Soarin around the world tour

[CarolMN]

The CMs/security "clear" the park before they begin admitting any guests to EPCOT. Even the early tour/ADR people have to wait until that happens. In my experience, they don't let people in the main gate before the park is "cleared" either. Occasionally, they encounter something unusual when they are "clearing" and then do not let guests in as early as expected. No way to predict when that might happen. If we are lucky enough to book the Soarin' tour, I'm planning to go to the IG entrance and hope for the "usual". FWIW, if everyone is delayed, t he tour will almost certainly wait for you. At least they did so for us a few years ago when we did the Segway tour.

 

[Mrs.Milo]

Thank you! I'll be calling Monday for my Food & Wine trip.

 

[dznyacct]

Good luck everyone ......I've been calling almost daily for my May and October trips to no avail. I started at 9 am 180 days out and all booked up . I'm giving up.

 

[bobbiwoz]

The CMs/security "clear" the park before they begin admitting any guests to EPCOT. Even the early tour/ADR people have to wait until that happens. In my experience, they don't let people in the main gate before the park is "cleared" either. Occasionally, they encounter something unusual when they are "clearing" and then do not let guests in as early as expected. No way to predict when that might happen. If we are lucky enough to book the Soarin' tour, I'm planning to go to the IG entrance and hope for the "usual". FWIW, if everyone is delayed, t he tour will almost certainly wait for you. At least they did so for us a few years ago when we did the Segway tour.

I think that this is a good course of action. The CMs at BCV took care of us because we needed help. We got to the front of Epcot in plenty of time, and waited to be let in with everyone else. There was an indication that something had happened, I do think the IG would have been opened except for something unusual.

 

[Perelandra]

I called at precisely 8AM at 182 days from the Wednesday I wanted and was told by my CM that she has not been successful even 1 time and she gets calls every morning trying to book it, so I wouldn't hold my breath. 20 people once a week, especially when members can bring guests makes it like the needle in the haystack.

 

[KathyR]

We went on the tour from the IG 2 different Wednesdays. The first one we went over around 7:30 and the gate was closed and locked. We waited and they eventually opened the gate. After that we waited for the "clear" to be let in. From there they priority let in the ppl with ADR's and Tour resv. first. We got in around 7:50-55 and had no trouble getting to the tour in that time. They also waited until everyone checked in before starting. The following Wednesday when we went for our tour, we just waited longer before heading over to the IG; because, we learned the procedure from the previous week. No sense getting up any earlier than need be lol. I would just be there around 7:45, and they will let you in as soon as they are cleared to do so-no different from the front entrance. BTW the 2 tours we went on were very different. Each guide had their own style and own things they highlighted. We enjoyed both and were glad we kept both reservations.

 

[IrishEye]

What about length, when did you finish? We are hoping to get back to BLT in time for the bus to the Cruise Port otherwise I should arrange alternate transportation.

 

[bobbiwoz]

Our tour was about an hour.

 

[keishashadow]

I've tried for five different trips thus far, on hold w/MS @ 9 am first possible day, shut out each time after 30 minute hold times.

Asked to speak to supervisor when it happened for October trip. Was told that this offering is different from the TL/Pandora events. It is designed to be a sales tool, wherein members introduce their friends & family to the joy of DVC membership

Not feeling particularly joyful, I indicated my thoughts that perhaps they should:

A) expand the number of days it's offered

B) charge members a modest fee Perhaps, initially at the 180 mark, then open it up to all a month prior, that should weed out many vying for a spot.

I'm sure they are still evaluating my ideas

I do ask for future trips every time i need to call DVC, looking for that pixie dust.

 

[Mrs.Milo]

I called today at 180 days out, got right to MS after a few minutes, but Soaring tour was already full.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

I also tried with no luck for early Oct - would have been at approx 185 days with using the 180+ booking and it was all full at WDW. However the CM I spoke to had successfully booked it a few times thru out the offering - the last being for DL.