2011 Beach & Yacht Club FAQ

[pixiedust247]

Here is the June 2011 List...
Cinderumbrella June 7-14 YC
Pixiedust247 June 1- 8 BC
MarltonMom June 10-20 BC
Timon_n_Pumba May 31- June 7 BC
TeacherDL June5- ? ?? BC
Ocalla June??? BC
Hawg Pharm June 15-25 BC
Dannysmom June 17th to 25th BC
Hanigan-Levy Family June 11 to 17 BC

 

[TeenaS]

Hi Teena!

Thanks for the tip! I do remember that requests are never guaranteed and that the room assigners do the best they can with the circumstances they have to work with.

We were on the phone together when we made the reservations. The Cast Member told us that she was linking us together and connecting our reservations as she was entering all the data. I will call back in a couple of days and ask if this is what is coming up with our reservation just to make sure.

The one thing I noticed is that when the reservations Cast Member was describing the room she said that it had 2 queen beds and a daybed. I knew this not to be true but I didn't want to interrupt her because it seemed like she was reading from a description and she was giving us a lot of info at the time. This is basically the same info that I was given when I called reservations to book my vacation so I'm thinking that this is the information on the script that they are reading.

I can see how this might be causing the Cast Members at the Beach Club problems when people check in to their rooms and they don't have a "day bed". Is there any way that this can be brought to the attention of the appropriate personnel and perhaps fixed? I'd be happy to help out in any way I could with this.

On another note, I'd love to take a behind the scenes tour and get a glimpse into the room assigners job. Do they use computer software or is there a "war room" with a big bulletin board and messengers running back and forth with magnetic labels and china markers making changes frantically as people call to request rooms that essentially don't exist (7th floor Sea World View )

When I was in college I used to work in academic advising and we would have to plot out course schedules for students. I used to love doing that because it was like a giant puzzle.

When I was marooned in the laundry mat this last week I was mesmerized by the dryer spinning round and round I would think of just how those poor room assigners at the Beach Club did it. Then again maybe it was the fumes that were making me dizzy.....

So anyway now in addition to my dream job at Disney as a Monorail driver, or Customer Service Representative for people who are Crabby enough to be certifiably EVIL I now will add Beach Club Room Assigner!


Marlton Mom

The people at reservations have the same information if you go and look at the different room descriptions at the regular Disney website. Some rooms have kings, some have kings and a daybed, some two queens and some two queens and a daybed. I can pull up the reservation system myself and that's what it says. Why they are telling people all rooms have two queens and a daybed is beyond me. They obviously aren't looking at all the information available.

No tours. Unfortunately we can't even take our family backstage to see how things work.

The reservation system actually reads the requests (if they are entered correctly on the reservation) and blocks rooms for the room assignors. The room assignors double check everything. The computer knows we can't sell more than a certain number of let's say water view rooms that sleep five because the computer knows we only have so many of those rooms. So, one family that is coming 7/6-7/10 and has 5 people in their party might not find availability if they are trying to book a water view but a family with 3 or 4 people in their party could find availability for a water view for 7/6-7/10. The computer won't allow for "holes" either. Let's say you request a certain room number and that room is being vacated one day before your arrival ... unless we have someone coming in for one night that we can put in that room, if it's during a busy season when we are almost always full, we can't give the room you want to you because it would create a hole for one night. It's very complicated but the computer system of course helps lots.

Trust me, you do NOT want the job of room assignor. It's unforgiving and yes, it's like a war room that you described. However, it's all done on computers. Also, some rooms have to be taken off the rack for reasons not scheduled like toilets break, pipes burst, someone smokes in the room and it has to be totally stripped (walls washed, new drapes, carpets cleaned) and when that happens, it throws off everything.

