The *NEW* 2008 SWAN & DOLPHIN Resort Information Thread!

[MOM POPPINS]

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort



In the heart of the Walt Disney World® Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin is your gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The resort is located in between Epcot® and Disney-MGM Studios (soon to be Disney's Hollywood Studios as of Jan.1, 2008) and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Magic Kingdom® Park.

The Orlando International Airport is the most convenient choice if you are flying into Orlando. From there, it’s just a short 20 minute drive to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin.

Once on property, Guests enjoy complimentary scheduled transportation around the Walt Disney World® Resort. Take a leisurely cruise on Disney’s Friendship Launch to Epcot® and Disney-MGM Studios or take a Disney shuttle bus to all other areas within Walt Disney World® Resort. The buses and Friendship launch arrive at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin every 15 – 20 minutes so you can come and go as you please with very little wait time.

The Walt Disney World Dolphin
1500 Epcot Resorts Boulevard
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-2653
(407) 934-4000



The Walt Disney World Swan
1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd.
Lake Buena Vista FL 32830-2653
(407) 934-3000



You can make room reservation, room/view request and dining etc. from this link.
http://www.swandolphin.com/reserve

Swan/Dolphin Discounts for 2008 ~ Discounts can be found at the link below.
http://www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com/dreamsres/sd.cfm

More discount information can be found at Deb's site:
http://www.allearsnet.com/acc/sd_discounts.htm

You may want to join the Starwood program and earn points for your stay. It is possible to get an upgraded view even on your first stay. The Starwood program is free to join the link is below.
https://www.starwoodhotels.com/prefe...est/index.html
After joining the Starwood program be sure and add your Starwood number to your reservation. Upon check in kindly remind the employee of your Starwood status and ask for an upgraded room if it's available.


ACCOMODATION INFORMATION






STANDARD GUEST ROOMS

At the end of the day, our guest rooms offer the perfect retreat for rest and relaxation. All guest rooms at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin have been redesigned with a fresh, contemporary look that reflects a luxurious sophistication designed by world-renowned architect, Michael Graves.

The centerpiece of these new rooms is the Heavenly Bed® - featuring a pillow-top mattress, a white goose-down comforter, and five overstuffed pillows. You don’t just sleep in it, you lose yourself in it.

In addition, custom designed carpeting and draperies, accented by a Graves-designed insignia, compliment new designer wall coverings.

Guest room features include:

King or queen/queen-bedded rooms (Swan wing)
King or double/double-bedded rooms (Dolphin wing)
Fresh, contemporary decor
High-speed Internet access (charges apply)
Refreshment center
In-room safe
27” Color/cable TV with remote control
Resort Information System – Interactive system on TV provides up-to-the-minute details on resort services, amenities, events and more
In-house movies (charges apply)
Non-smoking and disability accessible rooms
Full bath (additional private vanity in some rooms)
Two dual-line telephones (1 cordless) with voice mail messaging and data port
Individual climate control
Hair dryers
Make-up mirror
Iron/ironing board
Complimentary daily newspaper

Layout of rooms at the Dolphin ~


Layout of rooms at the Swan ~


Link to the renovated rooms at the Swan ~
http://www.swandolphin.com/360/swan_guestroom.html


SUITES

Slip into the luxurious comfort of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Step inside and begin an adventure you'll never forget. Choose from a variety of 184 suites. Our award-winning accommodations provide you with a refuge so luscious, planning to spend an extra day or two is a wise decision. And, remember, your room is just one part of the attentive service you can expect. From check in to check out, you are our personal guest whose every need is our pleasure to accommodate.

Junior Suite (Located at the Dolphin)
A wonderful combination of luxury and comfort surround you within our Junior Suite.



Studio Suite (Located at the Swan)
A wonderful combination of luxury and comfort surround you within our Studio Suite.



Grand Suite (Located at the Swan)
Inspiring views of our magical surroundings combined with luxury and heavenly accommodations embraces you within our Grand Suite.

Executive Suite (Located at the Swan and Dolphin)
The luxurious charm and contemporary decor of our Executive Suite envelops you in the pure pleasure of lifetime memories.

