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Disney’s Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club – The Best Resort?

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So you’ve narrowed your Disney World Resort list down between two options: the Boardwalk Inn and the Yacht Club.  But which one is the best option for you and your family?

Well, in this article, I’m going to let you know what each resort has to offer its guests, and outline some notable pros and cons of each hotel, as well.  Hopefully, by the end of this article, you’ll walk away with a good idea of which resort won the battle of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club!

Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club

Let’s begin this by discussing resort type.

Resort Type

Both the Boardwalk Inn and Yacht Club are considered to be “ Deluxe Resorts ” by Disney’s standards. In short, this means they are considered to be in the best resort category when looking at resorts on Disney property. 

As a deluxe guest, you will have access to early park hours, as well as extended park hours. This is one reason why some people will only stay at a deluxe resort. Besides that, the deluxe class of resorts are beautiful and offer great amenities and theming.

If you’ve narrowed your choices down to either Boardwalk or Yacht Club, chances are that you’ve decided you want to be close to Epcot. 

Situated on Crescent Lake, both of these resorts are within walking distance to Epcot. You’ll also have easy access to the Skyliner that will get you to Hollywood Studios. 

This is a great mode of travel, and you will have quick access to both parks. You can even take a longer stroll by walking directly to Hollywood Studios (though I do not recommend this).

However, for Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, you will have to rely on the bus to get you there from these resorts.

The location overall is fantastic for both options, with no real clear winner here.

Yacht Club Dining Options

As both of these resorts are walking distance to one another, I’m only going to focus on dining options that are contained within each resort. Bear in mind, though, that if you want to skip over to one of the other resorts restaurants, you can very easily do that.

We will start with the Yacht Club. Since the Yacht Club is connected to the Beach Club , I will also include some of those options here.

For casual dining with an American seafood bias, Ale & Compass is a great choice for breakfast or dinner. The prices are on the lower side of most upscale dining options, so this is a good restaurant that offers a lot of value for money.

Next door at then Beach Club, we have the beloved Beaches & Cream. This is a staple for many families that visit Disney World . This is your classic American diner food option, like cheeseburgers and French fries. They also offer many milkshake and sundae options, hence the “Cream” part of the name. 

Crews Cup Lounge is a great place to cool off with a cocktail after a long day in the parks. This laid back bar lounge also serves up quick bites to eat with their tasty drinks.

The Yachtsman Steakhouse is one of the best Steakhouses on Walt Disney property. Le Cellier barely beats it out by my vote, but this steakhouse is fantastic signature dining. And it’s located right at the heart of the Yacht Club Resort. This is a must try if you are staying at the resort.

Boardwalk Inn Dining Options

Moving on over to Boardwalk Inn, we’re going to start with one of my favorite Italian restaurants — Trattoria al Forno. Here you can enjoy a character breakfast for the kids , and at dinner you will have a host of Italian options to choose from that are sure to please.

For a great quick service lunch option, look at the Pizza Window. The name implies exactly what you are going to get—hot pizza delivered to you at a window. Don’t let that fool you though, this pizza joint serves up a great slice of pie when you are pressed for time.

For a nice cocktail to wind down after a long day, look at making a trip over to AbracadaBar. This quick service bar harkens back to the magicians and illusionists from ages before. They have some really great drinks, and you can also grab a quick bite to eat if you are in a pinch. 

For your signature dining at the Boardwalk, Big River Grille & Brewing Works offer a great entree paired with a huge beer selection. And yes, it’s actually a brewery! So you can get beer that you will not see anywhere else, and also eat a great steak in the process!

A quick tip for one of my favorite sugary treats: you can visit the Funnel Cake Cart and grab a hot, ready to eat Funnel cake. Make sure and add this to your list if you are staying at the Boardwalk!

I’m going to come right out and say it—Yacht Club (and Beach Club) have the best pool, in my humble opinion, on Disney Property. 

Stormalong Bay is a 3 acre beachside pool area that sits in the middle of Yacht & Beach Club. 

With 3 leisure pools and a sandy bottom beach pool, you will be hard pressed to find an area at Stormalong Bay where you can’t enjoy a relaxing moment to yourself. 

Surrounding the pools is also a lazy river that will let you float around the whole 3 acre area while you sip your favorite cocktail that you can pick up at the beachside cabana.

To cap it all off, there is a 230’ waterslide that races you down from Crescent Lake to Stormalong Bay. 

Though this contest is easily won by Yacht Club, we have to mention the pool over at the Boardwalk Inn.

The Luna Park Pool is a carnival themed water escape, with a 200 foot waterslide. Here, there are all sorts of statues that harken back to the 1920 amusement parks. 

They also have a nearby lounge for refreshments. 

I can’t mention the pool here and not bring up the crazy clown that looks like something directly out of a horror film. Thankfully Disney took notice, and removed the clown , so you don’t have to worry about him haunting your dreams, should you choose the Boardwalk Inn.

It’s hard to narrow down the price difference here, as the price points are ever changing throughout the year. 

What I can say, however, is although they both go up and down depending on the season, the prices are usually relatively neck and neck. 

So I don’t think it’s terribly important to put a lot of attention on this. If you are looking at these two resorts, the money you will save will be negligible, so the better option is to pick the best one for you and your family based on the other elements. 

Yacht Club has relatively newly designed and revamped rooms. Though some people complain that it reminds them of a cramped cabin on a boat (which is part of the theme, hence “Yacht Club”) they are still spacious enough that you won’t feel too tightly packed in. 

I think that feeling is generated mostly due to the low ceilings, but the room really shines everywhere else. Sporting a sleek and modern look, I suppose one could argue the rooms look too dark or modern . I find them personally to be in line with my tastes, and I enjoy the more updated designs.

Over at the Boardwalk Inn, they have some of the oldest rooms situated around Crescent Lake. With a serious lack of outlets, these rooms are not as functional as the ones you’ll find at Yacht Club.

The design is a bit old and outdated, though some people find them beautifully executed. You’ll have to be the judge here and check out the pictures for yourself. 

Final Thoughts

This is an easy choice for me. If you haven’t figured it out by now, if I had to choose between these two deluxe resorts, I’d be putting my money toward the Yacht Club .

With the bonus addition of being a double resort connected to Beach Club, you also get access to the best pool on Disney Property along with some of the best signature dining options around. 

And while I prefer Yacht Club in this Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club battle royale, this does’t mean that the Boardwalk Inn is the wrong choice for you and your family. 

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You Might Also Like These Articles:

  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort vs Coronado Springs
  • Disney’s Polynesian vs Yacht Club
  • Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Grand Floridian
  • Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Beach Club
  • Disney’s Art of Animation vs Polynesian

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Michael has been visiting Disney World since he was a kid. He's also been to Disneyland and sailed on the Disney Dream. Michael is the owner and editor of Countdown to Magic.

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Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Panoramic view of Crescent Lake at Disney's Yacht Club Resort, lit up at night

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This gondola system offers a bird's eye view as it whisks you and your family away to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Lakeside marina and watercraft rentals at Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Outdoor Water Recreation Area

Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland. Read More

Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland.

Climb the mast and zip down one of the highest hotel waterslides at Walt Disney World Resort. Catch currents on an inner tube in the lazy river, unwind in one of 3 whirlpool spas and relax on the elevated tanning deck. Children can wade into the main pool from a gentle slope and splash about in 2 kiddie pools—including one with a miniature waterslide.

Prefer a more tranquil experience? Explore 3 all-ages quiet pools—each with a whirlpool spa—located throughout Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.

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Yachtsman Steakhouse dining area in Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Yachtsman Steakhouse

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When you stay at Disney’s Beach Club Villas , you’ll enjoy the same benefits offered at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort—along with spacious Disney Deluxe Villa accommodations. It’s an outstanding home base for your Walt Disney World vacation.

Discover the Villa Difference Disney’s Beach Club Villas and other Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts offer accommodations with just-like-home touches that go beyond the traditional hotel room.

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Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Last updated: June 20, 2024

The Yacht Club's nautical beach theme includes model ships and antique navigation instruments. The Resort's best features are its top-rated pool, walking paths to EPCOT and the Studios, and Skyliner access.

$598 - $4,093

Lodging Area

Boat, Bus, Skyliner, Walk

Guest Overall Rating

Based on 282 surveys. (See our Ratings and Research page for details)

Lighting: A

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modal#open click->video-modal#modalVideo">Club Level at Yacht Club

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modal#open click->video-modal#modalVideo">Yacht Club Room Review and Tour

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Best pool complex of any WDW resort

Excellent staff/service

Walking distance to EPCOT and DHS

Close to many BoardWalk and EPCOT dining options

Well-themed public spaces

Bright and attractive guest rooms

Boat and Skyliner transportation to DHS

Views and balcony size are hit-or-miss

Bus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs is shared with other EPCOT resorts

Our stay at Yacht Club was great. Room was good sized, as well as nicely designed and decorated. Without exception, all cast members encountered displayed helpful, courteous and friendly attitudes.

Our stay at Yacht Club was great. Room was good sized, as well as nicely designed and decorated. Without exception, all cast members encountered displayed...

April 7, 2021

We chose to stay at Yacht Club and couldn't have been happier.

May 5, 2018

Rooms at Yacht Club are lovely. The laminate floors are not noisy at all (if we had neighbors above us, we never heard them). Soundproofing on the balcony is good. Lots of USB ports.

Rooms at Yacht Club are lovely. The laminate floors are not noisy at all (if we had neighbors above us, we never heard them). Soundproofing on the balcony is...

October 10, 2017

We love the Yacht Club! We picked it the first time based on details - distance to the parks, reviews, etc - were not disappointed.

November 27, 2016

The Yacht Club's rooms are decorated in white with blue and brass accents. The most recent update also replaced carpeting with vinyl "hardwood" floors, freshening the rooms' look.

  • Room with Queen Bed(s) and en-suite bathroom
  • Balcony or patio
  • Dresser with drawers
  • Full-length mirror
  • Wireless Internet (Wi-Fi)
  • Flat-panel TV
  • Coffee maker and starter supply of coffee pods
  • Ironing board and iron
  • Digital thermostat
  • In-room safe
  • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and bar soap

Most rooms are 381 square feet and have two queen-size beds. All upper-floor rooms have full balconies, while ground-floor rooms have patios.

Yacht Club Standard Room

Yacht Club Standard Room

Yacht Club Standard Room

Yacht Club Dresser and TV

Yacht Club Fold Down Bed

Yacht Club Fold Down Bed

Yacht Club Standard Room

Yacht Club Desk and Chair

Yacht Club Closet and Storage

Yacht Club Closet and Storage

Yacht Club Fridge and Coffe Maker

Yacht Club Fridge and Coffe Maker

Yacht Club Standard Room Bathroom

Yacht Club Standard Room Bathroom

Yacht Club Standard Room Bathroom

Yacht Club Room 4073 View

boardwalk yacht club disney world

We’ve mapped and taken photographs of the views from every single room on Walt Disney World property! Our Room Finder helps you find the perfect room for you and then request that room from Disney.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Dining isn't a strength at Yacht Club, but tons of options are short walk away at EPCOT or the four other resorts.

Ale & Compass Restaurant The cuisine is advertised as “New England comfort food.” Reader ratings have improved substantially over the years, without compromising the diversity of the menu.

Yachtsman Steakhouse Open for dinner only, Yachtsman Steakhouse serves up steak, seafood, and sides. This is a signature restaurant that tries to create an atmosphere, so expect high prices and to adhere to a minimal dress code.

Market at Ale and Compass A small spot carved out of the gift shop, the Market has coffee, pastries, and other small items.

Ale and Compass Lounge Ale & Compass is a competent restaurant, the kind of place you'll be happy to find at dinnertime if it's raining and you don't want to go outside; or everyone is starving and you need to eat right now. Ale and Compass is a better choice for breakfast. You'll find something for everyone in various combinations of eggs, potatoes, bacon, tofu, French toast, and so on, with a la carte options if you just want a quick bite.

Crew's Cup Lounge The Crew’s Cup Lounge is one of the better bars in Walt Disney World, although the reason for that statement is hard to explain. The entire room just feels...well, cool. It starts when you approach the door, which is found in the Yacht Club’s hallway, heading towards the Beach Club Resort. One of the things that makes Crew’s Cup cool is the understated sign hanging in the hall, a few steps up, as well as a plain door. The facade is easily overshadowed by the Yachtsman Steakhouse, but that secret, speakeasy style entry makes it a little hard to find, and we all know that the coolest places don’t need to advertise. Walking in you immediately notice the theme, which is rowing, but are not overwhelmed by it. There are a few images of rowers here and there and a few oars along the walls, but it is mostly just a quaint, slightly dark, overwhelmingly wood-paneled lounge. The rowing theme obviously fits in with the Yacht Club Resort and the Crew’s Cup looks as if it would be a place that a crew team would hang out after practice. While many Americans do not think of crew or rowing as major sports, it certainly has a long history in the United States. It began as soon as the English landed, having been popular there several centuries prior. Yale University boast the oldest American college crew club, started in 1843, and the Harvard versus Yale regatta is the oldest intercollegiate sport in the U.S. It is so old in fact (started in 1852), that it had to be paused during the American Civil War! The entire Crew’s Cup Lounge hints toward this history. The shell (or boat to you landlubbers) hanging from the ceiling is a common place for storage when there are no racks. The oars along the walls are each painted differently, which is how a team identifies itself (although these oars match no teams that we could find). Even just the exposed rafters and craftsman touches point toward a New England style around the year 1900. For those interested in what goes on in a kitchen, there is a window that looks into a section of the Yachtsman Steakhouse’s back of house. Often during dinner time you will see a prep chef getting ready for the mealtime rush. Once you decide to have a seat, there are a few different options, with seats at the bar, a handful of booths, a few tables and chairs, and also a few couches. Whether you are there for dinner, relaxation, or to watch the television, you will find a seat to match. Speaking of dinner, there is both food and drink aplenty, although the drink list is our one big knock on The Crew’s Cup as it follows the standard Disney drink menu. The food here is above average and consists of hearty appetizers, burgers, and chicken tenders. Nothing fancy, but good quality and decently priced (for Walt Disney World). The Crew’s Cup Lounge is not often mentioned as a favorite spot, and we will hope it stays that way because that just means more room for us. After all, if everyone knows it might stop being so cool.

Fittings & Farings Fittings & Farings is Yacht Club's souvenir shop. A small selection of snacks, drinks, and other groceries are available.

Refillable Mugs Allows guest self-service soft drink refills from quick-service locations in hotels ( NOT in theme parks ) for $21.99 for the length of stay.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

SWIPE TO EXPLORE

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Yacht Club has Disney World's best pool - Stormalong Bay with a lazy river, fabulous water slide, and acres of water fun. Three other pools are available across Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, for use by both Beach and Yacht Club guests.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Lafferty Place Arcade arcade is near Stormalong Bay between the Yacht and Beach resorts. It features relatively recent video games of all kinds.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Free Disney Movies Under the Stars are shown most evenings, weather-permitting, either at the Beach Club Beach, or in the Solarium.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

The Ship Shape Fitness Center has weights, treadmills, and other equipment for your workout. Hours are typically 6 AM to 9 PM. Joggers will enjoy the 0.8-mile loop around Crescent Lake too.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

The Beach Club Beach hosts marshmallow roasts around 5:30 PM nightly. It's really great during the cooler months of the year.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney resort guests get into each theme park 30 minutes earlier than off-site guests, every day.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Those staying at Disney's Deluxe and Deluxe Villa hotels can buy Lightning Lane via Individual Purchase at 7:00 a.m. each day. Others cannot make that purchase until the official park opening time.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney's Deluxe and DVC resort guests get two extra hours in select theme parks on certain days of the week. The schedule changes, so check with the front desk.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Practical Matters

Check-in is 4:00pm Check-out is 11:00am

All Disney resorts participate in Disney’s Online Check-In program. If you’ve checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.

These rubber and plastic wrist bands can function as your room key, park admission, charge card, and more! MagicBands cost money, but if you'd like a free option you can use the official Disney World app on your phone or request an RFID-embedded card at the front desk.

Park tickets are best purchased online in advance either directly through Disney or via our Least Expensive Ticket Calculator . However, if you arrive without park tickets, head to the concierge desk in the hotel lobby.

Dining reservation are best made online in advance or on your phone or tablet during your visit. You can also use our Disney World Reservation Finder .

Washers and dryers are availabile in laundry facilities at each Disney World hotel. Cost is $3 per wash, and another $3 per dry cycle. A small selection of soap, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are also sold, for around $1 each. Only credit/debit cards can be used for payment. For more information, see our Disney World Laundry Facilities page.

If you lose something in a theme park or during your stay at a Disney-operated hotel, visit Disney's Lost and Found website or call (407) 824-4245.

Disney hotels have gifts shops near their lobbies with a decent collection of Disney-branded souvenirs. You will also find basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. Resort hotels with Deluxe Villa rooms offer an assortment of groceries, as well.

Disney recommends a third party company, Kid's Nite Out , to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney World Child Care page for more information.

The Yacht Club is located in the EPCOT Resort Area. All modern GPS apps, and Google Maps, will have clear driving directions to it. As a backup, look for Disney road signs directing you toward the EPCOT resorts (not EPCOT) once you're on property, and then look for signs for the Yacht Club once you're close.

Destination Boat Bus Car Walk
25 min 36 min
12 min 16 min 9 min
14 min 14 min 22 min
25 min 17 min
26 min 10 min

Disney Skyliner gondola system has a station at EPCOT's International Gateway entrance. The ride to Hollywood Studios is about 12 minutes (plus waiting time in line).

Disney provides free bus service to the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs from the bus stop at the front of the resort. Buses run about every 20 minutes. For all destinations except the Magic Kingdom, it's probably faster to drive or walk.

If you have your own car , it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's Animal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's transportation system is faster to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney's Hollywood Studios.

EPCOT is a short walk from the Yacht Club, and the walk to Hollywood Studios is just a little longer.

Disney provides free boat service to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios from the resort.

