Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Pixie Pranks and Disney Fun had 54,112 Views for the Month of September! Thank You!!!

Pixie Pranks and Disney Fun had 54,112 Views for the Month of September! Thank You!!!


To each and every one of you who is reading my blog THANK YOU!!!! I greatly appreciate you! I will keep sharing what Disney knowledge I can find. I will keep giving travel advise and helping people find ways to enjoy seeing the world. Also thank you to my hubby and Pan DaMan, Scott/Sparky.

 

June of 2017, I had my biggest month of views prior to this month, 52,585 during that month. This month I surpassed that amount!! This month I had 54,112 views!!  That is 1,527, views more than my previous record high month!

 

For the past few years, my average views for a month range between 5,000 and sometimes as high as 10,000. This year my monthly count has averaged around 29,000! I hit 1 million views at the end of December 2024. Just this year I’ve had 262,631 views!! My blog count at the end of today’s count is 1,262,631! Just so you understand the timing of my blog count, the day ends at 5 pm Pacific Time, local time. The blog time is set for midnight UTC.


Thank you again from your Pranking Pixie Tinky!!

Disney Destiny has Finished Her Sea Trials!!

Disney Destiny has Finished Her Sea Trials!!


The Disney Destiny has returned to the Port of Eemshaven after completing her Sea Trials! The length of the Sea Trials leads to the conclusion that things went well. If all went well with the Sea Trials Destiny will be officially turned over to Disney within the next couple of days. Then she will start her Transatlantic Crossing to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Before leaving Eemshaven Destiny will have any work that must be done in port and resupply for her trip across the Atlantic. I think Destiny will leave Eemshaven mid-October. It will be a 2-week crossing. This will give them time to fix any little problems they found during the Sea Trials and finish up any work that needs to be done in a shipyard or at a port. It will also give them time to supply for the 2-week Transatlantic crossing.

 

Disney has still not announced exactly when or where the Christening Ceremony will be held or if they will livestream it as they have Christenings of most of the other ships in the fleet. This is a big question many fans want answered! Most of the ships were Christened at Port Canaveral. The exceptions are Disney Fantasy and Disney Treasure. They were Christened at the Port of New York. The Christening could happen at Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, New York or some other port. Personally I hope the Christening happens at either Port Canaveral or New York. Both have webcams so you can watch the ship come into port and see a different angle of the ceremony. Fort Lauderdale has a webcam, but it does not see the actual dock where the Disney Ships pull in. You can watch them sail in and out but not see them at the dock.

 

I believe Destiny will arrive in the US and Christening will happen sometime between November 1st and 10th. This will give them time to do some media events and cruises before the Maiden Voyage November 20th, 2025.

 

When Disney announces the arrival and the Christening I will share the information!!!

 

Info@PixieDustedMemoriesTravel.com

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Disney Cruise Line, Along With Other Lines Notify Guests of a Significant Price Increase in Hawaiian Cruises

Disney Cruise Line, Along With Other Lines Notify Guests

of a Significant Price Increase in Hawaiian Cruises


Guests sailing to the State of Hawaii in 2026 are waking up to some sticker shock. Before you start blaming the Cruise Lines check out what the State of Hawaii has decided to do.

 

In an effort to raise funds, the State of Hawaii decided that there will be a 11% Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT) on the portion of the cruise fare, equivalent to the days a ship is docked at a Hawaiian Port. Along with that each local county where the ports stopped at are located can add another 3% Tax. This is a 14% increase in Port Taxes!

