The New and Updated Port Orleans Riverside FAQ Thread for 2008 --- NOW CLOSED

[Missytara]

We will be staying at POR in Dec. When does the last boat leave for DTD? How late can we catch the boat back to POR from DTD? TIA

The last boat leaves DTD at 11:00 pm, so the last boat to DTD would leave about 10:30 pm or so.

You can catch the bus back until about 1:00 am or so; then you have to take a taxi.

 

[DISNEYNY]

The last boat leaves DTD at 11:00 pm, so the last boat to DTD would leave about 10:30 pm or so.

You can catch the bus back until about 1:00 am or so; then you have to take a taxi.

Oh, thanks. I thought they might run until 12:00 - glad I asked!

 

[DCDisney]

Don't count on being able to just walk back onto that last boat either. Lines at DTD to take boat back were an hour or more from 8-10 this week (not very busy) and they seem to have less buses because of the boats so it's been very frustrating.

 

[DISNEYNY]

Don't count on being able to just walk back onto that last boat either. Lines at DTD to take boat back were an hour or more from 8-10 this week (not very busy) and they seem to have less buses because of the boats so it's been very frustrating.

Oh dear, I will keep that in mind. I assume they close off the line at 11:00 and everyone in the line gets taken back to the resort?? I hope -

 

[DCDisney]

I think they keep count and close the boat line when they won't be able to accommodate people by closing. The line appeared to be closed at 10 on Thursday. We went 2 nights and kept checking to see if it cleared so we could ride and the night we had car dh would just drive home.

 

[DISNEYNY]

I think they keep count and close the boat line when they won't be able to accommodate people by closing. The line appeared to be closed at 10 on Thursday. We went 2 nights and kept checking to see if it cleared so we could ride and the night we had car dh would just drive home.

Darn...this doesn't sound too hopeful. I guess we better keep the bus option open and just play it by ear. Thanks

 

[sophie832]

Took me a while to get back to this thread...was sick, then came the frenzy of Halloween.

Take the boat to DTD - its a nice ride. Try the build your own salad and/or pasta in the food court. Walk around the resort - its beautiful.

Thanks, will do!

Well, I'm a POR first-timer too so I don't yet have any tips, but I did want to say (and please pardon me if you're already thinking of it) to consider getting APs when you get to the YC. It'll save you lots of money on the tickets. I also get the Tables in Wonderland card for 20% off most table service restaurants, including adult beverages at restaurants and resort bars. If you spend $375 in food and beverages, it'll pay for itself. And there are other AP discounts available.

It's good advice, but already done We actually upgraded our DLR Premium APs to Premier APs when we booked our YC trip. We got the AP discount on our room, plus we don't have to pay for MYW tix.

I will second the AP idea if you are taking 2 trips that close together. We had APs last year and just loved it...saved a bundle on tickets.

See above, but thanks for the advice

 

[peonyflower]

we just got back on sat---lovely! we were in building 90 (oak manor) then in 80 acadian house.....both were very pretty! u will fall in love with it i am sure! i only wish my trip wasnt over!

 

[andrewilley]

I forgot to mention that last week I spotted a group of PhotoPass photographers taking posed sample shots around the grounds of Port Orleans Riverside. It seems that the portrait sessions currently available at several of the deluxe resorts, such as the Grand Floridian and Polynesian, are proving so popular that Disney is looking to possibly expand their offerings into other locations, such as perhaps one of the moderate hotels.

One of the photographers indicated that Riverside was giving them some of the most photogenic backdrops so far, but of course nothing has been decided as yet and it may be some time (if ever) before the project is taken any further. Sounds like a nice idea though.

Andre

 

[BecBennett]

I'm getting married at WDW in March, and half the reason I chose to stay at POR was so I could get some photos in the grounds. I think they're beautiful

 

[nanalisa]

Oh, thanks. I thought they might run until 12:00 - glad I asked!

We were on the boat last week. Times may change but the last boats didn't leave until 11:30. We got in line about 11:20 and had to wait through 2 boat loads. If you are in line they won't leave you behind! We didn't even go over to the Market place until 10:15 so we didn't have much time that trip, just long enough to pick up my Christmas ornaments.

 

[Megsmachine]

A question about the refurb. If they are going to put queen size beds in the rooms will the AB rooms still have (be able to have) trundles or will it be to tight to fit them?

ALSO, shouldn't there be a new POR Lovers thread started soon? This one is from 2008!!

 

[andrewilley]

From what I've heard, they will probably be keeping the extra bed option in Alligator Bayou - but not necessarily as a trundle bed as apparently some guests don't like the way it is so close to the floor. Possibly some sort of Murphy bed idea? It's a bit too early to say to be honest, as I doubt they'll get on to that area much before Christmas next year.

And you're right about the thread getting a bit long in the tooth (and long generally!). I'll have a look at updating both the POR and POFQ threads, and maybe add some refurb info into the first posting.

Andre

 

[tripplanner2]

From what I've heard, they will probably be keeping the extra bed option in Alligator Bayou - but not necessarily as a trundle bed as apparently some guests don't like the way it is so close to the floor. Possibly some sort of Murphy bed idea? It's a bit too early to say to be honest, as I doubt they'll get on to that area much before Christmas next year.

And you're right about the thread getting a bit long in the tooth (and long generally!). I'll have a look at updating both the POR and POFQ threads, and maybe add some refurb info into the first posting.

Andre

I am bummed. I was so hoping for a queen bed when we travel in August. I guess I will still be bringing our twin aerobed, because I agree about the trundle being too close to the floor.

 

[andrewilley]

The Riverside rehab is not due to start until around April, with the mansion buildings being done first.

Andre

 

[jen42002]

We have two standard rooms booked at POR for August 2011. Just couldn't justify the $350 increase to have a preferred room since we are already paying for a family of 6 (maybe 7 if Nana comes along).

I assume whole buildings in AB may be preferred but what about the mansions? Some preferred rooms and some standard?

Anyone call recently and get confirmation as to what buildings will be preferred?

Thanks!

 

[jamimb]

We have two standard rooms booked at POR for August 2011. Just couldn't justify the $350 increase to have a preferred room since we are already paying for a family of 6 (maybe 7 if Nana comes along).

I assume whole buildings in AB may be preferred but what about the mansions? Some preferred rooms and some standard?

Anyone call recently and get confirmation as to what buildings will be preferred?

Thanks!

I called Disney yesterday and asked what buildings were preferred. I was told 14, 15, 18, and 27.

 

[mana_liz]

I called Disney yesterday and asked what buildings were preferred. I was told 14, 15, 18, and 27.

That's the same answer I was given when I called 2 weeks ago.

 

[momtotaryn]

I did not realize making a request for a certain room/building is considered "preferred". I'm assuming there is a fee for this. If you request a certain mansion, is that considered "preferred" too (with a fee)?

 

[andrewilley]

The preferred room option starts next year, along with a "river" as well as the current just "water" view option.

Andre