Currently, the transportation to Hollywood isn't great. Either a crowded boat ride, where you may have to wait a turn or two to get back, or a long walk with little shade. The construction of the sky-line closed the quicker path and now the path requires walking around the bus path. Either a better path with shade or a bus should be added.
Resort Thread Disney's YACHT & BEACH CLUB Resorts
- Thread starter natebenma
- Start date
floridadream
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Feb 22, 2012
- Messages
- 217
It’s been a week since we returned from the BCV- it was an amazing trip (and I have major post Disney blues)! Im happy to answer any questions!
Last edited:
natebenma
Beach Club Dee
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2008
- Messages
- 20,143
Page 1306-1308
Here are pictures of the interior of BC fridge
Impressive packing job by Beer Me:
I'd say a full size bottle of creamer will fit.
to posting on the thread!
Is your stay at the Yacht & Beach Club resort?
Thank you so much for the detailed review of your stay and the great pictures. I'm so glad to hear you had a fantastic trip!
I'll add your descriptions/pictures to the BC View Thread.
to posting on this forum!
Did your room have a full balcony or one of the smaller ones?
Do you have any pictures of the view from your room that you could either post here or email to me at beachclubdee at yahoo?
to posting here.
Thanks for the feedback about the transportation to HS. It really is a shame that the only current options to get there is by boat, which can be crowded and slow and walking, which can be an exhausting trip in the heat.
Here are pictures of the interior of BC fridge
Impressive packing job by Beer Me:
I'd say a full size bottle of creamer will fit.
Thank you. We arrive Thursday. I have packed straws, but DARN I hate throwing in one more thing.Have mercy! Half of our luggage is already medical supplies. No, I'm thankful to be going and will focus there.
to posting on the thread!Is your stay at the Yacht & Beach Club resort?
We just returned from a GREAT stay at BC, our long-time favorite resort (though we now love GF and Poly too!). We normally stay CL, but this trip we decided to try something different and my two DD15's wanted to do DDP, so I booked the Free Dining with a garden/woods view BC room. What a perfect place for the dining plan! We all loved the beverage machine at Market Place (coke freestyle?) - wow did we get our money's worth right there!!
We got our room requests (daybed and near lobby) and we also had a full balcony! Wonderful room - 2632. Just a walk down the stairs into the lobby to the Market Place. I hesitate to ever post negativities so I'm not going to get into detail, but we did find items in our room that must've belonged to previous guests. I gave to CM on our check-out day and she reported it and also called down the housekeeping supervisor. There was a receipt with a name on it, so they should be able to match the name up to the previous guests, and my hope is that they'll return the toys and other items to the rightful owners.
We had no construction/work in sight from our room which we appreciated! There was work happening all around, though. No bother to us, but while laying at pool, we had a full view. Also while eating Market Place breakfast outside, we watched them doing patchwork and painting in that area. Then also at the "front" entrance where you go out for the bus stop. I'm glad they're keeping BC looking great! But just beware they are sort of everywhere - lol. Didn't bother us at all, though.
We were so happy to have this stay at our beloved BC. The smell is still the same, everything was just as we remembered. We did have a brief stay last November mainly for CP/Epcot, but only 2 nights and then we moved to RPC. But just staying those 2 nights sort of hit a soft spot and I couldn't wait to book a longer trip there again.
*snip*
Thank you so much for the detailed review of your stay and the great pictures. I'm so glad to hear you had a fantastic trip!
I'll add your descriptions/pictures to the BC View Thread.
to posting on this forum!Did your room have a full balcony or one of the smaller ones?
Do you have any pictures of the view from your room that you could either post here or email to me at beachclubdee at yahoo?
to posting here.Thanks for the feedback about the transportation to HS. It really is a shame that the only current options to get there is by boat, which can be crowded and slow and walking, which can be an exhausting trip in the heat.
Last edited:
natebenma
Beach Club Dee
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2008
- Messages
- 20,143
I have updated the Be Our Guest list. Please take a moment to review your listing to see if the information I have is correct. If you have any corrections or clarifications, please let me know.
natebenma
Beach Club Dee
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2008
- Messages
- 20,143
Ignore this post- playing with first post and afraid I will screw it up.
