Disney Cruise Line has just announced something rather special — Robert Downey Jr. will serve as the official godparent of the Disney Adventure, the newest (and largest!) ship in the fleet.
The news comes just ahead of the ship’s maiden voyage from Singapore on March 10, 2026 — and it feels like a very fitting choice.
After all, if you’re going to bless a ship packed with Marvel experiences, who better than Iron Man himself?
credit Disney Parks Blog
A Super Hero Blessing for Disney’s Largest Ship
The maritime tradition of appointing a godparent dates back centuries and is believed to bring good fortune to a vessel before its first sailing. It’s always a meaningful moment in a ship’s history — and Disney tends to choose godparents who reflect the spirit of the ship.
“Our new ship continues Disney Cruise Line’s tradition of bringing great stories to life at sea, and we are honored that Robert Downey Jr., who has guided audiences through unforgettable Marvel stories, is the official godparent for the Disney Adventure,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences and incoming CEO of The Walt Disney Company.
Downey’s portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man helped launch the Marvel Cinematic Universe into the global phenomenon it is today. Avengers: Endgame alone earned more than $2.79 billion worldwide. He was named a Disney Legend in 2019 and is set to return to the Marvel universe as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday later this year.
Downey responded to the news in classic style:
“It’s impossible to describe the majesty of the Adventure, and to be its godparent is an honor. As the largest ship in the Disney fleet, a gargantuan blessing must be bestowed … I’ll do my darndest.”
What Makes Disney Adventure So Special?
The Disney Adventure isn’t just another ship launch. It represents a major expansion for Disney Cruise Line, with Singapore as its home port and a strong focus on immersive storytelling.
The ship will feature seven themed areas, bringing together more than 100 years of Disney stories — and Marvel fans are going to be particularly excited.
Marvel at Sea — On a Whole New Scale
One of the headline attractions is Tony Stark’s Ironcycle Test Run, located in Marvel Landing on the upper decks. It will be:
- The first roller coaster on any Disney Cruise Line ship
- The longest roller coaster at sea
There’s also the live stage show “Avengers Assemble!” in Disney Imagination Garden, promising stunts, special effects, and an action?packed battle between heroes and villains.
And for younger cruisers, the Marvel WEB Workshop inside Disney’s Oceaneer Club will allow kids to test Super Hero suit prototypes and take part in interactive training simulations.
Choosing Robert Downey Jr. as godparent feels like the perfect way to anchor that Marvel presence right from the start.
The Disney Cruise Line Experience Guests Love
Of course, Disney Adventure will also deliver everything guests expect from Disney Cruise Line:
Broadway style shows
Character meet and greets
Beautifully themed staterooms and concierge accommodations
More than 20 dining and lounge venues
A mix of international and Asian inspired cuisine
As the largest ship in the fleet, Adventure blends big ship innovation with Disney’s signature storytelling and service.
A Big Moment for Disney Cruise Line
The Disney Adventure’s debut marks one of the most significant fleet expansions in Disney Cruise Line history. With sailings from Singapore, it signals Disney’s growing presence in Asia and introduces a whole new audience to the Disney cruise experience.
And having Robert Downey Jr. serve as godparent? It adds some serious star power — and a very Marvel worthy blessing — as this exciting new chapter begins.
Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 60 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 250,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.