Cruise and Theme Park Operational Updates due to Coronavirus

[chad_1138]

I will be anxious to see how they handle those of us that had free dining from the original promotion back in January for arrivals July 5-7, or June 27-28.

 

[andyman8]

Yes - i think they need to find solutions for everyone with current reservations (resort, dining, FPs), and then they will open to everyone else.

Yes, I think this is why they're not making commitments right now (beyond the ones they legally have to). I don't read them retracting that part of the online notice as necessarily indicative that they're not opening any other resorts (though it is a possibility) but rather somebody got a little too eager at a moment where the Company was trying to be extra conservative and cautious. They don't want to make any commitments right now. The statement read "Disney Resorts," and as I noted at the time, it was strange that they didn't even use the phrase "select" (like Disney loves to). I do think it's more likely than not that some non-DVC resorts will be open by 7/11 or 7/15; I think the ambiguous and non-committing language indicates that they are still very much working out those details and trying to figure out what to do with existing reservations. It's quite possible we may even see some come online in the weeks before the official reopening, but I don't know. They've repeated that they're "working with guests with existing reservations" a number of times; I don't think they'd keep saying that if they planned to keep all resorts shut for a while.

Where is the FAQ? When I attempt to modify my existing reservation, I don’t see Jambi House or the Polynesian Villas.

It was posted by @yulilin3 (sorry to keep quoting/tagging you; just don't want to take credit or skip the source). I've quoted it below and I've bolded and highlighted the list of resorts they say are part of "this phase of reopening."

FAQ
Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Following the recent reopening of Shanghai Disney Resort and Disney Springs, we’re pleased that more Disney magic is coming back. Walt Disney World leaders submitted a proposal with the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force describing the approach for a phased reopening of theme parks planned to begin on July 11.
Pending Orange County and state approval, our proposed plans are for Magic Kingdom Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom to begin a phased reopening to the general public on July 11, followed by EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on July 15. Additionally, Disney Vacation Club resorts at Walt Disney World and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will begin to reopen on June 22. Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, Florida, and Hilton Head, South Carolina, will open on June 15. And in the coming weeks, Disney Stores will begin a phased reopening of operations globally, beginning with a select number of stores in the United States, in addition to stores in Europe and Japan.
In preparing to reopen during this unusual time, we have to manage our theme parks in a very different way from what we’ve known before. As we begin to reach out to our Cast Members and call them back to work, they will be focused on operating our parks in a responsible way that continues to give our Guests opportunities to create magical Disney memories.
This phased reopening will demonstrate a deliberate approach, with limits on attendance and controlled guest density that aligns with guidance on physical distancing. That means certain experiences that draw large group gatherings – such as parades and nighttime spectaculars – will return at a later date. In addition, “high-touch” experiences such as makeover opportunities, playgrounds and character greetings will remain temporarily unavailable, but characters will still be in our parks to entertain and delight Guests during their visit.
Because theme park capacity will be significantly limited as we welcome Guests back to the magic, we will manage attendance through a new theme park reservation system that will require all Guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance. At this time, we are temporarily pausing new ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations so we can focus on Guests with existing tickets and reservations (Disney Vacation Club members can still make new reservations). Existing ticket holders and Annual Passholders will be able to make reservation requests in phases before new tickets are sold; we’ll be reaching out to these Guests soon to provide additional details. We will resume new ticket sales and hotel reservations after that period of time. Theme park reservations will be limited due to attendance limitations and will be subject to availability. More details about this new reservation system will be available soon.
We’re looking forward to reopening our theme parks, Disney Resort hotels and stores, and doing so in a responsible way. In this spirit, our destinations will continue to follow enhanced safety protocols based upon applicable guidance from health authorities and appropriate government agencies. Plans to support required physical distancing as well as enhanced cleaning measures, along with a number of other safety and cleanliness protocols, will be implemented as part of this planned phased reopening.
As we all must work together to promote the health and safety of everyone, Cast Members as well as Guests 3 years of age and older will be required to wear appropriate face coverings in theme parks and common areas of resort hotels. All Guests will also undergo temperature screenings prior to entering a theme park; health screenings and temperature checks will be required daily for Cast Members. Cashless transactions are recommended, and cleaning and disinfection procedures will be increased in high-traffic areas.
Additional information on enhanced health and safety measures and operational changes for reopening locations will be shared soon. These policies are under continuous review and are subject to change as we monitor conditions and receive guidance from health and government authorities.
We’re being deliberate during these phased reopenings, and we’re encouraged by how our Guests are responding at Shanghai Disney Resort and Disney Springs. We’re doing our part, and we need our Guests to do their part, too, as we work together to focus on safety.
REACTIVE FAQ
General questions on offerings
What is opening and when?
Pending Orange County and state approval, our proposed plans are for Magic Kingdom Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom to begin a phased reopening to the general public on July 11, followed by EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on July 15. Additionally, Disney Vacation Club resorts at Walt Disney World and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will begin to reopen on June 22. Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, Florida, and Hilton Head, South Carolina, will open on June 15.

