AP's to get 20 FP+ per quarter

[dizzneebabe]

In the terms of agreement for the new Disney Web site, there was a section on FP+. It said you would only be able to use FP+ in one park per day. So you can hop, but you'll be stuck waiting strictly standby at whatever park you didn't designate as your FP+ park that day.

I'm cautiously optimistic about this whole thing. I read the My Disney Experience terms and conditions that some OP's have cited in other threads. While it reads that once you utilize FP+ in one park, you are no longer able to use the standard FP system, I'm not convinced that it means you are forced to use the standby lines for other rides at the designated park or other parks. You won't be able to use the "standard FP system" b/c at that point you won't have a paper ticket. That's not to say they won't come up with a new version to be used with the RFID bracelet/bands for those who DO NOT book FP+ attractions.

Example scenario: I book my 4 (assuming it's the same as the testing) FP+ from home at 60 days out at MK. Assume those attraction times are scheduled from 9am-1pm. After 1pm I walk up to a kiosk with my RFID bracelet at a different attraction and receive a return time, just as I have in the past, but without a paper ticket.

I can understand not being able to "double dip" or have two FP's out at a time--just like the present system. But I would imagine there is more to this than we are hearing/seeing.

We know Disney is all about making money (while enhancing guest experiences); it is still a business. I find it very hard to believe that they would do something that could cause a reduction in revenue generating opportunities. Discouraging park hopping wouldn't make a dime.

There has to be a part of the plan that hasn't been finalized yet--or at least revealed.

I might be missing something or be be way off base here, but it just doesn't seem logical to limit the average guest to 4 FP+ attractions, per park, per day. What would be the incentive to remain in the park and spend $$?

I guess we'll have to wait and see!

 

[Robo]

Example scenario: I book my 4 (assuming it's the same as the testing) FP+ from home at 60 days out at MK. Assume those attraction times are scheduled from 9am-1pm. After 1pm I walk up to a kiosk with my RFID bracelet at a different attraction and receive a return time, just as I have in the past, but without a paper ticket.

That assumes that there would be any FP positions available for collection after 1PM.

That would be an awfully far fetched thing to imagine if many/most of the FP positions were already given out to FP+ guests that day.

 

[Cinderumbrella]

Considering the number of people we encounter in the parks who don't understand the current version of FP, I can't imagine those same people understanding FP+

Again, I am taking a wait and see attitude at this point before I freak out and/or alter my vacation plans. But if these rumors are true we will re-think purchasing AP's for this trip and a return later in the year. I did have a fabulous time in Hawaii last month and survived a non-Disney vacation... perhaps there will be many more of those trips in our future instead

 

[reelmom]

Now I'm curious what percentage of visits to WDW are first timers versus repeats. Anyone know any facts about that?

If the vast majority are first timers, the probability of Disney getting away with anything ridiculous is very high.

But if they really depend on repeats, then misguided efforts such as FP+ could really impact them.

This is my thinking also. The people who plan and use the DISboards are in the minority. We are just a drop in the bucket compared to overall guests.

 

[dizzneebabe]

That assumes that there would be any FP positions available for collection after 1PM.

That would be an awfully far fetched thing to imagine if many/most of the FP positions were already given out to FP+ guests that day.

You are absolutely right. I actually meant to type "assuming they were available."

Two things come to mind...again, just thoughts...

1) If you are only allowed to use FP+ in one park, per day, then perhaps it would disperse the resort guests out further? Or maybe they will be increasing the number of FP+'s distributed for that ride at each given time?

2) A standby line doesn't make Disney any money. I know that appears to be a theme in my post, but we know it's true. They are not spending billions (what is it, 2 bill?) of dollars to be nice. They are expecting a good ROI. So, some things my DH has read has him speculating that they might be doing away with a standby line eventually, altogether. The FP+ option of 60 day advance booking being available to resort guests (and/or rumored AP holders) could allow other guests to walk up and receive a designated time to ride (subject to availability), using the current standby line, without actually standing there.

At any rate, it's going to make for some interesting reads here on the Dis!

 

[mom2rtk]

That assumes that there would be any FP positions available for collection after 1PM.

That would be an awfully far fetched thing to imagine if many/most of the FP positions were already given out to FP+ guests that day.

....... and I'm curious just how people would be expected to remember when that new FP slot was? If it's going to print a ticket like the old system, then why go through all this in the first place?

 

[sunshine girl]

At any rate, it's going to make for some interesting reads here on the Dis!

Agreed!

I realize we're mostly (but not totally!) speculating. The chance for discussion of the reasonable "what ifs" given what is known so far is what I like about the DIS. This has been interesting.