 

No Cruise Line has control of this increase and should not be accused of Price Gouging. Cruise Lines have two choices. No longer go to Hawaii or pay the fee. With Itineraries out until 2027 and beyond that would require Cruise Lines to cancel entire itineraries that are scheduled. Where would those ships go to? It may be too late to find other itineraries for them. Many guests would be unhappy if their Hawaiian Cruise was canceled. Also, there are contracts between the Ports and Cruise Lines to consider. If Cruise Lines decided not to go to the Ports they are contracted to go to they may still have to pay heavy fines. I know many cruise lines will absorb a small increase in Port Fees/Taxes per guest. I also know when Port Fees/Taxes are reduced, many lines, DCL included, will refund that amount to the guest. When the additional increased amount is $300-500 per guest it is just not doable for a line to absorb it. For example: If a cruise ship holds 2,600 guests at $300 per guest the increase is $780,000. At $500 per guest, it is $1,300,000! Many ships carry more than 2,600 guests, so the total would be even more! No company can absorb that amount of an increase without passing it onto the consumer.

 

What is the cruise industry doing about it? Individual Cruise Lines are in discussion with the government of Hawaii expressing their concerns. They are trying to work with the government on this. Some cruise lines are most likely considering cutting Hawaiian itineraries from their future plans. As well as the individual Cruise Lines, Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), the Cruise Industry Trade Association is suing the State of Hawaii over this increase. This will not solve the problem before the start date of January 1st, 2026. This will be a hard-fought battle.

 

You may ask what is CLIA? As stated CLIA is the Cruise Industry Trade Association. CLIA works behind the scenes to improve cruising worldwide. CLIA forced Cruise Lines to adopt a Cruise Passenger Bill of Rights. CLIA demanded cleaner and healthier ship standards. They got the Cruise Lines to work towards a more sustainable future using cleaner and more renewable energy. CLIA encouraged Cruise Lines to be more accessible to those with disabilities.  They pushed to reduced pollution discharged by ships at sea and in general made cruising safer and more accessible. Full disclosure here. I am a CLIA Travel Agency Owner/Agent Member. They also have rules for Agencies and Agents. They offer training and support to improve service and knowledge.

 

International Air Travel Association (IATA) is the Airline equivalent of CLIA. IATA refuses to work for an Air Passenger Bill of Rights for the Air Travel Industry. I do not know of IATA pushing for any positive changes in Air Travel. I have not joined and most likely will not join IATA. We will have to wait for governmental involvement to force change in the Air Travel Industry.

 

What can you do about it if this effects your travel plans? Make a vote with your pocketbook. Do not visit Hawaii until this is changed if you don’t like it. Go if you ok with Hawaii increasing taxes by 14%, or just don’t want to miss your planned cruise. Write to the Hawaii Tourism Board and tell them how you feel about this.

 

I honestly believe the only way to make a change is standup and say something. Let your opinion be known. I believe Hawaii will lose tourists and therefore income. Only then will Hawaii change their decision.

 

Just so you know these taxes are already in place for land-based hotels and short-term rentals in Hawaii. Hawaii just decided to add Cruise Ships to the list they will Tax.


Want more information on Cruising and other Travel?

Info@PixieDustedMemoriesTravel.com

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Disney Destiny Updates: The Walt Disney Theatre Cast Arrives in Germany

Disney Destiny Updates:

The Walt Disney Theatre Cast Arrives in Germany


By: Disney Destinations

September 17, 2025: The Walt Di Disney Theatre Cast Arrives in Germany

 

The inaugural Disney Destiny Walt Disney Theatre cast has arrived in Papenburg, Germany! The group headed onto the ship for a first look at the venue where they will spend the coming weeks putting the finishing touches on three Broadway-Style stage shows, including fleet favorites “Disney Seas the Adventure” and “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” and the all-new “Disney Hercules.”


Before going the distance to Germany, the cast spent 11 weeks at Disney Cruise Line’s entertainment facility in Toronto, Canada, learning dialogue, choreography, and other show material for “Disney Hercules.” They prepared high-energy numbers, like “Zero to Hero,” using rehearsal puppets, sample costume pieces, and scenic elements similar to those on the Walt Disney Theatre stage.

 

As the cast steps into the spotlight at the Walt Disney Theatre, they will begin incorporating technical elements into their rehearsals, including costumes, sets, and state-of-the-art-puppetry, to help bring the Walt Disney Animation Studios film to the stage like never before.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to raising the curtain aboard the Disney Destiny!

