Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Transportation to Magic Kingdom: Efficient Options and Tips
Guests staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to Magic Kingdom have several transportation methods at their disposal: buses, water taxis, the monorail, ride-sharing, taxis, personal vehicles, the Minnie Van service, and car services. Each method offers its own advantages, from scenic views to convenience and speed, which one is right for you?
- How frequent are the bus services, and what’s the average journey time?
- Given the Skyliner doesn’t connect directly to Magic Kingdom, what’s the best alternative for a scenic route?
- With the monorail requiring a transfer at Epcot, is it a time-efficient option for reaching Magic Kingdom?
- For guests preferring to walk, how feasible is it from the Yacht Club Resort?
- What are the comparative benefits and costs of ride-sharing versus traditional taxis?
- For those driving, what are the parking policies at Magic Kingdom?
- The Minnie Van service offers Disney-themed transportation, but how does its cost compare to other options?
- Are car services worth the premium for your vacation travels?
This guide will equip you with all everything you need to know to choose the right transportation option for your Disney adventure, balancing efficiency, enjoyment, and cost.
Bus Transportation from the Yacht Club to Magic Kingdom
When staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, you have access to complimentary bus transportation that efficiently connects you to Magic Kingdom Park.
Extensive Coverage and Frequency
Bus : A motor vehicle designed to transport large numbers of passengers along a set route. At Walt Disney World Resort, the bus transportation system encompasses an extensive network of routes, ensuring that Disney World Resort guests can reach their destination at Magic Kingdom with ease.
- Routes : Buses servicing Disney’s Yacht Club Resort cover all areas of the Walt Disney World Resort, including the Magic Kingdom Park. You’ll find that buses run regularly from the resort to various destinations within the Disney property.
- Schedule : Catch a bus approximately every 20 minutes from the Yacht Club’s designated bus stop. Start your journey early, as buses begin operating 45 minutes prior to park opening and continue until one hour after park closing.
To use the bus transportation, simply head to the bus stop located outside the resort’s main entrance. Await your ride under the shelter provided, where a digital board displays real-time bus arrival information. Look for the bus marked with “Magic Kingdom” to ensure you’re on the correct route to the park.
Water Transportation Options from the Yacht Club
There is no direct water-based transportation from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to the Magic Kingdom theme park. While it’s true that guests staying at the Yacht Club Resort can use water transportation for destinations within the EPCOT resort area (like taking a water taxi to the Boardwalk or to the International Gateway at EPCOT and even Hollywood Studios), but for traveling to Magic Kingdom, they would need to utilize other forms of Disney transportation, such as buses or the monorail system, which would require a transfer from a nearby location. The water taxis and ferries do not provide a direct route between these two specific points.
Monorail System
Guests staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort cannot take the Monorail directly from the Yacht Club Resort to the Magic Kingdom theme park. To use the Monorail, guests would first need to get to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) where they’d then need to transfer to the Express (or Resort) Monorail that serves the Magic Kingdom directly. This would involve a multi-step process that could include walking or taking a boat to Epcot, entering the park through the International Gateway, and then traversing through EPCOT to reach the front of the park where the Monorail station is located. From there, they would take the EPCOT Monorail to the TTC and then transfer to the Monorail line that goes to the Magic Kingdom. However, this route requires valid admission to EPCOT and may not be the most efficient way to travel from the Yacht Club Resort to the Magic Kingdom.
Efficient Park-Resort Connection
If you decide that that part of your Disney adventure is in the journey to get there (as we ourselves have done numerous times) there are several ways to do this. As mentioned, you can take the short walk through Epcot, entering at the International Gateway and head to the front of the park and head for the main entrance where the EPCOT Monorail Station awaits.
Otherwise, you can hop on a bus that will take you to the front of EPCOT and board the Monorail there. While at the bus depot you could, should you so choose, hop on a connecting bus to one of the resorts that are on the Monorail line that serves the Magic Kingdom. These resorts are on the monorail loop – the Contemporary Resort, the Polynesian Village Resort, or the Grand Floridian . Once you arrive at one of these resorts you can access the Monorail platform and board the train.
- First , locate the Monorail station through the lobby of the Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, or Grand Floridian.
- Second , wait for the arrival of the sleek and iconic trains, typically every few minutes.
- Third , step on board and find a comfortable spot as the Monorail glides to the Magic Kingdom.
