disney world private yacht rental

Captain Your Own Private Pontoon Boat Rental at Walt Disney World

by Maria Salerno | Mar 22, 2023 | Magic Kingdom , Walt Disney World Resorts , WDW Blog

Did you know you can rent a pontoon boat and sail around Seven Seas Lagoon at Disney World? We’re sharing everything you need to know about the exciting experience!

Imagine operating a free-floating boat that weaves in and out of the Magic Kingdom Ferry’s path . Or one that can explore the old docks of Discovery Island close-up and at your own pace. Believe it or not, there are free-floating pontoon boat rentals available at Disney World…where you are your own captain! No Cast Member guides, no assigned captain, just you, your family, and a wide-open Seven Seas Lagoon to explore! Pontoon boat rentals at Disney World are a unique experience that not many guests realize they can do. We’ll be sharing a complete guide on how you can rent your own — along with what the boat rental experience is like!

Pontoon Boat Rentals in Disney World

Photo by Maria Salerno

Disney offers rentals of their pontoon boats in several marinas across Property . Each of the boats can hold up to 10 guests , and anyone over 18 years of age with a valid drivers’ license is eligible to captain. Importantly, there’s no boating license required, so you won’t be barred from driving the boat if you haven’t driven one before. 

You can rent a pontoon boat from $45/ every 30 minutes at these Resort Marinas:

• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa and Bay Lake Tower
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
• Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Pontoon boats rentals at Disney don’t require a reservation , and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis . When we rented our boat, it was a busy day! We rented ours from the Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and luckily their marina has so many boats available that we did not have to wait!

The Water Bridge and Seven Seas Lagoon in Disney World

The fact that the pontoon boat would soon be entirely under our control was both exciting and a little daunting at first! After a quick tutorial on how to drive the boat , you are sent out into the very same waters that the massive Magic Kingdom Ferry and various large Resort launch boats traverse frequently.

This is not the Jungle Cruise — there isn’t a track you can follow! The ability to go wherever your heart desires is what makes this experience unlike any other at Walt Disney World.  The minute I took over as captain, I steered our boat towards the Bay Lake/Seven Seas Lagoon water bridge . This working water bridge allows boats to pass over the below roadway, reversing the usual layout. I’ve passed below the water bridge several times when on a bus to Magic Kingdom, and likely so have you! Passing other vessels in the tight passage and ultimately steering over the road was such a cool thing to experience from the opposite point of view!

As you pass by Magic Kingdom , (mind the Ferry…they’re a bigger vessel and have the right of way!) you can go anywhere in Seven Seas lagoon! We took our time passing by Narcoosee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian, checking out the Polynesian’s many overwater bungalows, and perusing the progress of the new DVC Tower being built there  all at our own pace. 

You Can Extend Your Pontoon Boat Rental Time at Disney World

By the time we passed back over the water bridge, our 30 minutes were up . The time flew by for us on the water, so we decided to keep our pontoon boat rental  out for another 30 minutes . Since you don’t pay for your boat rentals until you return, your total cost will be prorated according to how long you were on the water . Feel free to make your journey as long or short as you like !

We couldn’t skip over Bay Lake , especially not with the mysterious, now-defunct original Discovery Island still unexplored! We took a perimeter tour of Bay Lake , passing Wilderness Lodge and the famed Shoe Tree, waving at guests dining at Geyser Point , and finally passed by the Campsites before pulling up to the shores of Discovery Island. 

Overall, the experience is one of the most relaxing and stress-free things you can do on a non-Park day. Your time on the water is truly what you make it! We brought lunch onboard with us and took turns captaining while other members of our party ate and drank in the sights.  We sun bathed on the comfy leather seats , pointed out famous Disney landmarks beneath the sun shade, and ultimately ‘let our conscience be our guides’ as we cut our way through the Disney waterways. 

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Specialty Firework Cruises Are Back at Walt Disney World Resort!

in Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is bringing back the magic with many anticipated firework shows returning such as Happily Ever After in Magic Kingdom and a brand-new firework show coming for the 50th anniversary called Disney Enchantment . Additionally, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks will return for the holiday season.

And now Guests will have the opportunity to book a private viewing of Disney World’s firework shows as specialty firework cruises have returned!

Related:  Guide to Fireworks at Walt Disney World

planDisney took to Instagram to share Guests can once again get incredible views of Happily Ever After and EPCOT Forever as they board a private watercraft along with their captain, crew, and an assortment of snacks and soft drinks! This recreational activity is described by planDisney as:

Fireworks cruises are back at @waltdisneyworld Resort! Whether you’re sailing Seven Seas Lagoon for a unique view of Happily Ever After or voyaging to World Showcase Lagoon for an up-close look at EPCOT Forever, these private charters are a great way to celebrate, well anything, with your family. planDisney Panelists Diane W. and Robyn M., recently got a chance to take their crew to experience these fun-filled fireworks cruises, and they are taking you along on their adventure today in our Instagram Stories. Check it out!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by planDisney (@plandisneypanel)

More on Specialty Cruises at Disney World

Walt Disney World describes specialty cruises as:

Drop anchor for world-class fireworks during an ever-enchanting nighttime cruise! Fun for all ages, nighttime cruises provide the perfect opportunity to watch Happily Ever After or Epcot Forever 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 will 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 cruises to 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 Resort to experience Epcot Forever or sail from the following marinas to view Happily Ever After:

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

To reserve a private cruise, please call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Pricing starts at $399 plus tax to reserve a 25-foot boat. Keep in mind, fireworks shows may be rescheduled or canceled due to weather conditions. Guests are encouraged to call and confirm at least two weeks prior to your reservation.

Do you think this recreational activity in Walt Disney World is worth $399? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Do you want to visit Walt Disney World on your next vacation? Let our friends at Academy Travel take care of all your Disney planning needs! 

6 Things to Know About Disney World Boat Rentals

Feel the need to spend some time on the water while vacationing at Disney? Well, get ready to head out to “sea” – and who knows, maybe spot some of Ariel’s or Nemo’s friends! Here are six things to know about boat rentals at Disney.

1 – Motorized Boats

Disney offers one motorized boat option for families to enjoy the Disney waterways. Locations of most of your motorized boat selections are at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary. The Sun Tracker Pontoon boat is available for up to 10 guests. Imagine climbing aboard a pontoon with your family and checking out the Disney sites! Renting a pontoon boat is one of our favorite things to do as a family! The current price is $49 per half-hour.

2 – Canoes and Kayaks

Go Pocahontas style – forget the motor and grab a couple of paddles instead! Located at Fort Wilderness, if you are 11 years old and up, you are welcome to rent a canoe for just $15. Fort Wilderness offers beautiful scenery for canoeing down inlets within the resort. For $15 an hour, it seems like this one is too good to pass up! Maybe you are looking for a slightly different speed than a canoe but still want to hit the waters without a motorized boat. Look into renting a Kayak , which is once again available at Fort Wilderness Resort for just $15 an hour!

3 – Guided Watercraft Options

So maybe you really want to spend some time on the water, but you aren’t into operating or renting a boat? Disney offers a guided boat opportunity for individuals and families to have fun on the water without the hassle or responsibility of operating a watercraft. Check out the Guided Bass Fishing Excursions available at several different Disney resorts, such as Fort Wilderness, Caribbean Beach, Contemporary, Grand Floridian, Old Key West, Polynesian, Port Orleans Resort, Wilderness Lodge, and the Yacht Club. Both 2-hour and 4-hour excursions are offered. A Sun Tracker pontoon boat that can accommodate up to five guests and a NITRO bass fishing boat for up to three guests are available. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Call (407) 939-FISH or (407) 939-3474 to make a reservation.

4 – Specialty Cruises

For the ultimate splurge, consider a Fireworks Cruise! These maned Specialty Cruises allow you to take it easy and let someone else do the driving while you have all the fun! There are two firework cruise options that offer spectacular viewing of the nighttime spectaculars at EPCOT and Magic Kingdom. At EPCOT, you’ll set sail from the International Gateway and enjoy “Luminous the Symphony of Us.” You can also enjoy Happily Ever After from the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake near Magic Kingdom. Prices start at $449, plus tax, and vary by date. Boats seat up to ten guests.

5 – Restrictions

As mentioned above, there are age requirements for operating several different Disney watercraft. Keep in mind height and weight information will be taken, as some of these watercraft options only allow for a specific height and/or max weight. All of Disney’s watercraft are required to stay within designated water areas. A Cast Member will fill you in on your restricted waterways, depending on which site you decide to rent from. Disney uses water transportation regularly to transport guests. The fact they allow watercraft rentals is fantastic, but it does come with restrictions to allow for your safety and the safety of those afloat around you.

6 – In the Know

As with any Disney planning, we recommend you check the weather if possible before boarding your watercraft. Disney has the right to cancel any excursion scheduled if the weather would be an issue of safety in any way. Check with each rental option on their cancellation policy regarding this matter. A little tip we have learned, however – the larger the party, the better the deal seems to be. By that, we mean that if you have a family of 3 and are traveling with another family of 3, sharing the rental cost for up to 6 guest boats would save you from spending money on renting two watercraft. For many of the simple boat rentals, no advanced reservation is needed. However, specialty cruises, fishing excursions, and some selections do require advanced reservations. Check with the resort location you are interested in setting sail from for more reservation details. Lastly, be sure to bring the sunscreen!

With so many lakes, lagoons, and bays, Disney understands the desire to set sail. Once again, if you can dream it, Disney makes it happen! Have a magical time aboard your watercraft!

For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.

Matt & Kim

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Specialty Cruise on Disney World’s Grand 1 Yacht

PLEASE NOTE : The Grand 1 is currently unavailable for booking. We will update this page if the Grand 1 Yacht may be reserved again in the future. In the meantime, you can click here to see all Specialty Cruises in Disney World. 

The Grand 1 is a 52-foot Sea Ray® Sedan Bridge Yacht that guests may rent for a truly indulgent experience sailing the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake.

Grand 1 Yacht

The Grand 1 is guided by an experienced captain, and can accommodate 18 guests (or 17, if the party chooses to sail with a butler). Evening cruises offer guests views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks complete with the show’s music piped directly onboard.

Celebration Cruise banners and balloons can be requested upon booking the cruise (they are included in the cost). Assorted snacks and soft drinks are also included.

Though not included in the fee, guests may add Private Dining (from an array of hors d’oeuvres or desserts up to brunch or reception-style dinner) to their cruise on the Grand 1.

The Grand 1 Yacht is located at the Grand Floridian Resort Marina.

Prices start at $480 per hour, plus tax, for DAY excursions; Prices start at $799 per hour, plus tax, for EVENING fireworks excursions; Private Dining and Butler Service are available for an additional charge.

Call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529

NOTE: Prices and inclusions are subject to change. Please visit the Disney World Specialty Cruises Page to confirm information prior to booking.

Click here to see all Specialty Cruises in Disney World

Click here to read about fine dining in disney world, be sure to join our dfb newsletter to stay on top of all the news about dining in disney world, check out our other ebooks.

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Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, disney private islands, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, disney world reviews, other park reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, pontoon boats at walt disney world.

For Day Cruises, you can rent a pontoon boat from Bayside Marina at Disney's Yacht Club Resort. This specialty cruise can accommodate up to 10, and includes a captain, assorted snacks and soft drinks.

Private Dining can be arranged at an additional charge. For details, contact Private Dining at the Yacht and Beach Club by calling (407) 939-3160.

COST: Day Cruise Around the World is $149 plus tax for a party of up to 10 guests. Pricing is subject to change.

RESERVE by calling (407) WDW-PLAY / (407) 939-7529.

Pontoon boats can also be rented, with a driver, to see the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom and IllumiNations at Epcot. The 21-foot pontoon starts at $299 plus tax (seats 8 guests). Read more about Fireworks and other Specialty Cruises HERE.

To rent for one of the nighttime shows call: (407) WDW-PLAY/(407) 939-7529.

See AllEars.Net Reader reviews or rate IllumiNations Cruises HERE.

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Plan a Small Private Event at Walt Disney World

There are a couple of ways to set up a small private event at Walt Disney World. The easiest way is to call Private Dining at the Grand Floridian (407-824-1951) to set up a private meal on the resort’s 5th floor balcony, which has a limited view of the high fireworks at the Magic Kingdom. For an event anywhere else on property, you’ll need to call Disney Meetings & Events ( [email protected] or 321-939-7129) and pay a minimum of $5,000.

If you prefer listening to reading, here are three podcast episodes  that walk you through booking each type of event:

• How to Plan a Private Dinner at the Grand Floridian
• How to Plan a Small Private Event at Walt Disney World
• How to Plan a Happily Ever After or Epcot Forever Cruise

Grand Floridian Intimate Dining Experience:  407-824-1951

Note: the grand floridian has not yet resumed offering the intimate dining experience post-covid..