You can walk between the Beach Club, Yacht Club, BoardWalk, Swan, Swan Reserve, and Dolphin. Boat service is available to all of those, too, except the Swan Reserve. The Skyliner at EPCOT's International Gateway can take you to Caribbean Beach, Riviera, Pop Century, and Art of Animation. For all other resort destinations, the fastest option is an Uber, Lyft, or taxi. Disney's bus service is free but slow, and will probably require you to use an intermediate destination like Disney Springs, to get to your destination. And that can take a couple of hours each way if you're unluckly.

if you have a car, the easiest way to get to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and other tourist destinations is to drive. Alternatively, Mears Transportation operates shuttle services between the Disney hotels and other theme parks.

tabs#change">Driving to the Resort

tabs#change">Getting to the Parks and Disney Springs

tabs#change">Getting to Another Hotel from Yacht Club

tabs#change">Getting to Universal Orlando

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney Dish with Jim Hill Podcast

Learn more about the latest doings at Disney with Len Testa of TouringPlans & Jim Hill of JimHillMedia.com

Learn more about the latest doings at Disney with TouringPlan's Len Testa & Jim Hill of JimHillMedia.com

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Review: BoardWalk Deli at Disney World

boardwalk yacht club disney world

BoardWalk Deli is newest restaurant to debut at Walt Disney World. In this WDW dining review, we’ll share food photos, a look inside, this counter service Crescent Lake dining spot, plus thoughts on cuisine quality & authenticity, value for money, and how it stacks up to other alternatives around the EPCOT area.

According to Walt Disney World, the new BoardWalk Deli is inspired by the delicatessens of the Northeast region, with a menu that (supposedly) takes you on a road trip of classic sweet and savory flavors from New York to the Jersey Shore. We say supposedly because Walt Disney World fans from the Northeast have been “a little” critical of this delicatessen’s purported regional authenticity.

The addition of BoardWalk Deli is the first phase of what will be a multi-year reimagining of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn . The project’s scope is relatively vague as this point, with Walt Disney World stating that it’ll be making “a seaside splash at Disney’s BoardWalk!” Over the next few years, elements of the beloved turn-of-the-century promenade and inside the Deluxe Resort will be reimagined, including a charming new lobby design, new coffee bar & other dining options, refreshed guest rooms, and more. The biggest change is that a new restaurant will replace ESPN Club, and will open in 2023.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

In terms of basics, BoardWalk Deli is located, as the name suggests, at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. This resort slash ‘WDW district’ is located between EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Directly across Crescent Lake from BoardWalk Deli are Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts ; the Swan & Dolphin Resorts are also adjacent to it.

All of these hotels form their own little district, known as both the Crescent Lake Resort Area or EPCOT Resort Area. Perhaps more importantly, BoardWalk Deli is a short walk from EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance/exit in World Showcase between the United Kingdom and France. (There’s also a Skyliner gondola station over there.)

boardwalk yacht club disney world

BoardWalk Deli serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For the latter two, Walt Disney World advertises that are multiple options that will transport you to the Northeast. Choose from a variety of cold and hot deli sandwiches served on traditional marble rye, fluffy ciabatta, or springy focaccia breads–all of which are freshly baked in-house.

Pictured above is the signature Italian Sub, built with layers of thinly-sliced capicola, sopressata, and pepperoni with provolone, arugula, tomato, arugula pesto, and mayonnaise on fresh-baked ciabatta bread. This is the lone sandwich we haven’t had a chance to try. Now, let’s turn to what we have eaten from the lunch and dinner menus at BoardWalk Deli…

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Let’s save the first for first. The Veggie Crunch Muffaletta is stacked with cured and pickled root vegetables, an olive-giardiniera tapenade and plant-based cheese, served on focaccia. I sure hope this isn’t authentic, because if it is, I have some serious questions about your collective taste, Northeasterners!

To this sandwich’s credit (I guess), it has bold flavors and textures. This can sometimes be a pitfall for Walt Disney World’s plant-based options, which are sometimes bland. Unfortunately, those bold flavors are absolutely awful. Even Sarah, who loves root vegetables and all things pickled, was not a fan of this culinary abomination. There was simply too much going on, and none of it came together in a good way.

I don’t know quite how to describe the Veggie Crunch Muffaletta. I’ll put it in colorful terms: this tasted like a mediocre-but-normal sandwich that was made 12 days ago, forgotten in a fridge, and then eaten. Not that I’ve ever done exactly that, but I can imagine said sandwich would not age well, and would pick up random other flavors and scents from the fridge.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Next up is the Roasted Chicken Sandwich with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and roasted garlic aioli served on ciabatta.

By contrast, this chicken sandwich is boring… but in a good way! It’s exactly what you’d expect of all these ingredients, competently assembled in a way that makes for a well-balanced sandwich. There’s a lot of (delicious) bread, so I could’ve used a bit more roasted garlic aioli, but otherwise, zero complaints.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

On a somewhat similar note, there’s the Chicken Salad Wrap with rotisserie chicken, grapes, walnuts, and mayonnaise in a spinach wrap served with choice of side. Speaking of which, sides include house-made chips, creamy coleslaw, or soup.

Again, exactly what you’d expect here in this well-balanced wrap. It’s not something I’d seek out, but I also wouldn’t regret eating this. There are some interesting elements, but it’s otherwise pretty pedestrian.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Our final sandwich is the Warm Pastrami Reuben. This is a classic deli staple, with rolls of thin-sliced warm pastrami topped with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on marble rye bread.

Without question, this is the highlight of the menu at BoardWalk Deli. The meat is piled (rolled?) high here, with a generous amount of cheese and dressing rounding out the ingredients. Sarah found it a bit greasy, but zero complaints from me about that. Sandwiches should be messy. While I can’t speak to authenticity ( I assume it’s somehow lacking, and those of you from the Northeast will let me know exactly how in the comments! ), the taste delivers.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

This reuben also offers solid value for money. Although it’s $1-2 more than the other sandwiches, it’s also  larger.  This is a bigger sandwich than anything at my local Panera, and it’s about the same price. (Everybody is too afraid to talk about it, but Panera inflation is very real–as is skimpflation. Perhaps their CFO has similar sentiment about “guest waistlines” as Disney’s CFO!)

This Warm Pastrami Reuben might be the best counter service entree at the Crescent Lake counter service restaurant right now, which honestly says more about the competition than it does about this sandwich’s quality. It’s good, but not  that  good.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

BoardWalk Deli also has no shortage of dessert options.

Pastry-lovers will appreciate the delicate chocolate-dipped Cream Puff, hand-piped with silky custard, and the Raspberry Danish layered with velvet custard, fresh raspberries, and sugar crumble. The warm and gooey Cinnamon Yummies will be a returning guest favorite.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

One particular highlight is the iconic New York-style Half-moon Cookie topped with rich chocolate ganache and buttercream.

This differs from a black & white cookie, but was still shockingly good.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

There are also tried-and-true classics like rich cookies, decadent Brownie Cheesecake, brownies, the Cookies & Cream Cupcake, and the 50th Anniversary Celebration Cupcake. The Blueberry Scone, pictured above, is made with crème fraiche and topped with pearl sugar.

Sadly, the Walt Disney World fan-favorite Doodle Muffin has not returned. Cast Members at BoardWalk Deli indicated to us that it has been permanently retired. It wouldn’t surprise us if that changes should there be sufficient feedback from guests.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

The Cannolis are filled to order in a crispy shell with a creamy blend of mascarpone cheese, ricotta, and shaved dark chocolate, with a hint of lemon zest and a touch of Mickey.

You can also get some Northeastern classics like the New Jersey Crumb Cake, a moist cake with a thick cinnamon-crumb topping, or the iconic New York-style Half-moon Cookie topped with rich chocolate ganache and buttercream.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Both the Cannolis and New Jersey Crumb Cake were good, by our non-Northeastern standards.

The cannoli filling was freshly-made, rich, and creamy–all inside a perfectly-prepared pastry. The New Jersey Crumb Cake was dense and moist, with a huge portion. (Of the two desserts, I preferred this.)

boardwalk yacht club disney world

As covered in our recent post: BoardWalk Reimagining Begins – Changes & Construction , work is already underway next door to transform ESPN Club into the Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers.

We mention this because there’s no seating inside BoardWalk Deli, so you’re likely going to be eating in your room, on the go, or at one of the tables adjacent to this work. Above is a look at the restaurant exterior, pre-changeover.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Here’s how it looks now.

The fact that Walt Disney World didn’t even bother with a new marquee–note the inconsistent spacing around “Deli” should say everything you need to know about this counter service restaurant reimagining. Maybe that’s how y’all do things when remodeling in the Northeast?!?

boardwalk yacht club disney world

But perhaps things are different inside–let’s give Walt Disney World the benefit of the doubt.

Above is a look at the old interior.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Here’s the new-look BoardWalk Deli. I can only assume that the color red has fallen out of fashion in the Northeast.

The wall has been repainted from red to off-white. That’s it. None of the layout issues or anything else were addressed with the “reimagining” of this location into BoardWalk Deli.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

It’s worth noting that BoardWalk Deli also serves breakfast, for those wanting something while heading out to EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Breakfast options include an Everything Bagel Sandwich with cage-free eggs, sausage, and cheddar cheese. There’s also a Bagel Breakfast Sandwich with cage-free eggs, bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and cheddar cheese. Finally, the Plant-based Ciabatta Sandwich with “egg” Florentine, plant-based cheese, tomato jam, and arugula.

We will not be reviewing the breakfast menu at BoardWalk Deli. I’ve been burned enough by morning meals at this location. Unlike our cat, we’ve learned our lesson about getting too close to that particular flame. Sorry?

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Ultimately, we found BoardWalk Deli to be an incremental improvement over the menu at BoardWalk Bakery right before it closed. However, that’s not the only menu this location has had over the years, and this was nothing special in the grand scheme of things. There have been better ‘new menus’ here in the past, and none of the others necessitated a name change.

As with its predecessor, BoardWalk Deli is fine in a pinch, but not a location that you should seek out. It’s perfectly adequate as a late night option after a long day in the parks or something to grab on the way out, but that’s really about it. Anyone doing research ahead of time and trying to decide where to eat at Walt Disney World ( presumably most of you reading a restaurant review! ) should rule out BoardWalk Deli ahead of time. It is definitely not destination dining.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

It’s really disappointing that Walt Disney World hasn’t built a worthwhile counter service restaurant at Crescent Lake. The recently redone marketplaces at Yacht & Beach Club are improvements, but still only half-measures. BoardWalk Deli doesn’t even come close to being as ambitious as those. If they’re half-measures, this is like a one-eighth-measure. And I cannot imagine that this checks many boxes as an authentic Northeastern delicatessen!

If you’re looking for decent counter service restaurant without entering EPCOT, the best option in the Crescent Lake area is Beach Club Marketplace. Not only does that offer similar sandwiches, but it has far superior dinner specialties and baked pastas. (One of those baked pastas is pictured above. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it–this is shockingly good!)

For those who can enter EPCOT, well…the World (Showcase) is your oyster. Literally every counter service restaurant in EPCOT–even the bad ones–has more to offer than BoardWalk Deli. It’s not that this is an awful   quick service option, it’s just unambitious and forgettable. You very well might have a better sandwich here than whatever you’d order at Lotus Blossom Cafe or La Cantina de San Angel, but unless you’re a party of reuben eaters, at least those will be more memorable meals.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our  Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews  page. For where to eat, read our  Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our  Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets  post. Our  What to Pack for Disney Trips  post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our  Walt Disney World Ride Guides  will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our  Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide  for everything you need to know!

YOUR THOUGHTS

Have you dined at BoardWalk Deli? Anything that’s a menu stand out or letdown from your perspective? If you’re from the Northeast, what are your thoughts on authenticity? Disappointed that it’s basically BoardWalk Bakery but with a new name? Are any of these menu items things you’d like to try, or will you stick to World Showcase or other eateries around Crescent Lake? What do you think of the construction and changes coming to Disney’s BoardWalk? Think the resort still needs another counter service restaurant in addition to the deli, or is this plus everything else in the area enough? Do you agree or disagree with our assessment? Other thoughts or concerns? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

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Written by Tom Bricker

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So as a native New Yorker – the food at the boardwalk was nothing like what I would expect from a NYC/NJ/LI Deli.

Italian Sub, it was average/below average – nothing great – but, I’ll give it a pass. The meats were pretty bland (No cappacola, spicy ham or any of the usually NYC deli meats on something called an Italian Sub). But ok, I’ll give them a passing grade for this one. Grade C – kind of a “meh” sandwich. Suggestion – upgrade your break to something resembling Italian bread, maybe a bit fresher. Upgrade your meats to something closer to a traditional Italian sub.

Breakfast Sandwich – Wow, what can I saw. The breakfast sandwich is a staple of the NYC/LI/NJ deli. I grew up eating them, and there really is nothing like it. Typically it’s a fried egg (or 2), bacon or sausage, with cheddar cheese melted on it in a nice Italian roll. What the Boardwalk tries to pass as a NYC breakfast sandwich is, well – a soggy role, egg-like product (Clearly prepared in some back Disney kitchen maybe the night before). They clearly throw the the entire sandwich into the Microwave and serve it trying to pass it off as authentic. What you get is a horrible excuse for an egg sandwich. The bagel it was served on had clearly been microwaved, the egg/cheese as well. Grade F – Don’t waste your money

The ultimate failure was the Ruben. It’s billed as a “Warm Ruben” – what you get is a soaking wet sandwich, that (once again) has been thrown in the microwave. Note to the chef – you can’t microwave sauerkraut along with barely toasted Marble Rye bread, and a heap of meat and get anything other that a soaking wet, gross excuses for a New York City rueben. Grade F – Don’t waste your money here either

In conclusion – I felt the intent was good – but the execute killed it. In an effort (I am sure) to expedite service, they shot themselves in the foot. Throw the microwave out the window (Watch an episode of Gordon Ramsey Kitchen Nightmares 😉 !), given what you are charging us for this food we expect authentic, good quality. What the Boardwalk deli is providing is well below average if not a complete failure.

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As a lifelong Jerseyen, this menu is confusing. Where are disco fries? If that’s too close to poutine, what about pizza fries?? There are breakfast sandwiches that don’t offer pork roll/taylor ham?? As for veggie options our local Italian deli in my hometown has two on the menu (marinated eggplant with grilled zucchini, and grilled portobello with roasted red peppers and arugula).

When I think of the NJ boardwalk I think of chicken parm sandwiches, calzones, curly fries, and frozen custard. For a traditional NJ deli I think about a classic italian sub (salami, olive oil & vinegar included!), vinegar-based pasta salad, and arancini on the Italian side, with potato pancakes, pastrami and out-of-this-world homemade pickles on the Jewish side (what can I say, we got a diverse selection of delis in NJ!). So many options that are delicious, good for picky eaters and frankly, not even that expensive. So odd.

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This is so disappointing…

As someone from Cape Cod allow me to introduce you to The Italian;

1 Italian Hoagie Roll (or Italian sub roll depending on your location) cut length wise

Layer the following thin sliced deli meats: Pepperoni Genoa Salami Mortadella Prosciutto Capicola

Top with: Provolone Shredded lettuce Thin sliced Roma Tomato Yellow onion half rings

Drizzle on: Olive oil Vinegar

Sprinkle Dried Oregano across the toppings

Spread “Hots” to the underside of the top half of the roll. This is a New England style hot chili pepper relish the exact makeup of which is closely guarded family secret (in other words, it’s hotly debated even up here).

Now this is how you make an Italian Hoagie your grandmother from the North Shore would recognize.

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As a person of Italian heritage from Quincy, MA: THANK YOU!!!

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We recently stayed at the Swan & whilst their counter service / coffee shop JAVA is nice … it’s pricey ! We grabbed similar breakfast bagels from both JAVA & the Boardwalk Deli & found the latter to be superior quality, larger & substantially better value even with a “free” choice of fruit. Annoyingly there is very limited seating outside but found the Boardwalk Deli to be a better, less expensive option that the Swan / Dolphin however as per your article, a better option again is to swing by the Yacht or Beach Club Marketplaces … plenty of nice spots to sit also

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I feel like it must be pointed out that the muffuletta sandwich originated in New Orleans, which a cursory glance at a map of the US tells me is nowhere near the Northeast, and is a very curious choice for a veggie option as those things are usually piled high with meat and cheese. I really feel like they did not even try here.

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We are from the Boston area and stayed at Beach Club last weekend with frequent trips to the Boardwalk and went into the deli for a quick bite on our arrival day and yikes. Not very good. My husband and I split the Reuben and it was ok but all the sandwiches in the cooler looked like I could have grabbed them at Logan airport instead of Disney. NY and NJ are full of ah-mazing deli’s that could have been used for inspiration. Do better Disney!

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It looks like Starbucks in there now! I want to try that black and white cookie.

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Nooooooooooo! I was feeling so optimistic about the Doodle Muffin until I read that comment! I will be sending that feedback in ASAP!

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Review of Disney's Yacht Club Resort

In this post, we’ll review Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, a deluxe resort at Disney World situated in the Boardwalk area between Epcot and Hollywood Studios. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from pricing to transportation to special perks. Read on to learn all about Yacht Club at Disney World!

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Important Note: Disney has announced that from January 2025 through June 2025 (not 2024), Stormalong Bay, the feature pool at Yacht Club and Beach Club will be closed. We do not recommend staying at these hotels during this time, and recommend you instead consider Boardwalk Inn .

Another Important Note: Per Disney, “From January 2025 through May 2025, some guest rooms at Disney's Yacht Club Resort will be under refurbishment.” We already recommend against staying here during this time because of the Stormalong Bay closure. However, this also means that by ~June 2025 the rooms will be (presumably slightly) updated at the resort.

The Basics of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

The Yacht Club is a deluxe level hotel at Walt Disney World in the Epcot Resorts Area. Deluxe resorts are Disney’s best hotels. If you’re considering Yacht Club, you may want to read some of our other posts. We have a ranking of the best Disney World deluxe resorts . We also have a guide to all the hotels of Walt Disney World .

