disney Cruise Line bars and shops
Among the new bars and cafes on the ship is The Sanctum, a Dr. Strange-themed bar on Deck 3 with elaborate beverages and a tasty custard-filled waffle. Positioned in the middle of two hallways, the bar has a cozy feel, including a circular booth in the corner. It also has a stage, where I hope to catch a performance.
A dessert shop, Edna A La Mode Sweets, serves gelato and ice cream as well as colorful themed pastries. The Dulce Argentino ice cream was rich, delicious and full of caramel flavor. The space is conveniently situated just outside of the Marceline Market food hall. Scoops start at $3.75.
De Vil’s a new bar and lounge on the Disney Destiny. Photo Credit: Teri West
The delightfully decorated De Vil's bar is complete with a white grand piano festooned with Dalmatian spots.
And on the agenda is visit to Cafe Merida, a midship coffee shop inspired by the Pixar movie "Brave."
Correction: The director of travel agency sales at Disney Experiences is Jack Sharp. A previous version of this report had an incorrect last name.