You can work with Private Dining (a.k.a., room service) at the Grand Floridian to arrange dinner on the hotel’s 3rd floor outdoor balcony with a limited view of the high fireworks from Happily Ever After (but no view of Magic Kingdom). The other option (and rain backup) is a 5th floor indoor balcony, which does have a full view of the fireworks and Magic Kingdom. There is no set time for the event and only one seating per evening, so you may choose the time you want.

The cost is $125/person plus 18% service charge and 6.5% sales tax. There’s also a $100 charge for the services of the butler who meets you in the lobby and serves you at your table. The event usually lasts 2 hours, but if you need more than 2 hours of butler service, additional hours are billed at $50 each. You may have a maximum of 6 guests, but if you have more than 4 guests, an additional butler is required for an extra $100.

On the night of the event, you will be served a 5-course menu, including amuse bouche and dessert, with choices from Citricos. But you may also request food from the resort’s other restaurants in advance for a hefty surcharge.

• Click here for a sample menu .
• Here’s a link to a great detailed report of an anniversary party there, and here’s a sweet surprise birthday party .

Disney Meetings & Events: 321-939-7129 or [email protected]

To plan a private catered event anywhere else on property, including the theme parks, you’ll need to work with Disney Meetings & Events—unless you are planning a wedding or vow renewal via Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, in which case you will plan all your events through your wedding planner. Click here for complete details on adding a private catered event to a Disney’s Fairy Tale Wedding.

Pricing Structure

Disney Meetings & Events has dropped the former 10-person minimum for an event but introduced a set of minimum expenditures. The venue fees remain the same as if you were planning a Disney wedding. However, you are also required to meet a per-person food and beverage minimum of at least $100, which applies toward an  overall minimum expenditure of $5,000—before 6.5% tax and 25% service charge—or the venue’s own food and beverage minimum, whichever is higher . Note that this minimum may be higher on holidays.

For example, for a dessert party at a venue with a $1,000 food and beverage minimum, you would have to spend…

• $500/guest if you had 2 guests
• $100/guest if you had 10 guests or more

Anything you pay Disney for applies to the minimum expenditure—including floral, decor, food, beverages, entertainment, transportation and photography—except tax and service charge.

The $5,000 overall minimum expenditure only applies to Disney Meetings & Events. If you are planning a dessert party or other event via your Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings planner, these minimum expenditures do not apply to you. See this page for your minimum expenditures.

Basic Dessert Party Pricing

• Venue Rental Fee: $800–$1,725 , depending on location.
• Food & Beverage Minimums: $880-$5,500 OR $100/person , depending on location and guest count; see  Pricing Structure , above, for more details.
• Viewing Fee: $25/guest without admission for Disney Meetings & Events or $10/guest (except bridal couple) for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings events.
• Ride Mix-in Fee: $25*/guest for Disney Meetings & Events or $25/guest without admission for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings events. The combined cost of a ride mix-in and viewing fee via Disney Meetings & Events is $45/person.
• Backstage transportation may be required. Some examples are $40 for a one-way, four-person town car and $56  for a one-way, eight-person SUV.

*Cosmic Rewind costs $45/guest.

• Venue Rental Fee: None
• Sago Cay Pointe (10-75 guests) Food & Beverage Minimums: $1,300 OR $100/person , depending on location and guest count; see  Pricing Structure , above, for more details.
• Marina Patio & Terrace (20-100 guests) Food & Beverage Minimums: $2,500  OR $100/person , depending on location and guest count; see  Pricing Structure , above, for more details.
• Viewing Fee: None
• Happily Ever After Soundtrack Fee: $870  up to 50 guests
• West Rotunda Courtyard/Patio (20 to 80 guests) Food & Beverage Minimums: $1,500  OR $100/person , depending on location and guest count; see  Pricing Structure , above, for more details.
• Porte-Cochere (50-500 guests) Food & beverage Minimums: $2,500 OR $100/person , depending on location and guest count; see  Pricing Structure , above, for more details.
• Happily Ever After Soundtrack Fee: $870 up to 50 guests
• Small Patio (up to 40 guests) Venue Rental Fee: $800
• Small Patio Food & Beverage Minimums: $1,210–$1,980 OR $100/person , depending on location and guest count; see  Pricing Structure , above, for more details.
• Large Patio (40-100 guests) Venue Rental Fee: $1,400
• Large Patio Food & Beverage Minimums: $2,520–$3,960   OR $100/person , depending on location and guest count; see  Pricing Structure , above, for more details.
• Ride Mix-in Fee: $25/guest for Disney Meetings & Events or $25/guest without admission for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings events. The combined cost of a ride mix-in and viewing fee via Disney Meetings & Events is $45/person.
• Backstage transportation may be required at an additional cost. Some examples are $40 for a one-way, four-person town car and $56  for a one-way, eight-person SUV.

Event Venues

This page links to photos of nearly every event venue at Walt Disney World. If you own a copy of Carrie Hayward’s Fairytale Weddings Guide , detailed pricing for every venue is listed in Chapter 3: Reception Veneus  and in Chapter 5: Additional Events .

Every venue has a minimum and maximum capacity. Sometimes when you do a small event, your sales consultant might try to steer you toward a smaller, less desirable location. For example, the venues usually recommended for small fireworks parties at Epcot are Vikings Landing and Parisian Point , which both have overhanging trees that will block the high fireworks in any portraits taken during the show (if you’re not posing for pictures, don’t worry; you’ll be standing under the trees and have a good view of the show).

If you’d rather have an unobstructed photo view, like the one at 20-person-minimum UK Lochside , keep checking with your sales consultant as the date approaches. They will usually move you there if no one has booked it 30 days out. Likewise, if they’ve told you that a convention has booked the space you want, check again 30 days out. Often large conventions will book more space than they need and release some of it as the date approaches.

Viewing Fees

For in-park events where you see a fireworks show, there is a $25/guest viewing fee for everyone who doesn’t have park admission. (The cost is $10/guest [except bridal couple] for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings events and mandatory—even for guests who have park admission.) If you add a ride mix-in via Disney Meetings & Events, the combined cost of a ride mix-in and viewing fee is $45/person.

Ride Mix-ins

Party timeline.

The schedule of a dessert party is a little different than that of a dinner or other catered event. Usually it starts 30 minutes before whatever fireworks show you’re watching and only lasts an hour. Disney may suggest that the party start just 15 minutes before the show, so that if the food needs to be moved indoors due to weather, you will have more time to get to that location and eat the desserts after the show.

When you do a ride mix-in after the show, they hustle you out of the venue as soon as the fireworks end, so I sometimes extend the dessert party time by 30 minutes on the front end. There is no cost to extend the party time as long as you don’t extend the food service. If you do want to extend food service, they take the per-person price of your menu (which is based on 1 hour of service), divide it by two and add that amount to the per-person charge for each additional 30 minutes of service. So a $50/person menu will cost you $75/person if you extend food service by 30 minutes. However, you normally don’t need to do that because one hour is plenty of time to eat.

Rain Backup

Fantasmic! is cancelled for weather reasons more frequently than the other shows due to performer safety issues. Fireworks shows usually run in all but the most extreme weather, so only the food portion of your event will be moved inside. Your event guide will escort your party out to the original location (or sometimes a closer one, if available) to view the show. Backup locations aren’t assigned until a few days out and depend on what is available that day. You may request a specific venue, but these are not guaranteed.

Sample Menus

There are several ways to pay for drinks:

• Package Bar: This means that you pay a per-person fee ($30 and up) for unlimited sodas and alcoholic beverages, possibly more than people will actually drink.
• Bill-on-Consumption: This means you pay an estimated amount up front and then get a refund or a bill after that party, based on how much people actually drank. Unless you have a lot of heavy drinkers, you will probably get a refund and/or spend less than the price of a package bar.
• Cash Bar: This means you make your guests pay for their own drinks.

If you want to serve alcohol at your party, you will be required to pay a $150 bartender fee, which is waived if the bar sells more than $500 worth of booze. For a dessert party, which only lasts an hour, you can usually get away with skipping alcohol—especially if you’re in Epcot, where there are places to buy alcohol just a few steps away from almost every event venue.

A Note About Transportation…

Adding a private character appearance.

Due to licensing and theming restrictions, not all characters may be available at every venue, and some characters, like Winnie the Pooh & Friends, are not available at all. Some characters require a separate room with themed backdrops and props. For example, Captain Jack Sparrow runs $5,000–$6,500 for 30 minutes due to the decor he requires. Characters may not appear at outdoor in-park receptions until the park has closed to day guests. Additionally, alcoholic beverage service must stop during character appearances.

Complete details on character appearances may be found in Chapter 3 of Carrie Hayward’s Fairytale Weddings Guide .

How to Book

To get started, contact Disney Meetings & Events at 321-939-7129 . The first person you talk to will not have a lot of information or answers, and I do not recommend asking them questions about availability or policy. They’ll just take your info (date, number of guests, any ideas about what you want) and pass it to a sales consultant , who will call you back in a few days.

The sales consultant will help you choose your venue, draw up a contract and take your deposit. When that part of the process is complete, you will be passed to an event coordinator who will manage all the specific details of your day (menu, transportation, decor, entertainment, ride mix-ins, etc.).

Events at park venues may be booked up to 12 months in advance. Events at resort venues may be booked up to six months in advance, although your sales consultant may request permission from the resort to book earlier. A deposit of $1,500 is due with your signed Letter of Agreement (contract). The remaining amount is due three weeks before the event. You will receive a Banquet Event Order that contains every detail of your event—be sure to look over it carefully, because if it’s not in the BEO, it won’t happen.

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How to Plan an Epcot Dessert Party

361 Responses

I am looking to have an intimate ceremony at the Four Seasons but wanted to hire a room at California Grill for a reception style dinner for maximum 35 guests. When I have contacted Disney Fairy Tale weddings they have said the minimum is $15,000 but then told me to contact Disney meeting events which is $5000 but then said I wouldn’t be allowed a cake, dancing etc. Do you know if it is even possible to do something like this? Thank you in advance.

Unfortunately, that is indeed Disney’s policy to prevent people from attempting to have a Disney Wedding without going through Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings. An alternative idea: Capa at the Four Seasons has a private room and access to a balcony with a view of the fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Here’s an interview with a couple who had a Four Seasons ceremony and Capa reception: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/kris-rudy/

I am wondering if it is possible to hire 3 or 4 Disney characters to sit and do photo shoots at a booth at the Coronado Springs conference Center for 2 full days 10 am to 6 pm?

Character appearances are available in 30-minute shifts. Your Disney Meetings & Events planner can help you book the required number of character appearances for your event.

Hi. Does the 5k minimum apply to character meets like this?

In order to schedule a private character meet you would need to be having a catered event, so, yes, there is a $5,000 overall minimum expenditure for those.

I would live e to celebrate a small quinces for my daughter birthday with only 10 guest, what would be my best?

Definitely contact Disney Meetings & Events at the number/email on this page to see what the options are. Events start at $5,000.

ethel wiley

Hello. We are coming in October-2022 to celebrate our grandson done his treatment for leukemia. We would like to do a very small party For about 13-15 people. Any ideas! He is 4 years old almost Five at the time Of travel. He has been through so much we want to make it very special. We are all staying at Polynesian.

Hi Ethel! What a wonderful reason to celebrate! Definitely reach out to Disney Meetings and Events at (321) 939-7129 to get started. I think a dessert party or a meal in front of the fireworks at EPCOT would be really fun and memorable for your group!

Looking to do a small vow renewal and private dinner, not catered, for my parents 40th wedding anniversary. It will be 9 of us 6 adults and 3 kids (under 10). Really just wanted a private small vow renewal on the beach at the Polynesian then dinner more private, but not like an event. Is any of this possible?

It’s not possible to do something like that in a public space like the beach, but people do them in their rooms. You could then make a reservation at any restaurant—some of the ones at Disney Springs have private rooms or sections, like Raglan Road, Terralina, Morimoto Asia, and Paddlefish. The Boathouse only does private events at brunch or lunch. There are private rooms at bluezoo, Shula’s and Il Mulino. Steakhouse 71 at the Contemporary has a private room.

How do you get a reservation at the private rooms? At the places you listed? And what if you sneak on beach and just say “I DO”? We will have a 3 bedroom villa so I can do it in the room! just will be bale to take pictures and get a private dining room is my my main concern. It just me my kids my parents and my brothers family super small, nothing overboard! Any Private Sections at Grand Floridian or poly?

