Matt and Emma Willis take to the seas with a Disney Cruise

It’s a ‘Disney Fantasy’ for the celebrity couple…

Matt and Emma Willis have teamed up with Disney Cruise Line to discover the magic of Disney cruising for themselves – just as the iconic Disney Fantasy arrives in Europe for its first-ever summer season, setting sail from Southampton on Thursday 31st July.

But this isn’t just any holiday for the husband-and-wife duo – it’s their very first cruise, and a full-blown, fun-packed showdown they’ll never forget! With playful rivalry and plenty of competitive spirit, Matt and Emma throw themselves into the Disney Cruise experience, discovering everything the spectacular ship has to offer – from jaw-dropping dining to unforgettable entertainment.

Now, in a brand-new video on Disney UK’s official channel, fans can follow all the action as the pair face off in a series of laugh-out-loud challenges – from pirate-themed dress-up and romantic escapes to Disney character selfies and spectacular ice creams – all in a bid to be crowned the Ultimate Disney Shipmate. Their friendly competition is fuelled by a cast of famous friends, each making a surprise appearance to set them a unique task to test their skills and uncover hidden gems aboard the ship.

“We’ve done some amazing trips together, but this one was like stepping into another world,” says Emma Willis. “From the moment we arrived on board, it was pure Disney magic. Every aspect was amazing – the food, the shows, the characters – there were surprises everywhere! You feel like a kid again, in the best way. It was all pure magic, fun and adventure – and we loved every second of it.”

“I never thought I’d be that guy doing towel origami or dressing up as a pirate – but somehow Disney Cruise Line got me fully on board,” laughs Matt Willis. “There’s just something about this ship that brings out your playful side. And competing with Emma? Let’s just say I wasn’t about to let her win that easily. I had no choice but to bring my A-game.”

The contest kicks off with Coleen Rooney, who gets things started with a challenge that’s pure Disney fun: who can snap the most selfies with iconic characters? The race is on as the couple dash across the ship to meet the likes of Mickey Mouse, Minnie, Donald Duck, Goofy, Captain Hook and Snow White. Matt gets strategic, Emma gets competitive, and Coleen ends up with more selfies in her inbox than she bargained for!

Next up, Janette Manrara challenges the pair to embrace the sparkle for Pirate Night. As the ship transforms into a high-seas celebration, Emma hits the onboard shop in search of the perfect pirate ensemble, while Matt throws it back to his eyeliner days and emerges in full pirate regalia that he just happened to pack especially for the occasion. From themed parties to fireworks at sea, this might just be their most swashbuckling challenge yet.

Then, comedian Rob Beckett turns up the heat with a food-fuelled mission. Tasked with tracking down the most outrageous and iconic Disney eats on board, Matt and Emma dive into an epic tasting tour of the Disney Fantasy. From fluffy Mickey waffles and soft-serve ice cream to towering desserts and an immersive meal at the fan-favourite Animator’s Palate, their competitive streak kicks in fast – and things get sticky.

Alison Hammond brings the laughs for the next challenge, asking Matt and Emma to try their hand at the iconic Disney Cruise Line towel animals. With just towels, enthusiasm, and a little light instruction, Emma gamely attempts an elephant and a Mickey – while Matt, ever the wildcard, ropes in help from their stateroom host for a surprisingly pro-level creation. Let’s just say Alison would be proud… of one of them.

Finally, Romesh Ranganathan calls for calm – tasking the couple with uncovering the ship’s best adults-only escapes. For once, they put their rivalry on pause to explore grown-up indulgences: from sun-soaked serenity on the Quiet Cove deck and spa treatments at Senses Spa, to yoga classes and a romantic date night at Palo, they discover that a Disney Cruise isn’t just for kids – it’s a luxury retreat in disguise.

Fast-paced, full of fun, and packed with playful rivalry, Matt and Emma’s Disney Cruise adventure is an unforgettable journey from start to finish. Every challenge brings magic, adventure and a whole lot of laughs. But when the final points are tallied… who will come out on top and be crowned the Ultimate Disney Shipmate?

And with the Disney Fantasy setting sail from Southampton this summer for the very first time, Matt and Emma’s unforgettable showcase makes one thing clear: this isn’t just a cruise – it’s a one-of-a-kind adventure at sea, bursting with magical moments, unexpected surprises and pure Disney joy.

Watch the full showdown now – exclusively on Disney UK’s official YouTube channel at youtube.com/@DisneyUK