Are you reducing capacity in the theme parks?
Yes. When our theme parks reopen, we will be managing attendance through a new park reservation system and implementing physical distancing measures in line with CDC guidance. As a result, capacity and theme park reservations will be significantly limited and subject to availability.

How much capacity are you reducing, and when will you increase it? What will it take to get back to normal?
We are starting conservatively, and will slowly increase capacity slowly and at the appropriate times as the circumstances permit. We will learn as we go and will keep an eye on what’s happening around us and will make adjustments going forward.

What resorts are you opening?
During this phase of reopenings, we will begin to open the Disney Vacation Club properties and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground June 22. This includes:

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
• Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

In addition, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort and Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort will open June 15.

Will you have transportation available?
We will begin running our Disney bus transportation on a limited basis for Guests staying in our resort hotels and will open monorail and ferry service when the parks reopen.

What about water parks? Will they open?
At this time, we are not reopening our water parks. Our focus is on our theme parks. We will share more information when we are ready to do so.

Is the reopening of Walt Disney World a sign that the other Disney theme parks will reopen soon?
No. Operations plans and details are decided independently at each Disney Park.


Will you open theme parks with all of the rides and entertainment?
We are temporarily pausing on some experiences like parades, nighttime spectaculars, character meet and greets and makeovers to accommodate social distancing. However, our characters will still be in the parks to entertain and delight our Guests.

Will anyone with an existing ticket be able to enter the theme parks?
Because theme park capacity will be significantly limited as we welcome Guests back to the magic, we will manage attendance through a new theme park reservation system that will require all Guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance. At this time, we are temporarily pausing new ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations so we can focus on Guests with existing tickets and reservations (Disney Vacation Club members can still make new reservations). Existing ticket holders and Annual Passholders will be able to make reservation requests in phases before new tickets are sold; we’ll be reaching out to these Guests soon to provide additional details. We will resume new ticket sales and hotel reservations after that period of time. Theme park reservations will be limited due to attendance limitations and will be subject to availability. More details about this new reservation system will be available soon.

Safety and protocols
Will masks or face coverings be required to visit theme parks and resorts?
Yes. All Guests ages 3 and above and Cast Members are required to wear an appropriate face covering over both their nose and mouth. Guests must bring their own face coverings and wear them at all times, except when dining, and except when Resort Guests are in their rooms. At this time, we’re focused on consistent health and safety measures. We know this is difficult, and there is nothing normal about this time in our lives.

What if I forgot my mask at home? Will masks be provided to Guests or will they be available for purchase?
We are asking that our Guests bring their own mask for experiences at our parks.

What if a Guest doesn’t want to wear a face covering. Will there be any exception?
We understand that these times are challenging, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation and patience and as we navigate as responsibly as we can. At this time, we’re focused on consistent health and safety measures. We know this is difficult, and there is nothing normal about this time in our lives.

Will hand sanitizers or hand washing stations be available throughout property? Where will they be located?
Yes. Disney theme parks and resort hotels will open with hand sanitizer and hand washing locations and Guests are highly encouraged to use these while visiting.

Will Guests be required to go through a temperature screening station to enter a theme park?
Yes. All Guests are required to undergo temperature screenings upon arrival to either a theme park or Disney Springs. Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 F or above will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those with temperatures above 100.4 will not be allowed entry; those in their party will not be allowed entry either.