I have phone numbers for all the restaurants in Chapter 10 of my guide, but you can also just get them by Googling! For Disney-owned restaurants it’s a little more difficult. You have to all the main WDW number and ask to be transfered to someone actually at the restaurant.

Sneaking a ceremony is a hot topic among people who have paid Disney thousands of dollars for a legitimate ceremony. Supposedly Disney security will stop the ceremony and escort you off property. How often this actually happens is anybody’s guess. But for something as emotional and intimate as a vow renewal or a wedding, I wouldn’t want to be looking over my shoulder the whole time! A 3-bedroom villa sounds like an idea place for an in-room ceremony because you have plenty of space and maybe even a balcony!

Citricos at the Grand Floridian has a private “Sommelier” room for up to 8 people (they might go to 9 if some are kids). It costs $250/person and you can book by calling 1-407-824-2989. There are no private event spaces at the Poly, and the others at the Grand Floridian are controlled by Disney Meetings + Events.

Cindy M Benabderrahman

Hi! Planning a wedding anniversary dinner, and we’re hoping to nail down either the fez house or the tamu tamu courtyard. Is it correct that we’d have a $5000 event minimum, and that the rental fee for the venue would go toward that $5k min? Or is there a larger minimum for being inside the park?

The minimum for a Disney Catered Event is $5,000 (although there are rumors that it is going up to $6,000 next year, we’ll see how business is when everything gets up and running again), and the venue rental fee counts toward that. If you’re planning this via Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, the Event Minimum would be based on the ceremony venue you choose or, if you’re not doing a ceremony, the Event Minimum for Tree of Life on that day of week.

No ceremony – just us and 8 or 9 of our close friends. I emailed meetings@, but they won’t really talk to me about it until 16 months out. What I’m getting out of this is that I should contact the catered event, not the fairy tale weddings. Thanks for the info! $6k I can handle – Tree of Life sounds expensive.

Exactly! You would plan via Disney Meetings & Events. In the meantime, I think you have my Fairytale Weddings Guide, and that has all the pricing for venue fees, venue-specific food and beverage minimums, transportation, ride mix-ins, etc. So you can use that to get an idea of options and costs, since they are the same for any type of event (except where noted—mostly it’s the difference in viewing fees and ride mix-in fees).

Hi Carrie! Such great information. I am planning a 40th birthday party. I would like to have dinner at The Attic and a fireworks dessert party? Do you think I’ll have to meet the $5000 minimum twice or just for the overall event?

Hi Debi! Yes, unfortunately, Disney Catered Events makes you meet the $5,000 overall minimum for each park/resort where you hold an event, even if the events are contiguous. However, you can see high fireworks from Epcot at the Attic, so if you didn’t need to be right up close, that might work. Alternatively, you could just do your dinner at an in-park location like UK Lochside or Italy Isola West.

Hello! I’ve been invited to a private party at Epcot Illuminations later this month. The party is from 9pm – 2am. I was wondering does Epcot let you go in early so you can ride some rides before the party? Or do you need to purchase a ticket? Or are you allowed to ride during the party? The park has extended hours that day.

You will need to be escorted into the park by an event guide in order to access Epcot without purchasing a ticket. Usually the way this works is that your group gathers at one of the gates at the appointed time to meet the event guide(s) and be escorted directly to the party location. After that the only rides you’re officially allowed to go on are ones that the party organizer has paid for you to ride, either via a ride mix-in (your group is escorted on the last ride of the day) or a buyout (your group has the ride to yourselves after the park closes). If the park is still open for Extra Magic Hours, you would need to scan a park ticket/MagicBand with park admission on it at the entrance of any attraction you wish to ride. Nobody’s going to stop you from just wandering around Epcot, though.

hello! I am considering a Disney wedding with about 30 people. I am trying to keep cost down and I think the wishes package is too big for what we want. Is there a way to do a Disney wedding ceremony and then a catered events reception? Ideally, I would like a Disney themed in the park ceremony and then an intimate/private dining experience with our guests and hopefully some late night park fun after. Is this even possible? I’ve read Carrie’s book a couple of times and really am hoping it is something I can afford.

Hi! Yes! Disney has started letting Escape couples have up to 25 guests at the ceremony and up to 30 at a catered event tied to an Escape wedding. This is not officially listed on their site, but they have been communicating this policy directly to couples. The only in-park Escape ceremony venue is Canada Terrace—complete details are in Chapter 2 of my guide. Details on the venue fees and food and beverage minimums for a catered event are also in Chapter 2, as well as Chapters 3 and 5.

Hello! I am considering a small 10th birthday celebration for my daughter at one of Typhoon Lagoons H2Glow special Event nights. I’m wondering if the standard $3500 minimum expenditure would apply to Typhoon Lagoon, and if they will even allow a private party during a special event night? Also wondering if there would be a chaperone requirement for the kids, meaning would I be able to bring in say 15 kids with only 4 adults supervising, or if there is some rule around that. Thanks in advance for any guidance!

The $3,000–$5,000 minimum expenditure applies to any event no matter where it is, with one exception: Magic Kingdom events have a $10,000 minimum expenditure. But they rarely allow you to do a private event during park hours—normally it has to be before park opening or after closing. Still, it’s worth asking them. Disney does not provide chaperones, but you can work with a local company called Kids Nite Out to hire them. http://kidsniteout.com/

Is there a way to get passed the 6 week minimum notice? I called and asked for an event for March 13th and they told me they need at least 6 weeks notice and did not take my information.

Unfortunately, there probably is not. They are short-staffed right now, and all their planning gets crunched up into the last month before any event, so they are already working on other events that were initiated 6 months ago for the next few weeks. But you can always try my favorite Disney game—Ask a Different Cast Member, Get a Different Answer—and call back to see if you get someone else!

Disney has been more than accommodating in allowing us to book a small surprise event at the last minute (within a month) for my parents 40th anniversary.

We are paying the service charge obviously, but who needs an additional tip in the process. I’ve almost maxed out my budget, but I want to give where I can.

Hi Rebecca! Disney’s 24% service charge covers everyone associated with your food service. If you are doing floral or decor, you don’t ever see those people, so it’s hard to tip them. You could tip your planner, who you will probably see at your event, photographer and any entertainers, but you won’t see your sales consultant. Of course you could ask your planner for an address to send tips to those people. I guess I’m stingy, but I feel tips should be for service that goes above and beyond what you are already paying Disney to do, not an automatic kind of thing.

Hi! I’m hoping to have an escape package wedding in the future. I want the ceremony in the wedding pavilion, and small Cake and champagne “reception” in the grand Floridian but I really want a private dessert party. Is that possible with the escape package?

Yes! If you have my Fairytale Weddings Guide , it explains how to do this in Chapter 2: Escape Collection. I also have a detailed explanation in the Escape Overview episode of the Disney Wedding Podcast!

Do you think I would be able to plan a private dinner or cocktail experience for my husband and in the cool martini lounge area you walk by when exiting space mountain?

Hi Sara! Unfortunately, the only venues available inside Magic Kingdom are the ones listed on my venues page: https://fairytaleweddingsguide.com/wdw-venues/ Click DISNEY THEME PARK VENUES, then MAGIC KINGDOM.

Hi future bride 2020!…I know starting early…I am interested in the in having a small reception and really like the happily Ever After at the Grande Floridian its 25 guest I saw the food and beverage is $1250 and up but I’m confused where the $3500 come in?

The $3,000-$3,500 minimum expenditure is ONLY for private events booked via Disney Catered Events. If you are planning a Disney’s Fairy Tale Wedding, you will also plan all your other private events through DFTW, so you don’t have to worry about the $3,000—$3,500 minimum expenditure.

Meredith Vazquez

I called today about booking a private event in June 2020, and they said that starting January of 2020 the minimum expenditure for any catered small event would be $5,000.

Yikes! Thanks for the heads-up!

I love your website! I am wondering, are there exclusions for what is available for a ride mix-in? Specifically flight of passage? If Disney offers popular rides like Soarin and Test Track, I am hoping they would include avatar rides, but could not find any information on that.

Hi Cindy! Events inside Animal Kingdom have to start 90 minutes after the park closes, unless you’re in a private indoor space like Dinosaur Lounge, so the timing might be tricky because the ride would long since have closed. That said, for our Universe of Energy party, the park eventually let us move the start time earlier than 90 minutes, which made it a smooth transition from IllumiNations to our ride mix-in and then to the party. You’d have to have your sales consultant check with the park operations team and see if they will approve the mix-in.

Is there a way to book a private character meet and greet for a family? Does the character fee go toward the $3,000 minimum spend?

Yes to both. Your planner can add the character appearance to your private catered event. There are just rules about which and where characters can appear. For example, you couldn’t have one at an outdoor location like one of the IllumiNations viewing areas, where other guests can see. Also some characters require a backdrop or may only attend events themed to their story. But the Fab Five don’t have those restrictions.

Hi! Starting to plan for my daughter’s wedding in 2021! She is currently doing Disney’s college program. We think we have decided on the Wedding pavilion for the ceremony. Do you know if there are any reception areas NOT in a ballroom , that would allow for dancing? We were hoping for something outdoors but want to be able to dance!

Hi Jodi! That’s a bit tricky… Most of the outdoor resort locations prohibit amplified entertainment after 10 pm, but I’ve seen people have dance parties at Yacht Club Marina , so maybe that one is considered to be far enough away from the guest rooms to allow it. Or I guess you could do one of those “silent” dance parties where everyone wears headphones. Inside the parks, you’ll have no problem doing a dance party outdoors as long as the amplified music starts well after park closing—usually an hour or more. Here’s an interview with someone who did this at Italy Isola. I have photos of all the wedding venues at Walt Disney World here , and this is my guidebook and bridal organizer for weddings at Walt Disney World (the e-book comes with free updates so you can keep getting the latest versions as you approach 2021!).

Omg Thank u!!! These are both perfect ideas! We are dvc members and beach club is our home so that makes that special..and Italy is special because that is where my daughter and her bf have a date night every visit!! Thank you so much!

My fiance and I are thinking of doing the Escape package at Luau Pointe in October/November 2019. We want to make it a bit longer by eating at a hotel restaurant. Am I able to wear my dress at the hotel restaurants? Do you know if there’s a room at Grand Floridian Cafe and where to find the food & beverage minimum? That’s where we got engaged 🙂

Yes! The only place on WDW property that you can’t wear wedding attire is inside the theme parks, and even that is at the discretion of the cast members at the gate. People eat at resort restaurants in wedding attire all the time! The Grand Floridian Cafe does not have a private room, but plenty of Escape and Memories couples have just made regular ADRs there. They will tell you they can’t guarantee a large group will be seated together unless you make the very first or very last reservation, but it usually works out OK. You can even call the Grand Floridian and ask to be transferred to the restaurant manager to give him or her the heads-up about your group and see if they can help ensure you’re seated together.

Hi Carrie ! I was wondering if you have any information about private dining in Disneyland. I am hoping to do a private dinner on the 6th floor at the grand Californian and looking for fun options ! Thanks

Hi! My experience with attempting to plan small events at Disneyland has been that their Disney Catered Events department is really geared toward large events, with very few options for small events. Definitely give them a call, in case this has changed. But you may want to try working with the actual Private Dining department at the Grand Californian if DCE turns you away.

Hello 🙂 I’m a little confused after reading a few things. So I will be having my wedding at paradise cove Feb 2020 (from the UK) and was hoping to have a dessert party at Epcot although I’m not too sure which area is best yet. There would be about 15 of us maybe a few more. I understand I can’t wear my wedding dress but would a knee length white gown/dress be okay? Also would I have to have to spend a minimum of $1000 or $3000 for the event?

Thank you 🙂

Congratulations! Yes, your dress will be fine. UK Lochside is a great spot for 15 guests and holds up to 50. The minimum for a Disney Catered Event is now $3,000 (Monday–Thursday) or $3,500 (Friday–Sunday). Here are photos of all the different locations in Epcot: https://disneytravelbabble.com/disney-weddings/wdw-venue-photos/#epcot And here are all my podcast interviews with Paradise Cove brides: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/?s=paradise

Can you rent out the Luau show at the Polynesian for a large party of 100 people?

You would have to make 100 regular reservations. If money is no object, there may be a way by which you could hire all the dancers to put on the show elsewhere (like a ballroom) or maybe they’d even let you do it at Luau Pointe on one of the days the show is dark, but it will costs tens of thousands of dollars.

