Dolphin & Swan

[christa112]

Can someone shed some light on these resorts for me. I was under the impression that these are not owned by Disney and that you cannot use the DDP while staying there. Can you use the WDW transportation? Why are they even on property?

Just curious.

 

[wdwrich]

Why they are there is a question for Diney management, but they aren't operated by Disney. You can use Disney transportation and I believe you do get access to EMH. DDP is not available. Shades of Green is also on property (next to the Poly) and it's owned/operated by the government for military and retirees. Same deal there- you can access Disney transportation, and you get EMH and free parking at the parks, but no DDP.

 

[kapoof]

they are very pretty resorts but no not dinsey owned. they offer great location and nice beds and good coffee! also if you can get a good rate, they are worth it! the dolphin is a sheraton and the swan is a westin.

 

[dawz1026]

They are on the Disney Transportation system..buses and also boats to MGM and Epcot (or you can walk to both) They are very nice modern hotels that have alot of business functions going on (at least they have when we've visited) the location is great and Id imagine if you get a room on an upper level you would have amazing views of the fireworks etc at night.The walk to the Boardwalk can't be beat!

 

[maciemouse]

We just stayed there for a quick trip in June. We could stay at the Dolphin for half the price of the beach club. We are so glad we did. We had a great stay. Our room was so clean and fresh. It also overlooked MGM. The pools were great and were not busy, so that was nice. We went over to the boardwalk every night. We even rode the boat to beach club and got ice cream. I am usually reluctant about not staying in Disney Hotels. I felt like I was right in the middle of the magic.

 

[tkldisney]

You do get Extra Magic Hours, & as others have said great location & beds.
You don't get, DDP or use of Magical Express. You also cannot charge to your room except at the Swan & Dolphin. I think you can get package delivery to them from the parks, but not directly to your room. (guest services)

 

[christa112]

Thanks for the info.

 

[mikesmom]

Why are they even on property?

They were there first. Not first, exactly, but the Swan & Dolphin were built back before Disney decided to get into the hotel business is a serious way. They were built in 1990. At that time there were more non-Disney owned options for lodging than Disney resorts. Besides Swan & Dolphin there were several hotels in the Hotel Plaza near what is now Downtown Disney. Disney options were the Poly, Contemporary, Grand Floridian, Ft Wilderness Campground and Disney Inn (now Shades of Green). There may have been a moderate resort, but I'm not sure. There definitely were no Value resorts.