Walt Disney World Recreational Boating

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Boating is a favorite activity of guests from around the world. And where better to enjoy the open water than in central Florida, where the weather is warm and the sun shining almost year round? Walt Disney World offers an almost dizzying array of boating opportunities.

How about an Illuminations cruise? See Illuminations: Reflections of Earth in style from the comfort of your very own boat. The 24 foot Breathless is a reproduction of a 1930 runabout and can travel at up to 50 mph. Bench seats provide room for seven passengers.

Your other option for the Illuminations cruise is a 24 foot pontoon boat. The cost is slightly higher than that of the Breathless, but the pontoon seats 10 adults plus two children. The pontoon also has a canopy, while the Breathless is not covered. Some drink holders are available, and your price includes bagged snacks, water, and Coke beverages.

If the Magic Kingdom’s Wishes fireworks show is your preference, a specialty cruise is available for Wishes as well. Choose from a 21 foot pontoon boat that seats eight or a 25 foot pontoon that seats 10. Both cruises include snacks, water, and Coke products. The 25 foot boat also includes an audio feed of the show.

All three cruises are extremely popular, so be sure to make advance reservations. Call 407-WDW-PLAY with a valid credit card. Reservations are accepted 90 days in advance. If you must cancel, be sure to do so at least 24 hours ahead or your card will be charged. Although the cruises are fairly pricey, the charge is for the entire boat and websites exist that allow guests to share a boat and the associated charge. You may also order private dining delivered to your boat for an additional fee.

For the ultimate in luxury boating at Walt Disney World, try the VIP Cruise on a 45 foot Sea Ray Yacht. Although quite pricey, the Yacht cruise offers room for 13 passengers and is staffed by both a captain and a deckhand. Call 407-824-2439 90 days in advance for reservations.

If you prefer to navigate Disney’s waterways on your own, be sure to check out the plethora of boat rentals available throughout the resort. Sea Ray Sea Raycers, pontoon boats, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, sail boats, and Boston Whaler Montauk boats are all available for rental at the various marinas. One marina is located at Downtown Disney Marketplace, while others can be found at the various hotels on Disney property. Prices vary according to the type of boat and length of rental. No need to call ahead, simply visit the marina and choose your boat. Age restrictions may apply, so be sure to check with marina staff.

Perhaps a day of fishing is more your style. Did you know that it is possible to fish in the lakes of the Walt Disney World Resort? You can choose from a variety of Fishing Expeditions that are offered throughout the day. Prices include your equipment and bait, as well as beverages and a one year BASS membership. You will also have the services of an experienced fishing guide. Fishing trips depart three times a day from the marinas throughout Disney property. One marina is located at Downtown Disney Marketplace, while the others can be found at the various hotels throughout the Walt Disney World complex.

Children’s cruises are available from both the Yacht Club’s Bayside Marina and Port Orleans Riverside. These cruises are open to children only and include lunch and a variety of activities. Call 407-WDW-DINE or 407-WDW-PLAY for more information.

More adventurous types may be interested to learn that a variety of high excitement water sports are available at Walt Disney World. Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre is located at the Contemporary Marina at the Contemporary Resort hotel. Sammy Duvall has 17 years professional waterskiing experience, including world championships, so you know you will be in excellent hands.

Sammy Duvall’s is the only parasailing location in the Central Florida region. Choose the 450 ft 8-10 minute experiences or the 600 ft 10-12 minute deluxe flight. Both flights are available for solos or tandem (two people together). Parasailing is offered seven days a week, weather permitting. All fliers must be at least 5 years of age, and the combined minimum weight must be at least 125 lbs. A parent or adult guardian must be on site to sign a waiver for any flier under age 18.

You can rent a Personal Watercraft at Sammy Duvall‘s. Choose between a morning Guided Tour of Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon, or an afternoon Free Ride in the private waterways. Each Personal Watercraft holds up to three people with a combined weight under 400 lbs. Drivers must be 16 years old and hold a valid driver’s license. A parent or adult guardian must sign a waiver for anyone under 18.

Sammy Duvall’s also offers waterskiing, wakeboarding, knee boarding, and tubing. Your price is for up to five guests in a boat, and includes the services of an instructor. Advanced skiers may also sign up for professional instruction at an increased charge. Minors are welcome, but a parent or adult guardian must sign a waiver for those under age 18.

Whatever type of boating or water sport piques your interest, you can find your niche at Walt Disney World. From a lazy canoe trip to an adrenaline inducing personal watercraft tour, there is truly something for everyone. All ages and abilities, even those who have never been on a boat before, will find a boating trip that perfectly matches their skill level and interest.

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