Governor's Suite (Located at the Swan and Dolphin)
The ambiance of our Governor's Suite embraces you in world-class elegance and sophistication.

More suite information with 360 degree tours and floor plans can be found in the link below.

http://www.swananddolphin.com/accomm...ns/suites.html

Let's talk about your view.

I think this is one of the most asked questions. Epcot Views are in the far East Wing. MGM Views and Pool Views are in the far West Wing. There are 9 floors on the wings. If you want to try for a view of Illuminations. Your request would be in the far East Wing, upper floor with an unobstucted view of Epcot. We have been able to see Illuminations from the upper floors while staying in the "triangle" but there are no balconies up on these floors so it is much harder to see. We also could see MGM and Fantasmic off in the distance from these upper "triangle" rooms.

Blondie has posted some great pictures of her views from the past. Check out her links in post #14 on page 1.

Dan Murphy has also posted some great pictures from his past trips to the Swan and Dolphin. Check out his pictures in post #29 on page 2.

Occupancy Limits for the Swan and Dolphin.

The Swan has an occupancy limit of 4 per room. The Dolphin has an occupancy limit of 5 per room. A rollaway bed can be obtained for a fee by calling housekeeping. The fee for a rollaway bed is currently $25.00 per night.

Will the Swan and Dolphin transfer my luggage?

One of the benefits to staying at a Disney resort is that the resort will transfer your luggage as you change resorts during your stay. The Swan and Dolphin is not considered a Disney resort, but they have been known to extend this same luxury. All you need to do is call the Bell Services of your current resort and ask if they will transfer your luggage. We have stayed at the Dolphin numerous times and they have always provided us this courtesy.

Is there a resort fee?

The resort fee ended July 28, 2005 and was reinstated on February 15th, 2008!

The resort fee is back February 15, 2008!

$10 plus tax per night and will include the following:

Up to 60 minutes free local telephone calls, toll free and credit card access calls

20 minutes of Domestic long distance per day

Unlimited access to Resort’s health club facilities

In room High-Speed Internet Access

2 bottles of water daily




I heard there's a charge to park at the resort -- is this true?

Yes, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resorts charge for self-parking as well as valet parking. Self parking rate is $10 per day (plus tax), Valet is $16 per day (plus tax).

When can I check in?

Check in time at the Dolphin is 3 p.m. Early check in is available if your room is ready; if not, luggage storage is available for later check in. Check out time is 11 a.m. Guests can usually check out no later than 12:30 pm without penalty. Late check-outs are until 4 p.m. and are $30 extra... any later than that you'll be charged for a half-day (unless you stay for an additional night, then it is a full day's charge).

Starwood Preferred Guests can earn miles, inquire at check-in.

Are refrigerators available?

Small refrigerators are available to rent for $12 per day plus tax, based on availability. To use the mini-bar for your own personal use, there is a $20 charge.

Since the Swan and Dolphin aren't considered Disney Resorts, do I still get the Disney resort amenities?

Guests at the Swan and Dolphin enjoy many of the same amenities as Disney operated resort guests. A stay at the Swan and Dolphin includes WDW transportation to all Disney attractions, theme park free parking (just show your room key), Extra Magic Hour (EMH) privileges, package delivery to your hotel from the parks, preferred tee times, and access to guest services. If you're staying at the Dolphin you can also purchase your Disney tickets right there at their guest services desk.

However, unlike other Disney resorts, charging privileges don't extend beyond the Swan and Dolphin. All purchases and dining expenses ONLY AT the Swan and the Dolphin, can be charged to your pre-arranged account.

Starwood Preferred Guests can earn miles and points, inquire at check-in.

Transportation Options...

Dolphin guests enjoy full use of all of the WDW transportation services. The buses and boats start picking up resort guests one hour prior to the Parks' scheduled opening times. This includes the Extra Magic Hour (EMH) times. Buses run directly from the front of the hotel to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney (Marketplace, West Side and Pleasure Island), Typhoon Lagoon, and Blizzard Beach. Some of the buses service only Swan and Dolphin resorts; others service the Boardwalk and Yacht and Beach Club as well.