Marlton Mom, this next paragraph isn't directed at you. It's for everybody here ... it's about requests. People just don't seem to understand that we want everybody to get what they requested. It just can't happen. All the rooms don't have full balconies and all the rooms don't have daybeds and all the rooms are not connecting. So hopefully everybody will be happy with what they booked and if they get what they request on top of that, then celebrate but don't be too upset if it doesn't happen. You're at WDW, you're at a super resort and honestly, are you really going to be in that room all that much? I doubt you came to WDW to spend time in the room. In the resort and at the parks yes, but probably not to sit in the room. If guests need a daybed because two people refuse to share a bed and you don't get one, just pick up the phone and tell housekeeping you need a rollaway and one will be brought to the room. It's that easy. I think back to all the years Bob, Jeanne and I spent at WDW for our family vacations. How I wish I was back during those times again. Be thankful you are at a wonderful wonderful place and you are with your family and having a fantastic time together. You never know how many more wonderful family vacations you'll have together. Cherish them ... even if you don't get the full balcony and the daybed.

 

[TeenaS]

I think I had the same problem with my travel agent when I booked the BC in July 2009- she said all rooms had full balconies, but I ended up learning here that was not the case, so I added the request to my reservation.

Both years I stayed at the BC, a full balcony was my one and only request. My plan, which fortunately I never had to execute, was to ask at checkin if the room had a full balcony, if not, see if something else was available (you all know the drill).

If the answer was STILL no, I was going to see if I could change to the Yacht Club. Teena- any idea what the chances of that working would be? Can a switch to the other resort be made easily, if there is a room available, or would it just be a big ole PITA nightmare for the checkin CMs? Is the booking info even linked between the two resorts?

No problem ... if there is availability, we will gladly switch you!

 

[TeenaS]

I had a similar experience when I was making my reservations at BC. I asked if she could make a note that I was requesting a full balcony. It was my one and only request. She got irritated with me and told me that all the rooms at BC have balconies. I didn't want to argue with her, but tried to respectfully tell her that I didn't think that was the case. She told me it was. I asked if she could please put the request in anyway. She was quiet and I heard typing in the back ground and then she told me she had entered the request and also emailed Disney requesting that they update the information in the system IF in fact all rooms do not have full balconies. It was a moment for me. Definitely not a great Disney moment. I guess this is why I'm still a little worried about my reservation and not even having a shot at a full balcony! I'm actually contemplating canceling BC and reserving YC for $355 more (all they have left are water/ pool views). Managment at BC should definitely be made aware of these booking issues.

Call reservations back and tell them you just want to verify that "full balcony requested" is on your reservation. If it's not, the computer room assigning system and the real live room assignor won't know that's what you want. Also, go to the regular check-in line (do not do an on-line check-in) and tell them you really really want a full balcony and if one is not available then, then you want to room change the day one is available.

It's not the booking system. It's the person you are talking to. If you go to the WDW website and pull up the BC or the YC and check to see the room descriptions and categories ... that is the exact same information you get when you make a reservation. That person accesses the same information. It's right there on the website for them and you to see. I know it's very frustrating.

The other day I called the reservation system myself because a friend of mine asked me a question about a room at the Grand Floridian that I did not know the answer to. The person I talked to was on the west coast, had never been to Walt Disney World and didn't even know where the Grand Floridian was in connection to the monorail or anything else. When you ask some of them a question, they have to weed through all the information about all the different resorts. Some of the people really know their stuff and some do not. I've had rude ones and clueless ones. I've gotten good information and bad. It is not something the Y&B management can do anything about. However, every time somebody gets bad information like the full balcony information at the BC or that every room has a daybed, fire off a letter to guest communications and tell them that reservations people are giving false information and that you know it's wrong because you have stayed there and know that half the balconies at the BC are standing only and that all the rooms definitely do not have two queens and a daybed!!!!!

 

[suemom2kay]

hmmm, I was talking to a rep,,,,yeah I should know better than to trust a rep LOL. I was in no state yesterday to make a good decision, think I'll go look at the site. Thanks for the heads up.


ETA: Okay nothing available on the public discount for any dates in September. It's not F&W time but I know there are lots of people who go in Sept. I may not be able to get the discount at all, though I'll keep looking and maybe a cancelation will come up. It's probably free dining that's catching me.

