Has anyone heard of an Illuminations Tour?

[BYC]

My adult daughter said she was in Epcot last month, and saw some "civilians" riding on the Illuminations raft as it passed under the bridge to set up. She asked someone about that, and was told there is actually a tour where you can pay and go out with them and watch them set up. Is this really true?? It just doesn't seem possible. I know my young adult son would love to do that!

 

[Mum23]

Yes. They have them from Epcot for Illuminations and from wilderness (i think) for Wishes.

They leave about 30 minutes prior to the start of the show (you have to be there 45 minutes early). It leaves from a little "hut" on the far side of the lighthouse pier at the Yacht Club. They supply TONS of snacks and drinks and there is room for 8-10 people depending on the boat. The cost in September was $390 plus tip.

 

[prudence64]

Yes. They have them from Epcot for Illuminations and from wilderness (i think) for Wishes.

They leave about 30 minutes prior to the start of the show (you have to be there 45 minutes early). It leaves from a little "hut" on the far side of the lighthouse pier at the Yacht Club. They supply TONS of snacks and drinks and there is room for 8-10 people depending on the boat. The cost in September was $390 plus tip.

This sounds different than what the op was asking. There are illumination cruises to watch the show, but are there backstage shows to watch the set up in the afternoon?

 

[Luvchefmic]

Your daughter may have seen the techs, but no there's no tour with the pyrotechnic experts to watch them set up. There are various Illumination & Wishes Cruises though info is here:



http://www.wdwinfo.com/recreation/fireworks.htm

 

[Mum23]

Ah yes. I'm sorry. Didn't read through all the way.

 

[BYC]

Thank you! I didn't think it was possible they could take such a risk. Too bad---that would be right up my son's alley!

 

[SyracuseWolvrine]

You may have seen the technicians. They typically wear grey t-shirts, and with their life vests on, the "WDW Fireworks" logo was probably covered up.