Disney’s newest cruise ship marked a major milestone last week when the Disney Wish reached the North Sea, marking the first time it hit open water.

Earlier this year, Disney announced that it was pushing back the maiden voyage of the Disney Wish cruise ship due to ongoing construction delays attributed to the Omicron variant of COVID-19. While that delayed date still stands, Disney Cruise Line is now making great progress with its newest ship.

Last week, the Disney Wish navigated 26 miles of the River Ems from the Meyer Werft shipyard all the way out to the open water of the North Sea. This voyage marks a major milestone for the ship.

To reach the North Sea, the Disney Wish squeezed through tight clearings, passed through drawbridges, and had to navigate multiple locks. And oh yeah, it had to travel backwards.

WATCH: Disney Wish Reaches Open Water

What It Takes to Move a Disney Cruise Ship Down a River

Getting to the North Sea was no easy feat for the Disney Wish. It took great timing, engineering, teamwork, and a little bit of pixie dust.

The Disney Wish was traveling backwards. Photo courtesy of Disney

For example, because river depth fluctuates with the tides, Disney had to wait until there was a full moon when tides are at their highest. Otherwise, the water would’ve been too shallow to make the journey out to sea.

And to navigate the river, Captain Minnie (and OK, the real captain too) had to steer the boat backwards. As in, stern-first. That meant that Rapunzel, who graces the Wish’s rear, led the charge to the North Sea. No one tell Mother Gothel.

What’s Next for the Disney Wish?

Now that the Disney Wish has sailed down the River Ems and made it to the North Sea, it is holding down the fort in Eemshaven, Netherlands.

While it’s here, Disney Cruise Line will start to perform crucial sea trials to make sure she’s absolutely seaworthy. The hallmark safety checks you expect at Disney Parks extend to Disney Cruise Line as well.

The Disney Wish has just passed through a drawbridge on its way to the North Sea. Photo courtesy of Disney

Want to learn more about the Disney Wish? We’ve to the inside scoop on everything from dining to activities to staterooms:

• Staterooms on the Wish
• Spa and salon
• Behind the Scenes of the Disney The Little Mermaid stage show
• Entertainment options on the Wish
• Incredi-Games obstacle course
• New Uncharted Adventure game on the Wish
• Dining at Arendelle
• Dining at Worlds of Marvel
• Dining at 1923
• Inside Joyful Sweets, a dessert shop on the Disney Wish
• Teen lounges
• Oceaneer Club

Not sure if you’re going? You can just get more information about a potential Disney vacation.

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Disney Wish Prices, Dates, and How to Book Early