Was it friendship or treasure that Sindbad sought? Here at Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, we uncover the answer. This musical boat cruise in Tokyo DisneySea’s Arabian Coast is inspired by the tales of Sindbad the Sailor.
Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage opened with Tokyo DisneySea on September 4, 2001. It was originally known as Sindbad’s Seven Voyages. The first version was quite different. It had a darker theme, which proved unpopular. Some guests, especially children, found it scary.
In 2007, Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage was revamped. The new version had a lighter mood and a new song. Alan Menken, who wrote songs for “The Little Mermaid”, “Beauty and the Beast”, and “Aladdin”, composed “Compass of Your Heart”. This song became central to the ride. Sindbad also gained a sidekick, Chandu, a cute tiger cub.
The original Sindbad narrated the story in a conventional way. Paintings showed him as a merchant’s son seeking adventure. In the updated Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, Sindbad tells his story through song. The opening scene now features a grand send-off with flags and banners.
Originally, mermaids were sinister and tried to lure Sindbad to his doom. Now, they help him with music. They even show him where to go. On Rukh Island, Sindbad’s crew once stole Roc eggs. Now, pirates steal them and face the Roc’s wrath.
In the original version, a giant caught Sindbad’s crew playing with his treasure. In the updated Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, Sindbad and his crew rescue the giant from pirates. The giant, grateful, loads Sindbad’s boat with treasure.
Sindbad’s visit to the Sultan’s palace was once a warning about dangers. Now, it shows Sindbad collecting musical instruments. Monkeys once threatened guests. Now, they celebrate with Sindbad and enjoy music.
The whale encounter is now lighthearted. The whale playfully sprays water and lifts Sindbad’s boat. The finale celebrates Sindbad’s return. He reveals that friendship is the greatest treasure.
The final scene used to feature a salesman offering to sell Sindbad’s boat. The current Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage ends with Sindbad bidding farewell. He encourages everyone to follow their heart’s compass.
Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage uses many animatronics. The figures are expressive and move fluidly. The ride attempts to mask the water channel, creating the feeling that you are floating through rivers and seas. Enjoy the adventure and remember the compass of your heart.