Illuminations specialty cruise question

[sadiwest]

OK...so I've decided to up the ante for my husband's surprise. Not only does he have NO idea we're doing a cruise on the "Breathless" but he also doesn't know that my mom and stepdad might come to join us (they live in Fla).

I told my mother that park admission is not required because you don't actually go into EPCOT....the cruise leaves from the Yacht and Beach Club marina.

Did I lie??
I can't even imagine needing to pay to get into a park when you're not entering the park at all.
Are their any costs or fees involved (other than the cruise itself & tip for captain which I am paying for as a Mother's Day 'event')??

Almost down to a 2-month countdown. WOO HOO

Thanks, in advance for your answers!
Sandi

 

[Crazy Hakim]

You are correct, you do NOT need and Epcot ticket to see IllumiNations from Breathless or any of the pontoon boats.

You have it all covered, have a great time!

 

[subtchr]

Sandi, I REALLY want to book the Breathless for an Illuminations cruise on our trip in late June. I have the date I can call and all the tips from the initial Illuminations cruise thread. Any other advice on getting the reservation? Thanks, and have fun!

 

[sadiwest]

Sandi, I REALLY want to book the Breathless for an Illuminations cruise on our trip in late June. I have the date I can call and all the tips from the initial Illuminations cruise thread. Any other advice on getting the reservation? Thanks, and have fun!

Sue, I am not an expert....at all. This will be my first Illuminations/specialty cruise. The ONLY advice I have to give you is probably also the 'best':

If you don't get it with the first call.....don't give up. CALL AGAIN! The first time I called they said ALL dates within our May 11-20th stay were BOOKED?!!? The second time I'd called...someone had cancelled their reservation and I was lucky enough to snag it.

"Crazy Hakim" also emailed me some pictures of the Breathless after I'd sent him a PM. You should PM him and ask...(he posted above). AWESOME pictures and it's a beautiful boat.
Good luck!

Sandi