- Finally , exit at the Magic Kingdom station, just a few steps away from the park entrance.
You’ll see the Monorail effortlessly pass through the Contemporary Resort, offering you a unique and futuristic experience, which is really cool if you’ve never done it before (us Disney veterans can sometimes take these things for granted!). While aboard, enjoy the scenic views of the Seven Seas Lagoon, the other resorts and all the great visuals riding on the Monorail delivers.
Disney Skyliner
The Disney Skyliner is an aerial gondola system that provides transportation between Disney’s Yacht Club Resort via the very nearby International Gateway, and several other locations within Walt Disney World. Unfortunately, at least at this time, there is no direct path so g uests cannot take the Disney Skyliner directly from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to the Magic Kingdom theme park. The Skyliner’s routes connect EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios with four resort hotels: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort , Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort. To reach the Magic Kingdom from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort via the Skyliner, guests would have to take a considerable detour. They would need to walk or take alternative transportation to a Skyliner station at either EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios, then travel to a Skyliner hub station at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort , and from there, they would still need to find alternative transportation to the Magic Kingdom, as the Skyliner does not service the Magic Kingdom park. This indirect route isn’t practical for guests aiming to travel to the Magic Kingdom.
Walking Paths
Walking to your destination at Disney resorts offers a pleasant and even sometimes quicker alternative to waiting for other transportation options. When traversing from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to the Magic Kingdom, walking is not a direct option, but two notable walking paths to other areas are available for your enjoyment.
Direct and Enjoyable Routes
Epcot: A walkway connects Disney’s Yacht Club Resort directly to the EPCOT theme park entrance. To reach Epcot, head towards the resort’s back exit and follow the signage directing you towards the park. This walk is approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) and takes about 10-15 minutes, providing you with tranquil views of the resort’s landscape and Crescent Lake. The path is well-paved and picturesque, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk.
BoardWalk Inn: For an alternate scenic route, you can walk to Disney’s BoardWalk Inn , situated alongside Crescent Lake. You begin by exiting the Yacht Club Resort towards the EPCOT walkway but then continue along the lakeside path that leads to the BoardWalk Inn. This journey is just under a mile and takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. Along the way, you pass by vibrant entertainment, dining options, and charming views of the waterfront, providing a delightful backdrop to your walk.
Ride-Sharing Services
You’ll find that using ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft provides a flexible and direct means of transport from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to the Magic Kingdom.
Flexible and Direct Travel
Opt for ride-sharing when you seek a no-fuss, direct route to the Magic Kingdom. Begin by downloading the Uber or Lyft app on your device. Once installed, enter your location—Disney’s Yacht Club Resort—and set Magic Kingdom as your destination. Rides are usually available within minutes. Expect travel times to vary based on traffic conditions, but typically, the journey should take around 15-20 minutes.
- Uber : A well-known platform that enables you to choose from a range of vehicle options—standard, SUV, or luxury.
- Lyft : Similar to Uber, Lyft offers various levels of service, including shared rides for cost savings or private vehicles for more comfort.
Before your trip, you can estimate your fare on both services’ apps, and options for larger parties are available if you’re traveling in a group. Payment is straightforward through the app, and tipping your driver is optional. Remember to ensure that the car and driver match the details provided in the app to confirm your safety.
Taxi Services
Taxis provide a paid transportation service, utilizing a vehicle and driver for hire to take passengers between locations of their choice.
Readily Available Transportation
Your journey to Magic Kingdom from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort can be quick and convenient with taxi services. Upon exiting the resort, you will typically find taxis waiting at the hotel’s main entrance, ready to transport you directly to the Magic Kingdom.
- Locate a Taxi : If you see no taxis available, ask the resort concierge to call one for your convenience.
- Travel Time : The travel time to Magic Kingdom by taxi usually ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Estimating Cost : Taxi fares may fluctuate, but you can expect to pay approximately $20 to $30 for the one-way trip.
- Planning Your Budget : Remember to factor in the possibility of tipping your driver, which can add 10-20% to the total cost of your taxi journey.
Personal Vehicle Parking
When staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, you have convenient parking options for your personal vehicle during your vacation.
