Wishes Dessert Party - No more assigned seating

[Regan117]

What Regan117 is saying is that it's "reserved" because she's sitting there. Once you've been seated at a table it's yours until you leave it. No different than if you had a table next to the window at CG and people decided to stand or move their chairs to your table during the fireworks. It's just rude. Some people have no common sense at all. It was disrespectful for other people to move their chairs into her table space - sorry I agree with Regan 100%.

We've done the dessert party many times and I will be cancelling now based on the no pre-assigned seats. I don't want to waste my time standing in line, I could spend my money in a better way. Unfortunately they aren't running the ferrytale wishes cruise during spring break or I'd change to that.

Exactly this. When you book the party, you reserve a seat. But once you're at the table, it's yours. It isn't like we were a party of two sitting at a table for 6. There were two at a table for two. There was absolutely no reason for ANYONE to be in my personal table space and to do so was rude. I shouldn't have to complain to a CM. These grown adults should have more manners and common sense - but the CM also should have said something to them. I almost spilled coffee on myself because I had someone at my elbow. If I wanted to be crammed together, I would have watched from the park with everyone else, for free.

 

[Regan117]

1) I do not remember seeing this printed anywhere . . . at WDW or anywhere else.
2) People may feel this way, but they do not own the space . . . your chair, maybe, but not the entire table.
3) In Europe, Asia, South America, joining others/strangers at a table is very common.
4) I simply do not see what is wrong with utilizing empty space(s), especially for 12-minutes of fireworks.
5) It is the polite and generous thing to allow others to have a good view of the fireworks.

Utilizing empty space? Sorry, but pulling four more chairs up to a table for two that is already occupied isn't utilizing empty space - it's rude. I'm sorry you don't have better manners.

We were SEATED by a host at a table. That makes it our table. It isn't like we called dibs.

Also, I've literally traveled the world. I realize that it's more common in other countries. However, this isn't Europe or South America and this isn't communal dining. When I'm in a place that is, I have no problem with it! But I paid for a table for two and I expect to get it.

If I made a ADR at California Grill and they seated me with other people, I'd leave.

Do you often bring strangers along on intimate date nights as well? Because that's what it felt like.

 

[scrappingbuckeye]

1) I do not remember seeing this printed anywhere . . . at WDW or anywhere else.
2) People may feel this way, but they do not own the space . . . your chair, maybe, but not the entire table.
3) In Europe, Asia, South America, joining others/strangers at a table is very common.
4) I simply do not see what is wrong with utilizing empty space(s), especially for 12-minutes of fireworks.
5) It is the polite and generous thing to allow others to have a good view of the fireworks.

1). It's just common sense, it doesn't need to be printed.
2). The tables are small, so yea I do think if you have chairs at the table the table is yours.
3). Here in North America it isn't common and is considered rude without asking. I get that other countries don't have the same ideas of personal space that we do here, but WDW is in North America.
4). So you'd be okay if you staked out a spot along main st. for the parade and right before it starts someone brings their family and plops down right in front you since there is space avail?
5). I would have no problem if someone asked me and I felt there was room available. To be presumptuous and to move into a space without asking is rude.

 

[MaryKatesMom]

DH and I are going for an adults only anniversary trip, and I would have loved to have booked something special like this. I would have not minded paying the price for it if it was worth the money. At the lower price, it was more reasonable... at this price - no way... and now with no assigned seating- crazytown! Why would anyone bother? There doesn't seem to be any benefit... obscured views, mediocre desserts, and people creeping up into their personal space... all for $49 pp!!!

100% agree! I'm cancelling my party of 11

I'm interested to see what families with kids think. I booked the party so my kids could stay in a confined place while we wait for fireworks and still have a decent view. The assigned seats didn't worry me on location since we were going to stand by the railing. I'm going that we won't have to wait for a long time outside just to wait even longer inside...

Can't wait until June rolls around!!

There are now tables up against the railing so that isn't necessarily an option.