Hey Bookgirl,

What type of room are you trying to book? I found a regular room (4 people) available at Beach Club, Yacht Club and Beach Club Villas for every week in September under the fall special offer. Where are you looking? HTH.

 

[TeenaS]

I'm actually contemplating canceling BC and reserving YC for $355 more (all they have left are water/ pool views). QUOTE]

I suggest calling back the Reservations Department to verify that "full balcony requested" is on your reservation. If it is not, the computer room assigning system can't know that's your request and the human room assignor won't know either when they are double checking. Also, do not do an on-line check-in and instead go to the regular check-in desk. Tell the CM before they start checking you in that you really really want a full balcony and if one is not assigned to you, you would like someone to check to see if your room can be reassigned. If one is not available, tell them you want to room change the next day that one is available.

 

[Bourquefam]

No problem ... if there is availability, we will gladly switch you!

Thanks, TeenaS! I imagine the guest communications contact info is on one of the first pages of this thread. I will look for it and let the powers that be know my experience with reservations.

Also, I went ahead and booked YC online---just to be safe. I'm no complainer and I don't like to ask for anything, so I'd rather just know that I'm going to have a full balcony and booking one there is the way to do that, right? We'll nose around BC for sure and will certainly try to find you while we're visiting. And I know we'll book there in a couple of years when my baby girl (6) doesn't like to go to bed soooo early anymore and a balcony doesn't matter so much!

 

[TeenaS]

Thanks, TeenaS! I imagine the guest communications contact info is on one of the first pages of this thread. I will look for it and let the powers that be know my experience with reservations.

Also, I went ahead and booked YC online---just to be safe. I'm no complainer and I don't like to ask for anything, so I'd rather just know that I'm going to have a full balcony and booking one there is the way to do that, right? We'll nose around BC for sure and will certainly try to find you while we're visiting. And I know we'll book there in a couple of years when my baby girl (6) doesn't like to go to bed soooo early anymore and a balcony doesn't matter so much!

Yes, that's the only way to be 100% certain unfortunately. The YC and the BC are pretty much the same as far as CMs, amenities. Each has a different feel to it. As everyone knows, I call the YC the dark side but it's very lovely, just not light and airy like the BC side. Lots of people prefer it over there. And you may like it better since it's closer to the sandy younger kids area of SAB.

As far as guest communications mailing address and email address, I've seen it posted on the threads many times. I'm sure Dee can get it posted on the Q&A page at the beginning of the thread if it's not already there.

 

[Bourquefam]

I'm actually contemplating canceling BC and reserving YC for $355 more (all they have left are water/ pool views). QUOTE]

I suggest calling back the Reservations Department to verify that "full balcony requested" is on your reservation. If it is not, the computer room assigning system can't know that's your request and the human room assignor won't know either when they are double checking. Also, do not do an on-line check-in and instead go to the regular check-in desk. Tell the CM before they start checking you in that you really really want a full balcony and if one is not assigned to you, you would like someone to check to see if your room can be reassigned. If one is not available, tell them you want to room change the next day that one is available.

Wow! I think I could do this!!! I was typing my other response when you were typing yours. I'm so . I am NEVER this indecisive. EVER. My husband is at a loss for words because I always have a solution to anyone's Disney dilemmas. Not this time!!!! I DO want BC, but DD goes to bed so early and DH and I will take turns going back to parks with DS8 after she's in bed. It would just be so nice for the other to be able to sit outside and watch the fireworks with a glass of vino....My hubby and I are also early risers to I'm dreaming of coffee on the balcony while the kids sleep in a bit. Ho-hum. Hubby repeats what you said in a previous post------------we're going to have the time of our lives no matter where we stay, no matter if we have a balcony or not. We enjoy each other and enjoy the heck out of Disney, so KISS (keep it simply silly).

Oh and by the way---I am nervous even talking to YOU on here!!!!! You're sort of a BC celebrity, in case you haven't noticed.