Epcot can be reached by catching a Friendship launch (boat) from the courtyard/water-way between the Swan and Dolphin, or by taking a short stroll across the BoardWalk and to Epcot's International Gateway and World Showcase. The walk is a pleasant one and takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Note that the Epcot and Disney-MGM Studios launches are shared with the Yacht & Beach Clubs and the BoardWalk. If you miss the launch to Epcot, you can walk over and catch it at the BoardWalk or the Yacht Club. Please note.. the Boardwalk is the last resort stop on this transportation leg.

Disney-MGM Studios can be reached one of two ways; via the Studios Friendship launch or by walking. The boat launch is found in the courtyard between the Swan and Dolphin. The walking path begins directly behind the Boardwalk's Atlantic Dance Hall and continues to the Disney-MGM Studios Parking lot. This is about a 15 to 20 minute walk. The boat transportation to the MGM (Disney's Hollywood Studios) is much quicker, because the Swan and Dolphin is the last resort stop on that transportation leg.


Town cars are also available should you want a ride directly to another Disney resort or the Parks. The valet can assist you with getting a car. They are usually parked out front and will pick you up in minutes.





Swimming Pools

The Dolphin and Swan share a magnificent swimming complex. You'll have your choice of two lap pools or the tropical "Grotto" to satisfy all of the water lovers. One lap pool is located near the Dolphin and the other is located near the Swan. Both have hot tubs, away from the liveliness of the "Grotto".

The Grotto is a 3 acre water playground complete with waterfalls, slides, water volleyball, and hot tubs. Tropical foliage surrounds the Grotto area, and the white sand beach nearby make it a perfect place to relax or have fun. DJ's are on hand to help keep the area lively and fun by playing great music and starting group games. A kiddie pool is near the Grotto for the little guys. Pool toys are also available for rent.

Hours of operation for the pool are 9:00AM to 9:00PM

The Grotto Water slide is open 10:00AM to 7:00PM.

Towels are available in the Health Clubs between the hours of 9:00A-10:00A and 7:00P-9:00P and at the Cabana Hut on the pool deck between the hours of 10:00A-7:00P


Camp Dolphin

There are 2 sessions available to children ages 4-12. The evening session is from 5:30pm to Midnight. It includes dinner, activities, trip to the Game Room, video games, arts and crafts and Disney movies. The cost is $10.00 per child per hour. Your child must be dropped off by 7:00pm. Reservations are required and cancellation less than 2 hours prior will result in a full charge. The programs are staffed by counselors. Camp Dolphin is located in the Dolphin hotel on the first floor next to the Health Studio.


Recreational activities at the Dolphin and Swan Resort

There is a beautiful white sand beach with Swan watercraft rentals. The beach is quiet and peaceful in the hours after dark, which makes for a romantic spot. There are 4 tennis courts and a basketball court that are kept lighted throughout the night, for those that still have energy left over after a day at the parks. A large play area for children is located near the Grotto. A jogging and walking path winds around the Dolphin and Swan. Add to that the boardwalk around Crescent Lake (near the Yacht & Beach Clubs and the BoardWalk), and you'll have quite an extensive walk or jog.

Electric Boat Rentals - Recline and relax on a leisurely ride around Crescent Lake on a Chaise Lounger which can accommodate up to two adults.

There are 2 health clubs servicing the complex -- one at the Dolphin and one at the Swan. Massage therapy and Body Treatments are available for a fee at the health clubs. Saunas, whirlpools, and aerobics are also offered.

For those that like their indoor activities a little less strenuous, there is a video game room on the lower level.

Fantasia Gardens is a few minutes walk away. This miniature golf adventure opened in the spring of 1996, and includes two 18-hole courses. There is something for everyone-- fun and Disney magic on the Fantasia Gardens course and a more challenging game on Fantasia Fairways.

Don't forget to explore activities offered at the nearby BoardWalk and Yacht & Beach Clubs.

