Robert Downey Jr. has been named godparent of the Disney Adventure, the newest and largest vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, ahead of its maiden voyage from Singapore on March 10. The 6,700-passenger ship marks a major milestone for Disney as it expands its cruise footprint into Asia for the first time.
The maritime tradition of appointing a godparent dates back centuries and is believed to bring good fortune and protection to a vessel before its inaugural sailing. Disney confirmed the announcement as the ship prepares to homeport at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, operating in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board.
Downey, whose portrayal of Tony Stark, also known as Iron Man, helped define the Marvel Cinematic Universe, will lend his star power to the ship’s launch. His decade-long run as Iron Man culminated in “Avengers: Endgame,” one of the highest-grossing films of all time. He is also set to return to the Marvel universe as Doctor Doom in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday,” scheduled for release in December.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences and incoming CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said the Disney Adventure continues the cruise line’s tradition of bringing beloved stories to life at sea. Downey’s connection to Marvel storytelling makes him a fitting choice, he noted, as the ship features several immersive superhero-themed experiences.
At Marvel Landing on the top decks, guests will find Tony Stark’s Ironcycle Test Run, the first roller coaster ever featured on a Disney Cruise Line ship and the longest of its kind at sea. The attraction invites riders to test a high-speed Ironcycle prototype inspired by Stark’s fictional technology.
Elsewhere onboard, the open-air Disney Imagination Garden will host “Avengers Assemble!,” a live stage production combining stunts, special effects and appearances from Marvel heroes and villains. Younger cruisers can explore the Marvel WEB Workshop inside Disney’s Oceaneer Club, where interactive simulations allow children to test superhero suit prototypes and train using Avengers-inspired technology.
Beyond its Marvel offerings, the Disney Adventure brings more than a century of Disney storytelling to life across seven themed areas. Guests can expect Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, themed staterooms and concierge-level accommodations. The ship will also feature more than 20 dining and lounge venues, highlighting both international cuisine and Asian-inspired flavors tailored to its regional base.
As the largest ship in Disney’s fleet and the first to operate from Asia, the Disney Adventure represents a significant expansion for the cruise line. With Downey serving as its ceremonial godparent, the vessel launches with a blend of Hollywood prestige and Disney’s signature storytelling at sea.