 

[doccoc2002]

Natebenma- Fantastic job on the new "2011" thread - Thanks for all your hard work on it

Yes great job! Great job to Teena for helping answer our many questions!!

Upgrades are done when we sell out of a certain category. Your poem won't work with the new reservation system. It automatically picks who fits the profile and upgrades them. In other words, if we are oversold for the time frame you are here in the category you booked, depending on the dates you are here, the type of room you requested or are assigned (two queens and a daybed), etc., then the computer picks who should be upgraded -- there are a number of factors it goes by. The room assignors who read the poems don't upgrade now, the reservation system does instead. Back before the new reservation system, loads of people faxed in poems, letters, etc. sayinig its their anniversary, birthday, engagement, etc. and asked for free upgrades. To be perfectly honest, most of those requests got the opposite result because most of the cast members get upset when people ask for a free upgrade. I know when I worked the front desk and someone would ask "are there upgrades available", even if I needed to upgrade people because we were oversold in a category, there is no way I would do it ... simply because they asked. I would tell them how much an upgrade would cost but I would never ever give them a free upgrade. However, I upgraded people at times when they were just so happy to be there and just super nice people and of course didn't ask for a free upgrade.

Now, I know this really shouldn't shock me but people really ask for free upgrades!!!

We are just happy to be able to stay at Disney and vacay there!I would never ask for an upgrade either in my poems or in person...

My poems are just cute little things(sometimes a page if I can't get all my rhymes in there) that I put together just hoping to bring a smile to someones face...Last year I started off saying...

YO HO YO HO It's a pirates life for us
We're coming on the bus

A lot of stuff like that...We were staying in the Pirate rooms at CBR
I would throw in my request...last year they were connecting rooms(parents were traveling with us-this year they are notDStDad had dbl bypass surgerybut he is doing great) and a first floor room(cause we had a dbl jogging stroller & there is no elevators there...this year single stroller!!!) We are lucky enough we get our request but I know that they are just that and I don't expect it it is a bonus, like Christmas! When we stay at POR we request Paterre Place which is the furthest mansion...we love the themeing and walk to our room.

 

[natebenma]

Thanks, TeenaS! I imagine the guest communications contact info is on one of the first pages of this thread. I will look for it and let the powers that be know my experience with reservations.

OOPS! Don't have it up front yet, but good suggestion to add it to the FAQ. Here is the info, readily at hand in my 30 page Disney Tip file. Not to be confused with my multipage (and growing) Beach Club info document:

Comments, Compliments or Complaints: You can go to City Hall or Guest Relations, or email
wdw.guestcommunications@disneyworld.com or you can mail to,
Walt Disney World Guest Communications
Executive Offices
Post Office Box 10040
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-0040

When you write or email, they would like your Name, address, phone number and email address.

 

[TeenaS]

Wow! I think I could do this!!! I was typing my other response when you were typing yours. I'm so . I am NEVER this indecisive. EVER. My husband is at a loss for words because I always have a solution to anyone's Disney dilemmas. Not this time!!!! I DO want BC, but DD goes to bed so early and DH and I will take turns going back to parks with DS8 after she's in bed. It would just be so nice for the other to be able to sit outside and watch the fireworks with a glass of vino....My hubby and I are also early risers to I'm dreaming of coffee on the balcony while the kids sleep in a bit. Ho-hum. Hubby repeats what you said in a previous post------------we're going to have the time of our lives no matter where we stay, no matter if we have a balcony or not. We enjoy each other and enjoy the heck out of Disney, so KISS (keep it simply silly).

P.S. I just sent you a PM

Oh and by the way---I am nervous even talking to YOU on here!!!!! You're sort of a BC celebrity, in case you haven't noticed.

You are so funny .... I am just an old woman working at the BC twice a week. I only want everybody to have a wonderful vacation and that's why I try to "tell it like it is" so there is no unexpected surprises. That's alot of money and chances are you aren't going to get a view with fireworks either at the BC ... there are more of them at the YC. Honestly, if you really want the BC, then stay at the BC and do what I told you. Worse case scenario is that you will have a standing balcony for part of your vacation. If we can't get you a full one immediately, I'd be really surprised we wouldn't be able to get you a room change later.