Me and my fiance are wanting to get married around November 2019 time. We are from the UK and quite flexible on what date we can get married, we will basically be happy to work around Disney on when things we want are available (Wedding Pavilion and Cinderella Coach in particular). We will have maybe 14 guests (16 with myself and my fiance included) so the Escape package is great. I have bought your wedding book which is amazing but I’m getting stressed about how to plan things timescale wise but it’s frustrating you can’t book anything until 10 months in advance. We would like a meal after the wedding since cake and champagne isn’t going to fill anyone and I don’t want the day to feel over after a couple of hours. I’m hoping we can plan a private meal afterwards and we like the Whitehall Room but is it available for private meals for Escape Package couples? I know the Wishes package states you can only have a minimum of 18 guests but what if we just pay for 18 but not actually have 18 guests? Do they check things like that? Thank you.

Hi Charlotte! I know the shorter planning timelines can be frustrating for UK couples because you guys need to plan so much farther in advance. However, because you are so flexible on your date, you should have no problem getting what you want! That said, if you are willing to pay the Wishes minimums for a smaller group, Disney will absolutely let you have a Wishes event. They don’t advertise it, but you can definitely do it. I would just tell the first person you speak to when you call that you will have 20 or more people, because they often are uninformed about this policy and may attempt to discourage you. Once you are assigned a Sales Consultant, you can talk real numbers. You may find this option gives you more peace of mind because you can start planning and confirming things so much sooner. And if you do decide you’d prefer Escape, you will be able to book the Whitehall Room for your post-wedding catered meal as long as a Wishes couple hasn’t already booked it.

This is pretty specific so hopefully you might have some insight. My husband is a huge Dumbo fan and I want to surprise him for his birthday with a small catered meal, and a meet and greet with Dumbo. I’ve read the prices for a character to attend an event, but what would the going rate be for a small catered breakfast? Say in Storybook Circus? Is this possible? Is there a minimum amount for people attending or in terms of price?

Hi Ryan! Disney Catered Events now have a minimum overall expenditure of $3,000 (Monday–Thursday) or $3,500 (Friday–Sunday), so you’re looking at spending at least that much on the venue fee, character fees, food, etc. Storybook Circus has a venue fee of $2,000 and a $7,500 food and beverage minimum. If you wanted to stick to the $3,000/$3,500 minimum you could do the event in a ballroom at a resort or an indoor location in one of the other parks. Ballrooms have no venue fees, but the food and beverage minimums vary. In-park locations have venue fees and food and beverage minimums. You might be able to have Dumbo at a semi-outdoor park location like Fez House in Morocco or Tamu Tamu Courtyard in Animal Kingdom if the breakfast was held before the park opened. I have photos of all the venues here: https://disneytravelbabble.com/disney-weddings/wdw-venue-photos/

Hey! just looking for some advice, With regards to the desert party at Sago Cay Pointe and the minimum food & drink spend. Can things such as the cost of the bartender, service charge and the $75 charge for not meeting min amount of people be added to this? Thank you!

Hi Kelly! Unfortunately taxes and fees do not apply to food and beverage minimums. However, the bartender fee and $75 small-party charge would apply to the new overall minimum of $3,000 or $3,500 that you have to meet if you want to have a Disney Catered Event.

I am planning a surprise 50th for my husband with about 25 guests. I was originally interested in just buying seats at The Hoop De Doo Revue but it seems like it will be hard to get everyone over there in enough time for the show. I found your website and now I’m interested in doing Fantasmic. Might be easier for everyone. So my question is, for all the people who don’t have park tickets, how do they get in? Is there an employee who walks them back? Do I have to pay the $15 per person for them to see the show and if I do the ride also, that’s an extra $15 per person as well right? And do they have to pay for parking? And do you know if they will do any decorating or would we be allowed to? Sorry about all the questions, but most of the people coming are out of state and don’t have a lot of extra spending money so i will be paying for them.

Hi Becky! When you do an in-park fireworks event like Fantasmic! or IllumiNations, Disney charges you a $15/person viewing fee for each guest who doesn’t have park admission. Your group assembles at a park entrance or is conveyed backstage by transportation you hire, and then an event guide leads everyone to the party venue. Ride mix-ins cost $15/person without park admission BUT if you’re already paying a viewing fee for those guests, they give you a little bit of a break and only charge you $10/person for the viewing fee. Guests will have to pay for parking if they park at DHS’s lot. If they park at a resort and take transportation to DHS (either public, like the bus or a Friendship boat, or private transport you hire) then parking is free. Private backstage transportation starts at $34 one-way for a 4-passenger town car or $42 one-way for an 8-passenger van or SUV. This episode of the Disney Wedding Podcast explains all your transportation options and prices. DCE will happily put you in touch with the Disney Floral team to buy decor. You are not allowed to DIY decor at in-park venues, unfortunately. You can see what we did for decor at our Tiki DinoVersary Party here: https://disneytravelbabble.com/blog/2017/03/13/our-tiki-dino-versary-party-at-universe-of-energy/

I’m a little confused, is the $2500 minimum also for Dessert parties or is that minimum for full catered private event? I thought the dessert party is a flat venue rental fee and a per person charge?

Hi Kim! Basically it’s $2,500 to get in the door with Disney Catered Events. It doesn’t matter what type of event you want to have. All the same venue-specific minimums and fees apply, but your total spend with Disney (via food, decor, photography, transport and anything else they offer) must be at least $2,500. So if you want a 2-person dessert party at UK Pubside, which only has a $100 venue fee and a $250 food and beverage minimum, you’re going to have to add a LOT of extra stuff to reach $2,500. DCE has been trying to get out of the small, low-dollar event business for a while now, and this is how they’ve done it. 🙁

Thanks Carrie, that is so disappointing :/ I was really hoping but I just can’t justify that price…boooo!

Tim Williams

My wife and I will be celebrating our Silver Anniversary this year and my daughter and I want to do something really special as a surprise for her. Something in the category of Vow renewals. I was hoping to get a beach theme possibly outside and we are looking to invite around 100 people. I would like it to be catered by Disney for the food, drinks, flowers and possibly photos. But I would like a 4 string quartet to play some pieces and maybe have a family member handle the music at the reception. I need this the first weekend in June. Am I too hopeful that I could do this on Disney property? I am looking for costs and availability right now. Any suggestions you could provide would be so appreciated.

Hi Tim! Congratulations on your silver anniversary! To do something like this via Disney, you’d need to use their Wishes Collection, an a la carte event where you meet a set of minimum expenditures starting at $12,000. The full pricing can be found by clicking on “2018 Minimum Expenditure” here: https://www.disneyweddings.com/florida/pricing/wishes/ .

Prices depend on day of the week, guest count, time of day and location. Weddings and vow renewals are treated interchangeably. You still have plenty of time to plan. The cheapest option would be a weekday brunch. You could use a beach location like Luau Beach at the Poly or Shipwreck Beach at the Beach Club for a $4,000 fee. The brunch food and beverage minimums are $140/person. The Enhancement Minimum for a resort reception location on Tuesday or Wednesday is $5,000. Anything else you buy from Disney besides the ceremony site and food will help you meet that minimum (so floral, decor, string quartet, photography).

There are cheaper non-Disney options on property, but none of them have a beach location except the Swan & Dolphin, which has packages available through JustMarry! starting around $4,000 (total). Paddlefish does ceremonies on the deck, though, and the Four Seasons has a man-made lake. Hope this helps!

Hi! I’m so sorry if this question has been answered. I am having a Memories wedding at Luau Beach in September, and want to have a dinner for around 18 (possibly a few more or less) guests later that evening. We were interested in trying to book the Sonoma room at the California Grill for this, do you have any information on the minimums ? I’m not sure if 18 would be too low of a guest count in the room either. We’re really open to any suggestions of a location that accommodate this large of a group, but wanted it to be in the MK area so we could see the fireworks at night too. I haven’t been able to find any restaurants in the resorts in that area that can accommodate our party size on a regular dinner reservation though (which we’re totally fine with, just doesn’t seem possible). Any insight would be so appreciated!! I’m getting a little nervous since we’re about 7 months away from our wedding 🙂

Sorry, forgot to mention in my last post but would I have to contact Disney’s Catered Events to book the Sonoma room? And would the menus for this be the ones you have listed as 2018 California Grill menus? Would we be able to order off the regular menus in that room, or the catering menu? Thank you again!! I really appreciate any advice.

Hi Jenna! First, in case this saves you the trouble and expense, the way you’d make a regular restaurant reservation for a group of 18 is to make multiple reservations for the max they’ll allow (it varies)at the same time. Then when you check in you let them know you want to be seated together. Or some restaurants have a number to call to put in this request – if you have my Fairytale Weddings Guide, these are in the chart in the Escape chapter.

Next… In the past, Memories brides have been on their own for booking private events, BUT I would check with your Disney Wedding planner just in case to see if s/he can book the Sonoma Room for you. Now that DCE will officially work with groups of any size, DFTW may have relaxed their rules too.

If not, them yes, you would book the Sonoma Room via DCE. The minimums are in the Fairytale Weddings Guide too, in Chapter 3: $2,000 for events ending before 4pm, $3,000 for events starting after 6pm, and $5,000 for events occurring between 4pm and 6pm. Menus are the ones I have on my menu page for CA Grill, which are basically the same as the restaurant menus. There is no minimum guest count to book the room.

You might also look into the private room at the Wave. Thought I think its minimum has gone up, I believe it is still only $2,000.

Sally graham

Hi there, my son will be getting married next Feb and we are staying at Port Orleans He is having the ceremony, drinks and cake At Cypress Grove but would like to have an evening meal for around 20-25 guest after we get back from Cypress Grove. He was looking at The Boathouse but has been told they no longer are private tables. Any suggestions would be very welcome, oh and the bride wants to stay in her dress so would need to be out of the parks . Thank you

Hi Sally! I sent you an email. Check your junk mail if you don’t see it.

Hi Carrie I have exactly the same question , I’m finding it really difficult to find a venue for a evening meal and still be in my dress ,

Please can you send me some suggestions of places to go ,

Hi Aimee! You can wear your gown anywhere on property except inside the parks. So if you’re just looking for a regular reservation at a restaurant, the (Disney) World is your oyster! Let me know if the problem is something else….

Hello. We were wondering what the deal is with having special character meet and greets at these events? Do you have any idea approximately how much characters are and what the rules are in regards to backdrops and specific characters requests. Thanks for your help!

Hi there! You can add a character appearance to any indoor event or to an outdoor, in-park event after the park has closed. For up to 30 minutes of interaction, prices are $1,275 for one character, $1,795 for two or $2,395 for three. Each additional character at the same appearance costs $600. Certain characters may not appear together, so you’d have to pay the full $1,275 for each to have them appear separately. The Fab Five may appear anywhere. Other characters may be prohibited if they do not fit the theme of the environment, or you may be able to get them by paying for a backdrop that they stay in front of. This episode of my podcast is an interview with a woman who had 32 characters for her wedding events, and we talk about the rules and pricing: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/2015/03/11/wishes-spotlight-stephanie-vincents-character-filled-fairy-tale/

Hi Carrie, I am trying to plan something special for my boyfriend’s birthday during our stay at Bay Lake Tower. In the past we’ve done the Epcot Aqua Seas adventure and pontoon boats. Would Disney ever do something along the lines of delivering his favorite breakfast location (Kona Cafe) to our room on his birthday? I’m trying to think of things a bit more out of the box without going overboard! We’ll also be doing a spa day and eating at Victoria and Alberts so fun things as well!

So…. Private Dining at the Contemporary is separate from Private Dining at the Poly. The most I’ve ever seen them transfer among resorts is a cake, but that’s in a box and doesn’t need to be kept hot! Still, I’m sure you could work with Contemporary Private Dining to re-create his favorite meal at Kona. I would contact them a few weeks ahead to work on the menu and timing. Just call the main number for the Contemporary and ask to be transferred to Private Dining.

That’s ok. Information is not bad news. Just information. I appreciate you taking the effort.

All of your tips seem great and you answer everyone’s questions so completely, which doesn’t always happen. Wonder if you can help guide me. My finance and I are thinking of a January wedding at Epcot in Italy. It will be just the two of us and 5 college age+ children. Simple, no pomp, just the family. Can we just arrange to reserve a space for a small quick ceremony in a nice locationin Italy, have a nice dinner, and go on our merry way or do we need to book one of the packages? Should I call the catering line or the wedding line to avoid some of the pitfalls you described above? Thanks very much for any assistance.

