Disney Adventure 'godparent' Robert Downey Jr christens cruise ship in Singapore ahead of maiden voyage

Robert Downey Jr officially christened the highly anticipated Disney Adventure during a special event onboard the cruise ship on Wednesday night (Mar 4).

The Iron Man actor was in Singapore after Disney's previous announcement of his role as "godparent" of Disney Adventure, which makes its maiden voyage on Mar 10.

"Well, never let it be said I don’t know how to make an entrance," Downey quipped as he stepped onstage at the ship's Walt Disney Theatre to loud cheers from guests. 

“I’ve had the privilege of getting to know the team at Walt Disney Imagineering, I can tell you ‘Adventure’ is the perfect name for what they’ve created.

"I mean it’s absolutely massive, it’s gargantuan. Have you been up top? Cos there’s an entire amusement park up there. It’s bananas! I recommend the Ironcycle coaster by the way, I’ve got a good feeling about that one," he joked, before later performing his duties.

"I christen thee 'Disney Adventure'. May God bless this ship and all who sail upon us," he said.

On Tuesday night, a grand fireworks display ushered the cruise ship's arrival at Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore. 

With a passenger capacity of approximately 6,700, Disney Adventure boasts seven themed areas inspired by popular Disney movies and properties, including Toy Story, Moana and the Marvel franchise.

Disney Adventure is scheduled to homeport in Singapore for at least five years and will be christened on Wednesday.

Downey, whose portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man in Disney’s Marvel Cinematic Universe helped propel the franchise into a multibillion-dollar juggernaut, described the appointment as “an honour, a privilege, a blast, a titillating thrill and … an adventure".

In a post on Disney Cruise Line's official social media pages on Wednesday, Downey was also seen touring Disney Adventure.

The 45-second video shows Downey touring various facilities aboard the Disney Adventure, clad in a jacket over a blue T-shirt emblazoned with Doctor Doom – his character in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday.

Despite taking on a new villainous role, Downey makes several nods to his iconic Iron Man character in the video, saying that the ship’s bridge is “Stark tech, right here” and joking that “many of me” made it to the ship’s stairwell, in reference to a painting featuring multiple Iron Man suits.

The video also shows his interactions with Disney Adventure's crew members, including him hugging Spider-Man and bantering with Loki.

In a statement, Joe Schott, president of Disney Signature Experiences, said: “The arrival of the Disney Adventure in Singapore marks a significant milestone in our global expansion, introducing Disney cruising to Asia for the very first time.

“Honouring Disney Cruise Line’s legacy of unforgettable journeys, our newest ship brings together our signature storytelling and creativity in an exciting new destination.”

Melissa Ow, chief executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, added: “Disney Cruise Line's decision to homeport their newest ship in Singapore is a testament to our appeal as a premier cruise destination.

"Singapore’s repertoire of compelling onshore tourism experiences is a fitting complement to the Disney Adventure’s unique entertainment-led vacation at sea. 

"The Disney Adventure’s arrival brings us a step closer towards realising our Tourism 2040 vision to drive quality tourism growth. Together with Disney Cruise Line, we're excited to bring magical experiences to travellers from around the world.”

Disney Adventure will debut several regional firsts, including regionally authentic cuisines, unique retail experiences and original entertainment offerings.

Food lovers can look forward to regional Asian food favourites and innovative drinks, including bubble tea. Shoppers will have nearly 17,000 square feet of retail space featuring exclusive collections. 

Among the new experiences are the World Of Disney store, the National Geographic store and the Duffy And Friends shop.

Thrill-seekers can also look forward to Marvel-themed attractions, including the Ironcycle Test Run, set to be the longest rollercoaster at sea.