And here are our reviews of all the deluxe resorts (links open in new tabs):

Review of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Review of Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Review of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Review of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort (you are here)

Review of Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Review of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Review of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Review of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

And if you’d like to see where this resort falls overall, check out our complete Disney World hotel rankings .

One notable thing about Yacht Club is the convention center. This isn’t necessarily a problem, but when large conventions, or those with raucous participants, are around, the resort is not a great experience. Everything will be louder and more crowded, and you’ll find it harder to get tables at the restaurants.

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As we’ll mention repeatedly in this review, Yacht Club’s biggest perk is its location, which leaves you within walking distance of Epcot (7 minutes), several resorts, the Boardwalk, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (20 minutes or 12 by boat). If you have a trip specifically focused on these two parks (common during Epcot festivals or just for groups without young kids), Yacht Club is a particularly good option.

Yacht Club and Beach Club

If you’ve read our Beach Club review , you’ll notice several sections of this review are similar or identical to that review. Because the resorts are connected and share a pool, there is a lot of overlap in the two experience.

Regardless, the rooms and theming are distinct, and we cover the restaurants separately (even though you could easily walk to the other hotel’s restaurants if you wanted). Here’s the official map shared by the resorts:

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Booking Yacht Club

For our most recent visit, we booked a Club Level Standard View room through our choice travel advisor, Lauren Quirk of Travel With Character LLC . We paid $946.13 per night, which was rack rate. There were unfortunately no Annual Passholder offer rates available. That’s usually our preferred way to book Club Level stays.

Rack rates for standard rooms at Yacht Club in 2024 range from $567 to $1046 per night. Between standard offers and maybe discounted prices at Expedia or Priceline, there may be times when rates get down to $475.

Staying at Yacht Club, you get the perks of any Disney stay. You’ll have access to free transportation to and from the parks and Disney Springs. You’ll also have access to Early Theme Park Entry and the ability to book your individual Lightning Lanes at 7AM (as opposed to when the parks open).

Yacht Club is a deluxe hotel, so guests have access to Extended Evening Hours, granting these guests extra time in select parks on select nights.

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Arrival and Check-In at Yacht Club

There are several ways to get between the airport and Walt Disney World. We used Mears Connect this trip, which will likely be the last time we use it (update/confession: it wasn’t). Our hotel was originally set to be the sixth stop. After an hour on the bus, we exited at the fifth stop—BoardWalk Inn—to get pizza and coffee there before walking to Yacht Club. It’s worth noting that Yacht Club’s stellar location was a convenience to us even before we got to the hotel.

Disney has pushed people toward online check-in the last few years. We checked in online and had a room assignment just before we got to the hotel, so we were able to head straight to our room. I had some Magic Band issues , but was able to use my phone to unlock the door until I visited the club concierge to recode my band (the front desk can also do this).

If your room isn’t ready via online check-in, you might be able to get bumped up the list by visiting the desk. Usually we’ll arrive at a resort and eat lunch, swinging by the desk before or after lunch if there’s no line. If we can get a room, great, otherwise we drop off our bags with bells services and go to a park.

If you’re staying club level, they’ll place a call upstairs and escort you up to the Regatta Club Lounge, Yacht Club’s Club Level lounge (which we’ve reviewed separately here). Alternatively, you can just head straight to the club yourself.

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Yacht Club Grounds, Theming, and Activities

Yacht Club and Beach Club, while they are separate resorts, are connected and share a pool area (this isn’t a downside in our experience, more below). For this review, we’re going to talk exclusively about Yacht Club’s offerings.

As we emphasize repeatedly, all of Yacht Club, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, and the Swan & Dolphin are within walking distance. One loop around the Boardwalk, which takes you past all those hotels, is 0.8 miles.

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(Ignore pricing on this old screenshot)

While the Boardwalk doesn’t compare to Disney Springs, the variety of bars and restaurants at your fingertips, plus the proximity to Epcot, make Yacht Club especially worth consideration for adults visiting Disney World , which is no doubt why the area is home to two of Disney’s conference centers.

Yacht Club consists of a single hotel building and a second building for the convention center. Most guests don’t need to know anything about the convention center, but we’ll note it does have a business center. The feature item in the lobby is a beautiful, large globe.

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It’s one of the cooler features in a Disney resort, but it also sort of begs you to notice the comparatively small size of the space. BoardWalk, Beach Club, and Yacht Club all have smaller lobbies that are easily contrasted with the grandiose, open lobbies of Wilderness Lodge, Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Animal Kingdom Lodge.

That said, it’s not really a small lobby:

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Yacht Club is, as its name suggests, nautically themed. It doesn’t really hit you over the head as hard as it could (i.e. it isn’t as visually loud as the value resorts), sticking to the deluxe hotels trend of using understated features and simple displays more than kitsch to convey the theme.

The feature pool at Yacht Club is Stormalong Bay , the pool shared with Beach Club and widely regarded by experts as the best pool on Disney property . Stormalong Bay features a lazy river, a sand-bottom zone, and a water slide.

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We don’t want to belabor this point, but Stormalong Bay (above) is one of the biggest reasons to stay at Yacht Club (or Beach Club), and it—along with the proximity to the Boardwalk—makes the hotel particularly good for planning a Disney World no parks day . If you’re not a pool person, then obviously this shouldn’t impact your decision, but it is a major highlight of the hotel.

There is also a secondary pool on the far end of the resort if you hate fun (there’s also a tennis court right next to this pool):

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The farthest rooms on the first floor are a three-minute walk from the lobby at our relatively quick pace. That’s not huge, but it is sort of a bummer that they’re in the direction away from Epcot. You will be three minutes closer to Hollywood Studios, though.

The resort maintains a standard roster of activities:

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Our Yacht Club Room

There are a variety of room configurations at Yacht Club, but this room has two queen beds. Please note that since this is a Club Level room it may have a slightly different configuration than other rooms. In particular, items such as individual toiletries may not be available outside Club Level.

Yacht Club was the first of the deluxe resorts to receive this type of refurbishment—hardwood, sleek but themed at every opportunity, better use of space. While I’m overall a huge fan of these changes, I will say that more recent updates, particularly at Polynesian, Contemporary, and Animal Kingdom Lodge impress me even more. ( Note: pictures come from multiple stays just because, e.g., lighting on some item was better one day than another)

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The room was relatively spacious, as is standard for rooms at the deluxe resorts.

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On the bathroom and amenities end, it was nice to see mouthwash and lotion provided, and the shampoo and conditioner were bottled for personal use (values and moderates use large dispensers). The vanity area was actually a little smaller than expected, maybe even about the same size as at the moderate resorts.

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There were plenty of outlets and a nice desk, which is a necessity for us. The furniture is all brilliantly designed, creating a very cohesive aesthetic. The curtains contain star patterns, and absolutely brilliant touch. A Keurig coffee maker is standard in the Yacht Club rooms.

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I guess the couch is a little blugh. Nothing’s perfect.

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We’d booked a standard view, which to be honest should be renamed something like “Bad View.” Here’s a look at the view from the balcony before I go on to talk about some…related…aspects of this most recent stay…

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(Begin rant.) Okay. So, yes, we booked a “Standard View,” and that’s on us. But let’s be real, no one should ever get this view for $946 per night. This is a view of steam escaping from the hotel’s laundry room. It’s no fun to look at, and if the wind is blowing in the wrong direction it just renders the balcony unusable.

If this were the only issue with the room location, I could let it go (even though, as a professional, I shouldn’t, because $946 a night!). But the laundry room also emitted vibrations throughout the night that really messed with my head.

To be fair, Emily didn’t notice this sound the first night. The second night, she didn’t mind. But to me it sounded like having a car parked outside blasting bass all night. It wasn’t loud , but it was there. And by its nature, it was very hard to block out with white noise or headphones.

Weirdly enough, this isn’t even our first issue with sound at Yacht Club. Last visit, someone was having an absolutely explosive breakup over the phone well after midnight. That’s not something Disney can account for, so I’ve never held it against them.

But even weirdlier enough, we had another noise issue this stay—DOGS. Yacht Club is a “dog friendly” resort. This is good particularly for accessibility reasons. But what isn’t good is placing barking dogs in proximity to sleeping toddlers. Since Disney knows the ages of hotel guests, this is something they should account for. Fortunately, Zoe has grown up in relatively noisy environments, so the dogs didn’t pose a huge barrier to sleep (white noise machine helps, too).

One might rightly wonder “well did you bring these issues up to anyone?” And the answer is a resounding “NO,” for several reasons. First, we’re personally low maintenance, despite what this review (in my professional capacity) sounds like. I’m not going to waste my time and the time of hotel staff to maybe get a room change ( if one is available) as long as my kid can sleep. (And if I’m going to get a note in my file, I’d much rather it be because someone actually took the time to read this review.)

Second, guests don’t ordinarily have time to address these issues during Disney vacations. Unlike typical resort stays, where guests plan to spend several days at the resort, Disney stays are mostly about the parks. If you’re leaving at 7AM and returning at 8PM, you don’t have much time to waste dealing with these issues. This brings us to the main reason I don’t complain about these issues…

For $946 per night, it shouldn’t be incumbent on a guest to bring these things up. These issues simply shouldn’t happen. Again, a screaming guest in a neighboring room is something Disney can’t control without me bringing it to their attention. But shoddy views, rooms adjacent to laundry facilities, and dogs booked near toddlers—these are all things a competent hotel charging $946 per night should account for in advance.

But all I can do is share my experience and reasoning. You very well may feel you either (1) wouldn’t be bothered by these issues or (2) would be wholly comfortable requesting a room change if anything like this happened to you. (End rant.)

Location & Transportation at Yacht Club

Yacht Club has one of the best locations on property. Along with Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, and the Swan & Dolphin, this is one of the few hotels you can actually walk to two parks—Epcot and Hollywood Studios—from.

Epcot’s World Showcase is about an eight-minute walk from the Yacht Club lobby. Hollywood Studios is about a 20-minute walk from the Yacht Club lobby.

Keep in mind that when visiting Epcot, you’ll be using a different entrance than other guests. the World Showcase entrance is between the U.K. and France pavilions. We briefly discuss this in our Epcot Rope Drop Strategy .

Besides the two parks, you can also walk to all those other hotels and any other spots along the Boardwalk, which has restaurants like Flying Fish and Big River Grille, as well as a pretty good bar in AbracadaBar.

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Besides walking, you can take a boat to Hollywood Studios (approximately 12-minute trip, running every 15 minutes) and Epcot (about 5-7 minute trip).

For the most part, we stopped using the boats years ago (we walk), but we occasionally ride them just to keep tabs on them. Generally, they’re more reliable than buses because they run on constant loops, but nothing is ever as reliable as the walking path.

Realistically, you’ll probably always prefer to walk to and from Epcot, at it would take you just as long to walk to the boat dock as to walk to Epcot. Hollywood Studios is a bit of a different story.

It makes sense to take the boat to Hollywood Studios and walk back, particularly if you’re at the park when it closes. The line for the boat gets quite long when the park closes, though we’ve often seen it long during the day as well:

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To reach Magic Kingdom , you’ll have to rely on bus transport (15 - 20 min). Keep in mind that although you can walk to Epcot, you use a different entrance than the main entrance, so it isn’t practical to walk to Epcot and take the monorail to Magic Kingdom .

And, as always, to Animal Kingdom (15 min), Typhoon Lagoon , Blizzard Beach , and Disney Springs you’ll rely on bus. We’ve been satisfied with bus transportation at Walt Disney World. For whatever reason, it seems somewhat improved from 5-10 years ago when it was a constant source of ire.

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Keep in mind that if you’re flexible, you can always hop on a bus for BoardWalk or Beach Club and walk back to Yacht Club from there. This won’t always save you time, but particularly in the middle of the day (when bus transport is at its worst), if you see a bus to Beach Club or BoardWalk, hop on it.

We always recommend you also consider using Uber at Walt Disney World when you’re in a hurry. There’s also Minnie Vans , the more expensive but “Disney official” option.

If you’re bringing your car to Disney World (or renting one), parking is once again free. Guests of Disney hotels also have free parking at the theme parks.

Finally, the Epcot Skyliner station is a short walk away, past Beach Club. This would allow you pretty quick visits to Caribbean Beach, Riviera Resort, Pop Century, and Art of Animation if you had cause to visit those places.

Theoretically you could walk to that station and then take the 20-minute trip to Hollywood Studios. It’s a bit awkward to go so “out of the way”, but it could be your fastest option, depending on your walking speed.

Food and Dining at Yacht Club

One of the nice things about staying at Yacht Club, is that for the most part your dining options are unlimited.

From Yacht Club you can easily walk to all the restaurants of Beach Club, the Boardwalk, the Swan & Dolphin hotels, and Epcot. That’s a really awesome feature. So keep that in mind while we quickly discuss the thing I hate most about Disney’s deluxe resorts…

Quick Service Food at Yacht Club

I have a huge gripe about the lack of quality quick service at Disney’s deluxe hotels. I’m very drawn to the food court setup at the value and moderate resorts. At Yacht Club, you’ve got two quick service options.

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The Market at Ale & Compass is actually the Yacht Club’s store in addition to offering a very limited selection of quick service food. While we were there, they offered your choice of four hot sandwiches and a soup of the day for lunch and dinner.

Additionally, you’ll have pastries, chips, and pre-packaged food (cold sandwiches, salads). Market is usually open a bit after the parks close, between 10PM and Midnight.

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Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar & Grill is the pool bar (and grill) at Yacht Club and Beach Club. It has an okay lunch menu, which includes burgers, a buffalo chicken wrap, and a vegetarian quinoa wrap. Hanna’s closes earlier than Market, usually around 8PM to 9PM.

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(Begin rant.) I’ll never understand why deluxe resorts don’t offer better quick service options. If you come back to your hotel after a regular Epcot or Hollywood Studios close, you’ll have no dinner options besides expensive table service (if you can get a table), expensive room service ($3 delivery and 18% service included) or very limited, unimpressive options at Market.

Yes—guests at deluxe resorts tend to be willing to spend a bit more. But that doesn’t meant they’re going to want a table service meal after being at the parks all day, or that they’ll want to deal with the delays and hassle of in-room dining. To me, nothing beats being able to come back at 11PM from an exhausting day, walk right up to a counter, and order a burger or pizza at a reasonable price. (End rant.)

Table Service Restaurants at Yacht Club

Yacht Club has three table service restaurants. We’ll provide brief overviews of them and link to reviews we trust. Our limited experiences with them (and our limited food knowledge generally) don’t qualify us to really speak to their quality.

Ale & Compass is the newer restaurant at Yacht Club, having opened in November 2017. It’s the resort’s casual table service restaurant, adjacent to the lobby, and requiring a single table service credit. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations are recommended. Here’s a review from Disney Food Blog. 

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Yachtsman Steakhouse is the signature table service restaurant at Yacht Club, requiring two table service credits. It’s open only for dinner.

You’ll have to follow the hallway past Ale & Compass toward Beach Club to get there. Reservations are highly recommended. Here’s a review from Ziggy.

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Beaches & Cream is a fun little soda-shop themed spot right on the border of Yacht Club and Beach Club, off the Stormalong Bay pool.

It’s most known for its legendary “Kitchen Sink” dessert—an ice cream sundae designed to serve four—but it also serves burgers, sandwiches, and a variety of alcoholic ice cream floats. In the past, it didn’t take reservations but now does, mostly because it has very limited seating. Here, again, is Disney Food Blog.

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Bars at Yacht Club

Besides Hurricane Hanna’s which is a combo bar-quick service stop, there are two bars at Yacht Club.

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Ale & Compass Lounge is the lobby bar at Yacht Club, neighboring the Ale & Compass restaurant. It’s in keeping with the modern aesthetic of the Yacht Club rooms—with dark wood and deep blues. Ale & Compass Lounge is a fantastic spot for a cocktail, but it can get crowded due to its proximity to the lobby.

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Crew’s Cup Lounge is the bar attached to the Yachtsman Steakhouse It’s actually easy to miss if you’re not eating at Yachtsman, as the sole hall-facing door is a bit hidden. Crew’s Cup really captures the former aesthetic of Yacht Club.

The wood is something like oak / walnut—dark but lighter than Ale & Compass Lounge. It’s maybe better for wines than Ale & Compass due to sharing a selection with Yachtsman.

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If you’re looking for bars, you have more options just outside the hotel. The Boardwalk is perfect for a bar crawl , and gems like AbracadaBar and the dueling piano bar, Jellyrolls, are a good reason to step outside your resort if you’re looking for a drink.

Shopping at Yacht Club

We previously mentioned The Market at Ale & Compass in the context of its limited quick service options, but it’s also the store at Yacht Club. As with all Disney’s hotel stores, it offers basic travel essentials as well as a limited selection of hotel-branded items. More recently, the hotel line has been sadly limited. As it’s a deluxe resort, you’ll also find some higher end options, like items from Vineyard Vines.

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Disney’s Yacht Club Resort — Conclusions

Overall rating — 3/5.

I’m really torn on Yacht Club. Really, really torn. If I never actually stayed at the resort, it would easily be one of my favorites at Walt Disney World. I’ve been a fan of the rooms since they debuted. I love the location with walking access to two parks and the beautiful Boardwalk. I’m even willing to overlook the mediocre quick service options because access to the Boardwalk and two parks more than makes up for it.

It has two of my favorite bars—Ale & Compass Lounge and Crew’s Cup. And it has a fantastic pool, Stormalong Bay. It seems like to find anything wrong with Yacht Club you have to, well, stay there.

Our last two visits just have not gone well. The noise issues detailed in this post are a big part of the problem. I’ve also felt the crowds are a bit heavier than other deluxe resorts. All three nights of this recent stay I found Ale & Compass Lounge at full capacity when I walked by.

I should admit here that I’m also perpetually unsatisfied with the club lounge here ( separate review ). Since that’s part of the reason for the high price we pay, it’s only fair to say maybe I’d evaluate these issues differently at, say $600 per night than I do at $950 per night. Then again, isn’t $600 per night really enough to complain about whatever bothers you?