Guest Laundry Information

There is a coin operated laundry located on the first floor of The Dolphin. Washers are $1.50 per load and dryers are $1.50 for 45 minutes. The machines do not take quarters however. You must convert them to special 25 cent tokens at the laundry.


Renovation information as of August 31, 2007 as reported by BaciBecky

Both Swan and Dolphin have recently completely renovating the public area.

Swan rooms are in process of being refurbished, beginning at the upper level rooms, working down, scheduled to be completed early December.

Dolphin room refurb will begin when Swan is completed.


DINING INFORMATION

Menus can be found at Deb's site.
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menus.htm#res


CASUAL DINING

360 degree photo tours of the casual dining places can be found at the link below.
http://www.swananddolphin.com/dining/casual.html

Relax and enjoy a perfect meal without worrying about the dress code. Our casual dining options include Fresh Mediterranean Market, The Fountain, Cabana Bar & Grill, and Splash Terrace. You will find that these restaurants offer a vast selection of entrées sure to please every member of your family.

Garden Grove
Enjoy buffets for breakfast and dinner or casual a la carte favorites for lunch in Garden Grove, recently redesigned with a Central Park theme. Disney character dining featured nightly or for breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays. Perfect for family dining.

Fresh Mediterranean Market
Savor fresh, made-to-order menu items from our Mediterranean-style market. Open for breakfast and lunch.

The Fountain
Crisp salads, custom grilled burgers, and a delectable array of sandwiches and desserts. Take away homemade or soft serve ice cream. Open for lunch and dinner.

Cabana Bar and Grill
Poolside fun with sandwiches, salads, ice-cold beverages, and more. Open seasonally for lunch and snacks.

Splash TerraceLunch, snacks and ice cream, just steps from the pool and white sand beach. Outdoor seating with table service. Open seasonally.


SIGNATURE DINING

Enjoy an exquisite meal where the setting, menu and service create a unique dining experience. Our signature restaurants are anything but ordinary. Celebrity chefs and award-winning architects have brought four of the most breath-taking restaurants to our resort. Click the links below to learn more and reserve your table at one of these innovative and award-winning restaurants.

Il Mulino New York Trattoria
Traditional Italian cuisine from the Abruzzi region of Italy, served in a dynamic rustic trattoria. Features a diverse offering of exciting and bountifully presented dishes, prepared from original Italian recipes. Open for dinner. For dining reservations, call 407-934-1609.

360 degree tour of Mulino's can be viewed by the link below.
http://www.swandolphin.com/360/ilmulino.html


Todd English's bluezoo
Enjoy coastal cuisine from celebrity Chef Todd English, incorporating an innovative selection of fresh seafood in an energetic and vibrant atmosphere. AAA Four Diamond Award and three-time recipient of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. Open for dinner. For dining reservations, call 407-934-1111.

360 degree photo tour of Blue Zoo can be reached in the link below.
http://www.swandolphin.com/360/bluezoo.html


Shula's Steak House
Shula’s serves only the biggest and the best, including Certified Angus Beef®, the freshest seafood, and 3-5 lb. live Maine lobsters. Critic’s choice for Orlando’s Best High-End Steak House, critic’s choice for best chain and seven-time recipient of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. Open for dinner. For dining reservations, call 407-934-1362.

360 degree tour of Shula's can be reached through the link below.
http://www.swandolphin.com/360/shulas.html


Kimonos
Experience the art of sushi, karaoke, and an intimate atmosphere in our authentic Japanese sushi restaurant. Open for dinner. For dining reservations, call 407-934-1609

360 degree photo tour of Kimonos can be reached by the link below.
http://www.swandolphin.com/360/kimonos.html


QUICK SERVICE

360 degree photo tours available for the quick service location with the link below.
http://www.swananddolphin.com/dining/quick.html

Sometimes a quick bite is just right! If you’re looking for a light lunch, a snack or drink, you’ll find that we offer some delicious options.