Beach Club and Yacht Club FAQ thread
Table of Contents:
Click on Links Below
Post 1: Intro to the Yacht & Beach Club Resort, Refurbishment News (Just Keep Reading)
includes differences between the two resorts, maps, transportation options and information
Post 2: Stormalong Bay Pool
Post 3: Flying Jib Slide/Guppy Bay Kiddie Pool & Slide/Quiet Pools
Post 4: Resort Activities
Monthly Activities Schedule, Movie on the Beach, Campfire, Pool Activities
Post 5: Resort Amenities
Arcade, Health Club and Spa, Beauty Salon, Marina, Laundry, Kids Programs
Post 6: Gift Shops (The Beach Club Marketplace and Yacht Club Market at Ale & Compass) and the Solarium
BC Marketplace, YC Market at Ale & Compass, Solarium
Post 7: Dining
Post 8: Beach Club Resort Info
Post 9: Yacht Club Resort Info
Post 10: Beach Club Villa, Overview
Post 11: Beach Club Villa, Rooms
Post 12: Club Level Info
Post 13: FAQ
BC vs. YC, Room View Categories, Full vs. Juliet Balconies, Daybeds, Online vs. In-person checkin, Secret Exits, Pool/SAB ?, Rapid Refill Beverage Mug status, Water/Grocery Delivery options
Post 14: Other Useful Info
Int Gateway, MK transport, refill mugs, food options, packages, shipping to the resort, fireworks, COFFEE, Will it fit?, rentals, bounceback, guest communications, How do I? and MORE!
Post 15: Be Our Guest List
Post 16: Photos, Videos, Trip Reports & Links to Closed Threads
Post 17: Community Page
Post 18: Voluptous Noodle Swap Historical Page, Buzzy's Spot
Post 19: Lily's Pad
All rooms at the Beach Club, Beach Club Villas and Yacht Club have been renovated during the past 3 years.
Beach Club: October 2014-August 2015
Beach Club Villas: January 2016-September 2016
Yacht Club: October 2015-December 2015, Club Lounge Renovated. January 2017-September 2017, All Rooms Renovated
You can read all about it here: Room Renovation News, October 2014-September 2017
************************************************
Developing News:
Regatta Run, Thursdays starting in Sept 2018
3K run around Crescent Lake, Thursdays at 8 am, $15, Lots of great swag!
Regatta Run Details
Spring/Summer 2018
Exterior painting and maintenance ongoing at Beach Club Resort
Cranes/Cherrypickers and scaffolding may be spotted, we don't have a schedule of where or when work is taking place
Pictures and Info on Exterior Façade Refurbishment, Aug 2018
Unlocking Resort Rooms using smart phone, July 2018:
Ability to Unlock Your Guest Room Door with Smart Phone, Digital Key, Rolled-Out to Boardwalk, Yacht, and Beach Club Resorts
Stormalong Bay Pool
According to an information website for travel agents, a very small portion of Stormalong Bay Pool will be closed in order to make way for new cabanas. The remainder of the area will remain in full operation. During this time, it is possible that Guests may see or hear construction, but noise should not be heard from Guest rooms between dusk and 9:00am.
The area is on the YC side of the pool, next to the shallow, kiddie sandbar area.
* Mid-August – Fall 2018* There are also reports that the cabana installation has been postponed until later in 2018. Not much info has been posted by Disney.
as of mid-June, we have no further information on the dates of upcoming work.
Random News:
Friendship Boats are operating from YC dock to HS and EP as of Saturday June 30.
May 7- Mid Summer 2018: Swan/Dolphin Bridge Closure, Suspension of Friendship Boat Service from YC/BC to HS, bus service will be available
Estimated date for resumption of Friendship Boat service is June 29, 2018.
May 7 through Mid-Summer 2018: Refurbishment work is taking place on the bridge near the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels. As a result, there will be no FriendShip boat service to or from Disney's Hollywood Studios during this time. Service to and from Epcot and Disney's Boardwalk Resort will not be interrupted, with the exception of May 14-25, during which time the FriendShip boat dock at these hotels will also be undergoing refurbishment work. Additional Disney bus transportation will be operating to and from both Hollywood Studios and Epcot during this time. The pedestrian walkway across the bridge will remain open.
Disney Statement:
FriendShip boat service to Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be unavailable for approximately 6 weeks beginning Monday, May 7, 2018. This service connects Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the following Disney Resort hotels:
Bus transportation to Disney’s Hollywood Studios will remain available during this downtime.
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
- Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Source: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/water-transportation/
View attachment 322910
****************************************************************
Beach Club Quiet Pool (Tidal Pool) reopened following a short refurbishment from May until mid June 2018
Pictures of painting & construction around BC, mid-late June
March 2018- Jib Slide repair *update* Slide re-opened on March 10.
Due to unforeseen refurbishment, the Jib slide at the Stormalong Bay pool will be closed for repair until around March 11. Usually in this situation, guests of the Yacht & Beach Club are permitted to use the clown slide at nearby Boardwalk, and sometimes a ride can be arranged via golf cart.