Disney Destiny – Saga Lounge/Entertainment Venue

Disney Destiny – Saga Lounge/Entertainment Venue


Disney Destiny, like her sister ships Wish and Treasure, has a 2-story entertainment venue just off the Grand Hall. Main Seating is on Deck 3 and Balcony Seating is on Deck 4. This is located just forward of the Grand Hall Lobby.

 

During the day this is where things like family-friendly Trivia and some show type entertainment will be held. This is a family-friendly location during the day. The theme of this area is Black Panther. You can purchase specialty drinks here, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. After 9 pm Saga becomes an adult only entertainment lounge with adult themed shows. You will find everything from game show style audience participation, trivia contests, comedians dancing, and other live entertainment.


If you have been on a Disney Cruise before, think of D Lounge. This area is quite larger and more open than D Lounge. D Lounge has a small stage and Saga has a much larger one. D Lounge is often overcrowded and if you don’t get there early enough it is full, and you can’t get in. This is where things like trivia, dancing and special events like Mrs. Claus Storytime on Merrytime Cruises happen. These events are switching to the new larger location.

 

 

 

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Disney Destiny Grand Hall

Disney Destiny Grand Hall


Like the other Wish-Class ships Destiny has a Grand Hall instead of an Atrium Lobby. Destiny’s Grand Hall is themed after Wakanda from Black Panther. From the colors of the walls, carpet to the style of the pilers it is all a reminder of Wakanda, her warriors and beloved King. There is a beautiful statue of King T’Challa and a Black Panther in the Hall.

 

The Grand Hall is a focal point of the ship. This is where you will enter the ship from the Port Terminal on Embarkation Day. This is where you will spend a lot of time throughout your cruise. The Grand Hall is 3 stories tall. Deck 3 is the Main Area and Decks 4 and 5 are shops and lounges. When there are events on Deck 3 and that level is full you can go to Deck 4 or 5 and have a bird’s eye view of the celebration.

 

At times throughout the cruise Loki will cause havoc in the Grand Hall attempting to “take over” the ship. At other times you may see Cruella De Vill strut through on her way to her lounge, De Vil’s.


Deck 3:

The Main Dining Restaurant, 1923 is toward the Aft side of the Grand Hall. The 2 dining rooms are named in honor of Walt (Port Side) and Roy (Starboard Side) Disney. This Main Dining Room serves Classic California cuisine for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. The theme is 1920’s Hollywood Gilts and Glam. Both rooms have displays of Disney Movie memorabilia. From Character Concept art to 3-D Models you will find lots of Disney History.


There is the Grand Hall Stage, Center of the Ship towards Forward. This is a small stage on the other side of the Grand Hall from 1923. There will be some shows and such on this little stage. From Mickey and Minnie to Loki Characters will show up to thrill you on this little stage.

 

You will find Shutter Photographers in the Grand Hall throughout the day taking pictures with characters and props. Check your Navigator app for times and characters. In the evening the photographers will be in the Hall taking pictures again. Some will be with characters, props, and others will have professional backdrops for you to take pictures with.

 

A Kids Club check-in desk is in the Grand Hall on the Port Side. There is a slide from Deck 3 to Deck 2 for the kids to take directly to the Kids Club! Adults can try out the slide on embarkation day and during Open House Hours for the Kids Club. You can check the Navigator App for Kids Club Open House hours.

 

Also check out the Grand Hall at midnight for a special magical moment from the ship. (They do it several times throughout the evening for the littles to enjoy as well. At this point it has not been announced what it will be. On the Wish the chandelier and walls have special lighting and at midnight you hear A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.)


De Vil’s
Piano Lounge is on the Port Side of the ship toward the Front of the ship. This little Piano Bar is themed after 101 Dalmatian’s’ Cruella De Vil. The Piano is painted with Dalmatian Spots. Cruella sometimes comes to visit her lounge.

