Boardwalk owners thoughts on SSR

[Zurg]

I am rolling on this one... didn't you notice the guys in the funky outfits out front LOL!

Nope. I even looked but I didn't see one of them. Struck me as odd at the time. It was 6:30 - 7:00 pm pouring rian and not a Bell Service guy in sight.


The dry area was filled with Disney vans and not soul in sight so we parked in the lot and ran through the rain. Not that I would have unloaded the stuff there to be trucked in a golf cart in the rain to the room anyway.


here's my take on SSR for what it is worth:

That place is BIG. There are units in all stages from digging in the ground making foundations to what looks fairly well finished as well as in use. When done the place will be a monster, all be it a very nicely groomed monster. The grounds and parking areas were very nicely landscaped and the place looks real good, even when you are walking past a construction fence.

I like the furniture and fixtures better than at BWV. The kitchen has flat surface cook tops and the old coil burner things at BWV never lay flat. The counters were stone and the sink was bigger with a quiet disposal. Since I cook I notice these. No sprayer and I couln't attach my H2O filter to the faucet, bummer. So I bought two cases of water.

I like the smaller longer table with a built in bench like at BCV. I guess the kitchen may be the same as BCV too, haven't stayed there and used the kitchen, yet.

The fold a couch was reportedly MUCH more compfortable than BWV by the kids who tested it out. I don't like bathroom setup with an extra door and a smaller shower but that's a personal choice thing. BCV has the same set up so I am sure DVC has a lot of feed back that this is the prefered setup.

There have been knocks on the artist pallet eatery for not having kid stuff but they had hot dogs and chicken nuggets, just nothing I was interested in eating, I'm not a flat bread fan and that what they had each time l checked, Oh well DTD was a hop skip and a jump on a bus that happened by. Too bad I like grabbing something to eat while DD swims for hours.

I guess it is the proximity of DTD that limits the eating and shopping at SSR and I geuss that makes sence but both seemed a little disproportional to the size of the resort.

So did the pool. A very nice pool but it seemed to be at capacity, in the water wise with the number of units that were open. (what is it at now 1/2 open or less?) There were plenty of chairs still. Not a lot of shade but I socred a table by the bar that also seemed smallish (but proved functional!)
DD & I also checked out the quite pools and they were very nice not real busy and had capacity and a lot shorter walk.

Bus service was OK as far as we needed it but we had a car and used it bunch too.

I got to admit the size of the place is a draw back in some ways. I like air conditioned halls and Bell Services to do the carrying of my luggage from the car. Grocery slepping was a multi trip deal but then that is what the kids are for right? but that second case of water got a little heavy.

Apparently maintenance & houskeeping is linked up with OKW becuase they asked which we were in SSR or OKW. As ZW mentioned it took a bunch of calls over a few days to get a blender, they were out of them which is something I have never experianced at DVC before.

It also took a bunch of calls to get a sharps jar for the insulin needles, again something I never experianced before. I would have brought one down but we get them real fast at BWV so I never thought it would be an issue. I try real hard to keep sharps out of the normal trash flow, with two diebetic kids we generate a lot of sharps trash and it needs to go in a sharps jar for everyone's safty including the Cast Memebers who handle trash. The first person I talked with didn't even know what one was.

They did jump right on it when we reported no hot water. I like to use the front desk services but do it in person but that wasn't really an option it was a 1/4 mile walk in the sun. While that is all kind of trivila stuff any way, most folks never need maintenance, a blender or a sharps jar or can call the front desk, or maybe I am spoiled by the service at BWV.

I was struck by the disproportionality of the size of the resort to the size of services like the pool, eatery, shopping, community hall. That is the resort is very big but the services don't seem proportionally as big, in fact they seemed smaller than at BWV.

I am not a big fan of the exterior halls. That is a you rmilage may vary thing, I didn't like hot elivators but the fact that one of the stair landings didn't drain was a bigger issue. There was always a puddle, from rain or power wasking or sprinklers or what ever. I never saw it untill it was too late and inevitably I stepped in it in the morning on the way out and got a wet shoe. Wet shoes are bad, and I know BadShoes.

