Cruise line launches new Minnie Mouse character, onboard STEM activities and scholarships
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Disney Cruise Line has created new youth programmes featuring Captain Minnie Mouse and new maritime scholarships to encourage young female passengers to pursue careers in the cruise industry.
Introduced on all Disney Cruise Line ships this April, the Captain Minnie Mouse character will be used to help young passengers understand what roles women can play in the maritime industry. Later this year, for example, Captain Minnie Mouse will participate in a new maritime-themed progamme where young passengers can practice science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills in the onboard Oceaneer Lab. The interactive activities will enable children to hone both their STEM and problem-solving abilities, both of which are essential in the maritime industry.
Captain Minnie Mouse will also visit local children in some of Disney Cruise Line’s homeports and ports of call. She will be accompanied by a female Disney Cruise Line officer or crew member who will explain their roles in the maritime industry and raise awareness about career choices for women onboard a cruise ship.
In the future, girls will be able to have a Captain Minnie Mouse makeover at the onboard Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.
“Our Disney characters have a unique ability to inspire and connect with children, and we know Captain Minnie will encourage young girls around the world to consider a career in the maritime industry,” said Jeff Vahle, president of Disney Cruise Line.
Disney Cruise Line has also teamed up with LJM Maritime Academy in The Bahamas to sponsor scholarships for four female cadets who aspire to be ship captains and shipboard leaders. The three-year scholarships will include two years of study and one year of service onboard one of the four Disney Cruise Line ships.
“We are excited to work with LJM Maritime Academy to offer scholarships for young women who are pursuing their passions and following their dreams in our industry,” said Vahle.