As part of our commitment to inspire the next generation of maritime professionals, we had the pleasure of hosting a group of students onboard the Disney Dream from the Bahamas Maritime Cadet Corps when the ship was docked in Nassau recently. The timing of the tour could not have been more perfect since it fell on “Day of the Seafarer,” which is celebrated annually on June 25, and recognizes the unique contributions made by seafarers from all over the world.
The Bahamas Maritime Cadet Corps is a program instituted under the Bahamas Maritime Authority to introduce and prepare high school students for employment in the maritime industry.
While onboard the students explored the ship’s engine room, toured the bridge, went behind-the-scenes of The Walt Disney Theater and participated in a panel discussion with the ship’s captain, Andy McRonald, along with other senior officers.
Captain Andy shared with us that he could not think of a better way to celebrate the day then touring this energetic group of aspiring maritime professionals onboard and giving them a glimpse into the world of cruise ship operations.
Take a look at their day:
This tour is a part of Disney Cruise Line initiatives focused on inspiring youth to pursue maritime careers. Most recently, Disney Cruise Line also announced that it will sponsor four scholarships at the LJM Maritime Academy for female cadets aspiring to become ship captains and shipboard leaders. The scholarships, one for each of the ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, will include tuition to the three-year program – two years of study at the academy and one year of service aboard a Disney ship.
Other programs include the debut of Captain Minnie Mouse who will make the rounds on all Disney ships and visit port communities including those in The Bahamas. Later this year, Captain Minnie Mouse will also appear in an all-new, onboard youth activity being developed for Disney Cruise Line ships where young captain hopefuls will practice STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) skills in a fun, interactive marine-themed activity.
