CELEBRATION, FL, Sept. 11 /CNW/ -- For the first-time ever, Disney Cruise Line will offer Alaskan cruises during a four-month season of seven-night sailings aboard the Disney Wonder in summer 2011. Combining the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience provided by Disney Cruise Line, the Disney Wonder will depart out of Vancouver, B.C., calling on popular ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.

"Our guests have longed to explore the wild, natural beauty of Alaska with Disney Cruise Line," said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz. "With this itinerary, families will enjoy all the outdoor adventures Alaska has to offer and we're excited that our guests begin their journey in one of the world's most picturesque and dynamic cities - Vancouver."

Disney Wonder 2011 Schedule

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Departing out of Vancouver, the Disney Wonder will sail a total of 18 seven-night cruises to Alaska for the 2011 summer season, calling on Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan.

With Vancouver as the home port for the Disney Wonder's Alaska season, Disney Cruise Line guests will be able to experience the sightseeing, attractions and culture of this vibrant metropolis, pre- or post-cruise. Together, families can take an aerial tram to the top of a mountain, visit the city's zoo, aquarium or wildlife refuge, explore culturally rich neighbourhoods, shop for eclectic items, dine on international cuisine and enjoy the many public parks and gardens.

"This is truly a magical day for us at Port Metro Vancouver, and we are pleased and honoured to be working with Disney Cruise Line," said Robin Silvester, President and CEO, Port Metro Vancouver. "With the Disney Wonder sailing out of Vancouver, thousands of families will be able to explore the magic of our city before embarking on a dream-come-true voyage to Alaska."

As part of the new Alaska itinerary, Disney Cruise Line guests will be able to experience breathtaking natural vistas, an abundance of wildlife and the rich history and customs of Alaska's native culture. On their Alaskan adventure, guests may catch a glimpse of a brown bear, bald eagle or humpback whale, and explore magnificent glaciers and fjords in Juneau. In Ketchikan, guests can fish for some of the largest wild salmon in the world and learn about local culture through hand-carved totem poles. In Skagway, Disney Cruise Line guests can traverse panoramic landscapes by railway, or pan for gold like miners from the famous Klondike gold rush.

The first-ever Disney cruise to Alaska will depart on May 3 with the last cruise of the season scheduled for Aug. 30, 2011.