 

[TeenaS]

Bourquefam

I sent you a PM ... hope it helps a little.

Teena

 

[cocoabean1]

This was the post from the previous thread.

It was no longer on the menu, but some of the bartenders at Hurricane Hanna's still know how to make it.

I have seen pictures of the drink from other resorts on the "alcoholic beverage" thread . No, I don't have a "problem" it was purely for research purposes- I was trying to find a picture to post.

But, our friend Pixarmom is taking one for the team and as part of her assigned missions next week, she will attempt to photograph and consume said beverage.

Yum, sounds good, maybe I'll try making one myself for the Super Bowl tomorrow night!!!!

 

[TeenaS]

Off to bed for me ... I'll answer more if needed tomorrow morning before heading into the BC for my shift.

 

[doccoc2002]

Here is a pictures taken from another thread "Alcohol Drinks" of the Sunken Treasure @ Yachstman & 'Ohana's
Sunken Treasure on left

TOMMY BAHAMA MAMA AND SUNKEN TREASURE FROM THE YACHTSMAN

SUNKEN TREASURE FROM OHANA

 

[Marlton Mom]

I am just an old woman working at the BC twice a week. I only want everybody to have a wonderful vacation and that's why I try to "tell it like it is" so there is no unexpected surprises.

...... and this is one of the many reasons I think you are AWESOME!! .... um, not the "old" part but the telling it like it is part.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, you are worth your weight in Tastykakes for helping guests get the information that they need to keep their expectations in line with the best that Disney can do for them.

This forum is filled with readers who are the type of guests that Need to Know about certain aspects of their hotel reservations and Teena you are providing crucial information that is just not readily available, or from an accurate source via the standard Disney system. I cannot tell you how much aggravation you have helped eliminate and how many minds that you have put at ease with all your kind responses to our inquiries.

It can't be fun answering the same types of questions over and over again so we really are thankful for your patience.

We are also thankful for people like Dee (Natebenma) and others who have gone before her who have taken the time to gather and organize important information that also assists us in planning and organizing our stays!

One of the things that I absolutely love about this Beach Club/ Yacht Club thread is the way that we all sort of pitch in and help each other if we are able. Using this thread we are able to share so may wonderful things with each other. Most of us are only at the resort for a short period of time, but this thread provides an opportunity for us to keep on sharing and to keep the magic going.

So, as many others have stated, and most have realized, thanks to Teena and Dee for all the care and concern that you show to us, and all the efforts you put into keeping us informed. We'd be lost with out you!


Marlton Mom

 

[Bourquefam]

What Marlton Mom said!

 

[natebenma]

Thanks, guys!!!

 

[natebenma]

Posted on another thread- Another fact finding mission request:

My mom is going with us to Disney this year. She does not know how to swim and is afraid to go in the water. We are staying at the Beach Club and we want to take advantage of their great pool, but I don't want her to be left out. I know that they mention that there are life vests at no cost...but I'm sure they are referring to children. Do they have adult sizes and do they allow you to wear them in the pool? If not, are you allowed to bring your own..I know I have seen restrictions on what you are allowed to have in the pool.

At CR they have adult life vests because of the marina that is there. But the more I think about it they probably have adult life vests for some of the larger sized kids that are there as well. I don't know for sure but I would think it wouldn't be a problem.

Excellent question!!! There is a marina at the Yacht Club too, so they should have adult life vests there , not sure if they would let you use them at Stormalong Bay. I specifically asked a lifeguard in July 2010 if you could use your own floats from home- the answer was:
Yes on pool noodles
No on floats from home for adults
Yes, for children if the float fit around them and an adult was at arms reach.

Perhaps the answer is different for a life vest for an adult.

I am going to post this over on the Yacht & Beach Club board. See my signature for the link. We have a member of the forum going to the BC this week, so I will ask her to see what she can find out at the pool if she gets a chance.