A cornerstone philosophy, at The Walt Disney Company, is that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. The Imagineers know they have just a few seconds to make a positive first impression, which is why all guest’s board the ship through the glorious, 3-deck Atrium Lobby.  The magic begins when your family name is announced over the lobby speakers and a cast member personally welcomes your family on board the [Disney_Fantasy].  At this point, it is almost impossible to take in all the Art Nouveau-inspired details incorporated into the atrium lobby.

Each deck offers a unique perspective of the lobby.  Climbing up the sweeping Grand Staircase to deck 4, the peacock-inspired carpet begins to take center stage.

The view from deck 5 between the elevators provides an overview of the Atrium Lobby’s key design elements.

Peacock Chandelier

The chandelier is mesmerizing with it’s unique peacock pattern and colors, hand crafted from stained glass and crystal beads.  (Before you ask… Yes, I was laying on my back in the middle of the lobby to take this photograph.)

From decks 4 and 5 you can easily spot some of the ship’s Hidden Mickey’s.

Flapper (Mademoiselle) Minnie Mouse

The centerpiece of the lobby is the bronze statue of Flapper Minnie Mouse, dressed in vintage clothing accompanied by her steamer luggage, reminiscent of the Golden Age of ocean travel.

Do not worry, over the course of a 7-Night cruise there will be more than enough time to take in the beauty of the Atrium Lobby as it is the backdrop for the majority of the character meet and greats, as well as a natural gathering point before dinner at Royal Court.

Looking for more?  See how beautiful the atrium looks decorated for Christmas.