Anyway the most lasting impression was how nice SSR looks, the grounds, landscaping, arcitecture and the size. I like BWV better but that is one of the strengths of DVC is there are different resorts for different tastes.

 

[tjkraz]

I was struck by the disproportionality of the size of the resort to the size of services like the pool, eatery, shopping, community hall. That is the resort is very big but the services don't seem proportionally as big, in fact they seemed smaller than at BWV.

Based upon published information, the volume of SSR's main pool is almost identical to Luna Park. BW has just under 800 villa and inn rooms serviced by LP plus one Quiet Pool. SSR will have just over 800 villas serviced by High Rock Spring and four Quiet Pools.

The only noticable difference between the BWV and SSR main pools, IMO, is that BW has more deck space for lounging.

(The Wilderness Lodge has an even smaller pool.)

But, I guess this would be the question of the hour: The resort is at 40-45% of completed capacity now. Was there a time during your stay when the restaurant, gift shop or community hall appeared to near or exceed 50% of its total capacity?

For my money, SSR seems more centrally-designed than Old Key West--particularly given that the Hospitality House is near the front of the resort and quite a distance from the furthest buildings. Both are served well by internal transportation. But that's just my $.02...

 

[crisi]

Two quiet pools at BW - one by the community hall, the other over on the Inn side.

 

[Johnnie Fedora]

Can't wait for the next DVC resort to be announced. Then the SSR fans can join the "gang of thugs" that do nothing but pick on the new kid.

Haven't stayed at SSR yet, but I agree with the Zurg family's comments about the resort/ammenities and totally understand their desire not to stay there. For me, a stay at SSR would feel less than a real DVC trip. I'm sure others feel the same about my favorite DVC resort...HH.

BTW, for the size of the full resort, the themed pool is too small. But, we'll have to wait for future threads for a complete validation of that fact.

 

[rascalmom]

We just returned from OKW - I don't see the pool their as being any larger than SSR's. Am I missing something? Haven't been to Luna Park or SAB, but the pool at WL definitely seems smaller.

By the way - my kids gave the new OKW slide a big thumbs up!

 

[crisi]

Perhaps DVC anticipates SSR owners will be more likely to be waterpark people - like they believe they will eat at DTD.....

I appreciate threads like this, they talk about the pros and cons of each resort. We own at BWVs, and I happen to like the hotel atmophere, but I will admit the resort is "busy" (i.e. possibly noisy) and perhaps not the best place to be for a quiet vacation. Perhaps VWL is our favorite resort, love the decor, theming and location, but it is a little dark and woodsy for a lot of people - and yes, the main pool is small for the resort.

 

[tjkraz]

BTW, for the size of the full resort, the themed pool is too small. But, we'll have to wait for future threads for a complete validation of that fact.

It may prove to be too small for demand, but the reality is it's in line with the pools that Disney is building these days. rascalmom is correct--OKW's pool is also very close size-wise, as is the pool at AKL and probably other Disney resorts, too. And the pool at Eagle Pines--or whatever the next resort might be--will absolutely be comparable.

I'm always a bit baffled by this idea that SSR will be "ssooooooooooo BIG!!!" When complete it will still be the third or fourth SMALLEST Disney-owned resort on property. Yes, it will be the largest DVC property but face it: the days of 150-200 room add-ons to existing resorts are over.

BTW, thanks for the correction on the Quiet Pools, crisi.

 

[Michael623]

I enjoyed my stay there but I thought the double bed in the studio was rediculous. I think they call it a queen but there is no way. Other than that no complaints at all.

 

[OneMoreTry]

I've decided you guys are to mean to have a honest conversation with....I'm keeping my thoughts to myself

I'm sorry.

What I have intended to express is that misunderstandings can occur because of the way something is posted as well as the way it is interpreted. Responsibility lies with both parties.