February 2018
Knock! Knock!
Who's There?
Disney Security Room Check...
Do Not Disturb door hangers have been replaced at all Disney resorts with new hangers that indicate that Disney CMs may be entering the room for safety/security checks (particularly if a guest declines daily housekeeping)
Here's a couple of thread where you can get info or post comments/experiences:
Questions and Comments about the Disney Room Security Checks
Guest Experiences with Disney Room Checks
I don't make the news, I just report it!
January 2018
Disney Magical Express Pickup Time returned back to 3 hours before (domestic) flight
November 2017
New Travel Changes/4 hour Disney Magical Express Pickup Time
Ale & Compass Restaurant (formerly Captain's Grille) Open
Here is a review of the recently opened Ale & Compass Restaurant (formerly Captain's Grille) from Disney Food Blog:
Ale & Compass Dining Review, Disney Food Blog November 2017
Yacht & Beach Club resorts decorated for the holidays.
Yacht Club Goes to the Dogs
Breaking News- Reports are the "trial" period of permitting pet dogs to say in resort rooms will end in October 2018.
October 2017
discussion on this thread beginning on page 105X
Policy Allowing Pet Dogs During Stays at Yacht Club Resort
WDWNews press release about new dog policy
Appearing on WDW booking info for Yacht Club, October 2017:
Dog-Friendly Accommodations
Bring your pampered pooch to stay with you at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
Here at Walt Disney World Resort, we know that dogs aren’t simply pets—they’re members of your family. And since family is at the heart of everything we do, for a limited time, your furry friends are welcome to join you at select Disney Resort hotels. Let the tail wagging commence!
Note: Limit 2 dogs per room. Restrictions and fees apply.
How to Book
To bring your dog along on your upcoming visit, please call (407) 939-7539. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Services for Guests with Dogs
During your stay, Best Friends Pet Care can provide assistance with dog walking, day care and other pet services (fees apply). For details, please call (877) 4-WDW-PETS or (877) 493-9738, or visit bestfriendspetcare.com. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Experiences at Dog Friendly Resorts
*******************************************************
Additional Info, Menu Items & Prices
September 2017
The Beach Club Bus Stop is in the normal location, despite info to the contrary on the Disney/wdwinfo refurbishment page.
Word on the streets is that Ale & Compass Restaurant (formerly Captain's Grille) will reopen in October (see above- that date is delayed until sometime in November)
According to guest reports, large cases (24 bottles) of water are no longer being sold in the gift shops. You are able to purchase 8 12-ounce bottles of water (Dasani?) for $3.99
Pillows at the Beach Club have all been replaced. Each queen bed now has 2 firm and 2 soft pillows: Sobel Westex is the brand. "Sahara Nights Firm" and "Sobella Soft
Reports are that turndown service at both club level and in regular rooms (on request) is sporadic or non-existent.
Yacht Club Convention Center- October 2016- 2018
December 22, 2017- Topping Off, Final Steel Beam raised
Oct 2017:
Inside look at improvements to YC Convention Center:
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts Expansion – Coming 2018
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center, Newport Ballroom – Artist Concept Only
As part of Disney’s commitment to creating exceptional meetings and events, we are providing meeting planners and event organizers with even more resources to deliver on their goals by expanding the convention center and renovating the Guest rooms at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts.
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center, Pre-Function Area – Artist Concept Only
A 28,000-square-foot expansion of the convention center at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort will bring the total amount of flexible meeting and event space at this popular resort location to 100,000 square feet.
The new convention area will boast a 16,000 square-foot ballroom that can be divided into eight dynamic breakout spaces. The expansion will also include three pre-function areas and two distinct gathering rotundas providing unique networking spaces for attendees to relax and reconnect
Oct 2016: Per Orlando Sentinel:
"Yacht & Beach Club Resort plans to expand its convention space with an additional 25,000 square feet. That will bring total convention space at the resort to 100,000 square feet.
Reedy Creek, the Disney-controlled taxing district, filed a permit application with the South Florida Water Management District this week for the work. Construction will also include additional parking space across Epcot Resorts Boulevard. Plans show the convention space being expanded to the north, where there is now a parking area.
The work will start next month and be finished in spring of 2018."
We don't expect this to have a big impact as far as disruptions to guests in their rooms, but it may result in inconvenience to drivers because there will be fewer parking spaces available at the resort.