Resort Access and Parking Options
Parking is an essential service provided by Disney resort hotels, allowing guests to store their vehicles securely. Upon your arrival, you’ll find accessible parking readily available. Self-parking is available for guests with the following fees:
- Standard overnight parking: $25 per night
- Accessible parking: Complimentary for guests with disabilities
Firstly, approach the security gate and present your reservation confirmation to gain access to the resort grounds. As a guest, you have in-and-out privileges, meaning you can come and go from the parking facility as needed. For the standard parking , remember that your room key serves as a parking permit, so keep it handy when re-entering the parking area.
Guests requiring accessible parking spaces will find them close to the main entrance. Make sure you display a valid disability parking permit. These spaces are designed to provide convenience and ease of access to the hotel’s entrance and facilities. If assistance is needed, contact the front desk; they offer services to make your stay more comfortable.
For added ease during your vacation, consider using Disney’s complimentary transportation options for park access. Various shuttles, boats, and buses are available to take you to Magic Kingdom and other destinations within the Walt Disney World Resort.
Minnie Van Service
Minnie Van Service is a personalized ride service operated by Disney that allows guests to travel around Walt Disney World Resort, including from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to the Magic Kingdom.
Premium On-Demand Transit
When you seek a more exclusive mode of transportation within Disney property, the Minnie Van Service stands out as a preferable choice. This service ensures that you reach your destination with ease and comfort. Here is how you can utilize this service:
- Reserve your Minnie Van ride through the Lyft mobile app, where you can request a ride on demand or schedule one in advance.
- The prices are typically higher than standard ride shares due to the convenience and enhanced experience, including direct access to Disney locations and a Disney-trained cast member as your driver.
Remember, Minnie Van Service vehicles are distinctly themed with the iconic polka dots, making them an instantly recognizable option for transport throughout your Disney vacation.
Exclusive Car Services
For guests seeking a premium and private transport experience, car services are available through a variety of providers. Check with your Resort Concierge for details on what they recommend.
Luxurious and Personalized Traveling
Your journey to the Magic Kingdom can be both luxurious and personalized with the exclusive car services provided by Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. These services offer a high level of comfort and convenience, with various transportation options available to meet individual preferences and needs.
- Reservation : You should book your exclusive car service in advance to ensure availability. This can usually be done through the resort concierge or a preferred transportation provider affiliated with the resort.
- Transportation options : You can choose from a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and limousines, depending on the size of your party and your desired level of luxury.
- Cost : Prices vary based on the vehicle selected and the distance traveled. It is advisable to confirm the cost at the time of reservation to avoid surprises.
- Location : The pickup and drop-off points for the exclusive car service are conveniently located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, ensuring a smooth and efficient start and end to your journey.
Engaging an exclusive car service enhances your overall theme park experience, removing concerns about navigation and parking, and allowing you more time to enjoy your day at the Magic Kingdom.
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The Family Vacation Guide
Disney’s Beach Club vs Yacht Club: Which Should You Choose?
posted by James Brockbank on September 3, 2022 // last updated on September 19, 2022
One of the best parts of planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World near Orlando, Florida , is choosing where to stay.
Disney owns and operates more than 20 resorts and other accommodations on their central Florida property, in addition to the dozens of others nearby.
If Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort are among your options, you might be wondering which is better. After all, they’re located directly next door to each other, and the theming is similar.
Despite having much in common, these two hotels have some key differences that make them distinct. Below, we’ll talk about the perks of staying in one of Disney’s hotels and what the Yacht and Beach Clubs have in common. Then, we’ll dive into what makes them distinct. That way, you can make the best choice for your family vacation.
Early Genie+ Access
Transportation, on-site guest relations, deluxe resorts, the skyliner, the boardwalk, room accommodations, entertainment and recreation, disney vacation club villas, recreation and entertainment, convention center, which should you choose: disney’s beach club or yacht club, perks of staying in a walt disney world hotel.
Experienced Disney vacationers will tell you that staying “on-property” has many advantages that can help you get the most out of your time in the most magical place on earth.
Each day, the four theme parks in Walt Disney World– Magic Kingdom , EPCOT , Hollywood Studios , and Animal Kingdom –open 30 minutes early for resort guests. That means you can get to the park in the morning and head to a couple of your favorite attractions without worrying about crowds.
At times in the past, Disney had offered “Extra Magic Hours” when parks opened even earlier or stayed open late in the evening for resort guests. While Disney isn’t offering them now, it certainly could return in the future.
Genie+ is the paid reservation system that allows guests to reserve times to visit top attractions. Time slots become available to park guests when the park opens for the day.