 

[MaryKatesMom]

1). It's just common sense, it doesn't need to be printed.
2). The tables are small, so yea I do think if you have chairs at the table the table is yours.
3). Here in North America it isn't common and is considered rude without asking. I get that other countries don't have the same ideas of personal space that we do here, but WDW is in North America.
4). So you'd be okay if you staked out a spot along main st. for the parade and right before it starts someone brings their family and plops down right in front you since there is space avail?
5). I would have no problem if someone asked me and I felt there was room available. To be presumptuous and to move into a space without asking is rude.

I also agree with Regan.

I have had patio tables at the R&C and have invited little kids to join us and pull up a chair but I've been there many times and don't mind. However, if it were the first time and we paid extra for that seat and did it without asking, I would have said something.

 

[GillianP1301]

I'm curious how the seating works for different party sizes. Before, with the pre-assigned tables, they already had it set with the # of people in your party. Now, the picture looks like the smallest table is a table of 4. So what happens with my party of 2? Are we sharing a table now? Another example would be if you are a large party (say 8 for example) and you check in last, will you get filled in with the single seats left at tables that already have families at them?

I guess I'm just not understanding how the logistics of this is going to work out. I'm also still not thrilled with the idea of lining up for an hour to get a good seat, that totally defeats the reason why I do that party.

 

[Realgrumpy]

That totally sucks! Went two years ago and all of that space was open to stand. Tables were assigned. I am going with my entire family this trip (11) and I was going to book this. Not anymore!

 

[TheRustyScupper]

Also, I've literally traveled the world. I realize that it's more common in other countries. However, this isn't Europe or South America and this isn't communal dining. When I'm in a place that is, I have no problem with it! But I paid for a table for two and I expect to get it.

1) OK.
2) Let's give other examples at WDW.
. . . kids crowd against the fish tank at Coral Reef, even when the table if full
. . . kids and adults crowd between tables at Ohana to view fireworks
. . . kids and adults crowd between tables at Narcoossee's, instead of going onto the patio, to view fireworks
3) In these instances, the "visitors" do interfere with the seated guests.
4) Sometimes to the point of leaning against, OR ON, the table with others.
5) The CM's will do nothing to prevent or halt this.
6) Like parade viewing in the park, empty space can be taken.

NOTE: To the above statement, the PP did not pay for "a table for two", thus there is no expectation for such. They paid for two seats. On many occasions, I even assign 2-3 different parties at the same Hoop-Dee-Do table. Please show any ADR confirmation that states the ADR is for a Table-of-Two, or does it just say "two guests"? There is a HUGE difference. Please do not use personal opinion to positively state facts. I get that from complaining guests all the time at the Concierge Desk for different conditions, and opinion carries no weight. Even if some of the "guaranties" are in writing, it doesn't always make it so (example: a room confirmation says one type of room or accommodation, and we move them to something different, or even move them to a different resort, regardless for what they reserved or paid). ALL reservations, ADR's, and arrangements at WDW are "always subject to change".

 

[Regan117]

1) OK.
2) Let's give other examples at WDW.
. . . kids crowd against the fish tank at Coral Reef, even when the table if full
. . . kids and adults crowd between tables at Ohana to view fireworks
. . . kids and adults crowd between tables at Narcoossee's, instead of going onto the patio, to view fireworks
3) In these instances, the "visitors" do interfere with the seated guests.
4) Sometimes to the point of leaning against, OR ON, the table with others.
5) The CM's will do nothing to prevent or halt this.
6) Like parade viewing in the park, empty space can be taken.

NOTE: To the above statement, the PP did not pay for "a table for two", thus there is no expectation for such. They paid for two seats. On many occasions, I even assign 2-3 different parties at the same Hoop-Dee-Do table. Please show any ADR confirmation that states the ADR is for a Table-of-Two, or does it just say "two guests"? There is a HUGE difference. Please do not use personal opinion to positively state facts. I get that from complaining guests all the time at the Concierge Desk for different conditions, and opinion carries no weight. Even if some of the "guaranties" are in writing, it doesn't always make it so (example: a room confirmation says one type of room or accommodation, and we move them to something different, or even move them to a different resort, regardless for what they reserved or paid). ALL reservations, ADR's, and arrangements at WDW are "always subject to change".