How will physical distancing guidelines be enforced?
Our Cast Members at Disney Springs have gone through new training as we all learn to adjust to these unique times together. To that end, we will have some Cast Members in Disney Springs and the theme parks when they open to explain our new procedures and answer any questions Guests may have. They will also encourage everyone to follow these measures for the health and safety of us all.

Will you be adjusting your security screening procedures when the parks reopen?
Yes, we will be making some adjustments to minimize the amount of contact our Cast will have with Guests’ personal items. We look forward to sharing more information soon.

Will you accept cash?
At this time, it is recommended all Guests use cashless or contactless payment options, such as MagicBands, credit cards, debit cards, Disney Gift Cards, Disney Reward redemption cards and Mobile Wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. Guests may purchase a Disney Gift Card at select merchandise locations and Guest Relations to pay without cash. We will continue to accept cash

 

[gottalovepluto]

https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/refunds
Another useful resource:
https://scottscheapflights.com/coronavirus-and-travel“How can I get money back from a canceled flight?” Q&A

I have personally be able to get cash refunds because Spirit Airlines changed my departure date from a Mon night to Tues morning.

I'm still going to point out that there is nothing in the DOT guidelines saying they have to refund you for 2 hour delays. Some airlines will, some won't. You're at their mercy with delays, there is no government regulation backing up your right to a refund like there is with cancellations.

 

[Anna_Sh]

They could open the hotels tomorrow; there are no restrictions or approvals needed in Florida to reopen hotels now. Approvals were specifically for the theme parks.

But if the parks plan isn’t approved (it will be), why would they need the resorts to be open?

 

[e_yerger]

I'm still going to point out that there is nothing in the DOT guidelines saying they have to refund you for 2 hour delays. Some airlines will, some won't. You're at their mercy with delays, there is no government regulation backing up your right to a refund like there is with cancellations.

I am not talking about delays. I am talking about when you book a flight at one time, and then a month later they change their flight schedule.

 

[gottalovepluto]

I am not talking about delays. I am talking about when you book a flight at one time, and then a month later they change their flight schedule.

Sorry, used wrong word. Flight schedule changes do not have to be refunded. DoT has never defined what constitutes a "significant" schedule change so airlines can tell you 23 hours schedule change is non-refundable when they want to be jerks about it

 

[andyman8]

I dont think there is. As a member of AKV you can use EITHER Jambo or Kidani.

Keeping Jambo closed tells me AKL WONT be open at first.

This is super interesting! I hadn't thought about that! I believe you're correct. Given AKL's high operating costs and reliance on bus transportation (and with the DVC wrinkle addressed), I think it would be a prime candidate for an extended closure.

 

[shoegal9]

Question: I noticed in the list of DVC Resorts opening in the FAQ there was one missing: AKV Jambo House. Correct me if I'm wrong but there are DVC villas in AKL's Jambo House (the only with CL), right? Are there any DVC ramifications for that resort not operating? Also could be indicative that AKL may not be amongst the first resorts to reopen.

I just logged into my DVC account to check. I can book Jambo House (and Polynesian) in July.

 

[Vern60]

Yes, I think this is why they're not making commitments right now (beyond the ones they legally have to). I don't read them retracting that part of the online notice as necessarily indicative that they're not opening any other resorts (though it is a possibility) but rather somebody got a little too eager at a moment where the Company was trying to be extra conservative and cautious. They don't want to make any commitments right now. The statement read "Disney Resorts," and as I noted at the time, it was strange that they didn't even use the phrase "select" (like Disney loves to). I do think it's more likely than not that some non-DVC resorts will be open by 7/11 or 7/15; I think the ambiguous and non-committing language indicates that they are still very much working out those details and trying to figure out what to do with existing reservations. It's quite possible we may even see some come online in the weeks before the official reopening, but I don't know. They've repeated that they're "working with guests with existing reservations" a number of times; I don't think they'd keep saying that if they planned to keep all resorts shut for a while.


It was posted by @yulilin3 (sorry to keep quoting/tagging you; just don't want to take credit or skip the source). I've quoted it below and I've bolded and highlighted the list of resorts they say are part of "this phase of reopening."