Picabu
A curious gallery of evocative food and decor, Picabu was created to delight both kids and the young at heart. The always-open adventure eatery serves up an affordable and unique dining option for the entire family in a buffet/cafeteria setting. The centerpiece is Picabu, a delightful and adventurous wood-carved and brightly painted animated character who diners will find behind every corner leading the way through the unique and unforgettable dining experience. Picabu, designed by Kakadu Art & Design in Wood, Ltd. will fascinate kids (and parents) as they make their way through the restaurant’s selection of America’s favorite foods. Open 24 hours a day; seven days a week, Picabu is located in the Dolphin wing, and also offers a 24-hour sundries shop that includes toiletries, magazines, snacks and gifts.

Splash Grill
Just a few steps from the Swan lap pool, Splash Grill is the perfect choice for lunch if you’re anxious to get back in the water. Enjoy a variety of all-American lunchtime favorites like pizza, sandwiches, burgers and more. Self service restaurant with indoor seating. Open seasonally for lunch and snacks.

Java BarAn inviting and relaxed setting to enjoy espresso, cappuccino, or variety of coffees, along with a selection of freshly prepared pastries. Also serving an assortment of other refreshing beverages.


24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE

We know you have a busy schedule – you’re at Walt Disney World! Sometimes you don’t have time to wait for table service or maybe you just don’t want to go out. And when those midnight-snack cravings set in…you can count on us. Just take a look at our 24-hour room service menu that you will find on your desk – we’ll bring your selections to your room and your appetite will be satisfied in no-time.


SPA INFORMATION


MANDARA SPA



The Mandara Spa at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin blends the lovely resort architecture with its signature Balinese style to provide a fresh and original setting where guests may indulge in world class pampering and beauty services. From the moment the guest arrives all of the six senses of hearing, sight, sound, taste, touch and perception are aroused creating expectations of a memorable spa experience. The spa visit becomes an adventure both sensory and physical as guests explore the Tea Gardens’ unique “Asian Bale” and the Meditation Garden’s signature “Meru Temple”. The two beautiful interior gardens provide exotic retreats before guests begin the spa ritual. The spectacular Mandara Spa creates an unforgettable guest experience within a magical setting surrounded by the paradise that is the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin.

Elemis was created in 1990 as a lifestyle brand of aromatherapy products aimed at treating each person holistically with plant essential oils and marine extracts mixed in natural bases. Our philosophy was, and still is, based upon using the wisdom that had been learned by our forefathers thousands of years ago. Our product concept was designed to work in conjunction with our own exclusive services to ensure maximum relaxation & outstanding results are achieved…

Walk into a world of complete sensory heaven where time is left at the door and a new journey begins…

Your journey continues through The Ten Cultural Touches of Elemis, a new sequence of massage movements influenced and inspired by an exotic blend of cultures and techniques...

Swedish Massage
Balinese Massage
Reflexology
Elemis Aroma Stone Massage
Deep Tissue Massage
Nurturing Massage
Novalash – Eye lash extensions
Ionithermie Cellulite Reduction Treatment
Elemis Cellutox Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap
Elemis Musclease Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap
Traditional Javanese Lulur
Exotic Frangipani Body Nourish Wrap


PICTURES

Pictures of the Swan and Dolphin can be found at the link listed here.
http://www.swandolphin.com/gallery/index.html

http://www.wdwinfo.com/photos/swan-Dolphin/index.htm

360 degree photo tour is located at this link.
http://www.swandolphin.com/360/360tour.html

Narrated Video Tour
http://www.swandolphin.com/video/index.html

Slide Show of the Dolphin
http://www.allearsnet.com/acc/dolpss.htm

Slide Show of the Swan
http://www.allearsnet.com/acc/swanss.htm


DRIVING DIRECTIONS



Directions from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to the Swan and Dolphin Resorts:

Follow the signs for the South Exit from the airport to pick up SR417 South (also called the Central Florida GreeneWay) toward Disney World. Once on SR417, you'll have 2 toll plazas for $1 each. After the 2nd toll, take exit 6 (SR 536/International Drive). Go straight through two sets of traffic lights (first intersection will be International Drive; second will be SR535) which will put you on SR536. Continue straight on this road and go straight through the next set of lights. You will pass the Marriott Orlando World Center on the right and the Holiday Inn Family Suites on the left, then I-4.

