Fastpass Explanation Please

[jimmybog]

Right then, I'm a bit confused about the way fastpass works. This web sites explanation mentions about a "1 hour window to return to the ride". Does this mean you have one hour after your return time to go on the ride?. Also I saw in the Brits Guide a mention of getting another fastpass before you even return for the first one. How does this work as I did not really understand it? Sounds like there is some secret about the use of fastpasses but I need it explained better. Thanks

 

[Mike Jones]

Hiya! If you search the boards I'm sure you will find lots of info about fastpass, or visit any of the official or unofficial disney sites - you can try http://www.kingdommagictravel.com/disneyworld/theme_parks/fastpass.htm for a fairly good explanation. You CAN hold 2 or more tickets if you get one during the time slot window shown on the first ticket... more info in the link. Good luck. Mike

 

[goofy4tink]

If I'm remembering correctly, and at 54 that could be a problem, the fast-pass actually has a time written on it telling you when you can get another one. So, let's say it says to come back between 10:00-11:00. There will be a time written on it (but I forget what the time frame is!) that is before your window closes. So, you could get another one, and then ride the present one, close to the end of the return window. Oh man, I've probably confused you even more!!

 

[ccrosner]

Dear Mike Jones,

Thanks for supplying that link! I have been avoiding truly trying to understand the Fast Pass system because it seems so complicated when I read other posts. That link explains it well enough that I now understand when other posters talk about getting two tickets, etc.

I am hoping we don't have to use FastPass that often this coming weekend, but I now will know how!

 

[jimmybog]

No, in addition to the link posted further up and your reply, it does make sense to me now. The link above says you can get another fastpass after about 10 minutes into your current return time frame. And also it says that since 2002 Disney changed their systems to allow a second fast pass to be issued around 45 minutes after the current one was issued (Would this be the additional time that you mentioned?). All makes more sense now but can you see why I was initially confused? Wonder how many people who use fast pass are aware of these little quirks! Thanks all

 

[Mike Jones]

Re: Thanks.. you're welcome.
I think the most imprortant thing about fastpass is to USE IT! We have only ever visited the world at Easter time (last 3 years), supposedly the 2nd busiest time of year, and, using FP we have done virtually all we wanted to do at the parks before lunchtime each day! It works! ...and you don't half feel smug as you glide past the standby lines... why would anyone stand in 90 degree heat for 45-90 minutes especially with kids in tow (it's supposed to be fun, folks!) when you can walk straight on for free?!!

 

[jimmybog]

The more I read the different forums, it just seems to me that fast pass is not really that widely used by the park guests. Even though it seems to be widely publicised, i cannot for the life of me understand why people still stand in line. If the fastpass return times were like 2 to 3 hours then yeah why use them. You would maybe only get on four fast pass rides in a day. But with a return time of an hour or so surely you could easily do all the main attractions and still have time for the minor ones in between. Maybe I'm wrong and actually most people do use fast pass but from what I've been reading recently sounds like people still prefer to queue up.

 

[Dan Murphy]

Just thought two more good explanations might add a bit.......

http://www.wdisneyw.co.uk/fast.html

http://www.wdwig.com/fastpass.htm

And yes, FP works great, use it.

 

[DrTomorrow]

Originally posted by jimmybog
The more I read the different forums, it just seems to me that fast pass is not really that widely used by the park guests. Even though it seems to be widely publicised, i cannot for the life of me understand why people still stand in line.

It's like a lot of the other information here on the DIS; a few people make the effort to learn, understand and plan. The rest just show up and wait in line.

Sadly humourous FASTPASS moment at DL last year: as we went into the FP line for a ride (Indy?) some guy said "Hold on; the line's over here." I explained that we had our FastPasses, and he said, "Oh, had to pay extra for those, eh?" in a snotty way. I then explained (simply) how they worked and pointed out the FP machines - he was stunned.

 

[jimmybog]

Your certainly right about other information on the forum. I've read and re read about four different WDW/Orlando guides so far. But its amazing what additional information you find out about from these forums. Things you would never even of thought about asking, let alone trying to find out from a guide. I've been asking different questions for a few weeks now as my leaving date is getting near. And I have to say that answers I got from here will certainly help me avoid many pitfalls.

 

[Mike Jones]

originally posted by DrTomorrow:

Sadly humourous FASTPASS moment at DL last year: as we went into the FP line for a ride (Indy?) some guy said "Hold on; the line's over here." I explained that we had our FastPasses, and he said, "Oh, had to pay extra for those, eh?" in a snotty way. I then explained (simply) how they worked and pointed out the FP machines - he was stunned.

... we witnessed a very patient CM trying to deal with a disgruntled and loudly offensive american guy at RnRC who seemed to be arguing the case that, as he was not aware of the FP system, they should allow him access to the FP line NOW, in order to make amends for their pathetic and shameful marketing lapse, as he should not have to stand in line for 70 minutes when "those other guys are just walking straight on!".... I heard the dear CM repeat 3 or 4 times that, if he got a FP he could also walk straight on, but not for a couple of hours... I don't think he got it, do you? Use the FP!

 

[seashoreCM]

>>> return times 2 to 3 hours away ... go on only 4 or 5 rides ...

If the return time is far far away, you can get your next fast pass for a different ride (or the same ride) 45 minutes to 2 hours after fetching this fast pass depending on how busy the park is.

You can wait for and go on other rides while waiting for your fast pass(es) to mature.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/fastpass.htm

 

[FloridaCat]

i went down to WDW on an errand and the parks are empty. This was a time frame of 11:00 to 2:00 PM. Saturday will be busy as this is the time of year the locals go and Saturday is the day they go on. Other then that crowds will be low.

 

[wdwguide]

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