However, guests with resort reservations linked to their accounts can make their first selections at 7 AM. That’s a distinct advantage over everyone else. What’s more, reservations for some of the most popular rides sometimes go quick.
Disney provides regular, reliable transportation from all of its hotels to its four theme parks, two water parks, and Disney Springs shopping and entertainment district. Buses run to each destination from every hotel about every 30 minutes.
In addition, there are boats and water taxis, the Skyliner gondola system, the monorail, and walking trails from several resorts. Below, we’ll talk about what’s available at the Yacht and Beach Clubs.
An often-overlooked advantage of staying at a Disney hotel is on-site guest relations. You can visit this desk to take care of a range of questions and issues before visiting the parks. You can purchase or verify tickets, make and confirm park and dining reservations, and schedule tours and special events.
Of course, guest relations is available at the entrance to all theme parks and water parks. However, there can be long lines, especially at the beginning of the day. What’s more, visiting the desk in the park takes away from your time enjoying attractions.
What Do the Yacht and Beach Clubs Have in Common?
If you’ve done your research, you may already know that the Yacht and Beach Clubs are next to each other. They’re also often discussed together since they share so many amenities and features.
Before we discuss what makes them unique so you can choose between them, it’s helpful to look at what they share. That way, you can get a total picture of what it would be like to spend your family vacation there.
Both the Beach Club and Yacht Club are Disney Deluxe Resorts . This is the top tier of hotels on Disney property, ahead of value resorts like Art of Animation and All-Star Sports and moderate resorts such as Coronado Springs and Port Orleans Riverside.
As you might expect, deluxe resorts have the best of everything. The rooms tend to be larger, the hotel lobbies and fixtures more opulent, and the theming is more detailed. There are better pools (with slides), more amenities (such as spas and shops), and more dining options.
Deluxe resorts have several unique features and perks. Sometimes, Disney parks stay open late for guests of deluxe resorts. They tend to have great locations with better access to the parks and transportation options. Of course, it all comes at a price. Deluxe resorts start at around $450 and increase sharply from there.
The location is one of the best things about staying at the Yacht or Beach Club. They are two of the three resorts located directly near EPCOT.
If you enjoy the thrilling attractions in Future World or a leisurely stroll through the World Showcase, you might like the Yacht and Beach Clubs even more than the Magic Kingdom monorail hotels–The Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, and the Contemporary.
Let’s zoom in on the three things that make this location spectacular.
The Yacht and Beach Clubs are about a ten or 15-minute walk from EPCOT . One of four theme parks in Walt Disney World, EPCOT has so much to offer. It’s split into two major worlds, and they almost feel like two separate worlds.
Future World has some of the most thrilling attractions in any of the parks, including Soarin’ , Test Track , and the brand new Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster, Cosmic Rewind .
Then, there’s the World Showcase, with pavilions from 11 countries around the world. Sample food, drink, merchandise, and culture without leaving central Florida.
The new Skyliner transportation system is just before you reach the World Gateway entrance to EPCOT. The Skyliner is a gondola system that connects several popular spots around the “world,” including Hollywood Studios, Riviera Resort, and several other hotels.
The Skyliner has revolutionized how people get around Walt Disney World. Many guests hated waiting for and riding buses to and from the parks, but the Skyliner has turned that experience into a ride in itself.
Guests at the Yacht and Beach Club can easily walk to the Skyliner. The Beach Club is a bit closer, but it only takes about ten minutes from the Yacht Club lobby.
The Boardwalk Hotel is on the same walking trail as the Yacht and Beach Club. In addition to the hotel is the Boardwalk entertainment area. While it’s much smaller than Disney Springs, you can find shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
One of the Boardwalk’s favorites is Jelly Rolls, a dueling piano bar. The Atlantic Dance Hall opens nightly for drinks and dancing.
Most room accommodations at the Yacht and Beach Club are the same. Standard rooms include one king or two queen beds, and some have a pull-down bed under the television.
Daily housekeeping is included, and guests can choose from water, pool, and garden views. In addition, both hotels have suites and a club or concierge level.
The best part of staying at the Yacht or Beach Club is arguably the main pool. The most popular on Disney property, Stormalong Bay encompasses three acres of space. There’s a lazy river, three whirlpool spas, and a life-size replica of a shipwreck with a 230-foot waterslide. It’s partially sand-bottom, and there’s a sandy beach to play on.
