Are you looking forward to experience everything you can at Disney World on your next trip?
Out on the waters of Bay Lake
If so, you’ve definitely got options! Will you try some of the most expensive dishes on the property? Ride the tallest and fastest rides? Try to meet and get autographs for every Disney character you can find? Well, if you’re looking for a Disney experience that’s more than a little off the beaten path, we’ve got one for you, and truthfully there aren’t enough people that even realize it’s an option!
As we were saying, if you’re on the lookout for a completely singular Disney experience we’ve got the one for you. Did you know that you can rent a boat from one of the Disney resort marinas? And I’m not talking about some little kiddie boat. I mean a genuine pontoon boat, and guess what? They’re just waiting for YOU to captain them on the open waters around Disney World.
Pontoons at the Grand Floridian Marina
How Do You Get Your Hands on One of These Boats?
For starters, all you’ve gotta do is head on over to the marina at hotels like the Contemporary Resort, Beach Club Resort, and Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Once there, you can rent one of their pontoon boats for $50 per half hour (30 minutes), and trust us, the experience is priceless.
Contemporary Resort Marina
You won’t be able to book ahead of time, which means this is a first come, first served kind of experience. So, if you’re planning to make your captain’s debut at Disney World, be sure to arrive around 10:30 AM to get in line. The rentals start at 11 AM, but those lines can fill up FAST, so don’t sleep on it.
Boat Nook
Once it’s your turn at the rental window, this is where things get real. You’ll sign some paperwork, flash your ID (you have to be at least 18 to drive), and then, drumroll please, they slap a green wristband on you. Boom. With that, you’re officially boat captain certified. That’s it. Just like that.
Wait, Disney, You’re Really Letting Me Drive This Thing?
This all sounds wild, right? But what happens next is actually the most surreal part. After you’ve signed everything and received your new wristband, a Cast Member will just hand you the keys to a boat that costs, like, $40,000. There’s no in-depth training, no extensive quizzes on your nautical knowledge. You’re expected to just drive it off like it’s a brand-new car you just bought. Except instead of a parking lot, you’re heading out into the open waters surrounding some of Disney World’s most iconic resorts.
Rules
At this point, you’ve got to be thinking, “Disney, what exactly have I done to deserve this level of trust?”And let me tell you, it feels like a lot of pressure but at the same time kinda liberating, you know? It’s definitely an experience you’ll never forget, especially since you’ll have the wind blowing through your hair at a breathtaking top speed of 5 MPH.
You Won’t Be Totally Alone Out There
If at this point you’re feeling a bit nervous about your boat skills, don’t worry because Disney’s got your back. They’ve stationed Cast Members in speedboats around the lagoon, ready to swoop in if things go the slightest bit sideways. Meaning, if you get stuck or accidentally break any rules, there’s always help nearby.
Marina
That being said, with the boat’s modest 5 MPH max speed, it’s not like you’re going to cause any serious maritime disasters. Still, it’s not a bad idea to, you know, keep it cool. (Disney doesn’t tolerate reckless boating behavior.)
Ready to Become a Disney Boat Captain?
So, if you’re looking for something new to add to your Disney World vacation and have always dreamed of being a captain on the open water (with the backdrop of Cinderella Castle), this is your chance. Grab some snacks (yes, you can bring your Mickey-shaped Rice Krispies treats on board, just leave the alcohol behind) and set sail like the Wayfinder you were always meant to be.
The boats
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Every time we stayed at a Disney Resort that rented boats. We would rent a pontoon boat for a couple hours and tour the lakes. It was very relaxing and you got to see the park in a totally new way. When the kids were in their teens, we would rent one of the little speed boats for each of us. They were all smiles from ear to ear.
Apparently Disney doesn’t trust us enough to bring back the water mouse mini speed boats!