 

On the Starboard Side of the ship, towards the Forward of the Ship is the Grand Hall Collection Shop. This gift shop, as well as all other shops will not be open while the ship is in port. The ship must be a required distance from shore before shops can open.


Saga main seating area is on the other side of the Small Grand Hall stage, Deck 3 Center Ship, towards the Forward of the ship. Saga is a family entertainment area by day with shows and contests throughout the day. In the evening it becomes an adult only lounge with entertainment. Check the Navigator App for scheduled events. This is a two-story venue.

 

Deck 4:

Saga Balcony Seating, is located Center Forward of the Ship. This is additional seating for Saga. You can get a good view of the stage from up here if you wish.

 

Guest Services Desk is on the Port Side toward Aft. This is where you go if you have any questions, concerns or just need a little help.

 

The DVC Desk is on the Starboard Side toward Aft. If you are a DVC member stop and say hi! See what they have to offer to DVC members. If you are not a DVC member, you can find information on how to become one.

 

Untangled Salon is Aft of the Grand Hall, Port Side. Untangled Salon is a beauty salon for women looking to get their hair styled or nails done. It is themed after Rapunzel from Tangled. Great location to pamper yourself.

 

Café Megara is Center Ship. Café Megara is a walk-up Café themed after Megara from Hercules. Feeling like you need to grab a snack? Step into Café Megara and feed your inner Hero! There is an additional charge for this location.

 

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is Starboard Side Aft of the Grand Hall. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is where the kids can get made up as their favorite princess, prince or pirate. There various packages you can purchase. From just hair and make-up to full makeover with an outfit.

 

Deck 5

Art on Demand is located on the Aft Port Side of the ship. This is where you can order prints of select Disney Art. Some of the art is limited to the ships.

 

Mickey’s Mainsail Shop is Aft Portside on this Deck. This is where you can find more TShirts, Swimsuits, Toys and such. All shops are closed while the ship is in port.

 

Shopping Ambassador is on the Starboard Side. This is where you can get help finding that perfect keepsake from your Disney Cruise.

 

DVC, Starboard Side, this is where DVC events will be held. Want to take the time to listen to the DVC sail pitch to see if it is right for you? This is where you want to be. They give prizes for attending.

 

Shutters, Starboard Side is where you can purchase some camera supplies and order photo packages and prints of pictures from the cruise.

 

Shutters Portrait Studio, Starboard Side is where you will go to get your special Portraits taken. This is not included in the Unlimited Digital Download Photo Package.

 

Café Merida, is a walk-up café where you can grab a quick bite to eat. This is themed after Merida from the movie Brave. This is an additional charge.

 

This is just the midship, Grand Hall area of the Disney Destiny from Deck 3 to Deck 5. There is a lot more on these decks Forward and Aft.

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Disney Destiny Leaving the Meyer Werft Shipyard!!

Disney Destiny Leaving the Meyer Werft Shipyard!!


Disney Destiny will be leaving the Meyer Werft Shipyard and heading down the Ems River September 19, 2025, at 11:30 pm local time (Germany). This will be 6 hours earlier for the USA EST and 9 hours earlier for PST.

Disney Destiny is headed out for her Sea Trials. We wish her the best and hope she passes.

Here is the schedule for Destiny’s travels down the Ems River:

When

Time

What

Where

September 19

11:30 PM

Waiting position Meyer Werft

Papenburg

September 20

00:00

Passing the dock lock

Papenburg

September 20

4 AM

Passing the Friesenbucke

Weener

September 20

7 AM

Passing the Jann-Berghaus Bridge

Empty

September 20

12:30 PM

Arrival at Ems Barrage

Gandersum

September 20

2:30 PM

Passing Emden

Emden

This schedule is subject to wind and weather conditions, as well as water levels in the Ems River. Time changes are possible at short notice.


Here is a link to Hamburg Livestream that may be following the ship:

Hamburg Livestream