Boat in EPCOT

[discnewbie]

I've heard there is a boat that goes across the lake in EPCOT -- I didn't happen to notice it when we went last March. I've also heard that it's just faster to walk around the countries, rather than use the boat. Last year, though, my kids started to get tired walking around this park. So my questions are: does this boat run year-round? Is there some sort of schedule posted? Is there an additional fee to use the boat or is it included in the price of admission? and... about how long is a boat trip across the lake?

Thanks in advance!

 

[BeerMe]

As far as I know it runs all the time - no extra fee.

 

[sharonabe]

Yes it runs year-round.
There is no charge.
Time needed depends on where it is when you get to the dock. The waiting area is covered, so grab an ice cream and take a break while you wait for the boat.
The docks are located just as you come to WS from FW. One side goes to Morocco and the other to Germany.
By the way, they're called Friendship Boats.

 

[erionm]

They stop running at 7:30 PM.

 

[Cuchman]

I would say normally the boat saves time vs walking, unless you are really rushing/running.
It doesn't seem like the route or number of boats available is always the same - time of year maybe? - but there is a stop in Morocco and in Italy.
Any configuration definitely saves some amount of time and a good amount of wear on your feet!

Agreed with post above - they stop at 7:30 so the lake can prep for the fireworks.

 

[erionm]

It doesn't seem like the route or number of boats available is always the same - time of year maybe? - but there is a stop in Morocco and in Italy.

There are two Friendship Boats on the World Showcase Lagoon. One goes between the Mexico dock and Germany, the other between the Canada dock and Morocco. The routes do not change.

 

[Mouthpiece]

And sometimes they have people do the chicken dance on the boat.....Bonus. I'm guessing it depends on the captain though. Either it's going to be an entertaining or a relaxing trip, but its nice to give your feet a rest.

 

[Robo]

There are two Friendship Boats on the World Showcase Lagoon. One goes between the Mexico dock and Germany, the other between the Canada dock and Morocco. The routes do not change.

Sorry, but the number of boats and the routes DO change.

You listed the "normal" conditions, but they sometimes operate fewer boats and they can change the routes.

Guests should check the info at the time they are in the park.

 

[mesaboy2]

Rode one on Sunday for the first time in a long time. Walking is almost certainly faster, unless your timing is lucky. I recall signs posted saying they depart every 15 minutes, and that seemed about right to me.

 

[Jabber_Jaws]

Sorry, but the number of boats and the routes DO change.

You listed the "normal" conditions, but they sometimes operate fewer boats and they can change the routes.

Fewer boats yes, but route does not change. If only 1 boat is operating in the lagoon. It will always be the Mexico to Germany route.

 

[Robo]

Happiness is a trip to Disney!

 

[erionm]

Sorry, but the number of boats and the routes DO change.

You listed the "normal" conditions, but they sometimes operate fewer boats and they can change the routes.

I guess we've only been there when they've been operating under normal conditions. We usually only take the Friendship Boats if they are already at the dock (or about to reach the dock), otherwise we will walk.

 

[wishing4PA]

I'm not sure I've ever taken one. Thus far I've always figured I would be just skipping one country to get to another country so what's the point?

Maybe if I had an ADR across the lake?

But it didn't help that the schedule and dock locations were never quite clear to me. With this thread in mind, perhaps I will ride one this summer. Thanks, guys!

 

[Cuchman]

Funny you mention it - ADRs are exactly the reason we have taken the boats in the past. And if you catch the boat at the dock, there's no way you would beat it to Morocco unless you were sprinting, imho.
Keep in mind, it isn't just about how fast you get there. Less wear on the feet.
Also, the boat is FUN. And the theming even at the waterline is cool. Especially for Morocco and Italy.

 

[erionm]

Maybe if I had an ADR across the lake?

That's the main reason for us. ADR in Italy, so we will take the Friendship Boat from the Mexico dock to Germany. Were locals and have been known to go to Epcot just for lunch.

 

[Cap'nJack'sMum]

We use the boat to save steps. If you're not in a hurry for an ADR or something, taking the boat saves a lot of walking.

 

[Bob NC]

We will usually only take a boat if it is actually at the dock when we are walking by.

If you have to wait for you won't save any time.