If you prefer a quieter poolside experience, there are three more leisure pools for use by guests at the Beach and Yacht Clubs: the Admiral Pool, Dunes Cove, and the Tidal Pool. All three have whirlpool spas and other amenities.
The Yacht and Beach Club share transportation, and the great news is how easy it is to get around Walt Disney World from both of these hotels.
The bus stop is located outside the main lobby of the Yacht Club. Buses run about every 30 minutes to the parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. The bus is the best way to get to Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and the Magic Kingdom.
There is also a boat launch behind the lobby of the Yacht Club on Crescent Lake. The boats take guests to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios and are a leisurely way to get to both parks.
As mentioned above, the Skyliner is about a ten-minute walk from the Yacht and Beach Clubs. The Skyliner takes guests to Hollywood Studios and is the fastest way to get there.
We mentioned walking into EPCOT from these resorts, but you can also walk to Hollywood Studios. The path winds for about one mile around the water.
Finally, while the Yacht and Beach Clubs aren’t located on the monorail, you can access the monorail through EPCOT. You will need a theme park reservation at EPCOT or a park hopper ticket (useable after 2 PM) to access the monorail. However, it can take you to the Magic Kingdom.
The two resorts also share much of the same entertainment and recreation options. Moreover, guests at either hotel are almost always welcome to use amenities at the other one.
The resorts jointly host nightly campfires (weather permitting) and movies under the stars (indoors in inclement weather). There are tennis courts, volleyball courts, jogging trails, arcades, boat rentals, and fishing. There’s also a full fitness center and salon at Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness.
What Makes Disney’s Beach Club Different?
Now that you know all the things that Disney’s Yacht and Beach Clubs share, we can look at meaningful ways that they differ.
One of them is written right into their names. Even though the themes at the resorts are similar, they are distinct from each other. The Beach Club is reminiscent of classic Atlantic and New Jersey seaside resorts around the turn of the 20th century.
It’s bright and cheerful, with light pastel colors throughout. You’ll notice elements of gingerbread-style and Victorian architecture, almost like an upscale beach cottage. The atmosphere is designed to be more relaxed and calming.
There are several other important ways that the two hotels differ. Here’s what’s unique to the Beach Club.
One thing that makes the Beach Club distinct is the presence of Disney Vacation Club villas. Disney Vacation Club is a vacation ownership company that sells timeshares in select Disney resorts worldwide. It also offers exceptional experiences, excursions, and reciprocity with RCI for members in good standing to use their annual allotment of points.
There are only 282 villas at the Beach Club, making it among the smallest in the collection. There are studios with kitchenettes and one, two, and three-bedroom villas with full kitchens.
You don’t need to be a DVC member to book the villas. In fact, many non-members love the villas for family reunions and space to spread out. They typically cost more than standard rooms per night.
You don’t have to be a guest at the Beach Club to dine in any of its restaurants. Anyone can make a reservation or drop in for table availability, but guests of this resort will be closer and find it easier to eat at these.
Cape May Cafe is a popular buffet spot for breakfast and dinner. Beaches and Cream Soda Shop has diner offerings for lunch and dinner and is known for its incredible ice cream. Martha’s Vineyard serves lunch but is best known for its bar service and wine selection. Finally, the Beach Club Marketplace offers counter-service and grab-and-go dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Some guests prefer the Beach Club’s location because it is closer to EPCOT and the Skyliner. It takes about five or ten more minutes to get there from the Yacht Club, depending on where your room is situated. However, most of the rooms at the Yacht Club are closer to Stormalong Bay than at the Beach Club.
Even though guests of either resort can use all the amenities, it’s worth mentioning the ones that are located at the Beach Club:
- Dunes Cove Pool
- Volleyball courts
What Makes the Yacht Club Different?
Several elements distinguish the Yacht Club from the Beach Club, and the first is the theme. While the Beach Club is designed to look and feel like a relaxed yet refined seaside resort, the Yacht Club is more stately.
The Yacht Club is reminiscent of a grand, exclusive New England yachting or boating resort, visited by titans of industry, politicians, and some of the oldest families in America. It is elegant, plush, and nautical. In contrast to the whimsical pastels at the Beach Club, you’ll see dark blues and wood tones against white finishes.
Perhaps because of the prestige, the Yacht Club’s prices tend to be slightly higher than the Beach Club’s, though not substantially. The rooms at both resorts follow their themes but are around the same size.