I'll just have to adjust the volume on this thing when I read your posts.

 

[MiaSRN62]

I'm sorry.

I don't feel you have to aplogize OneMoreTry. You had honest doubts and feelings about the OP. You gave your honest impression of the OP just as Zurgswife gave an honest impression of SSR. The OP was quite open and clear and used terms like "this sucked big time". I feel to call some of us "mean" or "jealous" because our replies were not sugar-coated or didn't exactly jive with the OP's feelings was not exactly nice either. Everyone is going to have different feelings and opinions ?

Unfortunately they erased their OP and it makes me wonder why ? But even the way Zurgswife began the OP (and I'll try and recall from memory), but she made it seem like SSR was their last choice and it was all that was available to them. (i.e. in other words, to me, the OP made it sound like leftovers).

I think that set the tone for me....knowing this was a huge BWV fan (and got SSR leftovers....got this from almost the first line of their TR). I don't think Zurg or Zurgswife were at a fair advantage for giving an objective review. They love BWV (and most likely wished their ressie was there) and anything else is going to pale in comparison to them. I feel those feelings can't help but come across in a post from them. Nothing wrong with them being fans of BWV, just not sure either of them could "see" SSR for what it is as opposed to someone who's either never stayed at any DVC resort, or who is not a staunch fan of valet, hotel-type accomodations, and walking to Epcot. I'll bet the OP was comparing SSR to BWV the whole time. I don't feel any of the DVC resorts can be compared to one another ? They all have different plusses and negatives. Perhaps Zurgswife didn't consciously mean to do this, but her love of BWV probably shone through in her post. And I even said in an earlier post, that I'd probably not give BWV the most glowing report either because of our love for OKW. Two pretty different resorts. Most certainly didn't mean to insult Zurgswife or scare them off (enought to make them erase their post) but that was my honest opinion. Didn't feel it was mean.....just my own personal feelings on the topic. They probably didn't agree with me either. No harm done---at least hope not

Thought these boards were for honest give and take discussions.....which include opposing viewpoints etc. I've never stayed at SSR and I most def don't read every thread on these boards, but I was aware of bell service from numerous posts on these boards. It's a shame maybe Zurgswife didn't ask a couple questions before she left. In fairness to them, maybe she didn't have the time, I don't know. But I feel it sure could have helped them form a much different impression of SSR. Not jealous at all of the Zurgs (well, maybe a bit ! ) but I honestly hope they were able to have a nice time despite the fact that they had some pitfalls (which I feel can happen at ANY resort).

 

[gopherit]

Huh.

I get preoccupied for a few hours elsewhere and come back to the DIS and find the OP not only rescinded her entire report, but nearly every comment that followed. We now have a beginningless thread...

And I just don't get it. <a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008_ZNxdm801YYUS' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/4/4_12_3.gif' alt='Very Confused' border=0></a>

I haven't been told I was "mean" since I took away my kids' GameCube priveleges for a week. But I stood by my decision -- I guess I just don't see the merit in retraction. Now who knows what folks will think the OP posted?

On an upside, it was good getting Zurg's expanded opinions later in the thread, though -- thanks Zurg for the extra info!

 

[deerh]

I and my friend went to SSR and she bought!! She bought a lot of points, and we "toured" the studio, 1BR,2BR with her.

Here are my thoughts:

Pool is small for the "main pool" with 800+ villas!
I DO NOT like the porch/deck out by the 2nd BR and the living room,
I like BWV, where the porch/deck is in the MASTER!! (That to me is a MAJOR
DIFFERENCE)
The sq. footage is a LOT smaller than BWV: BWV studio-412 ft
SSR studio-355 ft.
BWV 1BR-814 sq. ft
SSR 1BR-714 sq.ft

I liked other aspects of SSR, the look, and the feel of a "new place".

We will stay at SSR (maybe next year), but probably not a habit we will do
often. As they say, "different strokes with different folks".