And I know we superfans are the minority. I have non-superfan family members who I'm thinking of too, and considering how this may pan out for them. So the variety of perspectives here is also interesting.

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

 

[bcrook]

I'm cautiously optimistic about this whole thing. I read the My Disney Experience terms and conditions that some OP's have cited in other threads. While it reads that once you utilize FP+ in one park, you are no longer able to use the standard FP system, I'm not convinced that it means you are forced to use the standby lines for other rides at the designated park or other parks. You won't be able to use the "standard FP system" b/c at that point you won't have a paper ticket. That's not to say they won't come up with a new version to be used with the RFID bracelet/bands for those who DO NOT book FP+ attractions.

Example scenario: I book my 4 (assuming it's the same as the testing) FP+ from home at 60 days out at MK. Assume those attraction times are scheduled from 9am-1pm. After 1pm I walk up to a kiosk with my RFID bracelet at a different attraction and receive a return time, just as I have in the past, but without a paper ticket.

I can understand not being able to "double dip" or have two FP's out at a time--just like the present system. But I would imagine there is more to this than we are hearing/seeing.

We know Disney is all about making money (while enhancing guest experiences); it is still a business. I find it very hard to believe that they would do something that could cause a reduction in revenue generating opportunities. Discouraging park hopping wouldn't make a dime.

There has to be a part of the plan that hasn't been finalized yet--or at least revealed.

I might be missing something or be be way off base here, but it just doesn't seem logical to limit the average guest to 4 FP+ attractions, per park, per day. What would be the incentive to remain in the park and spend $$?

I guess we'll have to wait and see!

This is what I see in the terms and conditions...
•You may make FastPass+ selections for one park per day. You may only select and redeem a FastPass+ selection for a particular attraction, entertainment or restaurant experience once per day.

 

[dizzneebabe]

This is what I see in the terms and conditions...
•You may make FastPass+ selections for one park per day. You may only select and redeem a FastPass+ selection for a particular attraction, entertainment or restaurant experience once per day.

Correct. However, it doesn't say that a new type of reserved spot in line in some way, shape or form won't be available. "Standard FP" won't be available if you use FP+ b/c you won't have a paper ticket. What if they brought in a paperless version? Keeping track of additional FP type times in "your account," as they are doing with FP+?

Just trying to read between the lines here. I'm thinking of Photopass as an example. They have the regular Photopass and created a "Photopass+."

 

[Laketravis]

So I just finished taking the survey about my recent FP+ experience. You can tell a lot from the questions asked and the choices presented in regards to what the thinking behind the process is.

Long story short, I made maximum use of the open comments section by leaving the following:

What I like about the current FP system:

-the ability to obtain multiple FP's for the same attraction on the same day
-the ability to obtain FP's at multiple parks on the same day
-the ability to make a decision based on real-time conditions whether to enjoy an attraction or not, use the Standy Line or not, or pull an FP for later

What I didn't like about the FP+ system:

-I felt I was being forced to choose experiences I wasn't interested in because I could not choose my favorite experiences multiple times
-I felt I was being forced to choose a park on a day I had not intended
-I felt I was being forced to schedule for times I had not intended
-I felt that I was being forced to schedule yet another element of my WDW visit and work thru the logistics of how that element relates to others (Dining, etc.)

In summary, my "experience" was not a positive one.

 

[pinkerbell]

Yes, it is insane.

We are taking a family trip (my 5 year old niece's first) in April and if the expected FP + changes go into effect, it will be my last trip, possibly ever.

I have been a frequent visitor the last 8 years (2+ times a year), but there have just been too many things changed for the worse for me to ignore much longer.

Before it can be said, you're correct, Disney won't miss me and my money. But I know I'm not the only one.

We are similar to you. Ap holders with 2-3 trips per yr of which 2 are 12-18 days. I don't want to loose fp's in some quarters and have to go w/out in others. We are going in 2 weeks and again in 4 months. If the trip in 4 months wasn't a group trip I'd think seriously about cancelling it. SO it's not just your money. Due to this and the many other changes at disney we will not by an AP this yr and take our 3rd trip in th fall. I also went to "other" parks during our trips last yr for the first time in many and have found better options off site - we LOVED Sea World. SO today when my boss called and said he would not be doing Key west next week on his vacation, I couldnt recommend an exclusive Disney vacation. He will do the Disney for 2 days and the other attractions the rest. Word of mouth means a lot and When our friends ask what I would do, I have to be honest. I don't like the direction Disney is going in.

You're right. They won't miss you in particular. And I don't think anyone has decided to stop going based on what is known at this point. But I do think there are an awful lot of folks going "Hmmmmm........ I never wanted to stop going to Disney. I enjoy my trips. But maybe I need to consider that possible eventuality when I see how this rolls out".