Hi Andrew! So, the smallest wedding package Disney offers is Memories , but it’s only for 6 people total and none of the locations are inside Epcot. The next biggest package, Escape , will accommodate up to 20 people total, but the only Epcot ceremony location is Canada. So, unfortunately, in order to have a ceremony in Italy, you’d need to do the a la carte Wishes collection, which requires a catered reception and starts around $13,500 before tax and service charge. Disney Catered Events will just shuffle you back to Disney’s Fairy Tale weddings if you ask them for a ceremony, and the official word on unsanctioned “guerilla” weddings in the parks is immediate ejection. Although you do hear of people getting away with guerilla weddings in the parks, who wants to have that kind of fear and anxiety hanging over one of the happiest days of your lives? So my suggestion would be to have a ceremony in your room (some local officiants do these, but the ones on Disney’s list do not for fear of being booted from the list) and then do a catered meal in Italy via Disney Catered Events. As long as you don’t ask for anything wedding-y or call it a wedding, you can plan through them. Italy Isola West has a food and beverage minimum of $460 for a dessert party, $500 for a pre-reception and $1,500 for a full meal, with a venue fee of $400. The guest minimum is 20, but as long as you meet the food and beverage minimum you should be able to use it. Hope this helps!

Thank you very much. That info, while disappointing, is very helpful.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. The least expensive wedding package I’ve heard of on WDW property is Just Marry’s $1,365 elopement package at House of Blues, which takes place under the outdoor folk-art arch and allows up to 10 people. The package includes the site, an officiant, a bridal bouquet, a boutonniere, and a coordinator to help you find vendors and coordinate on-site the day of your event. However, there are no chairs at the ceremony site.

Hello, I was wondering if you could give me some advice. I was trying to see if I could just hold my reception at Disney and get married elsewhere. I thought about doing a dessert party but my fiance wants an actual reception and I’d like to be able to wear my dress. I’m looking at a Feb 2019 date with a guest list of about 20-25. He doesn’t want to spend 15k on a wedding because he doesn’t love Disney like my family and I do. If we do have an actual Disney wedding it would be somewhere besides the wedding pavilion because be worked on the building and doesn’t want to get married somewhere that he worked. Thanks

Hi Tiffany! You can do a Wishes wedding reception at Disney and have your ceremony elsewhere—Disney does this all the time for Catholic brides who want to be married in the Church. However, you have to meet the Wishes food and beverage minimums (starting at $140/person for brunch) and the Enhancement Minimum (starting at $5,000 for resort locations on Tuesdays and Wednesdays). You just don’t have to pay the $4,000-$5,000 ceremony location fee. Here are all my Disney Wedding Podcast interviews with couples who have done this: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/?s=catholic . If the Wishes minimums are too high, you can have an off-site ceremony and do a private meal at a resort or inside, say, Epcot during fireworks. However, this would have to be booked through Disney Catered Events, not Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, and there are restrictions on what you can do. You can’t wear a wedding gown inside the parks and they discourage wedding cakes and DJs—basically, if they think you are trying to have a Disney wedding without going through DFTW, they won’t let you do it. Here is an interview with a bride who was married off-site and had a Disney Catered Event: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/2016/01/13/maitland-art-center-spotlight-lisa-will/

That actually helps a lot. It puts me in the budget I was thinking if we did something Disney. If we booked a fireworks cruise with a meal and skipped a reception would I be able to wear my dress or is it against policy? Also, if I went with a memories collection do they count children? We are considering something with our parents and our children who will be 3 and 8 at the time. That puts us at 6 people. The main thing I want is to book a magic kingdom photo session and then we will probably have a very small ceremony somewhere and something after. Thank you for the quick response. How can I buy your book?

Yes, you can wear your gown on a fireworks cruise! Technically, children 3 and older count toward your Memories guest count. Sometimes people get away with having extra guests lurk on the walkway, but with kids that might be awkward. Anybody can book a Magic Kingdom portrait session, though, so you don’t have to do the wedding through Disney. There are other on-property options that cost less (House of Blues, Swan & Dolphin—even the Four Seasons!), and I have a chapter in the book devoted to those. You can buy the book here: https://www.passporterstore.com/store/1587710781.aspx Let me know if I can answer any other questions!

Colin James

Hello, we wish to treat our whole workforce to a day at Disneyworld. probably Epcot. We dont need any event planning . But because there will be 400 of us, do we need to inform Disney that a large group of us will be meeting up at one of the parks? Thank you.

That’s a good question! I know that unofficial events like Dapper Day just sort of happened until they got so big that the organizers began working with Disney on specific events. But I don’t think you have to let Disney know if you don’t need any kind of help from them to facilitate the meet-up.

Thanks for quick reply. We don’t need any help but was just concerned about a large group of us taking up room at the parks. We are very well behaved (most of us are of senior age 🙂 ) … do you know of an email I could send to Disney to ask if they prefer us to say split in to smaller groups or ? Thank you

I really think you’ll be OK. There are lots of other unofficial gatherings at held at Disney parks, like Gay Days and Bats Day, where thousands of people show up to celebrate without arranging anything through Disney. But if you do want to contact them, their Guest Services email is [email protected] . Have fun!

Hi Carrie. We are planning an escape wedding in 2019 and want to do an illuminations party. how much will it cost 10 of us to be at UK lochside? Is it $1000 and then we have to pick food, maybe have a photographer to meet the minimum? Not sure I understand. Thanks.

Hi Ami! Because you are doing a Disney’s Fairy Tale Wedding, you do not have to meet the $1,000 overall minimum to have an event—that is only for events planned through the Disney Catered Events department. So you would only pay the actual costs of the party: $250 venue fee, $460 food and beverage minimum, $10/person viewing fee and the cost of transportation, if you need it. And 6.5% tax and 24% service charge on the food and beverages. These prices may have gone up by 2019, but probably not too much.

Taralyn Cyccone

Hi there! I saw this question answered several years ago. To do a 40th bday party at California Grill for 15 people to see fireworks..the smartest way is the disney private event minimum? 5 grand for 15 people seems like I would need a ton of stuff which is an option. Basically trying to find a way to pre pay for an event myself rather than ordering.off the menu etc. Thank you!

The *only* way to do a private event at California Grill is to book via Disney Catered Events ($5,000 Event Minimum) or Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings ($15,000 Event Minimum). It doesn’t matter what size your group is but, as you say, the smaller your group, the harder it is to meet these minimums!

Hi! I love your site and ebook and have been a long time reader. I saw your update about the new $1000 minimum for 2017. Just to be clear, for Illuminations dessert parties, if you book, say, one of the $150 venues with $250 F&B min, do you still have to spend at least $1000 to hold the event? Or are dessert-only parties excluded from that 1k? Thanks!

Hi Olivia! Yes, unfortunately the minimum applies everywhere—I think it is precisely those inexpensive parties at UK Pubside that prompted DCE to add the minimum, since it was turning out to be a lot of work for what they considered a little money. The one positive is that they now don’t give you a hard time for having fewer than 10 people. They don’t care how many you have, as long as you’re spending that $1,000. For a cheaper location like Lochside, you can add things like floral, decor, transportation, ride mix-ins and photography to meet the $1,000. But I know it is a bummer to have to spend that much for just 2 people!

I’m currently half way through your book and it’s helped so much.

My fiancé and I are having an escape wedding in April and are planning a dessert party at either Sago Cay or Marina Patio.

We’ve been told that we need to pay the fee at Sago Cay to have the music piped in but at Marian Patio the music will be played from existing permanent speakers? We definitely want to have the music piped in if we need to but is the music actually loud enough at the Marina to not have to?

Sorry for the essay we’re just struggling to find much information about dessert parties that aren’t illuminations.

Hi Sophie! Yes, the music will be loud enough—you don’t need to pay for speakers at the Marina anymore. They had these paid dessert parties at the Marina a while back for the express purpose of watching Wishes, so DFTW can use the same speakers for your event!

Chelsea Spears

Hi Carrie, Your post are very informative, but I am looking for some information. I am getting Married in May of 2018 at on offsite location called Paradise Cove, but I am only doing the ceremony. Later in the evening we were looking for a space to have dinner that can accommodate all 50 of us without having to break my bank account. We also would really like to have an open bar. I have never been to Disney so I am unsure where to even start. Please help hahah!

Hi Chelsea! Your best bet for saving money on a reception is to do a large-party dining reservation at a restaurant. Downtown Disney has lots of popular choices, but there are many others in the Orlando area. You can usually work with the restaurant to get a special menu printed without prices, if that’s important to you. If you are interested in having a private event in a theme park or other Disney-owned venue, you would need to work through Disney Catered Events. All the information on this page applies, whether you’re having 5 people or 50 people. Depending on the food and beverage minimums for the location you choose and the number of guests you have, you should be able to do something for around $3,000 for 50 people. I would recommend doing the bar “Bill On Consumption,” which means that you only pay for exactly what people drink instead of buying an unlimited package and (usually) paying for drinks no one consumes. This episode of the Disney Wedding Podcast explains BOC bars: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/2013/03/27/how-to-save-a-bundle-on-the-bar/ And this episode explains more about planning a private event through Disney Catered Events: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/2016/07/06/how-to-plan-a-small-private-event-at-walt-disney-world/

Claire Agnew

Hi thanks for such a good description of these events. I am looking to book Epcot illumination for our 15th anniversary for 8 people, I would like if possible dinner then dessert package with private viewing of fireworks, is it possible to have someone there to take photos or do we do that ourselves? I know it is a minimum of $1000 package can you please let me know if this includes dinner or what the $1000 can actually be used towards. My husband would really like himself and our sons to wear kilts and myself and daughters will be wearing party dresses is this allowed?

Sorry for all the questions it’s just a lot of planning I appreciate any advice you can give me x

Hi Claire! The $1,000 can be used toward anything provided by Disney: food, beverages, cake, viewing fees, transportation, photography, entertainment, floral and decor. You can hire a Disney photographer for about $350 or bring your own local photographer for a $90 escort fee. The only outfits that usually get stopped at the gates are full-length bridal gowns. You all will have no problem entering in kilts and party dresses. Let me know if I can answer any other questions!

I discovered the Italy Overlook through your website, and had a fabulous time watching Illuminations there last year. I called last week to book it again for this June, but I was told that they no longer rent that space for fireworks viewing. Do you know if that’s true? The first person I talked to wasn’t very knowledgeable about that venue, so I asked to speak to a supervisor. It was the supervisor who assured me that their policy has changed and it’s not possible to rent the Overlook ahead of time anymore.

Thanks for you help, and for the great website!

Hi Amanda! Disney Catered Events just instituted a $1,000 pre-tax-and-service-charge minimum for holding an event, and there’s no way to spend that much money at a venue where you can’t serve food. You could call back and get the party planning process started without telling them where exactly you want the event. Once you are assigned a sales consultant, you can tell him/her the location you want, but you’ll need to add an event elsewhere to meet the minimum.

So I see if you do a Disney catered event you cannot wear your wedding dress. Does this include the Grand Floridian marina/sago cay pointe? Since it’s at a hotel as opposed to inside the park I wasn’t sure. Looking at having a dinner at Shula’s/Paddlefish and then doing a wishes fireworks viewing. No ceremony at Disney though.

Thanks so much!

Hi Rebecca! As long as they know you just want a fireworks party and are not attempting to hold a wedding reception without going through Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, they can’t stop you from wearing your gown at the resorts. There’s no gate they can turn you away at, and if you show up to the party in your gown, your planner is not going to make you go change. BUT, I would not mention what you’re wearing to your planner. I’ve heard one or two stories of Disney Catered Events planners who made a big stink about not allowing brides to wear their attire at resort locations, even though there’s no way to actually enforce that.

Thanks so much! Definitely going to consider it, hopefully they wouldn’t!

I was wondering if you would be able to advise me of what my options might be!

We are getting married on Halloween this year, the ceremony has been booked through JustMarry and is at the Swan & Dolphin.

We are hoping to be able to do the evening meal for hopefully somewhere between 25-35 people through Disney private dining with fireworks viewing – so I suppose this would fall into either Epcot or Bay Lake area.

As the wedding itself is booked through JustMarry, they aren’t able to advise about on site options. We’ve emailed Disney directly about options but they’re just pointing us to Disney Fairytale Weddings and quoting us for an escape package, which obviously isn’t what we’re after as the ceremony is already taken care of. I’m assuming this is because I said it was a wedding party!

Do you think we would still have the option of doing a firework viewing either dessert party with food added in, or a full meal on Disney property? And if so, would you advise I avoid saying it’s for a wedding or should it not make a difference?

Hi Emily! Yes, sometimes the people who answer that first call/email at Disney Catered Events do everything they can to shoot you down. But plenty of Swan brides have planned dessert parties through them. You just can’t wear your gown in the park or have a wedding cake or a DJ or anything that makes it seem like you’re circumventing Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings. I would contact them again and just say you want to do a party/family reunion. Once you get assigned a planner, you can tell him/her what’s going on if you want. But make it clear that you understand they can only plan a party for you, not a wedding reception. You can do a DP, a full meal—anything you want!

