The Disney Magic, in all of its 11-deck and 964-feet glory, departed for its maiden voyage from the Port of Galveston on Saturday.
Disney embraced this first Texas trip with flair: Iconic characters and crew members waved and brandished tiny Lone Star Flags from the ship's main deck, and a Mickey Mouse silhouette donned a Texas-sided ten gallon hat on the massive smokestack.
Mounted members of the Ghostriders — the official rodeo drill team of Texas — saluted the Disney Magic from land, and hundreds of visitors flocked to the port to catch a glimpse of the ship and partake in a Sail-A-Bration.
Disney Cruise Line signed with the Port of Galveston less than a month ago, cementing a two-year lease that is expected to generate at least $2.4 million in gross revenue for the port.
The Magic's first trip from will last seven nights, making stops in Grand Cayman, Costa Maya and Cozumel before returning to Galveston.
The Galveston Daily News reports that Texans can have a taste of home while on the open water, as well, with five wine varieties from Bryan-based Messina Hof on the bar menu.
