RE: Illumination Cruises

[MAC3]

How are they? Are they worth the money? I was thinking of doing this for a first night type thing or as a night thing to do when we have an pool day?

From what I saw you're parked so close to the bridge How can you see anything?

Thanks,

 

[LeftCoaster]

You're basically parked juuuust underneath the bridge so you still have a perfect, unobstructed view of World Showcase lagoon. I did this last fall and hope to do it again this fall!

 

[Simba's Mom]

Originally posted by MAC3
How are they? Are they worth the money?

They're terrific-and definitely worth the money. Actually I think the Illuminations Cruise is one of the very few things at WDW where it costs less than it's worth. Very good buy!

 

[Texowl2]

I'm a bit of a contrarian on the Illuminations cruise. We thought from a cost, time, and view perspective that it wasn't that great. You have to get there quite early, time that could be better spent doing something else. The view is low in the water and I think there are much better views. Also not exactly easy to get a reservation....

 

[4greatboys]

We just went on our first one in June and we loved it. We did think it was worth the money. You have a great view and no crowds to fight after its over. Our captain was great and even dropped us off at MGM so we could catch a bus back to our resort.

 

[MAC3]

Originally posted by Texowl2
I'm a bit of a contrarian on the Illuminations cruise. We thought from a cost, time, Also not exactly easy to get a reservation....

Could you tell me how far in advance you need to book? & approximately how much it costs? I appreciate all the information.

Thanks

 

[jstbcuz94]

It cost about $120 and MUST be reserved 90 days out. There are only 5 boats available so you must start calling a few minutes before 7AM Florida time. 1-407-WDW-PLAY

I would reccommend calling when they arent open so you know which buttons you need to push when they are open. Otherwise you will listen to a bunch of automated stuff and they will be gone for the day.

I have never been to WDW and I booked a cruise on my first try following the directions I found here on the DIS.

Enjoy!

 

[SamanthaL]

Originally posted by Simba's Mom
They're terrific-and definitely worth the money. Actually I think the Illuminations Cruise is one of the very few things at WDW where it costs less than it's worth. Very good buy!

SSHHHH! Don't let THEM hear you!


I loved the cruise both times we have done it. It is $120 but it is customary to tip the driver. Both our drivers were fabulous and deserved the tip they got.
It is the best view around as far as I am concerned and totally worth the money. They first take you for a ride then they dock under the bridge for the show. It was breathtaking and I have seen the show from many vantage points.
Be sure to call EXACTLY 90 days out and around 6:57 or 58.
The tough part isn't deciding if it is worth it, it is getting the ressie!

 

[MAC3]

Sorry for all the questios guys but is that 120.00 PP? Park enterence not required because you don't actually enter the park right?

How many people are allowed on the boat?

 

[LJC1861]

The cost of $120 is for the boat and most of the boats hold 10-12 people. Kids are welcome and lifejackets are both provided and required for them. If you have a smaller group lots of people offer to share their boat with other DIS families and that is a great way to cut down on the costs. One captain that I have used over and over is Jeff. He is extremely entertaining and great with kids.

Good luck getting your reservation. I recommend doing a trial run the day before so you know what to expect when you actually need it. Become familiar with the different voices on the voice mail systems and know the numbers you will be asked to push. The quicker you get through the system the better the chance you will get a boat. I also recommend calling for the first night of your trip. This way, if you don't get one on the first try you still have several nights left to try for.

Linda

 

[SamanthaL]

No park admission required! $120 for the boat, that is with the tax I think. You would just need to add the tip.

 

[MAC3]

Thanks everyone! It sounds great. I appreciate all the tips for trying to get it too!

I will book it and then see if anyone on the Dis wants to share with me. If I'm lucky enough to get it!

Thanks Bunches,