My boyfriend has hinted to me he wants to propose this year and we both want a wedding at WDW. We are from the UK and our guest list will most likely be under 20 so the Escape package is great but I’ve been worrying about a reception after! I’ve tried to do some research myself and am I right in that if we try to do a private catered event after through Disney we cant have a dance floor/DJ and I can’t be in my wedding dress?

If this is the case would it make more sense to go through the Swan and Dolphin in their reception only packages for after the Escape package ceremony? Is that allowed?

Sorry for all the questions, I’ve done nothing but worry about all this for days and I’m not even engaged yet haha!

Hi Charlotte! No need to worry! If you do an Escape package you can plan a private catered event through your Disney Wedding planner and you ARE allowed to wear your wedding gown. However, the event is limited to 2 hours—it’s more of a meal than a reception. They will tell you it is too short to have a DJ and dancing. You probably don’t want to go through the Swan & Dolphin for your reception because their prices are as high as Disney’s. Some options: Reception at House of Blues or another Orlando-area hotel, do a dessert party (with regular food in addition to desserts) as your private catered event and then you won’t need other entertainment, or do a Wishes Catered Event Experience, which starts at around $8,500 for ceremony and reception, depending on time of year and day of the week. This episode explains the Wishes Catered Event Experience: https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/2017/01/18/wishes-collection-overview/ . And this episode is more detailed but doesn’t cover the fact that you can now only do the Catered Event Experience in Low Season (Jan-March and July and August): https://disneyweddingpodcast.com/2016/06/22/mini-wishes-catered-event-experience/

The Wishes says it starts at $12,000, is this not correct? I am trying to plan for January, there’s only 20 of us (my fiancee and me included in that), so I cannot see spending $12,000. So the Escape collection seems to be the best, however I’d like to add light appetizers to it. The person on the phone said I can’t even start planning until next month, and I can’t add to the Escape package. I am not looking for a reception, just light apps along with the cake. I’m taking everyone to dinner and doing a dessert party later on in the evening. Also, I really loved The Attic, but that doesn’t seem to be an option for anything unless you do the Wishes Package, correct? Thank you!!! This information is great! Much appreciated for those of us that want to plan but have to wait!

1) That is not correct. The Wishes Catered Event Experience starts at $8,500 for 20 people for brunch on Tues-Thurs in the months of Jan-March and July-August. The only difference between the Catered Event Experience and regular Wishes is that your reception is only 3 hours and you can have a max of 50 people. We actually cut our regular Wishes brunch to 3 hours and it was plenty of time.

2) The people who answer that first phone call are not planners or sales consultants, and they are notorious for spreading misinformation. You can add almost anything to the Escape package, including a 2-hour catered reception at the Attic. Do you happen to have my PassPorter Guide? It explains everything and shows you all your options, with prices. You can also get all this info on my podcast. I suggest these two episodes: Escape Collection Overview and Wishes Collection Overview .

Thank you so much! This is great information. I looked for your book on my Kindle but couldn’t find it. I will try Amazon for the hard copy! Thanks again. That information is fantastic!

Hi Rose! Amazon has been sending out years-old copies with out-of-date info instead of the most recent print guide. The best version is the eBook, which is a PDF you can get directly from PassPorter (they don’t have it in the Kindle store, unfortunately, but you can send it to your Kindle): https://www.passporterstore.com/store/1587710781.aspx

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See Disney World from the Water: Sea Raycer Rentals

If you’ve ever taken the monorail or ferry to the Magic Kingdom, chances are you’ve seen little blue and whites boats zipping around in the waters of Bay Lake. You may have thought, “Geeze, those folks look like they’re having fun.” Guess what, they are!

Here’s everything you need to know:

Where can I rent a Sea Raycer?

Sea Raycers are available at the resorts that have marinas. These are: Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, Fort Wilderness, Yacht & Beach Club, Boardwalk, Old Key West, Caribbean Beach Resort, Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter, and Coronado Springs. Sea Raycers are also available at Captain Jack’s Marina at Downtown Disney.

Are any of these locations better or worse than the others?

Depending on where you rent, there are three different waterways to explore. If you rent at the GF, Poly, Contemporary, WL, or FW, you’ll be riding around Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon. This allows you to drive up almost to the gates of the Magic Kingdom. Cool! Magic Kingdom area rentals can also drive around the now abandoned River Country attraction. There’s not tons to see, but the nostalgia factor is meaningful for some.

Rentals from the Yacht & Beach and Boardwalk will be exploring Crescent Lake and the canal down to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Rentals from the other resorts will be exploring those resorts and the Downtown Disney area.

Personally, I find the Magic Kingdom area to be the most interesting.

Can anyone rent these boats?

Yep. You don’t need to be staying at one of the hotels where the Sea Raycers are available. You don’t even need to be staying on Disney property.

What’s it going to cost me?

30 minutes = $32 45 minutes = $40 60 minutes = $45

Tax is additional.

Are there any discounts available?

There are sometimes boat rental discounts for WDW annual pass holders or DVC members. Whenever I sign on for a new activity, I run through the list of cards in my pocket with the cast member at the register (D23, AAA, DVC, Disney Visa, Annual Pass). I’ve often found hidden discounts this way.

There’s a maximum of two people allowed. There is also a weight limit of 320 pounds per boat. If you’re a larger person, you may not be able to ride with a companion.

Can two adults ride with a small child?

Nope. The two person maximum applies no matter what the age/size of the people.

I have more than one child. Any suggestions on how to make the Sea Raycers work for us?

I have three children in my family and all the kids wanted a Sea Raycer ride. Big dilemma. Our solution was to rent the boat for an hour. My husband took each child out for 20 minutes, while I stayed on shore playing in the sand with the other two. Just let the dock attendant that this is what you’d like to do.

Are there rules about who can drive the boat?

Sea Raycer drivers must be at least 12 years old AND at least five feet tall. Particularly petite guests may find it challenging to reach the pedal.

Guests ages 12-15 may drive the boat if they have a passenger at least 16 years old with a driver’s license. Guests 16 and up with a driver’s license may pilot a Sea Raycer on their own. Guests ages 12-17 must have a parent or guardian sign a release. All boat drivers age 16 and up must show a photo ID with their age listed.

Any other rules?

All Sea Raycer passengers must wear life vests. These are available to borrow free of charge at the marinas.

Are the boats difficult to drive?

Not really. The cast members at the rental station will explain it all to you, and there are instructions on the dashboard. You do have to make sure that the driver is capable of following signage instructions and steering around buoys. If you’ve driven other motorized vehicles, you’ll get the hang of it quickly.

What happens if I have a problem?

There are patrol boats that make regular rounds through the WDW waterways. If you stall out or have other difficulties, stay put and the patrol will find you quickly.

Can I take my baby on a Sea Raycer with me?

Are the Sea Raycers handicapped accessible?

All drivers and passengers are required to step in and out of the boat to an elevated dock. A fair amount of mobility is required to do this.

Do I need a reservation?

This depends on the time of year and time of day. If WDW is super busy AND it’s hot out, you may need a reservation, but it is often possible to walk up and rent without a reservation. If you’d like to make a reservation, call 407-WDW-PLAY.

Will I get wet?

Possibly. You’re not going to get soaked, but boats are quite low in the water. If you go fast, there’s a good chance you’ll get hit with some spray.

Can I rent a Sea Raycer to see the fireworks?

Sorry, no. Rental hours are usually 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. All rentals must be in before dark.

Can I bring a cold beer out on the water with me?

Sounds good, but unfortunately no. No food or beverage of any kind is allowed in the Sea Raycers.

How does weather impact Sea Raycer rentals?

You’ll still be able to rent if there’s just a mist or light shower. If the rain is heavy or there is lightning in area, the Bay Patrol will wave you in. Your fee will be prorated if you have to come in early due to the weather.

For your own person comfort, if the weather is particularly hot you may actually want to wear a light t-shirt under your life vest to keep the plastic from sticking to your body. And you should always wear sunscreen out on the water. Those rays can be brutal.

How fast will I be going?

This depends a bit on the weight of the passengers and the choppiness of the water, but the maximum Sea Raycer speed is about 20 mph. There are many areas where the boats must be driven much slower than this, for example in the narrow canal between Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon.

Guests who are used to speed boats may feel that the Sea Raycers are quite slow. The thrill is more in the water-level view of sights, rather than in the speed.

What do I do with my stuff while I’m out on the boat?

Most of the rental locations have lockers available to stow your gear while you’re out on the water.

Can I bring my camera on the boat?

Well, I did. But you should be aware that it may get wet from water spray. And make sure you keep it on a tether of some sort. If you drop it in the water, there’s no getting it back.

So, water mice, that’s the scoop. Have you rented these boats? Did you like it? Did your kids? Did you find that it was worth the money? Let us know in the comments below.

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

17 thoughts on “ See Disney World from the Water: Sea Raycer Rentals ”

Hi there. Just made my way here (August 2019), but following some advice from you book, this info seems to contradict what your book says, and feels way out of date. I don’t believe you can rent boats any longer at many of the resorts detailed in this article can you? (eg at Old Key West)?

If not, do you have plans to update it ot remove it, as it could confuse people like me trying to use your info to plan a trip, but then find it is out of date (by several years).

One of my great childhood memories is touring 7-Seas Lagoon from a 2 person boat with my Dad. It was my first trip to Disney World – I was in 7th grade. We stayed in Ft. Wilderness, in what I still believe is the best camp site. We are preparing for our 6th trip to Disney with our 5 children. We are planning to rent a Sea Raycer for the first time (will have the children take turns). I cannot wait to see if they enjoy as much as I did!

Also, one of the “rules” is that smaller boats always must defer to larger boats. Since the Sea Raycer is always the smallest boat, it must defer to all other boats.

Hi, we just rented Sea Raycers last week at the Polynesian. Some things you wrote don’t quite jive with our experience. You wrote:

“Sea Raycer drivers must be at least 12 years old AND at least five feet tall. Particularly petite guests may find it challenging to reach the pedal.”

There is no pedal. In fact, leg room for taller guests (I’m only 6’0″) is a little cramped. You control the speed of the boat with a throttle located on your right-hand side.

You wrote: “Guests ages 12-15 may drive the boat if they have a passenger at least 16 years old with a driver’s license. Guests 16 and up with a driver’s license may pilot a Sea Raycer on their own. Guests ages 12-17 must have a parent or guardian sign a release. All boat drivers age 16 and up must show a photo ID with their age listed.”

Our 5’4″ 17-year old daughter who does NOT have a driver’s license had her own boat; she was alone in the boat. I did need to sign a release, but she drove the boat alone. I went in another boat with my other daughter (9 years old).

It was an awesome experience, VERY highly recommended. The staff is very specific with instructions about where you may go & where you need to be at “no-wake” (slow) speed (through canals & narrow passages & near docks).

There are plenty of boat patrols & be sure to stay FAR from the ferries.

We enjoyed 7-Seas Lagoon & Bay Lake quite a bit.

You should also mention that the driver is not allowed to take pictures unless the boat is stopped & in neutral. A passenger may take pictures.

This was the 1st time we’d done it & it is now a must-do on all future trips. 🙂

This is a “must do” for me when I’m at the world. I prefer renting at riverside and taking a leisurely stole up the Sassagoula river, I enjoy driving in the river more then the wide open lake. In regard to the speed of the boats, I always track my trip using GPS. I have found all the boats to have a top speed of 17.5 MPH on calm water with no wind and a 180 lb. driver.

Couple of clarifications – marinas open for rentals at 11, rather than 10. (This is the case during the slower times of year that I visit, so they may well open earlier during busier seasons.)

Also, part of the renter’s agreement that you sign includes a “no photography” clause. So while you can probably take photos without getting in trouble, they don’t want you doing it.

Someone also asked about how “peppy” the boats are. My experience going back to 1999 is that these go in phases. Back in the mid-2000s especially, the boats had become really sluggish. But since about 2009, they have gotten back to their old “lots-of-energy” selves.

A tip for those who may want to try jumping a wake – you’ll get a smoother jump if the wake is moving in the same direction as you are, rather than coming toward you. The latter one can get quite bumpy.

Also, if memory serves me correctly you have to be 15 to drive . But this is only a memory and not confirmed.

There are no pedals on a sea racer….so there is no danger of “not reaching the pedals”….. Have you actually ever been in one?

I did the water sprite back in the fall of 07. BEST. IDEA. EVER.

My buddy and I rented two boats on a particularly slow day from the contemporary resort. Tooled around bay lake and the seven seas. Even had one of the transport boats get mad and honk at me cause apparently I was “too close” It was wonderful and something I will do every time I go back; weather permitting of course.