But as a lot of people say, " That's what makes DVC fun, diff. places to stay"!

DeerH

 

[Laurajean1014]

I own at OKW and BWV. I will soon own at SSR. Where does that put me?

 

[bobbiwoz]

I own at OKW and BWV. I will soon own at SSR. Where does that put me?

Lucky and smart!

Bobbi

 

[treehugger]

I own at OKW and BWV. I will soon own at SSR. Where does that put me?

Wow, you're one lucky son of a hanname!

We own at both SSR & BWV, love them both BECAUSE they are so different. How boring would DVC be if all resorts were cookie cutter images of each other? Embrace diversity!

 

[TOMAR@SSR]

Wow, you're one lucky son of a hanname!

We own at both SSR & BWV, love them both BECAUSE they are so different. How boring would DVC be if all resorts were cookie cutter images of each other? Embrace diversity!

DITTO !!!

 

[Zurg]

Based upon published information, the volume of SSR's main pool is almost identical to Luna Park. BW has just under 800 villa and inn rooms serviced by LP plus one Quiet Pool. SSR will have just over 800 villas serviced by High Rock Spring and four Quiet Pools.

From Doc's thread on DVC resorts:

SSR will have 828 unit s w/ 1260 max
BWV will has 383 / 532 plus the inn's 378 for 761/915.

Seems like any way you score it SSR has a larger guest capacity. So if the feature pools are as you say almost identical there will be a disproportional number of guest looking to use the feature pool.

Like I said it felt like it was at capacity based on body's in the water now with (again based on ODc's post) 376/420 units or about 1/3 of the finished total expected capacity.

Like I said it is a nice place, but BIG and the services to accomodations seems disproportional and your assertion that they are the same physical size would only confirms the point given the higher guest capacity at SSR.

 

[cruise-o-matic]

Daggummit! I missed the OP.....

 

[OneMoreTry]

I don't understand the post withdrawal. 99% of the posts supported ZW here. Even the usual SSR defenders!

 

[tjkraz]

From Doc's thread on DVC resorts:

SSR will have 828 unit s w/ 1260 max
BWV will has 383 / 532 plus the inn's 378 for 761/915.

Seems like any way you score it SSR has a larger guest capacity. So if the feature pools are as you say almost identical there will be a disproportional number of guest looking to use the feature pool.

That probably explains why they are building 4 quiet pools as compared to the two at BWI/BWV.

Like I said it felt like it was at capacity based on body's in the water now with (again based on ODc's post) 376/420 units or about 1/3 of the finished total expected capacity.

Well then Luna Park must have been absolutely bursting at the seams since they have more than twice as many units open now as SSR.

Funny how these things have a way of working themselves out. Too many people by the main pool? I'll just use the one right outside my door. Will some people be disappointed? Sure. But that happens now at EVERY resort (with the possible exception of YC/BC )

Assuming that guests at SSR are no more predisposed to swimming than guests at the Boardwalk, and given that roughly 400 rooms has--by your report--maxed-out a pool the size of HRS/LP, then clearly the pool at the Boardwalk is "too small" as well. Yet I don't see any campaigns to increase the size of the main pools at the Boardwalk or Wilderness Lodge.

Like I said it is a nice place, but BIG and the services to accomodations seems disproportional and your assertion that they are the same physical size would only confirms the point given the higher guest capacity at SSR.

Aside from the pool, which other services did you witness being over-taxed during your visit?

Like it or not, SSR is the current crown jewel of DVC. It's the site of their sales center and the first (often only) resort that folks will see when contemplating a $15,000 purchase. You're welcome to your opinions, Zurg, but frankly I'm a bit more inclined to put my faith in the folks who have spent the last 50 years designing and building vacation resorts. They didn't just pull a number out of a hat when deciding how many units to build.

"I don't like the menu at Artist's Palette" is useful dialogue.

"The pool and gift shop will be too small for the resort" is amateurish prognostication coming from anyone without a background in vacation resort design.