The first DCL-Disney Cruise Line ship to set sail from Florida in 500+ days left Port Canaveral (Orlando) on August 9.
Disney Dream sailed away for the Bahamas carrying her reduced load of guests after successfully completing a test voyage in July. She is the first DCL boat to set sail from the USA since cruising was halted due to the COVID crisis.
In the video below, the liner can be heard blowing a horn that plays "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes" from Cinderella.
The company faced a number of setbacks in getting back to business, including a test cruise that was delayed after several crew tested positive for the virus.
Florida and state politicians blocked the ability of cruise companies to require proof of vaccination from passengers. Cruise companies responded by making unvaccinated vacationers take (and pay for) regular tests as well as barring them from certain onboard activities. At the same time, NCL-Norwegian Cruise Lines won the ability to ask for proof of vaccination.
Disney Dream is requiring regular tests and making all guests wear face masks while indoors.