Coronado Springs’ marina has been closed for quite a while now. Although it still shows as having one on the wdw website unfortunately there are no more boat/bike rentals available at CSR.

Oy. That will teach me to confirm things via the WDW site. Thanks for the correction.

Just an FYI: Port Orleans French Quarter doesn’t have a marina, only Riverside. The french ship boats have a dock but no rentals or anything.

That’s a great clarification. Thanks for the input.

I’ve rented once from the Polynesian and my family found them fun. Question though: I’ve heard the ones in the smaller waterways have smaller engines. Can anyone validate that?

I’ve never heard this. To the best of my knowledge, all the Sea Raycers have the same 9.9 hp engines.

Always a must do on my trips. I enjoy the boats, have beaten the ferry (exercising appropriate caution & following rules) and have explored all three waterways.

My kids have always loved the boats in the Magic Kingdom area and when they could finally take their own boat they were thrilled. I particularly enjoyed the views of the hotels and Magic Kindom from a different perspective and I get to stop and take my time enjoying the ride.

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Review: Renting a Poolside Cabana at Disney World

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to rent a poolside cabana during your Walt Disney World vacation? Well, the bad news is it’s an expensive treat. But on the flip side, you’ll probably enjoy the cabana so much that you won’t regret it.

Since we specialize in resort-related information, we try to provide as much coverage of unique offerings as possible. Before this experience, renting a cabana at Stormalong Bay had been at the top of my list for some time.

It’s been a few years since we rented this particular cabana at Stormalong Bay. Little has changed since then, except the price, which has increased like everything else. So, I wanted to revisit this article and provide a few updates as we venture into 2024.

This article was updated on December 7, 2023.

Which Resorts at Disney World Have Cabana Rentals?

Here is the list of resorts that have cabana rentals at Walt Disney World:

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club

Additionally, poolside patio rentals are available at the Oasis Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the Feature Pool at the Contemporary, and the Courtyard Pool at Grand Floridian. Poolside patios differ slightly from the cabana rentals, and pricing is not the same.

For more information on renting a poolside patio, check the patio rentals page on Disney’s site . Currently, the Grand Floridian’s Courtyard Pool Patios average $125.00. Here are a few photos of the patio offerings taken within the last year. Again, these are not to be confused with cabana rentals. Most of these offerings are usually reserved for a dedicated seating area with some shade. (You can click on any of these photos to expand the picture.)

Cost of Cabana Rentals at Disney World

When we called to check the price of cabanas for 2024, we were quoted an average price of $350.00 per day plus tax for all three resorts. This is a significant price difference from the $318.00 we paid (including tax) only two years ago.

Disney World’s resort cabanas can be reserved at 60 days out. You must have a confirmed reservation at the resort for the day you want to reserve the cabana. Also, you’ll want to make this reservation as early as possible on the 60-day mark to secure your cabana. The number of cabanas at each pool is limited, and they fill up quickly. You can call Disney at (407) 939-7529 to reserve a cabana. More information is available here on Disney’s website . Unfortunately, they do not list the prices.

Let the cast member know if you are an annual passholder or DVC member. A 15% discount is available, which you’ll want to take advantage of if applicable.

What’s Included in a Cabana Rental at Disney World?

Here are the items you’ll receive based on the resort.

Yacht and Beach Club Cabanas Include:

• Dedicated Cast Member providing service to the cabanas
• Cocktail service (Hurricane Hanna’s)
• Ceiling fan
• Padded furniture, including chairs and a couch
• Television with cable access
• Charging outlet/USB
• Mini refrigerator stocked with complimentary sodas and water
• Fruit basket (may not be available without advance reservation)
• Plush towels
• Cabinet safe

In addition, we received a dessert tray in the afternoon. This item is not listed in the amenities on Disney’s site. However, I believe the dessert trays are a standard item with the cabana reservation.

Disney’s Contemporary Cabanas Include:

• Bluetooth speaker
• Television with cable service

Disney’s Grand Floridian Cabanas Include:

• Two padded lounge chairs
• Padded sectional couch
• Smart TV with cable service
• Snack basket (may not be available without advance reservation)

Our Experience Renting a Cabana at Stormalong Bay

Now that we’ve covered the basics, we’ll walk through how our day went so you’ll get the whole story. This cabana was reserved for our check-in day at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. If you’re arriving early in the day, this is a wonderful way to start your vacation. Cabana rentals begin at 10:00 a.m. and conclude at 7:00 p.m.

We got to our cabana at approximately 11:00 a.m. If it’s your check-in day, you can change in the shower rooms near the pool, or an additional changing area is in the back of the Ship Shape Health Club, which faces the pool. You are welcome to enjoy the resort’s amenities as soon as you arrive, even if your room is not yet available.

A cast member will scan your Magic Band for entry at the pool gate. They will provide a bracelet indicating you’re a guest of the resort and an additional band identifying you’re a cabana guest.

After getting our bands, we were escorted to our cabana. We rented cabana number four at Stormalong Bay. Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club share a pool area called Stormalong Bay . Four cabanas are available at the pool. They sit on one end near the children’s pool with the sand bar in the center.

Cabanas two and one sit near the edge of the pool. If you have smaller children, I would recommend requesting either of these. You’ll be able to easily watch your child in the shallow pool from the cabana. Below, cabana two sits on the right side of the photo. Cabana one sits next to it on the opposite side.

I would recommend cabanas three or four for older children who do not need as much supervision or a group of adults. We were a group of ladies, so I requested cabana four for this trip. These cabanas are a little more private. Below is a photo of where we were in relation to the other cabanas.

Here is a photo of cabana three.

After getting settled, a cast member greeted us and said she was moving us to three because the refrigerator was out in our cabana. This was disappointing because I had reserved four for privacy and the shaded area around the cabana. We also had a nice view out to Crescent Lake.

As we moved our stuff, we realized we wouldn’t have as much shade without closing the curtain. So I asked if we could stay where we were and use the refrigerator as needed. They said that would be fine, so we moved our stuff back. Unfortunately, that was our last real conversation with the cabana attendant.

But I digress. After settling in, I took a few photos of everything.

A fruit tray came with the cabana rental. It was a nice assortment of fruit and the perfect refreshing treat to enjoy on a hot day at the pool.

It would have been nice had we been given plates, bowls, napkins, and utensils for the fruit. As you can imagine, not having these things was awkward, and we didn’t know we were supposed to have them.

Our fridge was fully stocked with Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, apple juice, and bottles of water. Funny enough, our “broken” refrigerator had ice-cold drinks while the drinks in the neighboring cabana were warm.

On one side of the cabana, we had two regular chairs.

We had a sofa with a few wicker end tables on the opposite side. Each of the tables had compartments where you could store your belongings.

A long cabinet on the backside of the space provided plenty of storage.

We also had a safe, which was a nice touch. Since we hadn’t received our room assignment, I had my electronic devices. So it was nice to store those items and our wallets while we enjoyed the pool.

We had a Bluetooth speaker and several charging ports.

Of course, the television was another fun perk. I felt the television would be suitable for anyone wanting to enjoy a football game over the weekend. It’s also nice to let children take a break and watch a few Mickey shorts while eating lunch or napping.

Later in the day, we experienced a tremendous downpour. Since no lightning was involved, we let the curtains down and enjoyed the breeze from the rain. It was nice that we didn’t need to rush anywhere to protect our belongings. Overall, I felt like there were many benefits to renting a cabana.

Our cabana came with a list of television channels, menus for Hurricane Hanna’s, and a list of complimentary snack items. Unfortunately, we were never offered snacks until much later in the day.

Two lounge chairs sit in the sun in front of each cabana. We ended up turning them around and pulling them into the shade.

As far as the cabana’s proximity to the rest of the pool, it’s important to note that most teens and adults probably won’t spend much time in the nearby shallow pool. You’ll likely want to walk to other areas of the pool that aren’t geared toward children. For instance, you’ll have to walk around the entire pool to get to the lazy river or any other area of the pool. It’s not a big deal, but the cabanas are confined to this area.

Throughout the day, a server from Hurricane Hanna’s waited on us. This server came by when he was making his rounds at the pool. When he got near our area, he would check in to see if we wanted to order anything. This is the same service you would get at any lounge chair or table at the pool.

I’m not hard to please, and I know this sounds trivial. However, this is a review, and I want to paint a clear picture. We had a great server. But he was swamped. So when it came time for lunch, we had to go and find him after waiting over 30 minutes for him to stop back by. While it wasn’t his fault, having someone check in more often would have been nice.

Speaking of someone checking in, during the entirety of our afternoon, the cast members dedicated to the cabanas never acknowledged us. Nor did they offer us snacks, ask if we were doing okay, or provide any value whatsoever.

We had no idea there was a large cabinet full of snack trays they were supposed to bring by and offer throughout the day. Not only that, but all those napkins, plates, and similar items we needed were sitting in that cabinet the entire day. It was frustrating.

Thankfully, when we ordered lunch, it didn’t take too long. We ordered a kids’ meal to get the sand pail and shovel. Unfortunately, this option is no longer available.

I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich.

Thankfully, the grill at Hurricane Hanna’s has a decent selection. Here are the choices we had:

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich
• Hanna’s Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger
• Seafood Roll
• Impossible Burger
• Caesar Salad with Chicken
• Garden Salad

Most of the grab-and-go items are the same pre-made items in the area’s other counter service locations. I recommend ordering something fresh.

A cocktail menu was also available. You’ll want to note that anything you order extra (food or drinks) from Hurricane Hanna’s is at your expense. The only food items you’ll receive with the cost of the cabana are the fruit tray, snacks, and dessert tray.

At approximately 2:00 p.m., an attendant brought us a dessert tray. We thought this was a nice gesture. (Note this was the only interaction we’d had since initial check-in.)

Our afternoon snack tray contained red velvet cupcakes, key lime cups, a mocha-flavored dessert, and a cheesecake with chocolate. Everything was tasty, and it reminded me of the offerings available in the club level at the Beach Club .

After lunch, we decided to do a little swimming. Stormalong Bay ranks as our top choice for the best pools at Disney World . The pool area is a small water park with a lazy river area, waterslides , and spas. We have a list with the pools at Disney’s Beach Club if you want to learn more.

When we got back from the pool, it was nearly 4:00 p.m. Unfortunately, bad weather was approaching. At that time, a new cast member had appeared and introduced herself. This cast member was kind and immediately checked to see if we needed anything and offered snacks. I told her no one had checked on us all day except for dropping off the dessert tray.

She said that was not how things should be and apologized. Apparently, she told a manager because soon after, someone else came by to check on us and inquire about the service we had. Of course, we had enjoyed the cabana even though we were painfully aware that we had been ignored most of the day.

After talking with the manager, she said they would provide a credit to our room for us to enjoy a meal during our stay. We would have never asked for any compensation, but felt that Disney handled the situation well and tried to make up for it.

We would rent a cabana again, even though we had a somewhat negative experience.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we enjoyed our time at the cabana. Next time, we’ll know how things should progress throughout the day. But that’s why we do this. If you’re looking to splurge on a cabana and read this review, you’ll know what to expect, too.

Before we left, our group discussed what kind of people would enjoy this type of rental. We felt like a group of women, like us, or a bridal party might enjoy that extra luxurious feeling. Those traveling with grandparents who can’t stay in the sunshine long might enjoy resting in the shade. Or a family with small children who would use the nearby pool. One member of our group suggested that a child could easily take a nap on the sofa during the day.

While cabana rentals aren’t a necessity, it’s also nice to have the dedicated space at the pool area. We stayed at the Yacht Club for a week this last summer, and I waited at the pool (in line) each morning to secure one of the few tables and chairs in the shade. We inquired about renting a cabana during that stay, but they were booked for the entire week.

For more information about Disney’s Beach Club Resort , you might enjoy the following:

• Disney’s Yacht Club Review
• Disney’s Beach Club Review
• Restaurants at Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club
• New Rooms at Disney’s Beach Club
• Cape May Character Breakfast Review

What Do You Think?

Now I want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on renting a cabana at Disney World? Have you had the opportunity to try this before? Do you have any questions?

Hi, I'm Amber the owner of Resorts Gal. We have stayed at every single Disney Resort Hotel. Our philosophy? We believe you can have an incredible time at the resorts without ever setting foot in a theme park. We live near the parks and visit weekly and would love for you to follow along.

One Comment

Thanks for the thorough review. I will be traveling in the fall with my 2 kids under 5 and extended family and the info about the Cabana location was helpful. It sucks that the first shift cast members didn’t provide the service they should have but glad to know what things should be provided.