May 2017: The Market at Ale & Compass Open-
new quick service food location and refill mug station
retail sales of a small selection of merchandise may be found in the lobby
parts of the area are open as a lounge in the evening hours
(Formerly Fittings & Fairings Gift Shop)
View attachment 249441
The Market at Ale & Compass
See posts 6 and 7 for more pictures and info.
May 2017: Stormalong Bay shower room open near Beaches & Cream
See posts 2 and 3 for more pictures and info.
BREAKING NEWS:
July 2017: Gondola News
Click on link below to read article or on pictures to enlarge. Project is not expected to be completed until 2019
Construction Walls at International Gateway for Gondola Construction
View attachment 249464 View attachment 249465
April 2017: New room amenity- one liter of Dasani water in room free-of-charge.
May 2017-Fall 2017:
Major Renovation and Temporary Relocation of Captain's Grille Restaurant
Ale & Compass lounge also undergoing renovations, parts of the Market at Ale & Compass open as a lounge during evening hours.
Captain's Grille, one of the table service restaurants located just off the lobby of Disney's Yacht Club Resort is getting ready to be refurbished. Instead of closing, the restaurant will be relocating to oceanic-themed Ariel’s, a former restaurant space located at the nearby Beach Club, from mid-May until sometime this Fall as the work is being completed.
"From the moment you step through the ironwork gate, be immersed in an enchanting underwater setting— where colorful coral displays, whimsical fish sculptures and hand-blown glass bubbles make you feel like you’re inside the pages of a fairy tale."- Disney website
View attachment 229403
Jan 2017- Poolside shower room update.
Work has started. Part of the resort gaming arcade will be used for space. A guest was told the project was expected to be completed in April.
Disney Resort Package Delivery Policy- November 2016
"Please note that a $5 per package handling fee may apply to all packages that are received through the Front Desk or are delivered to your Disney Resort hotel room."
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/mail-services/
So far, we have not received reports from guests that this fee has been assessed at the Yacht & Beach Resort. A guest who had a packaged shipped (to the front desk) in early December was not charged the fee.
It does not appear that this fee is being charged for actual deliveries from places like Garden Grocer, Amazon Now (not Prime), stroller rentals, etc.
Please note that this is different from the weight-based handling charge if your package is delivered by UPS or FedEx to the convention center. See the FAQ Posts 13 and 14 on this page for more info.
Garden Grocer Delivery Changes Starting mid-Sept 2016
Delivery changes to Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Villas, and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Moving forward they will only be delivering to these resorts during the hours of 4:30pm-5:30pm. ALL orders placed before these changes will now be delivered between the hours of 4:30pm-5:30pm. GG apologizes for any inconvenience that this may have caused you. Please call customer service at 866-855-4350 for any questions or concerns.
Mosquito Control, Aug 2016
ETA: October 2017- bottle of bug spray is no longer being provided in resort rooms, but spray stations continue to be available throughout Disney resorts and theme parks.
Here's the rundown on the bug spray being handed out at Disney parks and resorts in Florida provided by the World of Yesterday, Tomorrow and Fantasy website/Facebook page, August 29, 2016:
"Resort guests will receive a bottle in their resort room on check-in day. No longer applicable
There are stations set up throughout the parks and Disney Springs where guests (both onsite and offsite) can spray down with the spray. The bottles at those stations stay at those stations, guests cannot take them when they leave the bug-spray station."
Teena's Retirement, January 2016:
After working for Disney for more than 10 years, Teena the Beach Club greeter retired on Monday January 25. She moved to Las Vegas to live with her daughter Jeanne and her precious granddaughter Lily. For many of us, the Beach Club lobby will never be the same without the enthusiastic greeting and warm smile from our friend.
Here's the link to a thread where you can post pictures, stories or just words of thanks and encouragement.
Best Wishes for Teena
Beach Club:
Insert Beach Picture
Yacht Club:
Insert Lighthouse Picture
What are the differences between the Beach Club and the Yacht Club?
The Beach Club and Yacht Club are similar resorts in terms of service and amenities, and have equal access to the shared pool complex, health club and video arcade. Both resorts have the same management team in place.
Some minor differences have been noted by guests:
Beach Club- club level lounge renovated in 2014, room renovations completed in August 2015
Lighter, beachy décor in lobby and rooms
Lobby can be active and lively with families waiting for meals at Cape May
Closer to EPCOT and Marketplace Gift Shop
Approximately 50% of rooms in all room categories have full balconies. The remaining are standing balconies.