There is no justification for rude behavior, and you aren't convincing anyone otherwise. Just because people are rude and allow their children or they themselves crowd people's tables doesn't make it right and doesn't make it good manners. I am tired of having to excuse poor manners just because "that's what happens". Too bad. It's my table and you can't sit at it. And I complained and they were forced to move. My point is that I shouldn't have to complain.

Parade viewing in the park is NOT the same thing, as it is free. This is an additional ticket to a premium "event" and should be treated as such. I was shown to MY table by a host. That makes it my table. End of discussion. No amount of arguing makes your bad manners acceptable.

 

[MaryKatesMom]

I spoke to a guest communications representative today. She had left a message last week regarding an email I sent about the policy change. She wasn't very nice or helpful. She said it was "their" policy. I asked if they were planning on keeping it and she said that is how it is now. I asked how was a party of 11 supposed to manage this? She said I don't know. I asked what the value of this event was if you had to line up an hour before it opens which makes it more than an hour before the start of Wishes and she was silent. So I said the view wasn't even that great and if you didn't get a seat next to the railing and weren't near the railing you would miss the tops of the fireworks and she said she's never gone so she has no idea. I then just asked her to please pass along that I don't like the policy change. I then asked if I could call her back a week before we leave and see said she has no say in the policy.

I'll call a week before I go and check the boards to see if they changed the policy back. As it stands I wouldn't line up an hour before to eat mediocre desserts with a bad view for free!

 

[Runnergal]

Ugh! I am seriously considering canceling my reservation. We never stay for fireworks at MK-only time we've seen Wishes is from the CL at CR. But I really hate crowds and refuse to show up to get a viewing spot an hour ahead of time, so I thought the dessert party was a good alternative. If we are not guaranteed a table, (we are a party of six), and if the view isn't that great anyway, I really don't see the point.

 

[goofy4prez]

Ugh! I am seriously considering canceling my reservation. We never stay for fireworks at MK-only time we've seen Wishes is from the CL at CR. But I really hate crowds and refuse to show up to get a viewing spot an hour ahead of time, so I thought the dessert party was a good alternative. If we are not guaranteed a table, (we are a party of six), and if the view isn't that great anyway, I really don't see the point.

Exactly, I agree 100%... Perhaps a nice alternative would be to use a FP+ and get a much better viewing of Wishes. It's standing, but there is no additional cost to it.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

Is this seriously the way they're doing this now?? No assigned seats?? I have this booked for two upcoming trips but will cancel if this is the case. I always book as soon as our window opens and get great seats. I am NOT paying this much to have to line up early to get a decent spot. Nope.

 

[TheRustyScupper]

Is this seriously the way they're doing this now?? No assigned seats??

1) It is unknown if this is permanent or not.
2) Disney was not filling all the seats when selling seats via Assigned Seating.
3) There were tables that ended up with 1-2 chairs empty, losing capacity and revenue.
. . . with mainly 4-top tables, parties of 1-or-2 would be assigned to the table
. . . this would take a full table and reduce the possible sales by one-half or even three-quarters
. . . not an efficient or profitable use of space
4) This is just the way the reservation system works, and they certainly will not re-code the software for one location.
5) Without assigned seating, people can sit where they wish, and they can sell all the seats.

NOTE: I am sorry that people are upset with the policy and my answers, but Disney is a profit-driven company. A company has the right to make/change policies to increase their revenues and profits. The American Public will still attend the Desert Party, and I doubt it will make a difference. After all, when characters were removed from LTT dinner, people forecasted a disaster, but the profit is higher now than when characters roamed the restaurant. Additionally, when we assign 1-or-2-or-3 families to the same table at HDDR, no one minds or complains.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

1) It is unknown if this is permanent or not.
2) Disney was not filling all the seats when selling seats via Assigned Seating.
3) There were tables that ended up with 1-2 chairs empty, losing capacity and revenue.
. . . with mainly 4-top tables, parties of 1-or-2 would be assigned to the table
. . . this would take a full table and reduce the possible sales by one-half or even three-quarters
. . . not an efficient or profitable use of space
4) This is just the way the reservation system works, and they certainly will not re-code the software for one location.
5) Without assigned seating, people can sit where they wish, and they can sell all the seats.