Let’s circle back to my own feelings once we cover some objective points. Families with younger kids or who will be focusing on Magic Kingdom aren’t getting much out of this location. It may make sense to pay more for a monorail resort or less for a place like Gran Destino Tower or Port Orleans French Quarter , since you’ll be taking the bus to Magic Kingdom either way.

If you like the convenience of this location for getting to Epcot and Hollywood Studios but you don’t like the price, consider Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, and Art of Animation. These three resorts are less expensive than Yacht Club but have Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

If you’ve settled on this location, the choice comes down to Yacht Club vs. Beach Club vs. Boardwalk . That link covers that debate in more depth (Sidenote: Marriott operated Swan & Dolphin are also in this area, and are worth considering, but we’re pushing them aside for a moment as they aren’t Disney-operated hotels.) The short of it, though, is that Yacht Club has the newest rooms, Beach Club at least has Stormalong Bay, and BoardWalk certainly has a whimsical charm.

So, how to wrap up this…experience…of a review? For me, it comes with “take my review with a grain of salt.” Disney manages Yacht Club, Beach Club, and Boardwalk. If I fault management for the issues of my stay at Yacht Club, it’s hard to instead recommend Beach Club or Boardwalk. (In fact, I’ve had more bizarre noise issues— not kids screaming etc.—at Disney resorts than all the other resorts I’ve stayed at in my life.)

Objectively, I have to stand by my position that Yacht Club should be the best option at the Boardwalk. Best pool. Best rooms. That’s that. But subjectively, I won’t be rushing back here. Maybe I’m just salty, but I can’t get over the small headaches my recent visits have come with. Instead, I’m greatly looking forward to bringing Zoe to Beach Club and Boardwalk in the near future.

All Your Other Disney World Planning Questions Answered

Don't be overwhelmed by Disney World planning! Take a second to check out our most important content and you'll not only be an expert, but you'll save big $$$ along the way.

Just starting out? Check out our Walt Disney World planning guide! If you're still picking dates, we've got everything you need to know about Disney World crowd calendars . For picking your hotel, check out our Walt Disney World hotels guide.

When it comes time to book we’ll help you find discount Disney World tickets . Decide whether you need a dining plan in our Complete Guide to Disney World Dining Plans ! And don't forget to book those Disney World Advance Dining Reservations !

Don't forget to master your Disney World Genie+ and Lightning Lane strategy a few months in advance. We'll keep you out of long lines so you can maximize the magical time in the parks! We've got park-specific guides as well: Magic Kingdom Genie+ and Lightning Lanes , Epcot Genie+ and Lightning Lanes , Animal Kingdom Genie+ and Lightning Lanes , and Hollywood Studios Genie+ and Lightning Lanes .

Know what to ride with our guides to: Magic Kingdom rides , Hollywood Studios rides , Epcot rides , and Animal Kingdom rides ! Plus learn about the water parks with our guide to Blizzard Beach and our guide to Typhoon Lagoon ! And for some some fun prep, check out our Ranking of Every Ride at Walt Disney World .

Finally, before you head out, be sure to check out our to-the-point packing list, 10 essentials you forget to pack for every Disney trip . And if you're interested in saving, there's no better list than our 53 Ways to Save on your Disney trip from start to finish .

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Disney’s Yacht Club, Beach Club, or BoardWalk: Which EPCOT Resort Is the Best?

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The EPCOT-area Resorts  and hotels at Walt Disney World have achieved something of a cult status. They’re impeccably designed, feature some lovely views, and — best yet — they’re walking distance from not one but two Disney Parks. The Yacht Club, Beach Club, and BoardWalk are Disney-owned and operated Resorts with classic themes and more than their share of great dining and accessible entertainment. No matter which you choose, you’re ideally placed for fun and convenience. 

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Still, we wondered which of these Resorts would come out on top if we took a (clearly subjective) look at their characteristics.

Come along as AllEars struggles to decide which EPCOT Resort or hotel is best! We’re going worst to first, so get those comments ready for when you reach the end of our list!

Disney’s yacht club resort.

We’ll start with Disney’s Yacht Club, the least beloved of the three. This hotel is sophisticated preppy-ness done right with posh nautical references and luxurious and stately ambiance. But that tone isn’t exactly a good fit for a lot of Walt Disney World guests, landing Yacht Club on the bottom of our (short) list.

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Browse reader reviews of Yacht Club here!

The dining options at Disney’s Yacht Club are actually pretty great: Ale & Compass Restaurant is decent, Crew’s Cup Lounge  is fantastic, and the famous Beaches & Cream Soda Shop (shared with Beach Club and home of the No Way Jose and Kitchen Sink Ice Cream Sundaes and killer chili cheese fries) is a dining destination worth traveling for.

But Beach Club guests can also easily access the Yacht Club dining options, making dining kind of a moot point of comparison between the two.

Another shared amenity for the Yacht Club and Beach Club: arguably Walt Disney World’s best pool, Stormalong Bay .

Stormalong Bay isn’t just any ordinary Resort pool; it’s a complex and is more like a waterpark in many respects! We’re talking a lazy river, sandy bottom wading pools, and expansive swim areas with bridges and islands scattered throughout them. It even has its own massive shipwrecked boat for a waterslide!

Don’t think you’ll get in to Stormalong Bay if you’re not a guest of the Yacht & Beach Club. You need to scan your MagicBand for pool entry and Cast Members keep Stormalong Bay pretty well guarded at all times for stowaways.

But the decor and tone of Yacht Club — which is stuffier than its beachy sister — leave this (still pretty awesome) Resort at the bottom of our Epcot-area Resorts list.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Next we’re heading right next door to Disney’s Beach Club Resort. The theming of this Disney Resort draws its inspiration from the spirit of having fun in the sun!

Check out reader reviews of Beach Club here!

Disney’s Beach Club is a little closer than Yacht Club and BoardWalk to the International Gateway entrance for EPCOT. While the distance may seem negligible to the naked eye, the few extra steps saved at the end of a long night in the Park really makes a difference when our dogs are barkin’!

Outside of Disney’s Beach Club you’ll find serene white sand beaches with lots of swinging benches and chairs perfect for reading or relaxing.

Ultimately, Beach Club’s vibe is decidedly more relaxed than Disney’s Yacht Club. If you’re into a more laid back cottage feel than the super-luxe sporting man’s vibe over on the Yacht side, you’ll likely feel more comfortable with Beach’s equally gorgeous but more chilled out design.

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Disney’s Beach Club Resort also has some great restaurants you’ll want to try. There’s Cape May Cafe with a character breakfast buffet and a seafood dinner buffet and the apropos Martha’s Vineyard  for wine.

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Room rates between Disney’s Yacht Club and Disney’s Beach Club are pretty much the same, so with both having sharable amenities, the real deciding factor between the two is their unique stylish settings — and we give Beach Club the edge for this . And if you’re traveling with kids who are all about some pool time, you might bump Beach Club over our number one pick…

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Our number one pick for best EPCOT-area Resort is Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, a whimsical turn-of-the-century-style Resort with oceanside offerings. To us, the BoardWalk feels a lot less stuffy than Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts while still providing an elegant backdrop to a Disney stay.

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Browse reader reviews of BoardWalk Inn and Villas here!

There’s lots to see and do when you stay at Disney’s BoardWalk. The boardwalk itself is a popular nighttime destination — like a mini Disney Springs with lively bars, restaurants, and street performers!

There’s nightly dueling piano performances and singalongs down at Jellyrolls , or you can trip the light fantastic at the Atlantic Dance Hall , a popular nightclub. These over-21 venues do leave out the littles, though, which is why parents with kids might not find they can make the most out of BoardWalk’s many nighttime offerings.

But it’s not just  about the grown-ups here. The Resort has lots of stuff for the kids, too, including nightly showings of movies on the lawn and Surrey bikes for rent!

The BoardWalk Inn knows it has stiff pool competition across Crescent Lake, and theirs doesn’t disappoint. It may not have all the bells and whistles that Stormalong Bay has, but it does have a giant waterslide that resembles an old-timey wooden roller coaster.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

In the end, you can’t really go wrong with any of the three Resorts , so while BoardWalk landed on top for us, we can certainly see the virtues of Yacht and Beach Club, too. Luckily since all three are within easy walking distance from one another, you really don’t have to choose in some respects! You can enjoy most of what each of these Resorts has to offer in terms of nightlife, restaurants, bars and entertainment no matter which one you choose to lay your head down in.

Which of the three Epcot area resorts do you think is best? Let us know in the comments section!

Want to read more allears reader reviews or leave one of your own.

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  • AllEars Reviews: Walt Disney World Rides & Attractions
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11 Replies to “Disney’s Yacht Club, Beach Club, or BoardWalk: Which EPCOT Resort Is the Best?”

Can’t compare because we went to the Beach Club and will never go anywhere else (actually staying at the BC Villas in April)

I have stayed at the Boardwalk and also the Swan and Dolphin. I would like to stay at the Yacht and Beach clubs but they are really cost prohibitive in my opinion at this point. I stayed at those other resorts from 10 to 25 years ago when they were still affordable.

Definitely love Beach Club! When kids were younger, the pool was super important. Now that they are getting a little older though, we are preparing ourselves to try out Boardwalk in November. Wish us luck!!

Last December we stayed at the Beach Club but my DD (14) & I had breakfast at the Ale & Compass. When we walked in she looked around at the empty lobby, giant Christmas village train set and darker woodwork and asked, “Why are we staying here?!”. I had assumed my kids would prefer the Beach Club but the serpent at Yacht won them over. So next trip looks like we’ll be staying there. However, I agree that Boardwalk is pretty awesome. Except for the clown

My choice is Yacht Club for two particular reasons: Stormalong Bay puts it over Boardwalk, and every room having a full balcony puts it over Beach Club. Yacht Club is my favorite Disney resort of all!

I know I’m about two years late on this article, but a thousand times yes! However wrote this article definitely needs to go back and do more research. Boardwalk rating higher than Yacht club is laughable. I would dare say Yacht club ranks higher than Beach club for me. I happen to like the stuffy atmosphere but I also love that I get a full balcony.

In my opinion, for the amount of money these resorts cost…I’m in favor of the Beach Club! The POOL!! You can save money on park tickets for the family and just have a day dedicated to this pool. Walking ccess to the two parks is fantastic. The ability to see a little bit of the Epcot show every night from the bridge is fun too! Just walking around the circle is very pretty and good for little ones to walk..

Don’t forget Swan and Dolphin!!! Appreciate not Disney “owned” but offers everything I would expect from a Disney resort hotel. Have enjoyed many great holidays there.

Liz, thanks for your comment!

This is a pretty superficial comparison of the three resorts. Having stayed multiple times at each of these, I have to respectfully suggest a closer look in order to make a meaningful analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the three resorts. Yes, the dining is important, but what about the rooms? The friendliness and performance of the staff? The little details? For example, the Boardwalk is HUGE and many of the rooms are a long distance from the lobby. Those with disabilities may particularly have a problem with that. Also, there is a difference in noise level, because of the conferences held at the Boardwalk and, well, the boardwalk out front, which brings lots of foot traffic to the stores and restaurants there. You could also have addressed the differences in the reputations of the concierge levels at all three. I prefer the Beach Club’s concierge, but some rooms are not located on the same floor as the concierge lounge, which can be bothersome to those of us who like to dash down the hall for snacks, etc., at all hours. You didn’t mention the various resorts’ shopping options, either. I would rate Yacht Club higher than Boardwalk in that regard, for example. And then there are the holidays and the unique touches at each during that time. The amazing gingerbread carousel, which actually moves, makes the Beach Club tops for the holidays, in my book. Anyway, I’d love to see a more in-depth version of this article. There’s much to cover just in comparing these three resorts to one another, let alone in comparing them to other deluxe resorts on the property. (And you didn’t even mention the Swan and Dolphin, also in the Epcot-adjacent area!)

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Yacht Club Resort Review

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is a deluxe resort in Walt Disney World.  Inspired by New England-style architecture, the Yacht Club sits right along the lake.  The resort shares many amenities (including the famed pool, Stormalong Bay) and is connected with Disney’s Beach Club.  Both the Yacht and Beach Club, along with the Boardwalk Resort make up the Epcot Area Resorts, as they sit just outside of the park’s World Showcase entrance.  The Yacht Club is a DVC Resort but also take guests who are not a part of DVC (like me).  We recently stayed in a studio room here, this review will cover that experience.

Stormalong Bay slide

I’d taken many trips to Walt Disney World without staying at the Yacht or Beach Club.  One of my favorite unheralded things to do over the years is taking the boat from Epcot to Hollywood Studios, or vice versa.  While on this short (and free!) cruise, the boat stops at different hotels.  Along with the beautiful Boardwalk, my eyes would always drift to the large ship that seemed to pop out of the Beach and Yacht Clubs.  When I realized that this large ship was home to a pool and, more specifically, water slide it was a matter of when, not if, I was going to stay here.

I may like water slides more than an adult should, but the more I read about the Yacht Club the more interested in the resort I became.  Disney World’s greatest hotels are a bit like mini theme parks.  They each have a theme, things to do and the best ones have a headliner attraction.  The Contemporary’s headliner, for example, is the monorail soaring through A-frame.  Animal Kingdom Lodge has a savannah outside the backdoor.  All Star Sports has groups of raging cheerleaders and youth football players sprinting around the common areas yelling.  Kidding about that last one, sort of.  The Yacht and Beach Club have a more stereotypical hotel headliner – the pool.

I won’t bury my opinion any further.  Staying at the Yacht or Beach Club probably isn’t a wise choice unless there are is at least an hour or two set aside for Stormalong Bay.  The large caveat here is that if you have a trip centered around Epcot then this is also a great place to stay but more on that in a minute.  The Yacht Club has a nice enough theme.  The lobby is on the smaller side relative to other deluxe resorts.  The restaurants get solid reviews.

Yacht Club lobby

But there is nothing that will blow you away aside from that pool.  Stormalong Bay has the aforementioned water slide that is the longest of any WDW resort pool.  The pool’s floor is sand, which is one of those things that I didn’t know I loved until I experienced it.  There is a lazy river that is surprisingly deep and relaxing.  There’s several large areas for toddlers to splash around in.  Along with all of those features is just a sprawling complex that is beautiful to swim around.

Stormalong Bay is everything that it is cracked up to be and if you are looking for a resort day in the middle of your Walt Disney World vacation, there is no better place to spend it in.

Stormalong Bay chairs

Since we started with an amenity instead of the room I’ll finish up with those.  The Yacht Club features another quiet pool that is just a standard hotel pool.  While it’s nice enough there is no reason to go here unless… I thought I had a reason but there actually isn’t one.  Stormalong Bay is large enough that the pool doesn’t even feel very crowded compared to the quiet pool.

The Yacht Club also sits across the walkway from a beach that looks out on to the Boardwalk.  Pulling up a chair at night with your sweetheart is a relaxing way to spend an evening.  If timed right, guests could watch part of Illuminations from that beach although it doesn’t compare to seeing it in the park.

Boardwalk night sand

There’s an arcade in the hotel that was pretty run of the mill.  Speaking of run of the mill, the counter-service location in the Yacht Club is more of a grab and go spot then an actual restaurant or food court.  The hotel does feature the highly regarded and expensive Yachtsman Steakhouse and is also home to the Crew’s Cup Lounge , which Melissa and I love.  The Beach Club houses a few other restaurants, including the famous Beaches and Cream Soda Shop.  All in all, the dining at the Yacht Club is pretty good but could use a solid counter-service option.  Taking into account the proximity of the Boardwalk and Epcot, I don’t think guests will be disappointed with food options.

All in all, the amenities aside from Stormalong Bay are good but not great.  If you’re looking for an all around resort experience there are probably better options, especially once you factor in the theme.  But if you like pools then this jumps up the rankings.

Yacht Club hall

Last of all, before I get to the room, the Yacht Club’s proximity to Epcot is fantastic.  Without looking it up, this is the closest hotel to a theme park entrance on property (although the Beach Club is technically closer but I’m counting these resorts as one in the same).  Bay Lake Tower’s proximity to Magic Kingdom is the only thing that rivals the Yacht and Beach Club (and the Boardwalk) as the walk to Epcot is five minutes at most.  If going on a trip that will include lots of Epcot time, this resort is a great option.  We stayed here the night before Food & Wine Festival started and greatly enjoyed the convenience of the location.

Yacht club room beds

On to the rooms!  We stayed in a studio room with two queen beds.  The couch did pull out if you wanted to fit another person in here.  With deep navy and a rich wood tone, the room had a very clean look.  While there wasn’t much personality throughout, I liked the overall tone.

Yacht Club bathroom

Here’s the bathroom, which looks like most hotel bathrooms only slightly nicer.  I did like the shower design.

Yacht Club deck

Each room had a deck and ours looked out onto the quiet pool.  They were well blocked off from other guests felt secluded enough for a pleasant sit on the porch.

Yacht Club couch

Here’s a closer look at the couch and the artwork in the room.  All in all, the room used its space well and felt fairly open for being a studio room.  While the theme is far from exciting, the rich tones and sharp lines appealed to me.  This was a very nice hotel room although I prefer my Disney hotel rooms to have a little more character.

As far as value goes, you can find rooms at the Yacht Club starting at $250/night.  During peak seasons, those prices will shoot up.  Room-only discounts or Annual Pass discounts help significantly with the price.  While we aren’t big spenders, I’m certainly glad that we tried out the Yacht Club.  Spending an hour in the pool after dark was one of my favorite memories of the whole trip and made staying there worth it.  Perhaps a split stay can make this place more affordable for some?  That is what we did to make staying here a reality.

Yacht Club courtyard

In itself, the Yacht Club is a beautiful resort.  Once the elaborate and amazing pool plus the proximity to Epcot is factored in, this becomes one of my favorite places to stay in Walt Disney World.  While the theme is lacking compared to some other deluxe resorts, I would still highly recommend staying here even if it’s just a night or two.  A day in Epcot combined with a few trips back to the pool make for a great Walt Disney World day.