Room attributes include carpets on floor, ceiling fans*, Cuisinart Pod Coffee Makers *ceiling fans may be in the process of being removed from rooms at the BC (2018)
Shared resort bus picks up and drops off at YC first
Yacht Club- renovations to club level lounge started October 2015, room renovations completed in June 2017
Darker woods and nautical décor in lobby and rooms
Lobby is more serene
Convention attendees are more likely to be booked at YC
Closer to Hollywood Studios and Friendship Boats
Most rooms have a full balcony (exceptions: 5163, 4163, 3163, 2163 and 1163)
Room attributes include wood floors, lots of storage units, Keurig coffee makers. No ceiling fans in rooms following the rehab.
The Market at Ale & Compass is smaller and offers different quick serve food items than the Beach Club Marketplace.
Shared resort bus usually picks up and drops off at the YC first
* Starting in October 2017, pet dogs are now being welcomed in guest rooms at the Yacht Club resort. Additional information posted at the beginning of this post.
Want more details about the differences between the two resorts? Check out this awesome blog post (November 2011) from The World of Deej:
The World of Deej: BC vs. YC
Pixarmom's comparison of BC and YC
Resort Map:
*********************************************************************
TRANSPORTATION
Bus Service:
Motorcoach transportation is available to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.
effective Fall 2015, there are afternoon buses to front of EPCOT
Boat Service:
Water launch is available to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Boardwalk,and the Swan and Dolphin Resorts.
Each boat makes the full circuit.
EPCOT Int Gateway -> Boardwalk Inn -> Yacht & Beach Club (shared dock) -> Swan & Dolphin (shared dock) -> Disney Hollywood Studios
Disney Hollywood Studios-> Swan & Dolphin -> Yacht & Beach Club -> Boardwalk Inn -> EPCOT International Gateway
Pro-tip: If you are taking the boat from the Beach Club/Yacht Club to Hollywood Studios, it may make sense to walk to the International Gateway dock to ensure you get a seat on the boat. Sometimes only a limited number of passengers waiting at the YC dock will be able to get on the boat.
Move info about 2018 Refurbishment here
The Yacht & Beach Club boat dock was closed for refurbishment in March 2011 but is now open again.
Walking is also an option to DHS and Epcot!
The walk to Epcot takes about 5-10 minutes depending on your pace.
The walk to DHS will take you a little longer but it is a beautiful walk! The distance from the Beach Club to Hollywood Studios is a little over a mile.
Shortcut near BW pool area:
From the BW to HS: Walk past the surrey bike rental kiosk on your left and friendship boat loading docks on your right. Take your first left [just before the ScreenDoor store] past Wyland Galleries and then your first right which will bring you to the Luna (Clown pool). Veer to the left around the Clown pool and you'll run right in to the walkway to HS. On the way back from HS, you'll see the Clown pool rollercoaster waterslide and there will be an entrance to the pool area on the backside of the slide.
This shortcut will save approx. 1/4 mile or 5 minutes.
Alternatively, you can access the path by walking all the way to the end of the Yacht Club and crossing the bridge there.
Here's a map created by Robo that explains the walking paths from DHS to Epcot, and places in between, illustrated in colorful detail:
Thanks, Robo, for permitting me to post this extremely helpful picture!
Here is one more map, showing the EPCOT Resort area and walking/running distances around Crescent Lake:
Bus board at BC bus stop, April 2016:
Early Morning Buses - it is difficult to find definitive answers about what time the morning buses to the theme parks start and how often they arrive at the resort bus stop. One morning, I went out to the Beach Club bus stop at 6:30 to see when buses came .
The buses I saw while I was there were 6:30 MK, 6:52 AK, 6:54 MK, 7:06 AK
MK opened at 9 am, AK was early EMH at 8 am
You can read about that here:
Sunday August 30 -
Bus Stop Babe
December 2017, Katesdad, YC to AK to AKL for Boma breakfast, 8:35 am
New bus routes are being introduced for the Walt Disney World water parks, May 29, 2016.
Guests will need to take a bus to Disney Springs to get to Typhoon Lagoon from a resort. After 1:00pm, guests will need to transfer to a different bus at Disney Springs. Before 1:00, they will remain on the same bus.
For guests traveling to Blizzard Beach, they will need to take a bus to Animal Kingdom and then transfer to a new bus there.
Disney-sponsored Minnie Vans-
service launched August 2017
Price Increase to $25, February 2018
I believe the rides are now available to guests at all Disney resorts.
According to Disney Signature Service:
"The new Minnie Van service will operate from 6:30 AM- 12:30 AM daily. Once enrolling into the service with one of the Cast Members, you will be able to reserve the service through a mobile app. Upon arrival Cast Members at bell services will be able to provide you with additional information regarding this service*. The Minnie Van can accommodate up to 6 guests and are currently priced at $20. Please note this information and pricing is subject to change as we have just begun to test this service. We look forward to having more additional information to share soon!"