I've done this a dozen times and it has been full every time -- but that's clearly anecdotal.

However, they could arrive at the exact same use of space if tables were reserved but split for multiple parties -- like Biergarten or cruise dining. Certainly doable without removing the reservation aspect. I'd rather NOT share a table, but my point is that they COULD fill every seat and not lose the reserved table aspect, where you're rewarding those who reserve early.

I won't pay those prices to STILL have to wait in a line. I'm sure they'll fill the spots with new people who won't know how much better it was before.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

NOTE: I am sorry that people are upset with the policy and my answers, but Disney is a profit-driven company. A company has the right to make/change policies to increase their revenues and profits. The American Public will still attend the Desert Party, and I doubt it will make a difference. After all, when characters were removed from LTT dinner, people forecasted a disaster, but the profit is higher now than when characters roamed the restaurant.

No argument with that. But as I said in my last post, they could have arrived at the same capacity and net profit with a shared table approach but maintaining the reserved table aspect. That would continue to reward early bookings, fill the venue, and not require people to line up.

Same profit.

Instead, their modification seems like the lazy solution; one that diminishes the guest experience unnecessarily.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

Additionally, when we assign 1-or-2-or-3 families to the same table at HDDR, no one minds or complains.

Don't you think people should be notified that this is a possibility, though?? Especially when this is a change from how it's always been?

Biergarten entry online says: "At communal, biergarten-style tables...".

NOTHING appears under the dessert party entry that prepares people for the fact they they might have to share tables.

That's not the right way to handle this. And informing people is FREE -- no impact on profit.

 

[hamilkm]

So sad to read about these changes. We did this last April and really enjoyed it. Having made the reservation early, our table for 2 was close to the railing. My mom had recently had back surgery and did not want to stand for the fireworks, so she was able to see them okay from our table. I did go stand along the railing to get a slightly better view, but this kept both of us happy. I had booked this for our MK night this April (also my birthday) because I thought it would be a great birthday celebration, now I am thinking of cancelling it. My mom's back is doing much better, but she has now torn 2 tendons in her foot. I once again booked this, so she would not have to stand. Waiting in line defeats the purpose. Plus the chance of not getting a good fireworks view for my birthday. I just changed one of our fastpasses to wishes for that night just in case I cancel. At least mom can sit on the ground there til the show starts without having to stand in line. She refuses to stand in the masses for fireworks, and this is the only way I can get her to watch wishes (my favorite show!) with me.

 

[Regan117]

1) It is unknown if this is permanent or not.
2) Disney was not filling all the seats when selling seats via Assigned Seating.
3) There were tables that ended up with 1-2 chairs empty, losing capacity and revenue.
. . . with mainly 4-top tables, parties of 1-or-2 would be assigned to the table
. . . this would take a full table and reduce the possible sales by one-half or even three-quarters
. . . not an efficient or profitable use of space
4) This is just the way the reservation system works, and they certainly will not re-code the software for one location.
5) Without assigned seating, people can sit where they wish, and they can sell all the seats.

NOTE: I am sorry that people are upset with the policy and my answers, but Disney is a profit-driven company. A company has the right to make/change policies to increase their revenues and profits. The American Public will still attend the Desert Party, and I doubt it will make a difference. After all, when characters were removed from LTT dinner, people forecasted a disaster, but the profit is higher now than when characters roamed the restaurant. Additionally, when we assign 1-or-2-or-3 families to the same table at HDDR, no one minds or complains.

If only this were true! They're still not utilizing all of the space. They're still seating parties of two act tables with four chairs and leaving empty chairs throughout. So I fail to see any difference except for the fact that larger parties are getting screwed out of sitting together if those tables are taken before they get there.

 

[TheRustyScupper]

1) I understand everyone's opinions.
2) But for the current policy, It-Is-What-It-Is.
3) Maybe we should just leave it at that.
4) Unless anyone has a direct line to the ear of Ogre (I mean Iger).