i too am a disney lover and to me, all 3 of the universal resorts are deluxes. i have stayed at all of them and love each for different reasons. i love royal pacific because i feel like i am away at a tropical oasis with a short walk to all the fun. the decor is very calming and inviting here. i love hard rock because it is fun. it is so lively. there is always something going on here and the service at the pool is terrific. and as for the portifino bay, this is my spa retreat. definitely my escape to an italian villa.
out of the 3, i prefer the liveliness of the pool at hard rock but enjoy the pools at portofino better. as for distance, they are all within walking distance of the parks and citywalk with portofino being the furthest. all have water taxi to activities. check out my trip reports below or pm me if you have more questions. happy planning!