* It appears that you need to add an app for a Lyft-type service to your smart phone. Guests have been receiving pop-up in their My Disney Experience accounts to assist them in activating an account.
Tipping is not permitted
There are a limited number of Minnie Vans that can accommodate scooters and wheelchairs. Make sure you specify if you need one of these vehicles and give plenty of notice when ordering one.
Pickup/Drop-off Spots at the Theme Parks
Epcot In the Bus Loop
Animal Kingdom Behind Bus Stop 17
Hollywood Studios Bus Stop 28
Magic Kingdom Bus Loop (Maybe Bus Stop 11)
Additional info
Blog Post about Minnie vans
Taxi Cabs are readily available to guests and can be hailed by one of the valet CMs outside of the Yacht or Beach Club lobby front entrances, however...
If you are traveling directly from the Y&BC to MK, the Disney bus will take you directly to the front entrance of the park, but if you drive, or take a taxi cab, you must park/get out at the TTC and either use the express monorail or ferry boat to get to the park
Phone Number for Mears Taxi: (407) 422-2222
Here is one website link to help you determine the estimated cabfare from point to point during your trip: Taxi Fare Finder
Uber Info: (To Be Added)
As with any Disney resort, travel to and from DTD can be torturous. We have not found the buses TO DTD to be all that bad but we HATE the buses that return from DTD to BC. The trip takes forever since the buses often stop at a water park, or change drivers, or make dropoffs at all of the EPCOT resorts, or all of the above. And the DTD return buses are always crowded. Always.
To avoid frustration, my family usually takes a boat to one of the DTD resorts, then a bus to EPCOT, where we enjoy a few attractions before returning to our BC room. It really breaks up the travel. Note: Park Hoppers required. I describe this method in great detail at the end of the FAQ post.
Alternatively, a taxi back to the BC would probably be around $20 including tip, and worth every penny!
IMHO, taking a taxi TO Typhoon Lagoon is also a good call, since the buses make DTD stops before going to the waterpark.
***********************************************************************
For really cool aerial views of the resort, check out this BING map application:
Aerial Map of Beach Club Resort
picture provided by littlewhiterabbit
********************************************************
Stormalong Bay Pool and Flying Jib Slide
Stormlong Bay is a beachside water park that offers up 3 acres of aquatic fun for the whole family. Catch currents in an expansive sand-bottomed pool or a lazy circular river, explore the "Shipwreck" and slide down one of the highest hotel waterslides at Walt Disney World Resort, or simply lie on the elevated tanning deck and soak up the sun's golden rays. With 750,000 gallons of water comprising an impressive complex of pools that range from swirling to placid every member of your family can find a place to make a splash at Stormalong Bay. Guppy Bay Kiddie pool lets even the youngest of guests in on the fun.
See more pictures and read about this amazing pool complex in Posts 2 and 3!
**********************************************************************
Want to see more???
Post 16: Photos, Video, Trip Reports & Links to Previously Closed Threads
Need to feed your fix for pix?
Link to Yacht Club, Beach Club and Beach Club Villa Photos~ Post All Your Photos!!!
Video: Inside Look at Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, June 2013 Look for Teena at 1:14 in this video
Check out this YouTube video with a mini-tour of parts of the resort. Room depicted is in the Beach Club resort Video Tour
Got some time to kill? Here's a Bing Map of the resort and surrounding area- you can zoom in and out. Teena said she thought she saw her car in the parking lot!!!
Bing Map of YC/BC
THANK YOU to Joe Cool, a high school student who originally put together this FAQ thread and to Tete01830 for keeping it going.
natebenma
Beach Club Dee
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2008
- Messages
- 20,143
For Historical Purposes- Refurbishment of Friendship Boats/Dock
Boat Service Fully Resumed June 30, 2018
Disney Statement:
FriendShip boat service to Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be unavailable for approximately 6 weeks beginning Monday, May 7, 2018. This service connects Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the following Disney Resort hotels:
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
- Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Source: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/water-transportation/
View attachment 322910
jlundeen
Mickey Fanatic
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2011
- Messages
- 4,347
Can you remind me again of the order they travel from Epcot to HS, and then back again...I can never remember about YC/BC then BWI or the other way around.
natebenma
Beach Club Dee
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2008
- Messages
- 20,143
To be honest, I have never been able to keep track of that either.