And THIS, my friends is what I don't understand about the possible changes. FP was introduced so instead of standing in line for an hour, you could grab a FP and then spend that hour shopping or eating (i.e. spending money). Is park revenue no longer a priority?

A huge part of the problem seems to be executives who don't know the first thing about taking or enjoying a disney vacation are making the decisions for the rest of us... Ever taken a disney survery? You don't get to tell them what you like or wnat. You answer question based on what they want to hear

Here is how and where it affects me...

I always envision my trips to WDW in positive terms.
I KNOW that when I go I WILL be having more fun for those days than I
can have anywhere else.

I have learned new techniques each trip.
Things that I know I can do to make each additional trip that much easier, smoother, and experience less hassle.

And, I keep going back and DO have that much more ease of timing,
fewer hang-ups, greater enjoyment and relaxation.

Enter "FastPass +."

From all indications (trip reports of the tests, the "new website's" info, and just plain rumors)
I'm seeing hassles. (Make that HASSLES!)

Anyone who has read a few of my posts can see that I know my way around the parks pretty well.

I know when to arrive, and can make split-second changes in my plans if problems arise.
Classic example of showing up early at Park X and deciding that the unanticipated snaggle of a massive influx of guests at the gates
(large tour groups, sports and cheer groups, etc.) indicates that my park-of-choice may be the wrong place to be that morning.

As things with FP have been for over a decade, I could pop over to another park right then, of even decide that a day of touring the resorts, DTD and/or Boardwalk is a better idea.

But, I've made Advanced FP+ reservations at Park X, and ONLY that park, and ONLY on that day, so now, I AM NOT HAPPY WITH THAT ARBITRARY ARRANGEMENT. AT ALL.

Hassle.

Dining Plan " now a huge hassel - thank u $10 fee - we no longer do Table service dining plan - Like you really cant fill the tables??? I've never been seated on time, why should I always have to arrive on time

QS dining plan - they changed my plan choices once in the middle of a trip. I didnt know they did and ordered the same food court item and was told I had to pay, it took 3 managers and a lot of time to admit the plan had changed and give me my item, what were they going to do, throw it away once it was made??? I paid the same price for the plan both days... talk about watching your dollar shrink!

We also lost credits once when ALL systems went down (Feb 2010 I think) and couldnt process my card. Our last couple hrs and we were told to pay for everything and get reimbursed when the system went back up. But they didnt know when that would be. We left without getting our final credits.
Now Pay OOP Probably cheaper anyway and I can get what I want.

If I had a Crystal Ball I would guess we can expect

1- to start having to make our table service menu item choices at the time of ADR's
2- to start taking seat assignments on attractions (cause getting on a ride isn't difficult enough yet)
3- To no longer be able to decide where you want to stay. You can select resort type but not location. You name will be entered in a pool and selected at random

sad that the only fun I'm having in planning our next vacation is in the sarcasim

i makes me sad to know many families may never know the disney I did, but am glad we had it while we did

 

[pinkerbell]

So I just finished taking the survey about my recent FP+ experience. You can tell a lot from the questions asked and the choices presented in regards to what the thinking behind the process is.

Long story short, I made maximum use of the open comments section by leaving the following:

What I like about the current FP system:

-the ability to obtain multiple FP's for the same attraction on the same day
-the ability to obtain FP's at multiple parks on the same day
-the ability to make a decision based on real-time conditions whether to enjoy an attraction or not, use the Standy Line or not, or pull an FP for later

What I didn't like about the FP+ system:

-I felt I was being forced to choose experiences I wasn't interested in because I could not choose my favorite experiences multiple times
-I felt I was being forced to choose a park on a day I had not intended
-I felt I was being forced to schedule for times I had not intended
-I felt that I was being forced to schedule yet another element of my WDW visit and work thru the logistics of how that element relates to others (Dining, etc.)

In summary, my "experience" was not a positive one.

 

[Robbi]

We always bring guests with us. What happens when my daughter and I have APs but our guests don't have them?

 

[mesaboy2]

We always bring guests with us. What happens when my daughter and I have APs but our guests don't have them?

One of countless questions regarding the usability of this system.

 

[meggiebeth]

IMO if Disney insists on carrying out a FP+ scheme it would be better to be a perk on top of FP, rather than either/ or. I don't see how that would be possible, though.

Disney I suspect must be trying to lure more people to their resorts. However it won't lure me if it is a choice between FP and FP+.

I think if AP holders were given the FP+ credits along with being able to use regular FP, that would be a good perk... But I suspect that there just won't be enough FPs for that.