Overall Rating – 9.5/10

Have you ever stayed at the Yacht Club?  Do you have any questions about the resort?  Let us know in the comments!   If you enjoy what you’re reading on Wandering in Disney please subscribe to the blog and like our Facebook page.  You can find both of those on the right side of this page.  Thank you for reading, we really appreciate it!

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Categories: Hotel Reviews

Tagged as: Disney World , Disney World Resorts , Epcot resorts , Walt Disney World , Yacht Club Disney World , Yacht Club Resort , Yacht Club Resort review

12 replies »

With small kids this is our favorite place so far because of the pool. And the fact you can walk to Epcot/Hollywood Studios. I wish there were more coffee stations though

That’s my overall impression of the resort. Great things all around and an amazing location but lacking a little bit in the small, practical things like coffee stations.

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My family of 4 spent $650 a night at Disney's Yacht Club Resort, and it was totally worth the price tag

  • My family of 4 stayed at Disney's Yacht Club Resort for $650 a night, and it's my favorite hotel.
  • The pool area was perfect for my boys, and we spent some time there every day of our trip.
  • You can't beat the prime location near the BoardWalk, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios . 

Insider Today

As a travel agent at Marvelous Mouse Travels , my first decision when planning my clients' trips (and my own) is picking the perfect place to stay.

I visited Disney World with my family of four for the 50th-anniversary celebration, and we chose the Yacht Club Resort for its prime location, expansive pool, and beautiful theming. 

Even though it cost $650 a night, here's why it was totally worth it:

The resort makes you feel like you've been transported to the New England seaside

After flying in from Chicago and riding the Magical Express to the resort, check-in went smoothly.

The lobby is beautiful, with nautical decor and daily fresh flowers.

The whole place smells like the seaside, and the exterior is impeccably kept.

The attractive landscaping gives it the look of a sweeping New England escape. 

Our room was bright and inviting, and it even had a balcony 

Our standard room was clean and bright, with a pool view, hardwood floors, and nautical accents.

It had two queen beds, plenty of storage for all our clothes, a safe, and a TV. Plus it was equipped with a mini-fridge and a single-cup Keurig coffee maker. 

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There was also a bathroom (stocked with toiletries) with a double sink and separate areas for the shower and toilet.

The best part of the room was the balcony overlooking the pool, where I sat every morning to have my coffee.

The pool is a major selling point of the resort

The Yacht Club's pool, Stormalong Bay, is by far the best on Disney resort property .

We spent some part of each day at the pool. My kids loved the sand play area, pirate-ship slide, and volleyball court.

We also ate at the pool's quick-service restaurant, Hurricane Hannah's, at least once a day. The bacon cheeseburger and chili-cheese fries aren't to be missed.

One day of our trip, we rented a cabana at the pool and enjoyed being pampered with individualized service — including drinks and treats.

Nothing is better than being sandwiched between Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and the BoardWalk

The Yacht Club's location is its best amenity.

It's adjoined to the Beach Club Resort, which offers an ice-cream shop, arcade, and additional restaurants.

It's also less than a 10-minute walk to Epcot , which allowed us to go back and forth throughout the day and pop over in the evenings for the park's Harmonious dinner event and International Food and Wine Festival.

The hotel is a short walk from Disney's BoardWalk, where we enjoyed dinner, carnival games, and ice cream.

One day, we also walked over to play a morning round of mini golf at nearby Fantasia Gardens.

Basically anywhere we wanted to go, our transportation options were plentiful.

There were walking paths to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, boats to Hollywood Studios and resorts, Skyliner gondolas to Hollywood Studios and resorts, and buses to the other parks (Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom) and Disney Springs. 

We had a great experience and never had to wait more than five minutes for a bus. The My Disney Experience app was particularly handy for tracking when the next ones were set to arrive. 

Like any good resort, the Yacht Club also has incredible dining options

The Yachtsman's Steakhouse is the resort's fancier table-service restaurant, and there's also the Ale and Compass, which serves breakfast and dinner. 

We ate a delicious breakfast at Ale and Compass one morning before heading to the parks — the blueberry pancakes were especially good. There's also a lounge next door that's great for evening drinks. 

The Yacht Club Market, connected to the gift shop, is another quick-service option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The breakfast sandwiches and bowls were quick and great for early mornings. 

We also topped off our refillable mugs at the Market every day. 

Overall, the location, amenities, and theming of the Yacht Club make it my favorite Disney resort. 

Watch: Disney World is getting so expensive that it's pricing out the middle class

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Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club (Which to Choose)

boardwalk yacht club disney world

The Beach Club Resort and its sister, Disney’s Yacht Club, are two of my family’s favorite hotels at Disney World. You really can’t beat the ideal location, family friendly restaurants, and deluxe amenities at these Walt Disney World resort hotels. But, you may be wondering which of the two deluxe resorts you should book for your upcoming vacation.

While it’s true the Beach Club and Yacht Club share almost everything, the two resorts are also very different from each other. For example, one of the resorts offers a quieter vibe and rooms with full balconies while the other hotel features closer access to Epcot and restaurants. If you are looking for a comparison of Disney’s Beach Club vs Yacht Club resort, this post provides a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best hotel for your trip!

(This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small compensation at no extra cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy at the bottom of this page for more details.)

Beach Club vs Yacht Club Rooms

Depending on availability for your vacation dates, Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Yacht Club Resort offer several options for hotel rooms. If you’re comparing the rooms at Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club, we would crown Yacht Club the winner here .

Disney's Yacht Club Resort

The rooms at Disney’s Yacht Club have updated hardwood flooring rather than carpet. Also, the balconies at the Yacht Club are full balconies as opposed to the Beach Club where you will find standing only Juliet Balconies.

Standard View Rooms

Standard View rooms at the Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts offer views of the rooftop or parking area. These rooms can sleep up to 5 adults since some of the standard view rooms have 2 queen beds and 1 daybed.

Garden View Rooms

Garden View rooms offer views of the garden, woods, or lawn area at Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club. These rooms can also sleep up to 5 adults as some provide 2 queen beds and 1 daybed.

Water View Rooms

Water View rooms at the Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts offer views of one of the pools or of Crescent Lake. These rooms also sleep up to 5 adults if you have a room with 2 queen beds and 1 daybed.

Deluxe Room

Deluxe Rooms at Disney’s Beach Club offer more square footage than the regular hotel rooms. They can sleep up to 6 adults since they offer 2 queen beds and a queen sleeper sofa.

Club Level Rooms

The Club Level rooms at Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts offer standard, garden, or water views similar to the regular hotel rooms. However, you also receive special perks if you book a room in the Club Level. These are some of the benefits you will receive:

  • concierge services
  • Club Lounge with snacks and beverages
  • complimentary health club access
  • turndown service

Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers several options for suites.

  • The 1 Bedroom Suite can sleep up to 4 adults with a king sized bed in the bedroom and a queen sleeper sofa in the separate sitting area. The 1 bedroom suite offers either garden or water views.
  • The 2 Bedroom Suite can sleep up to 7 adults. It offers two separate bedrooms: one with a king bed and one with 2 queen beds. The 2 Bedroom Suite also has a daybed. Your views from this suite will be either of the garden or the water.
  • The Nantucket VP Suite sleeps up to 2 adults with a king sized bed. It offers views of the water.
  • The Newport Presidential sleeps up to 7 adults with 2 double beds, 1 king bed, and 1 daybed. It provides views of the water and Epcot.

Disney’s Yacht Club also offers a suite for guests. This 2-bedroom suite includes club level access and features two king beds and a queen pullout.

Room Requests

The rooms at Beach Club Resort come with a mini refrigerator. You can request a microwave when you check in as well. Other items you may request include bed rails, highchair, crib, and connecting rooms.

David's Vacation Club Rentals

As mentioned above, it is important to note that not all of the rooms at Beach Club have FULL balconies. Many of them only offer the small Juliet type balcony. If a full-sized balcony is important to you, I HIGHLY recommend requesting this during online check in.

Beach Club vs Yacht Club Location

The Beach Club Resort at Walt Disney World sits near Epcot Theme Park and Disney’s Boardwalk entertainment district. Since this resort is located on Crescent Lake, you get amazing water views and sandy beaches where your kids can play. Beach Club’s sister resort, Disney’s Yacht Club, is located right next door.

Disney's Beach Club Resort entrance from boardwalk

These two resorts are connected, so you can easily walk between the two and enjoy the amenities each hotel has to offer. One of the most popular amenities at these sister resorts is their elaborate pool: Stormalong Bay. Even though the check-in time typically is not until 3:00, guests of the resorts can use the pool before their room is officially ready.

One of our top reasons for choosing to stay at Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club is their prime location. Below, I will detail how to get from the hotels to each of the Walt Disney World theme parks. Since both of these resorts sit on the same property, there really isn’t much of a difference on their location .

Skyliner and walkway to Epcot International Gateway

When comparing the Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club, the Beach Club is slightly closer to Epcot while the Yacht Club is a bit closer to Hollywood Studios. The differences in distance are so small that I wouldn’t recommend basing your decision on that factor though . On a side note, if you are looking for tips on choosing the right Disney World hotel, join our Facebook group for personalized help on finding the best resort for your family!

If you are wondering how far Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club are from Epcot, you will be pleased to know it’s a short five-minute walk. You just stroll along the walkway near Crescent Lake and follow the signs for Epcot. You will arrive at the International Gateway entrance to Epcot, which is at the back of the park near the World Showcase.

to Hollywood Studios

If you are wanting to travel to Disney’s Hollywood Studios from the Beach Club Resort or the Yacht Club, you have several options to get there. You can walk along the scenic paths to the theme park, which takes about 20 minutes.

ferry boat at Disney's Beach Club Resort

You can also take the water shuttle from the Beach Club to Hollywood Studios. Since the boat makes some stops along the way, this also takes about 20 minutes. You can also utilize the Skyliner from the International Gateway. This gondola ride will take you straight to Hollywood Studios.

to Magic Kingdom

If you want to access Magic Kingdom from the Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts, you will need to board the Disney bus outside the lobby of one of the hotels. Depending on when you are visiting WDW, this shuttle bus may combine pickups by stopping at both the Beach Club and Disney’s Yacht Club. Magic Kingdom is about a 20-minute drive from Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

to Animal Kingdom

If you are looking to travel to Animal Kingdom Theme Park, you would need to board the Disney bus in front of the hotel. Each bus promptly displays where they are headed, so it’s super easy to catch the correct one. This ride is usually around 20 minutes long.

to Disney’s Boardwalk

view of Disney's Boardwalk from Beach Club and Yacht Club

Disney’s Boardwalk is super easy to access from the Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts. The Boardwalk is located right across the lake from the hotels and is a short 5-minute walk. This area of Disney World is one of our favorites, and its close proximity to the hotels is a huge perk to staying in the Beach Club/Yacht Club area.

to Disney Springs

You would also need to drive or take the Disney shuttle bus to Disney Springs. This ride typically takes 20 minutes.

Activities Comparison

Disney’s Beach Club Resort and the Yacht Club offer many fun activities for families visiting with kids. Again, since these two hotels are sister resorts, guests staying at either hotel may experience activities at both hotels . In other words, the Beach Club and Yacht Club share the guest activities listed below.

The Beach Club and Yacht Club share an arcade that is located right by Stormalong Bay Pool. The arcade is full of fun video games and sports tables. This is a great rainy day activity!

Outdoor Movies

outdoor movie at Disney's Beach Club

Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club resort show nightly movies outside on the lawn or sand. You can check out the entertainment schedule for the dates of your visit to determine which movies are playing. This activity schedule is usually released at the beginning of each month.

Kids love spending their evenings roasting marshmallows and making s’mores by the campfire. Sometimes Mickey’s friends even join in the fun!

Guests of Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and Disney’s Beach Club Villas have access to three leisure pool areas (one at each resort). In addition, these three Disney resorts share a main pool, Stormalong Bay, which I will discuss in more detail below.

Stormalong Bay is a massive pool and water play area shared by Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts. If you have set aside time to enjoy this elaborate swimming area, note that pool towels are complimentary and available in the pool gates.

Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay offers lots of different spaces for swimming and playing in the water. Near the site of the large shipwreck model, you will find a kiddie pool perfect for little ones. This pool is in a contained area and is separate from the larger pool area.

Stormalong Bay Pool at Disney's Beach Club

This kiddie pool tends to be a bit quieter than the main pool. Stormalong Bay also has a sand bottom pool that is great for babies and toddlers . The super shallow water allows them to safely splash and play in the sand. You will find deeper areas of water to swim as well. Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers complimentary safety vests that little ones can use while playing and swimming.

In addition to the many swimming areas at Stormalong Bay, guests can enjoy the lazy river. You will find complimentary inner tubes available near the lazy river to make floating even more fun!

Water Slides

You will find two water slides at Stormalong Bay Pool. The larger of the two slides is a whopping 230 feet long. It begins atop the huge shipwreck model (pictured above) at the edge of the lake. This large water slide does not have a height requirement; however, there is a limit of one person at a time on the slide. This means that parents are not permitted to slide with their toddler or small child.

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

If you have an adventurous toddler who enjoys thrill rides, you can usually wait in the water at the bottom of the slide. This way you are available to grab your little one after he/she lands in the water. Children are permitted to wear complimentary safety vests on the slide as well.

*Note that you have to leave the main pool gates and climb many steep stairs to get to the top of this slide. Therefore, you will not want your toddler entering the slide area alone.

toddler slide at Disney's Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts

The smaller of the two slides is near the entrance to the larger slide. When you arrive in the shipwreck area, you will see a small, kiddie pool with a miniature water slide perfect for toddlers. Smaller kids should have no problem climbing to the top of this slide and sliding down to the pool below. You can clearly see them the whole time.

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The shallow sand bottom section is perfect for toddlers and little kids to splash and dig. The lazy river is super fun and relaxing. The main water slide is a big hit for kids and adults. The kiddie water slide and pool area are great for toddlers and those who want a calmer sliding experience.

Price Comparison

Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts are typically priced similarly. My family and I often find that one may be a bit cheaper than the other for a specific set of dates, but a different set of dates may produce different results. If you are interested in experiencing all the great amenities of Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts for a fraction of the price, I recommend looking into renting Disney Vacation Club points for a stay at the Beach Club Villas.

hotels with pools and text Beach Club vs Yacht Club Resorts

These villas are located on the same property as the Beach Club/Yacht Club Resorts, and they have access to the same great restaurants and activities! You can check out the “cost calculator” at David’s Vacation Club Rentals to see how much you save on your vacation dates. I have personally used David’s rental services multiple times and have always had great experiences!

Things to Do Near the Resorts

Since Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts are located in such a great spot near the Boardwalk and other resorts, you will find lots of kid friendly things to do within walking distance of the hotel.

Epcot Fireworks

One of our favorite activities just outside Disney’s Beach Club/Yacht Club is to view the nightly fireworks show at Epcot. You can grab some ice cream from Beaches and Cream and choose a spot near the walkway to Epcot. This is a great way to enjoy the fireworks show without having to maneuver between the crowds of people inside the park. It’s also a nice activity to enjoy at Disney World without purchasing a park ticket!

The Skyliner is one of the newer additions to Walt Disney World. This gondola ride connects several of the resort hotels to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If you are looking for a unique activity, take a ride on the Skyliner with your kids.

Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf is an 18-hole course themed off the movie Fantasia . Since this kid friendly activity is located near The Swan hotel, guests of Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club can easily walk to the mini golf course.

Restaurants

In addition to the easy access to the restaurants on Disney’s Boardwalk, guests at the Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts have lots of dining options right at the hotel.

Beaches and Cream Soda Shop

Beaches and Cream is my personal all time favorite restaurant at Disney World. This diner offers all kinds of delicious options, including a tomato bisque that is out of this world!

Beaches and Cream Soda Shop entrance

Open daily for lunch and dinner, Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is located right beside Stormalong Bay Pool. They are famous for the ice cream concoction knows as The Kitchen Sink. Note that you are able to order some ice cream and to-go items from the window without actually going inside the diner.

Beach Club Marketplace

Beach Club Marketplace

If you are looking for a quick stop on your way to the theme parks, Beach Club Marketplace is a great option. This dining venue serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its diverse menu offers something for everyone. Beach Club Marketplace is our go-to for a fast breakfast or a quick snack before heading out for the day.

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard at Disney's Beach Club Resort

Martha’s Vineyard is a lounge that serves all kinds of adult beverages. You can also order appetizers like clam chowder, chicken wings, and calamari from this venue.

Hurricane Hanna’s

Hurricane Hanna’s is located right outside by Stormalong Bay Pool. You can order your food and beverages from the counter and dine outside at the available tables.

Ale and Compass

Ale and Compass is a sit down restaurant located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. This dining venue serves family favorites for breakfast and options like seafood, chicken, and steak for dinner.

The Market at Ale and Compass

The Market at Ale and Compass is the quick service dining venue located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Similar to The Beach Club Marketplace, this restaurant is a great stop for a quick meal.

Cape May Cafe

Cape May Cafe is located near the lobby of Disney’s Beach Club Resort. This restaurant is buffet style and serves your favorite seafood options. Cape May Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, the restaurant takes on a different theme for breakfast when it becomes the site for Minnie’s Beach Bash.

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Yachtsman Steakhouse is a signature dining restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. You will find steak and seafood among other options on the menu. Since this is a signature dining experience, guests must adhere to a dress code .

Crew’s Cup Lounge

Crew’s Cup Lounge is located near Yactsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Here, you will find all kinds of adult beverages along with a few options for appetizers or snacks.

In Room Dining

Disney’s Beach Club Resort is one of the Walt Disney World hotels that offers room service. You will find an In Room Dining Menu in your hotel room with instructions on how to place an order.

David's Vacation Club Rentals

The menu includes options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night dining. You can even pre-order your breakfast the night before, so your family can eat in the room as you get ready for the parks.

Character Dining

As mentioned above, Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort becomes a character dining experience each morning for breakfast. Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast is a super fun way to start your day! The breakfast is buffet style and has a wide range of items to choose. You will even find a stand serving made to order omelets!

Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast at Disney’s Beach Club

Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy each walk around the dining areas to greet you at your table. The characters are decked out in their finest beach wear to continue the theme of the dining experience.

Beach Club and Yacht Club vs Other Disney Resorts

Since Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts are my family’s favorite hotels at Disney World, I will try to explain WHY we love them so much! Below, I will compare the Beach Club/Yacht Club to other resorts at Disney World, so you can get an idea of why we choose to stay at these resorts. If you would like to see more comparisons between other hotels, feel free to comment below with the resorts you are considering. I know how stressful and overwhelming planning a Disney World vacation can be!

vs Beach Club Villas

Like the Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Villas have access to all the restaurants, activities, and amenities at the Beach Club resort. My recommendation is to choose the cheapest option of the three resorts . As mentioned above, renting DVC points for Beach Club Villas is often the best way to save money.

vs Boardwalk Inn

If you stay at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, you get the perks of the awesome location near Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Boardwalk. You can also easily walk over to the Beach Club to enjoy the dining venues located there. The one big drawback to Boardwalk Inn is that you don’t get Stormalong Bay . Disney’s Boardwalk Inn has a really fun pool, but it just doesn’t compare to the elaborate swimming pool at the Beach Club.

vs Monorail Resorts

You may be wondering how the Beach Club compares to the monorail resorts: Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Polynesian . These three resorts offer really easy access to Magic Kingdom, which is a huge perk if you have little kids.

Disney's Polynesian Resort

They all offer great theming and activities as well. However, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts get our pick because they’re usually priced significantly lower than the monorail resorts .

vs Caribbean Beach Resort

It is difficult to compare Disney’s Beach Club Resort with Caribbean Beach because they really aren’t similar at all. Even though the names may cause you to think differently, the two resorts do not have much in common. Caribbean Beach is a moderate hotel that is lovely, but it does not offer the amenities that the deluxe resorts do.

If you are not planning to spend a lot of time at your hotel, you can certainly look into Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. However, you will not have access to the prime location, restaurants, pool, and other activities that the Beach Club offers .

Final Review of Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club

Since these two resorts share EVERYTHING, it’s really a matter of personal taste when deciding between these two hotels. The Disney Beach Club has a more relaxed vibe, while Yacht Club seems more sophisticated . We find that Stormalong Bay Pool is reason enough to stay at these amazing hotels. Who can pass up the opportunity to experience the best pool at Disney World?!

In addition, the location, restaurants, and activities offered at these deluxe resort hotels help to make your vacation one you will never forget! If I were planning a trip to Disney World, I would choose whichever is cheaper between the two ! Don’t forget to join our Facebook group for personalized help on finding the best resort for your family! So, how do you think they compare? Which resort would you choose? Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club? Comment below to share!

Disney's Beach Club Resort with text overlay Best Epcot Resort Disney's Beach Club

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Yacht club vs. boardwalk inn disney world resort guide 2023.

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Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be complicated — especially when you’re trying to choose between  25 resort hotels .  If you’ve narrowed down your choices to these hotels, how do you make your final selection?

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Well, we’re here to walk you through the differences between Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn .

Whether room size, location, pools, and/or restaurants are most important to you, we share the information that you’ll need to make an informed decision.  After all, we want you to stay at the hotel that is best for your family!

Let’s get started and look at all the details so that you can plan your Disney trip with confidence.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Lobby at the Yacht Club

There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive , and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip . The best way to tackle such a massive decision like this is with as much logic as possible, so we broke down this comparison into five categories: Common Ground, Theme/Rooms, Pools, Food, and Transportation .

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Let’s get started on your vacation research.

COMMON GROUND

Before we mention their differences, let’s take a look at what Yacht Club and BoardWalk Inn have in common. First, both offer Deluxe Resort accommodations with a similar resort layout . You’ll discover luxurious amenities and unique themeing at both hotels. Plus, both boast   many of the same perks . In addition, each offer the same convenient transportation options at an amazing Walt Disney World location. Both of these resorts feature nautical, seaside themes !

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney’s Yacht Club Lobby

But, what about the prices? Well, this is where you’ll first see a difference. In fact, you’ll save a bit by opting for the Yacht Club . However, the most expensive rooms are large villas at BoardWalk Inn. The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Villas can be booked by Disney Vacation Club members or cash-paying guests .

For the Yacht Club , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $537 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,877 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit.

For BoardWalk Inn , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $597 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $4,455 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

BoardWalk Lobby

Let’s dig a little deeper to see what you can get for the money at these resorts!

Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests

Theme/rooms.

These are not your standard hotels. Get ready to enjoy beautiful lakeside accommodations.

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BoardWalk Deli

But whether your stay takes you to the sophisticated Yacht Club or the vintage BoardWalk, you’ll find that both of these options provide delightful Disney amenities .

Yacht Club Resort

Ahoy maties, straighten that ascot and slip on those boat shoes, you’re about to set sail into the Disney resort themed after the grand and sleek yachting clubs of New England. And no, Disney does not require that you own a yacht to stay here (phew, that’s one expense you won’t have to factor into your Disney trip!).

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Yacht Club Lobby

This resort makes “subtle” look good. It’s sleek, elegant, and streamlined — like, well, a yacht. If you’re visiting Disney World for a business conference, this hotel might just be the right speed for you as it encompasses a rather executive vibe to it. There are some very nice, and perfectly adequate furnishings, but the rooms themselves just don’t scream lavish.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Our favorite touch in these otherwise “character-less” rooms are the curtains that feature fictional constellations inspired by some of our favorite Disney pals.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

The Yacht Club renovated and updated the rooms in 2017 resulting in a more sophisticated appearance with dark woods, crisp whites, and deep navy blues.  They definitely don’t have the personality that you can find at the Contemporary and Polynesian . So, if you’re looking for a room with some “character,” the Yacht Club may not be your jam. Note that standard rooms are about 381 sq. ft.

Why You Should Add Disney’s Yacht Club to Your Resort Hopping List Right NOW

Boardwalk inn.

Welcome to the charming turn-of-the-century Atlantic boardwalk themed resort, aptly named BoardWalk Inn. The BoardWalk brings in vibrant colors reminiscent of a seaside amusement park. In essence, the BoardWalk Inn balances the fun of the theme with the luxury of a deluxe resort.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Stroll the boardwalk!

The rooms last received a bit of a touch up and spruce back in 2016 and with the ongoing construction and other resort renovations may see some TLC, soon . We hope the room updates and renovations keep with the classic Disney charm we’ve come to love and aren’t watered down to look like other standard hotels. Standard rooms at 434 sq. ft. sleep five people.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Charming BoardWalk hallway!

Given the charming color palette and light fixtures in the updated hallways , we have high hopes for the new room decor!

So, this really could be down to what type of vibe you want on your vacation.

For cost, we give the edge to Yacht Club, however if a larger room is important to you, you’ll want to look closer at BoardWalk Inn. We’re giving a slight edge to Yacht Club right now due to the ongoing construction at BoardWalk Inn.

4 BIG Changes (Including New Restaurants) Announced for Disney’s BoardWalk

When the weather is HOT or you just need a break from park queues, head to your resort pool! After all, the pools have their own unique features and special theming.  Feature pools at Walt Disney World hotels usually have at least one slide and also offer poolside activities. Look at the hotel’s recreation schedule for more information. These swimming spots are family-friendly with at least one whirlpool spa.

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Pool Slide at BoardWalk

Note that poolside towels are always complimentary.

The Yacht Club may be understated when it comes to its lobby and resort rooms, but it is not to be outdone in the pool category. Disney’s Yacht Club shares a pool complex with its neighboring resort, the Beach Club, Stormalong Bay.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay is a destination on all its own . This pool complex is almost like its own mini-water park, with sand at the bottom and even a lazy river! Whether you take advantage of the ‘shipwrecked’ themed water slide or leisurely float around the lazy river, this pool delights guests of all ages.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club

Stormalong Bay is also nestled in close to Beaches and Cream , an iconic ice cream shop, providing over-the-top milkshakes, sundaes, and comfort junk food essentials like burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches.

The BoardWalk Inn has three pools — the main pool called Luna Park and two “leisure” pools for folks that are looking for more chill than thrill for their watery adventure.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Luna Park Pool

The Luna Park pool used to be the home of the  clown water slide  that lit up at night and may have caused an entire generation to need therapy. Luckily for you fine folks, you get to enjoy the renovated model of the  Keister Coaster  pool slide.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

BoardWalk Inn Pool

Mickey, Minnie and Friends enjoy a pool adventure with you on this 200-foot-long slide.

This fun pool is 184,217 gallons and is just steps away from the amusements on the Boardwalk where you can easily grab a quick ice cream or margarita and then jump right back in the pool.

Both have relaxing pools with pool bars, lounge chairs, and splash areas. Again, it might boil down to just what your style is. Do you want to soak in a whimsical pool area? Or something a bit more coastal with sand and a lazy river?

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Stormalong Bay Shipwreck Waterslide

Our heart leans towards the Yacht Club because that pool is just epic! Toes in the sand and relaxing down a lazy river with a shipwreck-themed water slide is our idea of a wonderful poolside escape.

10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools

Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese , and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal . We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see how these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category.

Hurricane Hanna’s is a pool bar, tucked under the Stormalong Bay waterslide, that provides fixes for your hunger without having to wander too far from the pool.

The Yacht Club is home to two lounges, one quick-service market, a table service option, and a Disney Signature dining restaurant . Not to mention its close proximity to Beach Club and all of those dining options.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

The Market at Ale & Compass

For an ideal spot to relax with a nightcap while winding down in the evening, or to grab a bite or two from their substantial appetizer menu, head over to Ale & Compass Lounge . The Ale & Compass Lounge is one part of the  Ale & Compass dining concept  at the Yacht Club, which also includes  The Market at Ale & Compass  and the  Ale & Compass Restaurant .

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Ale & Compass Lounge

Located right next to  Yachtsman Steakhouse  at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort , the  Crew’s Cup Lounge is a great place to get a bite and a drink in a relaxing, cozy atmosphere — and it’s a DFB favorite! In addition to  specialty cocktails and a full bar ,  a robust food menu  is served during evening hours as well, including a few full meals. During dinner hours at the Yachtsman, you’ll have a direct view through a glass window of steak being prepared for the steakhouse – so cool!

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Crew’s Cup Lounge

Ale & Compass Restaurant  is the  table service  component of the Ale & Market dining concept in Disney’s Yacht Club, which also includes  The Market at Ale & Compass  along with the refreshed  Ale & Compass Lounge . The atmosphere offers a  gastropub ambiance while comfort food (New England-inspired) is featured  on the menu. A la carte options for  breakfast  include classic American breakfast fare, with a few twists like the Dark Chocolate Waffle and Salted Caramel-Apple French Toast, and a pastry buffet option may be paired with your choice of entree. Casual  lunch  options include Fish & Chips, burgers, and more.  Dinner  offerings feature specialties like the New England Seafood Pot Pie and Pappardelle pasta dishes, among others.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Ale and Compass Restaurant

The Market at Ale & Compass  is a  Counter Service  location at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort . Simple convenience is the name of the game, with a focus on grab-and-go items. However, hot sandwiches, specialty desserts — and even a coffee bar — round out the options nicely. Open for  breakfast, lunch, and dinner .

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Yachtsman Steakhouse comes highly recommended by any discerning carnivore. The  steaks here are some of the best on property , and the service is often excellent.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

8-oz Filet Mignon

This craftsman-inspired dining room at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort  caters to all tastebuds with a variety of dishes, incredible sides, and amazing, cut-in-house steaks.

Is The CHEESIEST Soup in Disney World Hiding at This Forgotten Restaurant?

The BoardWalk Inn has been updating and renovating many of the common areas including some of the dining options on the actual boardwalk. We’ve seen the rebranding of the BoardWalk Deli (formerly the BoardWalk Bakery ) and look forward to the new Cake Bake Shop .  Inside the BoardWalk lobby, the fan-favorite Belle Vue Lounge reopened with new furnishings , that received some humdrum remarks from loyal guests for losing its charm and looking like it was furnished by Wayfair. And Carousel Coffee recently opened serving up pastries and Joffrey’s Coffee with a rather subdued vibe for a joint named after a bright and vivacious carnival attraction. Let’s take a look…

boardwalk yacht club disney world

At  AbracadaBar , according to the story, you can still feel the magic in the air at this  former secret haunt of boardwalk magicians and entertainers … a group that  mysteriously vanished over 70 years ago. Guests can experience their lingering magic in the sights, sounds, and even tastes (through the signature “Curious Cocktails”) in this enchanted lounge!

boardwalk yacht club disney world

AbracadaBar

Atlantic Dance Hall is another bar on the BoardWalk. Looking for a place to get your groove on? Boogie down to music from the 80s through today at Atlantic Dance Hall! You can request your favorite music videos, and dance along as they play on the large screens above. Shake your groove thang, and get your dance on with a group of friends! Please note that Atlantic Dance Hall is limited to guests 21 and older and typically open Thursday through Sunday nights from 8PM to 1AM.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Atlantic Dance Hall

The  Belle Vue Lounge  is what many call a “rare find” at  Disney’s BoardWalk Inn . Modeled after  a 1930s sitting room , it has nice touches like board games and working radios playing shows from eras past. Tucked right off the main lobby, this lounge is a great place to  relax and enjoy a drink after a long day at the parks. Guests can also  stop here for coffee or pastries in the morning .

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Belle Vue Lounge

Head to a real brewing factory at Big River Grille & Brewing Works ! Here you can sample many different kinds of beers, along with great  burgers, steaks, nachos, and more . The  floor-to-ceiling glass walls  in the Big River Grille & Brewing Works restaurant provide a glimpse into the beer-making process. Watch while an  on-site brew master crafts the establishment’s beers. Or sit outside and enjoy the BoardWalk atmosphere and water views.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Big River Grille & Brewing Works

Step back in time to a seaside boardwalk village on Crescent Lake where turn-of-the-century charm meets savory eats and sweet treats at the BoardWalk Deli .  Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are offered, and guests enjoy items like house-baked bagels or a hand-piped cannoli.

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BoardWalk Deli has pastries and sandwiches

Craving a cool treat while strolling along the Disney World BoardWalk? Then stop by   BoardWalk Ice Cream ! This ice cream to-go store scoops up simple sundaes and cones made with Edy’s brand ice cream. The treats here are said to be inspired by the beloved  Beaches & Cream Soda Shop  at the nearby Beach Club Resort.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

BoardWalk Ice Cream

BoardWalk Joe’s is a stand on Disney World’s BoardWalk that is known for ONE thing: “Marvelous Margaritas!” For a relatively small kiosk, there is a surprising  variety of flavorful margaritas available — and sometimes you’ll happen upon a seasonal concoction! A  selection of snacks  such as pretzels and roasted nuts is also available. Non-alcoholic smoothies (including one made with Dole Whip!) are also on offer.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Boardwalk Joe’s

Stop by the Pizza Window on Disney World’s BoardWalk for a piping hot pizza pie! One of the most relaxing and fun things to do at Disney World is stroll along the Disney BoardWalk, taking in all the sights and smells around Crescent Lake. With 9,000 square feet of entertainment, shops, and restaurants, there are several options for a quick bite to eat. Why not grab some fresh pizza from the BoardWalk Pizza Window? They serve up whole pizza pies and pizza by the slice  (and Sangria to go with it, for of-age guests, along with fountain drinks). Grab one of the cafe tables outside or stroll while you eat.

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BoardWalk PIzza

If you happen to be walking down Disney World’s BoardWalk and you’re in the mood for a quick snack, be sure to stop at the  BoardWalk To Go kiosk. At this kiosk you’ll find baskets of  deep-fried treats including fried mac and cheese bites and corn dogs. You can even grab a meal combo built around a hot dog, cheeseburger, or pulled pork sandwich. (Note: BoardWalk To Go has permanently closed.)

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Boardwalk To-Go

The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers is coming to Disney World’s BoardWalk in 2023! This new Table Service restaurant will serve items for  brunch, lunch,  and  dinner  featuring both  sweet and savory menus .   Afternoon tea service  will be offered as well! And guess what? Guests will also be able to pop in for a  quick treat  by grabbing something  to-go from the bakery case !

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Concept art for The Cake Bake Shop

You can find   Carousel Coffee  at  Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. This spot is located right off the Resort’s lobby, making it a perfectly convenient spot for your pick-me-up cup!  Coffee, tea, and pastries  (including options by Joffrey’s Coffee) are on offer. Keep an eye out for seasonal drinks and unique options like a Dark Cherry Mocha Frozen Blended Coffee. As far as the eats, you can grab classic snacks such as the Vintage Mickey & Minnie Sugar Cookie, Banana Bread, Croissants, Muffins, NJ Crumb Cake, Bagels, and a Mickey Brownie.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Carousel Coffee

Flying Fish  is a  signature restaurant  that serves  gourmet seafood  to guests on  Disney World’s BoardWalk.  Many tout both the sea and land dishes here. (The Char-Crusted New York Strip is a favorite among landlubbers.) The location — complete with a lovely glass school of fish “swimming” above the main dining room — has an emphasized focus on seasonal, sustainable fare.

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Flying Fish

You’ll find a truly classic carnival treat on Disney World’s BoardWalk: Funnel Cake! The Funnel Cake Stand also serves the rather unexpected offering of Fried Ice Cream. Enjoy your “Tasty Sensations” (as the sign says) while you stroll or pull up a bench on the BoardWalk while watching the people go by! PLEASE NOTE: BoardWalk Funnel Cake is currently closed. 

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Funnel Cake Stand is closed

Do you love music from the 70′s, 80′s, and 90′s? Do you love dueling piano improv? Then Jellyrolls Dueling Piano Bar is the place for you! This raucous bar on Disney’s BoardWalk brings you non-stop dueling pianos and a drink special each night (the “Jellyroll of the Day”). So be thinking of your favorite Billy Joel, Mariah Carey, or Elton John song to request! There is a  cover charge of $18.00  to enter Jellyrolls, which is typically open  nightly from 7PM to 1:45AM.  Doors open at 7PM, and entertainment starts at 8PM — it helps to be early to grab a seat!