This is the info I have on Page 1, Post 1:
(if this is not correct, please let me know)
Boat Service:
Water launch is available to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Boardwalk, and the Swan and Dolphin Resorts.
Each boat makes the full circuit.
EPCOT Int Gateway -> Boardwalk Inn -> Yacht & Beach Club (shared dock) -> Swan & Dolphin (shared dock) -> Disney Hollywood Studios
Disney Hollywood Studios-> Swan & Dolphin -> Yacht & Beach Club -> Boardwalk Inn -> EPCOT International Gateway
Pro-tip: If you are taking the boat from the Beach Club/Yacht Club to Hollywood Studios, it may make sense to walk to the International Gateway dock to ensure you get a seat on the boat. Sometimes only a limited number of passengers waiting at the YC dock will be able to get on the boat.
*************************************************************************************************
I don't have anything posted about when the routes start, or how often the boats run (20 minutes) because I don't trust that info.
Last edited:
Your info is correct, Dee.To be honest, I have never been able to keep track of that either.
This is the info I have on Page 1, Post 1:
(if this is not correct, please let me know)
Boat Service:
Water launch is available to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Boardwalk, and the Swan and Dolphin Resorts.
Each boat makes the full circuit.
EPCOT Int Gateway -> Boardwalk Inn -> Yacht & Beach Club (shared dock) -> Swan & Dolphin (shared dock) -> Disney Hollywood Studios
Disney Hollywood Studios-> Swan & Dolphin -> Yacht & Beach Club -> Boardwalk Inn -> EPCOT International Gateway
Pro-tip: If you are taking the boat from the Beach Club/Yacht Club to Hollywood Studios, it may make sense to walk to the International Gateway dock to ensure you get a seat on the boat. Sometimes only a limited number of passengers waiting at the YC dock will be able to get on the boat.
*************************************************************************************************
I don't have anything posted about when the routes start, or how often the boats run (20 minutes) because I don't trust that info.
Catching the FriendShip boat at IG will make more sense, though, if staying at the BC, as it's a little shorter walk from there, than walking to dock at YC. Unless it's during a super busy time, such as over Christmas, there should be room available, if boarding at the YC dock.
When TSL opened, the frequency of the boats was increased, so they now generally run 4X per hour, instead of the previous 3X per hour. A boat was added to the route, to accommodate the every 15 minutes schedule.
jlundeen
Mickey Fanatic
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2011
- Messages
- 4,347
Thanks, Dee!To be honest, I have never been able to keep track of that either.
This is the info I have on Page 1, Post 1:
(if this is not correct, please let me know)
Boat Service:
Water launch is available to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Boardwalk, and the Swan and Dolphin Resorts.
Each boat makes the full circuit.
EPCOT Int Gateway -> Boardwalk Inn -> Yacht & Beach Club (shared dock) -> Swan & Dolphin (shared dock) -> Disney Hollywood Studios
Disney Hollywood Studios-> Swan & Dolphin -> Yacht & Beach Club -> Boardwalk Inn -> EPCOT International Gateway
Pro-tip: If you are taking the boat from the Beach Club/Yacht Club to Hollywood Studios, it may make sense to walk to the International Gateway dock to ensure you get a seat on the boat. Sometimes only a limited number of passengers waiting at the YC dock will be able to get on the boat.
*************************************************************************************************
I don't have anything posted about when the routes start, or how often the boats run (20 minutes) because I don't trust that info.
jlundeen
Mickey Fanatic
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2011
- Messages
- 4,347
For those who have been there recently since the construction of the Gondola pad at HS, have you noticed an increase in riders vs. walkers. I understand the pathway is longer now, so if you can also shed some light on how much additional time it takes, that would be appreciated.
natebenma
Beach Club Dee
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2008
- Messages
- 20,143
Thanks!
OK, I added the info about the timing.
I also added the following, but need to put the actual info about strollers. Who can tell me the rules about folding them up or leaving kids in the stroller while on board:
Friendship boats are accessible for guests in wheelchairs and ECVs, but are limited to taking 2 of these per boat.
Do strollers need to be emptied and folded once on board, or does it depend on how crowded the boat is and/or if there are wheelchairs/ECVs on board?
Do strollers need to be emptied and folded once on board, or does it depend on how crowded the boat is and/or if there are wheelchairs/ECVs on board?
Last edited:
areno79
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 25, 2005
- Messages
- 2,250
Page 1306-1308
Here are pictures of the interior of BC fridge
Impressive packing job by Beer Me:
I'd say a full size bottle of creamer will fit.
Is your stay at the Yacht & Beach Club resort?