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Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides, kayaking, canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Book a sunset sailing tour in Orlando . It's our favorite type of boat tour, and Florida sunsets often show off for an audience!
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• See what to bring for Orlando boat tours so you are prepared to deal with the Florida bugs!

Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

The post Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024) appeared first on Sometimes Home: Couples Travel .

• How we chose

The 9 best Airbnbs near Disney World for a magical stay on any budget

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If you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida and are looking for somewhere to stay, don't rule out renting an Airbnb.

Airbnbs can be great options for both small and large group trips or family vacations, as they offer flexibility with regard to size, amenities, and cost. Many Airbnbs close to Disney World, including those we list below, are even themed to the popular surrounding theme parks and characters to enhance the overall vacation experience.

Airbnbs can also be a great choice for quiet and privacy, as hotels can be quite chaotic, especially during peak season. If you value personal space and the ability to make a home-cooked meal in a kitchen (not commonly offered in a standard hotel room) an Airbnb may be a viable option for you. 

Whether you're planning a trip in the next couple of weeks, or are looking for possible accommodations for a Disney World trip in the future, there's no shortage of Disney World Airbnbs to choose from in Orlando and surrounding areas. Plus, all the Airbnbs we recommend below are located within a couple of miles from the magic, so you don't feel like you're spending too much time traveling. 

These are the best Airbnbs near Disney World

A haunted mansion-themed house with pool and hot tub access.

Book this home on Airbnb

Fans of Disney World's Haunted Mansion will be delighted by this home, which is themed after the beloved attraction in Magic Kingdom's Liberty Square. Located in Kissimmee, just 18 minutes away from Walt Disney World, this one-level property can accommodate six guests.

Its three bedrooms are themed after the Hatbox Ghost, Master Gracey, and The Black Widow Bride, and the dining room is dimly lit with a candelabra at the center of a gold-clothed table for mealtime. As part of your stay in this charmingly haunted abode, you'll have access to WiFi, a shared pool and hot tub (within the gated community), and an in-house washer and dryer.

A luxury townhome in Storey Lake with a Mickey Mouse-themed bedroom

Those looking for a luxury townhome to call their own while on their Disney World vacation will appreciate this listing in Storey Lake. With four bedrooms and three bathrooms, this family-friendly property is a great option for medium-sized travel groups with up to eight guests. Two of the bedrooms are themed to the Avengers and Mickey Mouse, whereas the other two offer a contemporary look with velvet headrests and gold-accented furniture. When you book this property, you'll have access to the amenities of Storey Lake, which include a resort-style pool, a kid's splash pad, a fitness center, and more.

A massive home with an indoor ball pit and elegant bedroom theming

This huge Airbnb has plenty of space for your group to spread out and tons of thoughtful touches for those traveling with kids. There are several kid-themed rooms, including an indoor ball pit and jungle gym, and even a dedicated nursery. The adult rooms have subtler theming, but still add thoughtful details that make your stay feel special. 

You'll get your own private pool and hot tub but will also have access to all of Solara Resort's amenities, including a pool with cabanas and food service, a splash pad, a Wave Rider surfing simulator, playgrounds, sports courts, a gym, and a yoga studio. 

A Kissimmee home with two game rooms and theming in every room

This home in Kissimmee, Florida, features classic Disney theming in nearly every bedroom (Mickey/Minnie Mouse, Frozen, Star Wars, Princess), except for two that are Universal-themed with Minions and Harry Potter. It's a great option if you're equally excited about splitting your time between the two resorts. 

Its first-floor Guardians of the Galaxy-themed game room contains a shuffleboard and an air hockey table, and its Mario-themed video game loft will ensure there are no dull moments, even during those rainy Florida days. 

It's especially a great spot for those who may be working during their stay, as it offers quick WiFi service at 732 Mbps per second. Only 10 minutes away from Disney World, it's a suitable option if arriving at the theme parks for opening (which can sometimes be as early as 7 a.m. or 8 a.m.) is a priority.

A seven-bedroom Davenport home with tons of kid-friendly details and a Mickey Mouse waffle bar

This seven-bedroom Davenport home features vibrant eye-catching decor for the whole family. Much of the house adheres to an open-concept floor plan, particularly in the living areas. 

This house is especially ideal for those with a larger group, as it can accommodate more than 16 guests. It even has a game room and movie theater area with stadium seating and a popcorn machine. This home includes several slides for kids and a complimentary waffle and coffee bar (with a Mickey Mouse-shaped waffle press), so you can easily grab a bite to eat before heading to the theme parks.

A Frozen and Star Wars-themed six-bedroom Kissimmee villa

This Frozen and Star Wars-themed villa in Kissimmee has a magical feel. The six-bedroom, six-bathroom house is designed with colors evocative of relaxation and beach days, and it has a private pool. It's also in a community featuring a water park (a four-minute walk away), which can be fun during the day if you have any rest days built into your vacation schedule. 

You can even opt for shuttles (at an additional cost) to Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld if you don't plan on bringing or renting a car during your stay.

A Mickey Mouse-themed condo in Kissimmee

This condo is a Mickey Mouse lover's dream. It screams Mickey from the second you walk in and features Mickey wallpaper, pillows, photos, and linens. Just be sure everyone in your group likes the colors red and black before you book — you'll certainly be seeing a lot of it in this condo designed to resemble the classic character. 

The best part is that this condo is only five minutes away from Disney World, so it's great for those days with early starts and when you want to take a quick mid-day nap before the fireworks.

A colorful Kissimmee home with a private pool

This lightly themed home in Kissimmee is situated just three miles away from the magic and features a private pool and hot tub. The house has several subtly themed bedrooms featuring Disney characters, Star Wars, and Harry Potter. Plus, this contemporary house boasts lots of natural light via several windows throughout. There's also a game room with a foosball table and air hockey that can be used during your stay.

A three-bedroom ground-floor condo only two miles from Disney

This Disney-inspired three-bedroom ground-floor condo located in Windsor Hills can accommodate up to six guests for a magical stay only two miles from Disney property. With an open floor plan and fans in every room (in addition to air conditioning and heat), you'll feel comfortable even in the most punishing of Florida weather. Its kitchen is filled with stainless steel appliances and an oven, microwave, and stove. 

The three bedrooms are themed according to popular Star Wars and Pixar characters, such as The Incredibles. When you rent this property, you'll also have access to the Windsor Hills Clubhouse, along with its gym, pools, and water park area, which can be fun for the whole family. 

FAQs: Airbnbs at Disney World

Is it better to stay at a disney hotel, an off-resort hotel, or an airbnb.

Whether it's better to stay at a Disney hotel, an off-resort hotel, or an Airbnb will depend on your vacation style:

Airbnb: The pros of staying in an Airbnb are that they can often house a larger number of guests (upwards of 15) across multiple bedrooms. Airbnbs also offer more private accommodation where you can relax without having to encounter other guests during your stay, as you would at a hotel. An Airbnb also provides guests with that home-away-from-home feel, which can be comforting when traveling. That said, many Airbnbs often are accompanied by minimum stay requirements and cleaning fees, which you won't find at a Disney hotel or off-resort hotel. 

Disney hotels: Disney hotels offer accommodations closer to the theme parks for families with varying budgets across their value, moderate, and deluxe portfolios. Disney hotels also work with professional Imagineers and architects to create immersive themed experiences for guests. However, Disney hotels — especially the value resorts — are often very crowded with guests and may be too loud if you're looking for a more relaxing vacation. 

Off-resort hotels: Although off-resort hotels may be cheaper, the theming may not be as well thought out as a Disney hotel or a custom Airbnb. 

How far in advance should I book accommodations for Disney World?

As far in advance as possible. Since Disney World is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, accommodations book up quickly, especially during the peak seasons of summer, Easter weekend, New Year's Eve, Thanksgiving weekend, and Christmas week.

Airbnb allows its hosts to open their booking calendar up to 24 months in advance, whereas Disney resort hotels' booking calendars vary. I recommend booking your accommodations as soon as you have a vacation timeline solidified. Accommodations will be cheaper and you'll have more options the further ahead you book. 

Is it more expensive to stay in a hotel or an Airbnb for Disney World?

This depends largely on the category of resort, the number of people in your group, and the amenities you're looking for. If you have a large group that will need multiple hotel rooms, it's almost always more economical to stay at an Airbnb. For a family that only needs one hotel room, the more economical option is a toss-up. If you opt to stay in an Airbnb that encompasses an entire house, features many amenities, and is particular about theming, the cost can be higher (typically ranging between $180 and $425 per night) than value and moderate Disney World hotels (which average between $180 and $260 per night, depending on the season). However, condo Airbnbs and Airbnbs with fewer bedrooms tend to be accompanied by more modest price tags, some of which can be lower than a hotel. 

How we selected the best homes near Disney on Airbnb

• Every Airbnb listing is for the entire home, condo, or villa 
• All Airbnb are highly-rated listings with a rating of 4.7 or higher.
• All Airbnbs are located within 20 minutes' driving distance of Disney World resort parks.
• The homes offer strong value in terms of price, offerings, amenities, and location and are priced between $105 and $457 per night.
• Airbnbs are available to book in the coming weeks and months, as of publishing. However, some offerings are quite popular and book fast. Consider booking for a future vacation in a few months or next year.

Axel Springer, Insider Inc.'s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Cabanas at Walt Disney World Resort

Lounge in luxury when you reserve a private cabana poolside at select disney resort hotels and at disney water parks., poolside retreat, disney’s contemporary resort.

• Padded furniture, including chairs and couch
• Ceiling fan
• Bluetooth® speaker
• Television with cable service
• Phone for internal Resort calls
• Mini refrigerator stocked with complimentary sodas and water
• Complimentary skincare products

Know Before You Go

• Cabanas are available for full day rentals.
• Cabanas can only be booked by Disney’s Contemporary Resort Guests.
• A MagicBand or Key to the World Card is required at cabana check-in.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Services and Amenities

• Dedicated Cast Member providing service to the cabanas
• 2 padded lounge chairs
• Padded sectional couch
• Smart TV with cable service
• Fruit basket (may not be available without advance reservation)
• Snack basket (may not be available without advance reservation)
• Plush towels
• Complimentary sunscreen and skincare products
• Cabanas can only be booked by Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Guests.

Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts

• Cocktail service
• Television with cable access
• Charging outlet/USB
• Complimentary sunscreen/skincare products
• Cabinet safe
• Cabanas can only be booked by Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Guests.

Reserve Your Cabana Today!

Reservations Advance reservations are highly recommended as cabanas book quickly.

To reserve a cabana, please call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.

• Private dining is also available at an additional cost.
• Availability of amenities may change without notice. Check with the Resort hotel at time of booking to confirm what will be provided.
• Advance reservations are highly recommended as cabanas book quickly.
• Cabanas at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa can only be booked by Guests of each Resort hotel.
• Cabanas shared by Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort can only be booked by Guests of either Resort hotel.
• A MagicBand or Key to the World Card is required at Resort hotel cabana check-in.
• One Guest in the party must be 18 years or older.
• Guests who need to cancel cabana reservations must provide 24-hour notice. The full price of your reservation will be charged in the event of no-shows or same-day cancellations.
• Rentals may be cancelled by the Resort hotel due to inclement weather. Guests will not be charged in this case.

Oasis at the Water Park

Disney’s blizzard beach water park.

Each Polar Patio at Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park accommodates up to 6 Guests.

• Cushioned seating
• Refillable drink mugs
• A cooler stocked with ice and bottled water

Attendants are on hand to help Polar Patio Guests get the most out of the water park and to take your food order (separate dining charges apply).

Rental Information Polar Patios are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For advanced reservations and information, call (407) WDW-PLAY (407) 939-7529. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

You can also inquire about same-day availability at Beach Haus upon arrival.

Water park admission is required.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Each Beachcomber Shack at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park accommodates up to 6 Guests.

• Ice water available all day

Attendants are on hand to help Beachcomber Shack Guests get the most out of the water park and to take your food order (separate dining charges apply).

Rental Information Beachcomber Shacks are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For advanced reservations and information, call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

You can also inquire about same-day availability at Singapore Sal's upon arrival.

More Fun for Everyone

Invigorate your spirits at this full-service spa offering massages, body treatments and more.

Specialty Cruises

Set sail for a relaxing afternoon on the water or an evening filled with spectacular fireworks viewing.

Surf Programs at Typhoon Lagoon

Surf’s up—learn how to ride the waves at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.

Relax, Then Dine

Toledo – tapas, steak & seafood.

Dine on delectable dishes atop Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Indulge in superb Mediterranean-inspired cuisine paired with an award-winning wine list.

Flying Fish

Enjoy a feast of sustainable seafood at this charming eatery along Disney’s Boardwalk.

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