Paying for Fast Pass in 2006 Birnbaums?

[jade1]

Noticed that on the Rumor Board and started wondering if the Annual Meetings covered this-if members would receive free FP and how many etc. Anyone hear yet?

 

[Chuck S]

According to reports posted here from those that attended the meetings, Fast Pass was not mentioned. I just retured from a trip last night, and the FP system seems to be working fine as it is, there would seem to be no advantage to Disney to make major changes to the program, except perhaps to give all resort guests some sort of "extra" Fast Pass perk.

 

[bicker]

I sure hope that comes to pass...

 

[JimMIA]

According to reports posted here from those that attended the meetings, Fast Pass was not mentioned. I just retured from a trip last night, and the FP system seems to be working fine as it is, there would seem to be no advantage to Disney to make major changes to the program, except perhaps to give all resort guests some sort of "extra" Fast Pass perk.

I forget the details of this, but there was some kind of regulatory filing a few months ago by Disney which would allow them to link FastPasses with on-site lodging.

The speculation at the time was that they were either going to offer extra FastPasses, or some option of scheduling FastPasses for onsite guests. There was also some speculation they would limit FastPasses to onsite guests, but I think the consensus was that would be a marketing disaster -- as would charging for FP's, IMHO.

 

[Chuck S]

I forget the details of this, but there was some kind of regulatory filing a few months ago by Disney which would allow them to link FastPasses with on-site lodging.

The speculation at the time was that they were either going to offer extra FastPasses, or some option of scheduling FastPasses for onsite guests. There was also some speculation they would limit FastPasses to onsite guests, but I think the consensus was that would be a marketing disaster -- as would charging for FP's, IMHO.

I think it was part of a patent application, where all the capabilities of the Fast Pass system were listed. If that is the case, it could also be Disney protecting their marketing interests to the Fast Pass system, and their ability to market the system to other amusement park companies.

 

[jade1]

I forget the details of this, but there was some kind of regulatory filing a few months ago by Disney which would allow them to link FastPasses with on-site lodging.

The speculation at the time was that they were either going to offer extra FastPasses, or some option of scheduling FastPasses for onsite guests. There was also some speculation they would limit FastPasses to onsite guests, but I think the consensus was that would be a marketing disaster -- as would charging for FP's, IMHO.

Sounds about right. I think US charges extra for FOTL but not for FP correct? But do give FOTL for onsite only. Maybe there is a similar formula they are working towards. Just getting a couple a day and able to plan/choose would be good for us since they commando days are over. Give me a 6PM Soarin and a 7PM Test Track and I'm set for one of our days-way in advance.

 

[calypso*a*go-go]

I don't think it would be a disaster to only give FP to onsite guests...I think it would be a great perk that would give people even more incentive to stay in a Disney resort. Maybe they were testing the waters with Magical Express. It would be interesting to see some stats on whether or not occupancy increased by providing free transfers.

I don't think there's anyone that wouldn't come to WDW because they didn't qualify for a FP -- they wouldn't be happy about it...but they'd still show up!

 

[manning]

Isn't it for on-site guests now??

 

[DebbieB]

Isn't it for on-site guests now??

Anyone can use it. You use the ticket you entered the park with.

 

[Mickmse2002]

I would love to see some sort of distribution system for passes based on resort stay, that would be a great perk. I think we are much more likely to see changes made that would require users to pay for the passes.

 

[jade1]

I would love to see some sort of distribution system for passes based on resort stay, that would be a great perk. I think we are much more likely to see changes made that would require users to pay for the passes.

Me too. And paying for passes is not the issue, its the "PRIORITY" of the passes that matters. If you can select a given number of passes even the night before (much less weeks or months before) the general off site resorts-that may be all you need. As everyone enters the parks the next day-whats left is left for passes that day on given rides. I am sure they would limit the FP percent an hour that can be "pre selected" (maybe 50%), so if you wanted RNR at 9PM tomorrow (or 7PM etc) it may be all pre booked and only display what is left (maybe its only 1PM-2PM left) but at least you would know and could plan your day etc. Also if you can turn on your TV and check TOT FP times (maybe after swimming SAB around 2PM) and grab them right then if they are still showing 7PM for example that would be very convenient.

 

[Caskbill]

Orlando's Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure parks also have a 'fastpass' type program for all guests (just use your park ticket), but they additionally have a FOTL (Front of the Line) program for their on-site guests, those using their on-site hotels.

My guess is that Disney is looking at doing something special for their on-site guests also. A perk for those staying in WDW resorts. (That would of course include all DVC on-site resorts).

 

[Dean]

Disney's resort system is too great to allow FP for all onsite guests. They'd have to find a way to limit it some how. The two best (not accounting for complaints) ways to do wo would be deluxe, deluxe plus moderate or pay for the perk separately in one way or another such as a package deal. There is no truly fair system as many would be left out no matter what choice was made. I'd guess the most likely is a package deal much like the DDP but we shall see.

 

[FreeTime]

Caskbill-Why do you think that the perk would include DVC resorts are well? If they did this I would like for it to include DVC, however dining is not an option and we are not guaranteed perks? It would definately turn me off to my ownership though, if they offered these passes but not to us DVCers.

 

[Chuck S]

Freetime,

I agree with Caskbill that DVC resorts would most likely be included. For all onsite perks that are extended to WDW guests, DVC has been included. The dining plan is not a simple "on-site" perk, as it is currently part of a "package" and is not available to "all" guests (discounted "room only" ressies can't add dining). But any perk that is extended to ALL WDW guests (package delivery, free theme park parking, etc) has included the DVC resorts. Plus, remember that there are always some DVC resort rooms available to book with cash through Disney...they'll want those perks for those guests.

Also, they have announced that Dining will be available to DVCers beginning with April ressies.