Thank you so much for the detailed review of your stay and the great pictures. I'm so glad to hear you had a fantastic trip!
I'll add your descriptions/pictures to the BC View Thread.
Did your room have a full balcony or one of the smaller ones?
Do you have any pictures of the view from your room that you could either post here or email to me at beachclubdee at yahoo?
Thanks for the feedback about the transportation to HS. It really is a shame that the only current options to get there is by boat, which can be crowded and slow and walking, which can be an exhausting trip in the heat.
Thanks a bunch, Dee!
surprise!
niccikatie
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- May 5, 2010
- Messages
- 467
Our last trip was in 2013 but I have to say there were WAAAYYYY more people waiting for the boats at DHS that I remembered in the past. It took us three boats (two filled before us and the we got on the third one - about 25-30 minutes of waiting) to get on when we were there on Saturday. It didn't seem like that many people on the dock when we were leaving YC but returning was CRAZY!
We may have made the second boat, but just after the first boat passed there was a downpour - the people under cover of the boat dock wouldn't move up, so a bunch of us filled the exit side of the dock. Then, the second boat came and a bunch of people that came after us made a big stink that we all "had gotten out of line" and needed to go to the end of the line. We didn't, but re-entered the line at a point that the second boat filled right when we got to it - go figure!
EdnaMarieMode
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jul 16, 2018
- Messages
- 1,488
Any time we boarded (visit from 8/17-8/24) we were allowed to keep our stroller open and our 2 yo in it. We were told to place the stroller in the back row, which has signage indicating it’s for wheelchairs.
We were never boarding a boat that had a wheelchair already on or boarding and I’m not sure if that would have changed the directions we were given. More than one wheelchair/ stroller can easily fit on either side (for a total of 4, including plenty of room to maneuver or have additional “guests on wheels” if needed).
The boats were not crowded, which may or may not determine whether or not the stroller had to be folded. We also did not board them right during the park opening rush (more like 8 AM when the park opened at 7 for EMH). I would say it’s really dependent on a few factors, so be prepared to fold the stroller if the boat is full or guests requiring a wheelchair need the space but it’s probably going to be fine to keep it open.
One boat operator pointed out that once you take the kid out, remove the “baggage” and fold the stroller you’re still taking up the same amount of room, only now you’re just taking up more time. I can’t say I disagree!
jlundeen
Mickey Fanatic
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2011
- Messages
- 4,347
That makes sense...
Did you notice more on the boats or were there still many folks walking... curious what the construction has done to impact the number of folks taking the boat.
Our trip is right after Thanksgiving, and one of the guests in my party will have an EVC, and a few of the rest of us try to conserve our steps as much as possible, so with the extended walkway, we may chose to boat rather than walk, depending on the crowding issue on the boats.
).
EdnaMarieMode
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jul 16, 2018
- Messages
- 1,488
I didn’t notice any guests walking at all but I will be honest, I wasn’t looking (too busy keeping a hawk eye on my 2 yo because he chose the week we were there to demonstrate his ability to slide out of the stroller’s shoulder straps).
We were never on a boat that was crowded. More than once we had the entire boat to ourselves. I’m not sure what the boats looked like for those trying to get there right when HS opened but we took a 7:30/ 8 AM boat (we were at the park by 8:15) and there was plenty of room.
I know many people say they are making the walk and it’s not an issue and so on- that wasn’t the case for us (me, DH, 11 yo, 14 yo, and 2 yo in stroller). We regularly walk all over NYC so it isn’t like we just aren’t used to walking. That 20 minute walk has absolutely no shade and no breeze. Just the walk from the HS exit to the bus pickup area was enough for me to say I’m not making the walk all the way to BC from HS. Maybe in cooler weather or if it’s not so sunny out, it’s not as bad. I didn’t make the walk before the route was shifted so
I can’t compare the difference.
-
Aurora Market Inside Helios Grand Hotel is Now Open
-
A Leisurely Stroll Through Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
-
New Salads Coming to Disneyland Next Week
-
Alaska Airlines Reveals New Disney-Themed Plane
-
Former Disney Cast Member Sentenced With Jail Time & Steep Fine
-
We're Over the Moon for PIZZA MOON at Epic Universe
-
Laid-Back Rides, Great Food, and Nostalgia at Paradise Gardens in DCA
Save Up to 30% on Rooms at Walt Disney World!
Save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when you stay 5 consecutive nights or longer in late summer and early fall. Plus, enjoy other savings for shorter stays.This offer is valid for stays most nights from August 1 to October 11, 2025.
CLICK HERE