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Welcome to Leaping Horse Libations at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn! Out at the Luna Park Pool at this Deluxe Resort, you’ll find a poolside bar with all the basics you need for an afternoon in the sun — cold drinks, snacks, and even a few lunch items to get you through your Florida sun-and-pool afternoon! Look for fun carnival-themed drinks like the Tilt-A-Whirl and The Roller Coaster Meltdown served along with the standard Disney pool bar menu.

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Leaping Horse Libations

You’ll find Trattoria al Forno on  Disney World’s BoardWalk . This eatery serves breakfast and dinner daily and is an  “original Italian restaurant.”  The dinner menu features  regional specialties with classic preparations . Many of the ingredients are crafted in-house including hand-crafted mozzarella and handmade cavatelli. Trattoria al Forno also features seasonal risotto and serves only Italian wines.  

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Trattoria al Forno

So many amazing places to eat, how can you choose? Or you don’t have to, just systematically eat your way through the BoardWalk!

Click HERE to find our COMPLETE GUIDE TO EATING at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn!

Since both resorts are within an easy boat ride or walking distance from each other, the dining options can be enjoyed by guests of Yacht Club or BoardWalk Inn.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney’s BoardWalk

Still, we advise looking at the menus to see which resort has more food that appeals to your traveling party.

TRANSPORTATION

Do these resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!!

Yacht Club and BoardWalk Inn

Both hotels are considered “EPCOT-area” resort and sit on Crescent Lake, across the water from each other. These resorts are situated in between TWO Disney parks, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Yep, that’s right, you can walk or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on a Friendship Cruise boat to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

We love walking to EPCOT’s International Gateway. Not having to worry about fighting EPCOT’s post-fireworks crowds? Yes, sign us up, please.

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Friendship Boat

If Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s buses to transport you over to these parks.

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And as if walkways, boats, and buses weren’t enough options for you, Yacht Club and BoardWalk guests are also within walking distance of the EPCOT Skyliner station . This means you have easy access to the other Skyliner resorts if you want to go exploring other resorts or just have a relaxing cruise through the sky.

It’s a tie!

HOW in the world do I get around the WORLD ?

The winner.

So, who is the ultimate winner in the Yacht Club vs. BoardWalk Inn battle? We hate to say it, but it depends ! You’ll need to decide which theme, dining, and pools, best suits your next vacation to Walt Disney World.  Yacht Club standard rooms are smaller, however if cost is your biggest concern, staying here will save you money. If newer rooms is important, then Yacht Club has the edge in that category.

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EPCOT Skyliner

The location and transportation options are awesome at both resorts!

Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all , money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.

Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you — they’ve literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU ! (They’re DFB’s recommended travel agency, and you can see why here !)

🙂

What do you think? Which Disney World hotel is the best choice for your family? Let us know in the comments!

The post Yacht Club vs. BoardWalk Inn Disney World Resort Guide 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog .

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What is the walking distance between the Yacht Club and Boardwalk resorts? What is the distance of the walk from the Boarwalk resort to Epcot? to Hollywood Studios? ”

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Ranking Disney World Deluxe Resorts From Completely CHILL To Completely CHAOTIC

By Myranda Juarez Leave a Comment

If you’ve yet to visit the Disney World hotels you’re considering for your next trip , how do you know you’re making the right decision for you and your family? Think about it for a moment. Comparing hotels solely by a short online description and a few stock photos can make you feel like you’ve made the right choice based on a smidge of idyllic information provided, but that scenario has led to a disaster of a time over and over again. Plenty of our readers have written in to tell us that once they arrived for their vacation, it was NOTHING like what they expected and they wish they had more experience built into their decision.

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Wilderness Lodge

Some folks were looking for a lively atmosphere with lots of activities around only to be met with the polar opposite of their expectations. Others walked into total chaos of loud transportation and ginormous crowds which was definitely not what they anticipated when they opted to spend thousands of dollars on their trip. That’s where we’re ready to step in and help — you see, we’ve actually stayed at ALL of the Disney World hotels, and let’s just say, we’ve got thoughts!

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Disney World takes pride in its extensive choices of deluxe category hotels which can include certain amenities like multiple transportation options to the Disney World parks and Disney Springs, table service dining options in addition to grab and go or quick service restaurants, spas, live entertainment, incredible pools, and even closer proximity to the theme parks. So it’s important to know where each of these Disney World deluxe hotels rank on a scale of totally chill vibes to absolute chaos depending on how you envision your vacation. Since we know them so well, we asked our team here at DFB to rank these hotels using the same criteria, and here’s what we decided!

Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve

We’re just going to come out and say what you’re thinking — yes, these hotels DO exist at Disney World; they’re not a myth. They’re kind of our favorite hidden gems of hotels and that helps aid in their totally chill vibes.

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Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin

You’ll find three different options between each of them and they’re the only hotels on Disney World property where you earn (or spend!) Marriott Bonvoy points with your stay (hidden perks all around)! Each of these hotels’ rooms is pretty swanky — they typically have a little more room, and have a more posh, luxurious feel to them.

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Swan Resort lobby

It’s a true added bonus that they’re the first ones we’re ready to snatch up when we’re visiting for our favorite EPCOT festivals, AND they’re afforded lots of the same perks as the main Disney World deluxe hotels. They even have their own food and wine festival that happens in the fall each year — which tends to pack a lively crowd with their unlimited food and beverage tickets!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Our entire team jumped at the chance to rank this hotel as one of the MOST chill in all of Disney World’s deluxe hotels — Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.

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Animal Kingdom Lodge

Here it’s easy to get swept away in their easygoing pace, wake up to animals roaming the savanna, breeze by for a snack or meal at your leisure, and even jump into some fun activities where you might accidentally be learning about the animals who live at the hotel at the same time. It feels like no one is in a rush to be here and it’s easy to forget you’re actually at Disney World and NOT in an African hotel about to set out on a leisurely safari. (Bonus points to you if you’ve booked the Club Level rooms that include food and snacks for a more “all-inclusive” vibe).

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Kidani Village lobby

Yep, the only thing we could find less chill about this hotel is that it’s so massive between its two buildings (Jambo House and Kidani Village) that there’s an internal shuttle bus running between the two intermittently. Between them, you’ll find different restaurants, more safari sights to behold, and even separate pools to explore!

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

This next hotel is also one of the most chill, and it’s easy to see why. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is inspired by national parks and natural landmarks that can be experienced when you travel out west.

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Here your main building is modeled after a log cabin exterior with incredibly detailed woodwork, vaulted ceilings, and hidden details in its corner fireplace. And, with a short walk over to the Boulder Ridge building, you can even catch a glimpse of some of Walt’s prized train sets from his personal collection.

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When you’re here don’t miss your chance to see the geyser go off throughout the day, l0unge around the leisure pool, and take in a quick bite at some of our favorite restaurants. But even with as chill as it looks, we’ve got to warn you about one thing! This hotel loses chill points because it is home to Whispering Canyon Cafe which could be quite the rootin’ tootin’ time if you’re not familiar with their dry humor, and rowdy atmosphere (stick pony rides included).

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Take in all the Italian and French influence you could put into a creative mind, and Disney Imagineers turned out the stunning Disney’s Riviera Resort! As the newest Disney World hotel, it’s one that you’re probably scrambling to try out for yourself, and we can’t blame you.

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Riviera Resort

It’s a smaller hotel with a variety of room sizes —  making it an ideal option for truly anyone who’s looking for a relaxed, low-key vibe. The views from the tower are gorgeous, there are incredible restaurants right there on site, and you’ve got one of the quickest transportation options in the Disney Skyliner right at your door.

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Here’s where chaos can take a turn — and it’s really got nothing to do with the hotel itself. This hotel is backed up to one of Disney World’s largest moderate hotels — Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Not only will you be banking to take the Disney Skyliner transportation in the morning and late evening when your feet are tired and achy, but so will hundreds of other folks too! Their hotel is knocking at your hotel’s doorstep when you stay here, so you’ll want to allow for plenty of travel time just in case.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Disney’s Old Key West Resort certainly fits the bill for a chill Disney World hotel. It’s a MASSIVE property and is the first of its kind designed to be a long-term stay for those visiting Disney World with Disney Vacation Club.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Old Key West

It’s also home to one of Disney World’s resident golf courses, boat transportation floating down the river to and from Disney Springs for added convenience, and almost feels like a little town of its own. A lot of the rooms here are built for groups including multigenerational stays which can add a lot of value for those who are ok with finding a healthy compromise for staying somewhere that will appeal to all ages.

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Old Key West Resort | Deluxe Studio Room.

The only place you’re going to run into a bit of chaos is that transportation can be a bit frustrating. Since the hotel’s property is so large, there’s an internal shuttle that runs intermittently around sections of the hotel and to the front check-in building named Hospitality House. Additionally, the quick service restaurant here only provides for outdoor seating, otherwise, your dining option outside of cooking in your room’s kitchen is Olivia’s Cafe — also located at the front building.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

This next hotel is another large whopper that ranks in between chill and kinda chaos-y ! Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort neighbors Disney’s Old Key West Resort and they both share a similar vibe. This hotel also is home to a huge Disney World golf course and is pretty expansive! It’s also themed like the Saratoga Springs horse race track in New York, so you’re bound to see some beautiful statues, portraits, motifs, and general nods throughout the entire hotel’s design and decor.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Saratoga Springs

But again, the chaos here starts with the same transportation woes just like at its neighboring hotel. The internal shuttle will bring you around the hotel sections and front building just like at Disney’s Old Key West Resort, but you’ll probably either end up cooking, headed to Disney Springs for dinner (depending on where your room is located to the main building), or eating meals in the theme parks.

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There’s also another piece of chaos to throw into the decision here and it’s that Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort is home to the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) preview center. This means folks will be stopping by from time to time to preview some of Disney World’s newest hotel room mock-ups, talk to guides about purchasing into the program or adding on to their existing memberships.

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Treehouse Villas

If you’re not a fan of groups of people coming in and out around this area of the hotel throughout the day, then this might not be the hotel for you.

Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

We’ve finally made it to the middle of the range in our chill to chaos ranking — are you still with us? GOOD! So, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts are where you want to be if you’re someone who’s looking for a healthy mix of both! These sister hotels share a building with Disney’s Yacht Club toward the side outstretched by those chill Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels and Disney’s Beach Club outstretched closest to the International Gateway of EPCOT.

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Disney’s Beach Club Resort

This hotel gets major chill points for being able to share the arguably best pool on Disney World property, Stormalong Bay which is themed like a shipwrecked pirate ship complete with a mast slide, sand bottom pool, and beach area where you can make (and totally wreck) sandcastles AND a lazy river!

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Stormalong Bay

If you like the inside theming and decor of the hotel’s lobby and halls, you’ll swoon over the stunning interior of the hotel rooms!

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The food here is great too, with lots to choose from between grab and go, quick service, full table service restaurants, and (by far our favorite pick) LOUNGES!

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But where it gets a little chaotic is everyone wants to be here — seriously! The hotel takes this so seriously that you need to scan your Magicband or room key to verify you’re a hotel guest of these two hotels just to enter the gate and swim. The activities here can get a little louder in the day with a rockin’ pool party, and since it’s close to EPCOT, it’s going to offer a decent view of the nighttime spectacular, Luminous: The Symphony Of Us which could disrupt you if you’re an early sleeper.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Aloha, you’ve reached Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort on our ranking! This hotel is heavily influenced by Polynesian architecture, culture, and food and ranks high on our list of favorite hotels pretty consistently. But, that’s because it knows how to have a relaxed time without taking itself so seriously.

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While there’s a true Hawaiian spirit that flows through the walls of this hotel and extends to its array of outdoor activities and beach areas, this hotel can get pretty chaotic because it’s easily crowded! Its proximity to Magic Kingdom, its tasty dishes at its various restaurants, and its rambunctious bar grotto make it an easy target for folks to swing by to explore the hotel.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Polynesian Resort

While the amenities of the hotel are just for hotel guests to enjoy, the beach area is typically inviting to anyone who wants to view Magic Kingdom’s fireworks from its shores (unless there’s a special event happening that prevents this). This can lead to some crowds if you’re not early to grab a spot and if you want to do dinner from its resident ‘Ohana restaurant, you’ll want to make sure to grab those reservations early because its two meals are typically harder to get into the later you wait.

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This sometimes leads to folks stopping by to see about other people canceling on short notice for a chance to get themselves in or to see if there’s a waitlist option available.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

This next hotel really wants to be fancy and uptight, but we know it better than it does itself! Try as it might, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa might be our hidden party hotel at Disney World. If you’re finding yourself shocked at that statement, allow us to back up this argument a bit.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

Sure, its incredible Victorian appeal has won over the hearts of many (including ours) over the decades of this proud hotel’s history, but she’s certainly no prude! That’s right — Disney’s Grand Floridian KNOWS how to party with flair and you’ll frequently catch live entertainment in its lobby, bustling interactive character meals at 1900 Park Fare, and stunning views of Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks!

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If you’re someone who needs a little bit of both worlds to have the best vacation ever, this hotel is begging you to call it home!

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort

Maybe you’re not totally down for a party during the day, but what if the nighttime is a different story? Then, Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort could be the best choice for you!

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

This entire hotel is beautiful and inspired by the turn of the century look to the Atlantic Boardwalk but we mean this quite literally as you get a FULL boardwalk! This one kicks the chaos meter up a bit because it’s transformed at night from this quiet relaxed hotel to a romping party happening right outside your room!

boardwalk yacht club disney world

BoardWalk games

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort is a popular nighttime stop for those looking for something to see and do as they wind down their evening with midway games for prizes, and live performances, and is just steps away from a dueling piano bar AND dance hall! You won’t get more spirited than here!

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

If you’re shocked that Disney’s Contemporary Resort ranks the most chaotic on our list, you’ve probably never stayed here before. On paper, it’s an interesting concept for a contemporary-styled hotel complete with lots of amenities including a short walk over to Magic Kingdom or transportation by monorail. Its A-frame exterior and clean, sleek, design to its recently refurbished rooms give it an edgy and modern feel.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

But, there’s chaos hidden within its walls and, according to our team here at DFB, the absolute highest of them all! The interesting design and wow factor of seeing the monorail quickly subsides once you’re in your room and trying to get some sleep before your next park day only to be met by the squeaks and squeals of the monorail as it pulls in and out of the hotel building. While this doesn’t happen completely through the night, it can be a nuisance if you’re someone who likes to go to bed early (as transportation runs about an hour after Magic Kingdom closes which can be super late sometimes) or likes to sleep in a bit on vacation (since the monorails start transporting about an hour before the park opens –especially since its character meal, Chef Mickey’s, is a popular spot for early risers to see some characters right away)!

boardwalk yacht club disney world

Monorail at the Contemporary Resort

So there you have it — our complete list ranking Disney World’s deluxe hotels from totally chill to truly chaotic! We hope we were able to shed some light on a few of the factors you might not have considered about your upcoming stay just yet, and ultimately make you comfortable with your preferred hotel.

We’re always keeping up with the latest news, updates, and more at Disney World and all of its hotels! Be sure to stay tuned with us at Disney Food Blog for even more!

Mark My Words: These 7 Hotel Trends Will Be HUGE in Disney World in 2025

Want more details about disney world’s hotels, ranking of all of disney world’s hotels, a full list of changes announced for disney world’s hotels, the best disney world hotels for 2023, the worst disney world hotels for 2023, 13 critical things you’re forgetting about when booking a disney world hotel, 8 gadgets you need for your disney world hotel room, the surprising things you won’t find in your disney world hotel room, the secret way to stay in disney world’s hotels for less, what items from amazon can you have delivered to your resort hotel we’ve got the details, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney world hotel news right in your inbox click here to subscribe.

Where did your favorite Disney World hotel rank on our list? Tell us if you agree or not in the comments below!

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All About the Disney Deluxe Resorts: Disney World Luxury

I f you decide to stay on property at Walt Disney World in Florida , you’ll find that there are a number of different lodging options available to you in several different price ranges. The Disney Deluxe Resorts, which are the most expensive resorts on the property, include some of the most iconic and popular resorts.

With the extra cost, you’ll get some additional amenities that can really make your Walt Disney World vacation extra special. If you are considering a stay at a Disney deluxe resort, here’s everything you need to know.

I am a former member of the Disney Parks Moms Panel (now the planDisney Panel) and have been on some complimentary/discounted press trips at Walt Disney World (with stays at Disney resorts), but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us.

When booking your Walt Disney World vacation, consider purchasing through our affiliate Get Away Today . They offer great prices on tickets and can book many hotels.

Disney Deluxe Resorts all offer special amenities beyond what the Disney value resorts and the Disney moderate resorts offer. In addition to the standard amenities that all of the resorts offer, you’ll also find that these resorts may have some of the best pools, more dining options (including fine dining), and fitness centers/spas. Some of these deluxe hotels are also within close proximity of some of the theme parks.

As a Disney resort guest, you’ll have early access to the parks with the early theme park entry benefit. You’ll be able to enter the theme parks 30 minutes in advance of the official park opening. You’ll also get to take advantage of extended evening hours.

In general, I think the Disney Deluxe Resorts can be worth the extra money if you plan to take advantage of the various amenities and activities offered, and if you prefer the more convenient locations to the theme parks. While you absolutely don’t have to stay in a deluxe resort to still have a great vacation, there are lots of fun benefits if a deluxe resort fits your budget.

Monorail Resorts

Many guests of Walt Disney World are interested in staying at a resort that is located on the monorail loop. These resorts can be extremely convenient if you are planning to spend most of your time at the Magic Kingdom and/or Epcot.

To get to the Magic Kingdom, you can take the monorail right to the entrance of the park, and to get to Epcot, you’ll need to transfer to the Ticket and Transportation Center. Two of these resorts are also a short walk from the Magic Kingdom.