Just after I-4, you'll pass under the WDW welcome arch. After passing under the WDW welcome arch, follow the signs for MGM/Epcot Resort area -- it will be the 2nd exit after the arch. This will put you on Buena Vista Drive. Stay in the middle lane. Follow Buena Vista Drive straight. You will pass Caribbean Beach Resort on your left and the Boardwalk Resort on your right. Get over to the right hand lane as you pass the Boardwalk. Turn right at the next set of lights (Epcot Resorts Boulevard). The Swan will be the first street on the right. The Dolphin will be down a little further on the right.

[MOM POPPINS]

More pictures coming but need to look through our old thread...

Dolphin Christmas Tree

[safetymom]

Do you want the other thread closed?

[SingingMom]

Originally Posted by MOM POPPINS

More pictures coming but need to look through our old thread... Please add your photos..

Originally Posted by safetymom

Do you want the other thread closed?

I would hate to see the thread closed before Blondie & Dan's great photos are moved over to the new thread. JMO...

[safetymom]

Just let me know when you are ready.

[madge]

I'll be staying at the Dolphin in 5 weeks - for 2 separate nights. I have SPG gold status, so I'm hoping for a comp upgrade.

I'll try to keep an eye out for details on some of our most-asked questions!

[Aisling]

Are there any major differences between the Swan and Dolphin? I know the Swan has Epcot Balcony rooms and Heavenly beds. How would one choose between the two?

[SingingMom]

Originally Posted by Aisling

Are there any major differences between the Swan and Dolphin? I know the Swan has Epcot Balcony rooms and Heavenly beds. How would one choose between the two?

I think this is totally a matter of "personal preference"!

We prefer the Dolphin, because it is bigger and has an excitment and energy in the lobby and public areas. The Swan is more serene, quieter and smaller.
The Dolphin has Pikabu's - which is opened 24 hours. The Cabana bar and grill is very good. The Dolphin has "doubles" as opposed to "queens", but I honestly don't notice that big of a difference. Both hotels have the wonderful "Heavenly beds".

Hope that helps a little!

[marvin12]

Love all the info and can not wait to see some new pictures.

[madge]

Originally Posted by Aisling

Are there any major differences between the Swan and Dolphin? I know the Swan has Epcot Balcony rooms and Heavenly beds. How would one choose between the two?

The differences are pretty subtle. LOL. Both resorts have Heavenly Beds (even though the Dolphin is a Sheraton, they have the Heavenly bed instead of Sweet Sleepers) and great views. The beds are bigger at the Swan, but not by much, really. The bathroom layout at the Swan is also different. I can't remember how, though. The Swan has a "hollywood" bath.

Overall, we find the Swan a little less busy than the Dolphin, and since it's smaller, easier to get around.

The Dolphin has all the "hot" spots - the laundry, quick service food, Shula's and bluezoo, and is closer to the pool.

[Mouseteacher]

The bathroom at the Swan is identical to the Dolphin except you have another sink area just outside the bathroom.

[bytheblood]

I just wanted to say good job on the new thread. You have done beautifully.

[Dan Murphy]

[Blondie]

Originally Posted by SingingMom

I would hate to see the thread closed before Blondie & Dan's great photos are moved over to the new thread. JMO...

I'll just post links to threads that I started when we got back from past stays. They have lots of photos within the links and are as follows:

From our Dolphin stay in September 2005 in a 2 bedroom executive suite:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=923992

From our February 2006 stay at the Swan, regular room:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1029479

From May 2006, Studio Suite at the Swan:

http://http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1107841

From November/December 2006, 1 bedroom executive suite at the Dolphin:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1294028

From May 2007, regular room at the Swan:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1444955

Coming soon, Thanksgiving at the Dolphin!!

[SingingMom]

Originally Posted by Blondie

I'll just post links to threads that I started when we got back from past stays. They have lots of photos within the links and are as follows:

Coming soon, Thanksgiving at the Dolphin!!

Thanks so much Blondie!!!