While the Beach Club has Disney Vacation Club villas, the Yacht Club has a convention center, which frequently contributes to the more formal atmosphere at the Yacht Club. In fact, the resort itself was designed to host conventions, and its setup is conducive to that.
The convention center has more than 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space. The hotel has almost 2,000 guest rooms, most of which are standard. Nearly 140 are located on the club level, perfect for executives. Couples also often hold weddings at the Yacht Club, and the nearby wedding gazebo is a convenient ceremony space.
There are several dining options at the Yacht Club, and true to its theme, most of them are more formal than the ones you’ll find at the Beach Club. The main restaurant is the Yachtsman’s Steakhouse , a traditional New England steakhouse. It is one of the more formal restaurants in Walt Disney World and is only open for dinner.
In addition, the less-formal Ale and Compass restaurant is a gastropub serving Yankee comfort food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Marketplace at Ale and Compass offers counter-service and grab-and-go dining options.
Finally, two bars offer drinks and light snacks: the Ale and Compass Lounge and the Crew’s Cup Lounge.
These are the recreation and amenities offered at the Yacht Club:
- Admiral Pool
- Tennis courts
- Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness
If you plan to spend the bulk of your Florida vacation in Walt Disney World, we strongly recommend staying at a Disney hotel for all the reasons discussed above. But which is better–the Beach Club or Yacht Club?
As you can see, Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Yacht Club Resort have a lot in common and share many of the same amenities and perks. However, they have distinct themes that create different atmospheres. The Beach Club is more relaxed and refined, while the Yacht Club is more stately and elegant.
Regardless of where you and your family decide to stay, the most important thing is that you enjoy your time together at Walt Disney World. And don’t forget to check out Stormalong Bay–it’s the best part of either hotel!
More about our TFVG Author
James Brockbank
A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.
Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.
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Ultimate Guide to the Best Rooms at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Staying at a Disney World deluxe resort usually comes with beautiful theming, nice rooms, and perks like Extended Evening Hours . One might argue, though, that one of the most beautiful deluxe resorts in Disney World is Disney’s Yacht Club .
This deluxe resort is a popular choice for guests wanting easy access to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios, which are both just a walk or boat ride away, or because of the epic pool, Stormalong Bay, which is almost like its own waterpark. It’s easy to decide why guests stay here, but, which rooms are the best ?
The Yacht Club is a five-story deluxe resort and is themed around the refinement of a New England yachting club. The resort has a soft gray exterior accented by striking red and white striped awnings and the interior is lined with warm woods, nautical instruments, and a giant globe as the lobby centerpiece. The resort faces Crescent Lake, is close neighbors with Beach Club Resort, and has the best resort pool on property. You’ve picked a beautiful resort to spend your Disney vacation, but let’s look at the best rooms!
The Yacht Club rooms are elegant and stately and might be a bit “executive” and bland when compared to some of its counterparts. Keeping with the nautical theme, you’ll find warm woods, navy blue and beige contrasted against crisp white. But one of the favorite elements in the room are the navy curtain which features fictional Disney constellations and a bit of whimsy to this otherwise rather corporate feeling room.
There are 635 guest rooms and 21 suites at the Yacht Club. The rooms are typically 381 square feet and feature two queen-size beds, a daybed, and a desk with chairs. There are some different categories to choose from: Standard View, Garden View, Water View, and Lagoon or Pool View .
For an extra cost, there are also 70 club level or concierge rooms on the fifth floor Regatta Club. Those these rooms are basically the same as standard rooms, they do offer access to additional amenities, including:
- An exclusive check-in area
- A concierge cast members to assist with personal vacation needs
- Nightly turndown service
- Access to a club lounge stocked with complimentary food and beverages
4th Floor Rooms
The top floor is typically reserved for the Club level rooms, but the next best thing without that concierge price tag is the fourth floor. These rooms provide better views (no matter what you’re direction you’re looking), but particularly if you have a Pool View where lower level rooms would just give you views of the back of pool lounge chairs.
Gazebo View
You won’t find “Gazebo View” listed in the options, but rooms ending –48, –50, –52, –54, and –63, as well as odd-numbered room –67 through –97 over look the gazebo which make for a serene view. And you even be in for a show if one of the Disney’s Fairytale Weddings occurs there during your stay (no invitation required!).