Transportation options to the other parks are somewhat limited – you’ll need to take bus transportation to Disney Springs , the water parks, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Disney Grand Floridian

The Grand Floridian is the grandest of the Disney resorts. While all the resorts are kid-friendly, I find the theming at the Grand Floridian less exciting for kids.

Its design is inspired by Victorian-era beach hotels, namely the Hotel Coronado in San Diego. Amenities at the Grand Floridian include:

  • The Senses Spa, which offers body treatments and massages, as well as a fitness center
  • Motorized boat rentals (additional fee applies)
  • Movies Under the Stars on select nights
  • Jogging trails and basketball courts
  • Campfire activities
  • Viewing location of the Electrical Water Pageant
  • The Beach Pool and the Courtyard Pool
  • Many dining options include Victoria and Albert’s, 1900 Park Fare, Citricos, Narcoossee’s, the Grand Floridian Cafe, and more.

Why stay here? The grandest of hotels, the Grand Floridian is very upscale and posh and is located within walking distance of the Magic Kingdom. There are lots of great amenities including pools, restaurants, and shops.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is within walking distance of the Magic Kingdom, making it one of the most convenient resorts if you are planning on spending most of your time at that park. It’s a modern resort, and the monorail runs right through the middle of the central tower (rooms are still very quiet).

There’s also Bay Lake Tower, the Disney Vacation Club property that is officially part of the Contemporary Resort. Bay Lake has its own pool area and check-in desk. Bay Lake Tower has some of the best views of the resorts.

Amenities include:

  • The Olympiad Fitness Center
  • Main pool with water slide
  • The Bay Lake Pool
  • Basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts
  • Jogging trails
  • Catch and release fishing (additional fee)
  • Motorized boat rentals
  • Movies Under the Stars
  • Restaurants including the Contempo Cafe, Chef Mickey (one of my favorite Disney character meals ), Steakhouse 71, and the California Grill

Why stay here: Like the Grand Floridian, the Contemporary is extremely convenient to the Magic Kingdom. The monorail is also very fun for kids to see going right through the building.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

The Polynesian is my favorite kid-friendly monorail resort because we love the restaurants and the theme of the resort. Even if you haven’t visited Hawaii or the other Polynesian islands, you’ll appreciate the theme. Here are some of the amenities you’ll find there.

  • Access to the Senses Spa at the Grand Floridian
  • The Lava and Oasis Pools
  • Volleyball courts and jogging trails
  • Catch and release fishing (an additional fee applies)
  • Dining options include ‘Ohana, Kona Cafe, Kona Island, and Captain Cook’s. Even if you aren’t staying at the Polynesian, you’ll probably want to book a meal at ‘Ohana. It’s so much fun!

Why stay here: I love the environment at the Polynesian. It’s got a great pool, delicious restaurants, and a fun theme. It’s also on the monorail and is within walking distance of the Ticket and Transportation Center.

Other Deluxe Resorts

Disney’s boardwalk.

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn is a resort located right on the Disney Boardwalk. This can be such a fun place to stay because you’ll be right near the Boardwalk restaurants and activities.

During the one time I stayed there, I didn’t find noise to be an issue at all – although I thought it might be. One negative about the resort, however, is the lack of good quick service options.

To get to Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Epcot, you can walk or take the boat. Bus service is offered to Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom.

The theme is reminiscent of the Atlantic City Boardwalk, with Boardwalk entertainment, midway games, shops, bakeries, bars, and food. Amenities include:

  • Surrey bike rentals (for an additional fee)
  • The Muscles & Bustles Health Club
  • Tennis courts
  • A playground
  • Catch and release fishing for an additional fee
  • The Luna Park Pool with a waterslide, as well as two leisure pools
  • Dining options include the restaurants on the Boardwalk including the Flying Fish, ESPN Club, and Trattoria al Forno

Why stay here: You’ll be within walking distance of two parks, the Skyliner, and many restaurants.

Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort

My favorite of the Disney resorts is the Beach Club Resort , which is the sister resort to the Yacht Club Resort . While the themes of these hotels are slightly different, they share amenities. I find the Beach Club theme to be a little more kid-friendly than the yacht club, but they are both family-friendly.

To get to Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Epcot, you can walk or take the boat. Bus service is offered to Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom.  It’s easier to walk to Epcot rather than take the boat. From the Beach Club, it’s only a few minutes walk. Amenities at the resorts include:

  • Stormalong Bay, a three-acre water park complex with a lazy river, sandy bottom pool, jacuzzis, and a water slide
  • Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness, located between the two resorts
  • Three separate, quieter pools
  • Motorized boat rentals (available for an additional fee)
  • Tennis and volleyball courts, as well as jogging trails
  • Several restaurant options including Beaches and Cream, the Cape May Cafe, the Yachtsman Steakhouse, and the Ale & Compass Restaurant

Why stay here: Stormalong Bay and easy access to EPCOT/the Skyliner are great reasons to stay at either of these resorts.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

I love Disney’s, Wilderness Lodge. It’s located near the Magic Kingdom resort area and feels like a completely different place. It’s modeled after the national park lodges of the Pacific Northwest and is rustic and quaint. The resort recently added the new Copper Creek Villas and Cabins, which are luxurious and beautiful.

From the Wilderness Lodge, you can take a boat to the Magic Kingdom, and buses to the other theme parks.

  • The Sturdy Branches Health Club
  • Salon by the Springs beauty salon with nail and hair services
  • The Copper Creek Springs Pool and the Boulder Ridge Cove Pool
  • Bike rentals
  • Motorized boat rentals (additional fee)
  • Fishing excursions and catch-and-release fishing (additional fee)
  • Restaurants including the Geyser Point Bar and Grill, Artist Point, Whispering Canyon Cafe, and the Roaring Fork

Why stay here: This resort really feels remote and homey. It’s a beautiful hotel.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

If your kids love animals, you may consider staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. My family first stayed there when my kids were 2 and 3, and they loved seeing animals from our savanna view room. If you don’t get a room with a savanna view, however, plenty of viewing areas are scattered throughout the resort.

There are two separate sections to the resort – Jambo House is the original area, and Kidani Village is the new area, especially for the Disney Vacation Club. There is no boat or monorail access from this resort – you’ll need to take the buses to all of the theme parks.

  • Zahanati Massage & Fitness Center
  • The Uzima Springs Pool (located at Jambo House) and the Samawati Springs Pool (located at Kidani Village)
  • Restaurants including Boma, Jiko, and Sanaa (three of my favorite table service restaurants at Walt Disney World)

Why stay here: If you love animals, this is the resort for you! We loved staying here when my kids were younger.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa

This resort, located in the Disney Springs area of the park, is modeled after the New York town. It’s a Disney Vacation Club property and includes the following amenities:

  • A health club
  • The High Rock Spring Pool with waterslide, and the Paddock Pool with waterslide, as well as three leisure pools
  • Surrey bike rentals (an extra fee applies)
  • Jogging trails, basketball, and tennis courts
  • Restaurants including the Artist’s Palette, Turf Club Bar and Grill, and the Paddock Grill

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

This Disney Vacation Club property offers bus service to the four theme parks and two water parks and boat service to Disney Springs. Amenities include:

  • The Old Key West Exercise Room
  • Tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts
  • The Sandcastle Pool with a waterslide
  • Three leisure pools
  • Playgrounds
  • Olivia’s Cafe offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Disney’s Riviera Resort

This brand-new resort opened in late 2019, and has been popular ever since. It is a Disney Vacation Club property, offering studios and 1, 2, and 3-bedroom suites. It’s located near the Caribbean Beach Resort and has Skyliner access. Amenities include:

  • The Riviera Pool
  •  S’il Vous Play Interactive Water Play Area
  • Beau Soleil Pool
  • Athlétique Fitness Center
  • Campfire Activities
  • Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera
  • Le Petit Cafe
  • Primo Piatto

The post All About the Disney Deluxe Resorts: Disney World Luxury appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

The Disney Deluxe Resorts, which are the most expensive resorts on property, include some of the most iconic and popular resorts. With the extra cost, you'll get some additional amenities that can really make your Walt Disney World vacation extra special. If you are considering a stay at a Disney deluxe resort, here's everything you need to know.

Please review our Terms of Use , which changed on May 24, 2024.

Specialty Cruises

Fireworks cruise.

Fun for all ages, nighttime cruises provide the perfect opportunity to watch Luminous The Symphony of Us or Happily Ever After  right from the water. These brilliant fireworks spectaculars add an amazing "wow" factor to your cruise!

From the comfort of a chartered boat, your party can set sail for International Gateway near World Showcase Lagoon to watch the skies light up over EPCOT . Or, embark on the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake near  Magic Kingdom park —with synchronized audio onboard to fully immerse you in the moment. It’s an incredible finale to the festivities!

Departure Locations Depart from Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts to experience Luminous The Symphony of Us or sail from the following marinas to view Happily Ever After:

  • Contemporary Marina
  • Polynesian Marina
  • Grand Floridian Marina
  • Fort Wilderness Marina
  • Wilderness Lodge Marina

What’s Included Each cruise is accompanied by a captain and includes assorted snacks and soft drinks. Festive banners and balloons are also included in the cost and can be requested at the time of booking.

Pricing Prices start at $449—plus tax. Prices vary by date. Boats seat up to 10 Guests.

Reservations To reserve a cruise, please call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. Learn when advance reservations can be made .

Please note—in rare instances, fireworks shows may be rescheduled or canceled. Please refer to the entertainment schedule to confirm showtimes 2 weeks prior to your reservation and check again the day of your reservation.

Important Details Before you book, please be aware of the following information:

  • Please arrive 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to fireworks start time.
  • Boats are not equipped with full-size dining tables. A cocktail table is provided.
  • For Guests with limited mobility, wheelchair/ECV transfer is necessary.
  • There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Full price will be charged/forfeited if the Guest cancels within one day or fails to show up for the reservation.

boardwalk yacht club disney world

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IMAGES

  1. Disney's Yacht Club and Boardwalk. Photograph by David Lee Thompson

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  2. Review of Disney's Yacht Club Resort

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  3. Hotel with the best pool complex at Disney World: Review of Disney's

    boardwalk yacht club disney world

  4. A Tour of Disney's Beach & Yacht Club

    boardwalk yacht club disney world

  5. PHOTOS and Tour! Disney's Yacht Club Resort Has Officially Reopened to

    boardwalk yacht club disney world

  6. PHOTOS and Tour! Disney's Yacht Club Resort Has Officially Reopened to

    boardwalk yacht club disney world

VIDEO

  1. Disney Hotel Tour! Come explore Disneys beautiful Epcot Resorts The Swan and Dolphin VLOG 1/18/24

  2. Disney World Volg! Travel Day, Hollywood Studios, Yacht Club Room Tour

  3. Touring Disney's Yacht Club Resort, Disney BoardWalk and riding a boat! Winter of 2024!

  4. Walking off a Fudge Mud Slide along the Epcot Resort Loop

  5. Beaches and Cream Lunch Review / Gingerbread House / Table Service Restaurant at Beach Club Resort

  6. What is Walt Disney World's Boardwalk Shops & Restaurants like in 2023?

COMMENTS

  1. Disney's Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club

    Resort Type. Both the Boardwalk Inn and Yacht Club are considered to be " Deluxe Resorts " by Disney's standards. In short, this means they are considered to be in the best resort category when looking at resorts on Disney property. As a deluxe guest, you will have access to early park hours, as well as extended park hours.

  2. Yacht Club vs. BoardWalk Inn Disney World Resort Guide 2023

    Before we mention their differences, let's take a look at what Yacht Club and BoardWalk Inn have in common. First, both offer Deluxe Resort accommodations with a similar resort layout. You'll discover luxurious amenities and unique themeing at both hotels. Plus, both boast many of the same perks. In addition, each offer the same convenient ...

  3. Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

  4. Yacht Club v. Beach Club v. BoardWalk Inn

    Here's a look at some 2024 pricing (you can always find this information at MouseSavers ): Early Feb — Yacht/Beach $569 vs. BoardWalk $641. Mid April — Yacht/Beach $721 vs. BoardWalk $738. Christmas — Yacht/Beach $1043 vs. BoardWalk $1118. This price differential has been around for years and never made sense to me.

  5. Which Resort Has The Best Club Level In Disney World?

    As we mentioned in a previous post, the price of staying Club Level ranges from an additional $100 a night to $275 a night depending on the resort. A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the hotel and room category, the greater the added cost. Elegance…. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.

  6. Disney's Yacht Club Resort Review

    During Walt Disney World's phased reopening, Yacht Club Resort will be the first Crescent Lake area hotel to reopen. In fact, it's nearby counterparts-Beach Club and BoardWalk Inn-don't even have reopening dates set and may not reopen until sometime in 2021. (However, the Disney Vacation Club wings of each are already operating.)

  7. Room Rates at Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. View interactive maps of the Disney World resort hotels.

  8. Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    Disney's Yacht Club Resort is a New England nautical-themed resort at Walt Disney World. First opened on November 5, 1990, it is one of the several Epcot Area Resorts . Disney's Yacht Club is located next to a sister resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort , and across Crescent Lake from Disney's BoardWalk Resort .

  9. Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    Disney's Yacht Club Resort. From January through May 2025, some Guest rooms at Disney's Yacht Club Resort will be under refurbishment. While Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours, most Resort hotel amenities will remain available. Delight in the formal grace of a grand New England-style yacht club at this lakeside hotel.

  10. Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    The Yacht Club's nautical beach theme includes model ships and antique navigation instruments. The Resort's best features are its top-rated pool, walking paths to EPCOT and the Studios, and Skyliner access. Cost Range. $598 - $4,093.

  11. Disney's Yacht Club Resort Review (Is it worth it?)

    Disney's Yacht Club Resort is one of the most beautiful and convenient hotels in all of Walt Disney World. With its classy design, enormous pool, and prime location, it's easy to see why the Yacht Club at Disney World is such a highly sought after place to stay. My family and I have visited numerous hotels on Disney property, but the Yacht ...

  12. Review: BoardWalk Deli at Disney World

    In terms of basics, BoardWalk Deli is located, as the name suggests, at Disney's BoardWalk Inn. This resort slash 'WDW district' is located between EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Directly across Crescent Lake from BoardWalk Deli are Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts; the Swan & Dolphin Resorts are also adjacent to it.

  13. Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. Guests at Disney's Yacht Club Resort enjoy such amenities as concierge services and complimentary transportation around Walt Disney World Resort.

  14. Review of Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    August 1, 2023. In this post, we'll review Disney's Yacht Club Resort, a deluxe resort at Disney World situated in the Boardwalk area between Epcot and Hollywood Studios. We'll cover everything you need to know, from pricing to transportation to special perks. Read on to learn all about Yacht Club at Disney World!

  15. Disney's Yacht Club, Beach Club, or BoardWalk: Which EPCOT Resort Is

    The EPCOT-area Resorts and hotels at Walt Disney World have achieved something of a cult status. They're impeccably designed, feature some lovely views, and — best yet — they're walking distance from not one but two Disney Parks. The Yacht Club, Beach Club, and BoardWalk are Disney-owned and operated Resorts with classic themes and more than their share of great dining and accessible ...

  16. Yacht Club Resort Review

    Bay Lake Tower's proximity to Magic Kingdom is the only thing that rivals the Yacht and Beach Club (and the Boardwalk) as the walk to Epcot is five minutes at most. ... Yacht Club Disney World, Yacht Club Resort, Yacht Club Resort review. Post navigation. Chefs de France Review. August 2017 Walt Disney World Trip Report - Part 5. 12 replies ...

  17. Staying at Yacht Club Resort With Family

    Review by Kari Becker. Dec 10, 2021, 6:40 AM PST. The Yacht Club is my favorite resort at Disney World. Kari Becker. My family of 4 stayed at Disney's Yacht Club Resort for $650 a night, and it's ...

  18. Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club (Which to Choose)

    The Beach Club Resort at Walt Disney World sits near Epcot Theme Park and Disney's Boardwalk entertainment district. Since this resort is located on Crescent Lake, you get amazing water views and sandy beaches where your kids can play. ... Below, I will compare the Beach Club/Yacht Club to other resorts at Disney World, so you can get an idea ...

  19. Walt Disney World Resort

    Disney's Yacht Club Resort Resort Overview. EPCOT Resort Area. Transportation Options: Taxi/Limo, Boat, Bus ... Check rates and availability at Disney's BoardWalk Villas. Disney's BoardWalk Villas Resort Overview. EPCOT Resort Area ... Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotels Orlando Area. Resorts † Guests under age 18 must have parent or ...

  20. Yacht Club vs. BoardWalk Inn Disney World Resort Guide 2023

    Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be complicated — especially when you're trying to choose between ... Well, we're here to walk you through the differences between Disney's Yacht Club Resort and Disney's BoardWalk Inn. Whether room size, location, pools, and/or restaurants are most important to you, we share the information ...

  21. Recreation at Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    Learn more about arcades at Walt Disney World Resort. For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian ...

  22. What is the walking distance between the Yach...

    Disney's Yacht Club Resort is the complex between the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort, the latter being the resort closest to Epcot's International Gateway. Depending on your pace and how often you stop along the way, the commute between Disney's BoardWalk Inn & Villas and Disney's Yacht Club Resort is a ...

  23. Ranking Disney World Deluxe Resorts From ...

    Disney World takes pride in its extensive choices of deluxe category hotels which can include certain amenities like multiple transportation options to the Disney World parks and Disney Springs, table service dining options in addition to grab and go or quick service restaurants, spas, live entertainment, incredible pools, and even closer proximity to the theme parks.

  24. All About the Disney Deluxe Resorts: Disney World Luxury

    Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resort My favorite of the Disney resorts is the Beach Club Resort , which is the sister resort to the Yacht Club Resort . While the themes of these hotels are ...

  25. Dining List for Disney's Yacht Club Resort

    For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

  26. Specialty Cruises

    Enjoy a customized experience throughout Walt Disney World theme parks complete with a VIP Tour Guide and expedited access to attractions. For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277.