This week, I wanted to remind you about a charming piece of Walt Disney World history that still is in operation to this day.
Of course, I'm talking about the Magic Kingdom ferryboats.
For those guests traveling from the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) to the Magic Kingdom (and back), there are two options to do so: take the monorail or the ferry. All too often most guests will decide to head to the monorail and make their way around the Seven Seas Lagoon. While I'm a huge fan of the monorail, there are other options to get to the Magic Kingdom (and back), going across the Seven Seas Lagoon on the ferry.
Why, you might ask? Well take a look at this view:
Where else would you get such beautiful and magnificent view of the Main Street Train Station with Cinderella Castle in the background? The way the ferry comes around one particular island and slowly reveals the entrance to the Magic Kingdom is like the curtain slowly opening on the show.
There are three ferry boats currently in operation at the Magic Kingdom. Originally known as the "Magic Kingdom I", "Magic Kingdom II" and the "Kingdom Queen," the boats were renamed to the "Admiral Joe Fowler," "Richard F. Irvine" and the "General Joe Potter" respectively. Each boat can carry about 600 passengers fully loaded. Each boat has two covered decks. I personally recommend the top deck as it affords beautiful views of the Magic Kingdom and the resorts surrounding the Seven Seas Lagoon.
On average, it takes about five minutes to cross the one mile from the TTC to the Magic Kingdom. Depending on the line to board the express monorail, the ferry might be a quicker option. It also can be a more relaxing option, especially when you think about riding in a packed monorail.
Also, with word that Disney is planning to stop monorail service just one hour after regular park closing (not after evening Extra Magic Hours), the ferry might become a more popular option.
The next time you're heading into the Magic Kingdom from the TTC (or heading back), take the ferry and enjoy your journey!
1 comment:
I agree 100% with this article. I love the ferries and travel on them to the Magic Kingdom far more often than the monorail. And while it's a toss-up as to which method of transport is fastest in the morning with all 3 ferries running, there's no comparison at closing time. With the ferries carrying 600 people and the monorails carrying just over 200, the line for the ferryboat moves WAY faster than that huge monorail line. And the views of the Magic Kingdom from the water - especially at night - are gorgeous!
Post a Comment