Thanks, I missed that somehow through the 884 pages

 

[e_yerger]

Sorry, used wrong word. Flight schedule changes do not have to be refunded. DoT has never defined what constitutes a "significant" schedule change so airlines can tell you 23 hours schedule change is non-refundable when they want to be jerks about it

Or you could be entitled to a refund. It doesn’t hurt to call and ask if you find yourself in that situation.

Scott’s Cheap Flights are very well known in the travel industry, and they have the history and knowledge. I am sure through their experiences they have seen customers get refunds for flight changes of 2+ more hours.

 

[cakebaker]

Also could be indicative that AKL may not be amongst the first resorts to reopen.

I think it’s more indicative of WDW not being able to put out complete as well as accurate information. They’re opening DVC because they have to. They’ll open all DVC properties.

 

[disney1474]

I cancelled my July 15-24th trip and some of my 7 day tickets are now expiring September 26, 2021 but a couple still expire July 24, 2020. I hope they all get extended until Sep of 2021. Just thought I'd share

 

[roth697]

I just logged into the DVC website and hotels are still listed to open on July 11th. I guess they forgot to update this page.

Plans for a Phased Reopening

• Pending approval from government officials, the phased reopening plans we submitted calls for Walt Disney World theme parks and Resort hotels to open beginning July 11 for Magic Kingdom park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, followed by Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on July 15.

 

[Sandisw]

I think it’s more indicative of WDW not being able to put out complete as well as accurate information. They’re opening DVC because they have to. They’ll open all DVC properties.

My thought is they may have left it out of the list because the bulk of the resort is not DVC and didn’t want people to assume it could be booked for cash, since Ft. Wilderness is listed and that is not DVC.

But, since it can be booked, I am going to assume it will be open...either that, when members get there they will be moved to Kidani.

 

[CastAStone]

My understanding is that only the DVC properties will open at first. From Disney's web site:

• Additionally, Disney Vacation Club properties at Walt Disney World and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will begin to reopen to Members and Guests on June 22.

But it does say they will open to members AND GUESTS. CastAStone had informative posts on this, I think in the news thread but he summarized what resorts will most likely be closed, at least at first. (Basically all the Non DVC resorts).

Here is the quote from CastAStone I was referring to. I thought it was well thought out and I hope he doesn't mind me posting it here but seems relevant to many questions.

As long as everyone is clear that this is an informed guess and I have zero insider knowledge, I don’t mind. I could be wrong! Ask my wife!

 

[CastAStone]

But if the parks plan isn’t approved (it will be), why would they need the resorts to be open?

And that is why they’re closed. Although they really will need to open DVC at some point or their problems with it will just keep compounding

 

[Jrb1979]

I think it’s more indicative of WDW not being able to put out complete as well as accurate information. They’re opening DVC because they have to. They’ll open all DVC properties.

This all feels like they weren't ready for any of this yet and feels really rushed. I know it's waiting on approval for them to release more information. They should already know their plans for resorts and which ones are opening. Universal and of all things Six Flags seem more on the ball through this.

 

[HuskieJohn]

LOL my tickets that had Jun 19-27 and June 19-26 dates are all goofed up

Some now have September 27th end dates and others have June 28th end dates.

 

[andyman8]

I just logged into my DVC account to check. I can book Jambo House (and Polynesian) in July.

I think it’s more indicative of WDW not being able to put out complete as well as accurate information. They’re opening DVC because they have to. They’ll open all DVC properties.

My thought is they may have left it out of the list because the bulk of the resort is not DVC and didn’t want people to assume it could be booked for cash, since Ft. Wilderness is listed and that is not DVC.

But, since it can be booked, I am going to assume it will be open...either that, when members get there they will be moved to Kidani.

Interesting. Okay. We'll have to see. It certainly wouldn't be the first time they put out inaccurate information.

But just to confirm: so no DVC Members technically own at Kidani or Jambo, they own at AKV in general with home resort "booking access" to both? If they chose not to reopen JH, this would be the semi-equivalent (legally) of them shutting some of the buildings at SSR for refurbishment? Disney could use their developer points on those rooms?

 

[jlwhitney]

I wonder why Disney's plan isnt approved by the Governor yet, Universals was approved the next day. Maybe he will announce it tomorrow, and move Florida to phase 2.