I think Disney may be transitioning from free FP to paid FP... Possibly like Universal. They can still charge the same for tickets yet charge extra for anyone wanting to buy FP+. Resort guests will get the incentive of free FP+s.

A majority of visitors to WDW are I am guessing, there for the first time. They don't really care about these changes Disney are making and to be honest won't know better when they visit. Heck, when we went to DLP we didn't know FP was free... And ended up queuing 2 hours for all the rides... Literally. Most people don't research. They show up and enjoy Disney.

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

 

[mbrittb00]

Disneyland is a very different animal from WDW. What is anticipated to work in Florida may not work in California.

This is part of the complaint that WDW visitors had that they hate waiting in lines. Interactive queues were part of that. Now with fastpass plus you can schedule all the major attractions in one day AND order your meals ahead of time, just grab them, eat and go, no lines. It's going to be huge. Not that I like it because it won't help me any. I"m more spontaneous than that.

Not true. By most accounts, FP+ will only allow 2 major attractions to be scheduled. (MK has at least 6, EP has 3, DS has 4, AK is really the only one with 2). So for the other major attractions you won't even be able to get a simple FP, let alone schedule them ahead of time.

 

[mom2rtk]

Not true. By most accounts, FP+ will only allow 2 major attractions to be scheduled. (MK has at least 6, EP has 3, DS has 4, AK is really the only one with 2). So for the other major attractions you won't even be able to get a simple FP, let alone schedule them ahead of time.

I think they were hoping nobody would notice.

You know. Because of that shiny bracelet sprinkled with pixie dust.

Or because they hope we're first time visitors and just don't know any better.

 

[Robbi]

IMO if Disney insists on carrying out a FP+ scheme it would be better to be a perk on top of FP, rather than either/ or. I don't see how that would be possible, though.

Disney I suspect must be trying to lure more people to their resorts. However it won't lure me if it is a choice between FP and FP+.

I think if AP holders were given the FP+ credits along with being able to use regular FP, that would be a good perk... But I suspect that there just won't be enough FPs for that.

I think Disney may be transitioning from free FP to paid FP... Possibly like Universal. They can still charge the same for tickets yet charge extra for anyone wanting to buy FP+. Resort guests will get the incentive of free FP+s.

A majority of visitors to WDW are I am guessing, there for the first time. They don't really care about these changes Disney are making and to be honest won't know better when they visit. Heck, when we went to DLP we didn't know FP was free... And ended up queuing 2 hours for all the rides... Literally. Most people don't research. They show up and enjoy Disney.

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

If this is the plan, I wish they'd just do it already instead of all the bull mess to get to that point.

 

[Planogirl]

I wonder how this will affect the under-utilized rides? We love that we can ride the people mover or the train pretty much at will. However if people are being "forced" to choose such rides, I wonder if the lines won't just get longer for those rides too?

I wish that Disney would just leave well enough alone.

 

[Lil' Grumpy]

well 'tween the jokes , i think this has been educational.

& it goes "deeper" then the opinions , "solid proof" for even
more changes & in other areas. that is, the stronger opinions
against- should not be "missed/overlooked", especially when
they are coming from those with the same background/s~ ap's
holders.

i also think there are 2 groups interacting here, the real experts
( the minority ) & those that hold that belief for themselves.
{ the majority } .


now if i had any connections to an upper management
personnel- i would send them this information. then
my expectation would be for additional "guest improvements".
maybe the person starting this debate, could? all that
would be required to recognize the gap/gaps, are very
self evident. one ex., noticed there isn't a "list" given
why this would "hurt" the other groups or even the
non-ap's guests visiting the parks? of course they are
the ones on the short end of this "measuring stick".
huh~ ~

to me, this is an eye-opening on "what" some are willing
to go as to manipulate the system in their favor.

i could be wrong, but one thing i think alerted them was all
the f-passes for tsm being gone before noon. wondering
how many ap's getting/holding the returns passes &
by the time the "newbies" figured it out, had no
chance? then again--dvc internet monitors picking up
the "attitudes" that are also blasting the changes? those
feelings are important too.

overall...i think what all of this means they are aware &
believe the parks in their charge, need to send the
message that they are for all guests instead any/
special group. it's not prefect but as robo noted --they
will need to do further "tweaking".

it sorta like having the proper perspective--many friends/
co-workers "see" me as a disney expert. "me", of less
than 12 total visits. but compared to their once/twice,
i am. my best advice to "us" newbies--- is to listen &
pay attention. one lady from work---has never been.
she was seeking assistance. what i learn, her grandparents
were close friends with walt & his family. they visited
them often & their pictures are amazing.