Corner Rooms
Rooms that fall on the corner of buildings sometimes come with a little extra elbow room or even an extra window. For that chance to snag not just one views, but two look at these options, rooms ending in: -001, -009, -114, -122, -027, -043, -065, -155, -163, -164, -201, -209, -210.
If you’re looking to be closer to EPCOT, Stormalong Bay, and the Beach Club, ask for rooms ending in -190 through -241. If you’re looking for rooms closer to the Swan and Dolphin and Hollywood Studios, ask for rooms ending in -001 to -054.
So if you’re looking to book a stay at Disney’s Yacht Club and want the best room available, keep these in mind! You can also always check out our reader reviews of Yacht Club here .
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
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Have you ever stayed at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort? Let us know in the comments!
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Plan Your Dream Trip To Disney!
The Ultimate Disney Yacht Club Review + Insider Tips
February 8, 2021 // by Kimberly Jones // 2 Comments
Disney’s Yacht Club opened back on November 5, 1990. Its sister location is the Beach Club located right next to it. The Yacht Club is a beautifully themed resort with nautical and beach themes. We are going to tell you everything you need to know about this wonderful resort in our Ultimate Disney Yacht Club Review + Insider Tips!
There are so many great aspects to this resort such as its location, pools, transportation options, and amenities. If you are thinking about staying at the Yacht Club, read on to find out if this resort is a good fit for you!
Where Is The Yacht Club At Disney Located?
One of the best reasons to stay at Disney’s Yacht Club is the fantastic location! This resort is within walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios . There are also several different transportation options to all of the parks, Disney Springs , and the water parks .
The Yacht Club is directly next to the Beach Club, and they share the pool. Now you not only have access to all of the Yacht Club’s restaurants and amenities, but you also have access to the Beach Club’s!
The Yacht and Beach Club are right across the water from Disney’s Boardwalk Resort . It is a short walk away to enjoy everything the Boardwalk has to offer! There are some fun restaurants, bars, and shops to explore there.
The Yacht Club is also very close to the Swan and Dolphin Hotels. There is a pathway to take you right over to these hotels for some extra fun as well!
Not only are there other resorts within walking distance of the Yacht Club, but there are also resorts that are a quick Skyliner trip away! Taking the Skyliner from Epcot’s International Gateway, you can visit Disney’s Riviera Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, Pop Century , and Art of Animation!
Disney’s Yacht Club is in a very prime location with quick access to two of the parks and multiple resorts!
Checking in to The Yacht Club At Disney
Checking into the Yacht Club is extremely easy, and it doesn’t even require you to visit the front desk! The day of your reservation, you can check in to the resort from the My Disney Experience app . The app will let you know when your room is ready and what your room number will be! If you have magic bands or even your phone , you can head straight to your room and unlock the door.
Of course, you can always go the old school route and check-in at the front desk. All the cast members at Disney’s Yacht Club are extremely friendly and accommodating! A great tip to keep in mind is you can always see if there are any upgrades available for your room. We were able to get a free upgrade from a standard view to a water view!
The lobby is also absolutely amazing here. It has a very adventurous and nautical theme to it. You can find everything you need right in this area, such as the restaurant, lounge, bell services, and the front desk.
Right outside the backside of the lobby, there is a boardwalk that will lead you to the boat transportation to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
Transportation Options From The Yacht Club
We love all of the transportation options the Yacht Club has to offer, and we’re sure you will too! As mentioned before, there are walking paths to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The Epcot walking path is very short and will get you to the International Gateway in about 5 – 10 minutes. The entrance at International Gateway is on the back side of Epcot by World Showcase .
The walking path to Hollywood Studios is a little bit longer than the Epcot one. This one can take 20 minutes or more. However, there is boat transportation to Hollywood Studios if you don’t want to walk! You can find boat transportation right behind the lobby that will take you to Epcot or Hollywood Studios.
If you don’t want to walk or take the boat to Hollywood Studios, you can always take the Skyliner! There is a Skyliner location right outside International Gateway that will take you first to Disney’s Riviera Resort, and then to the Skyliner central hub at Caribbean Beach Resort. From here you will get off the Skyliner and get in line for a different Skyliner track to take you to Hollywood Studios.
So there are so many options to get to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, but what about the other parks? Disney has bus transportation from the Yacht Club to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Spring, and the water parks.
If you plan on spending a lot of time at either Epcot or Hollywood Studios, the Yacht Club is one of the best resorts to stay at.
Disney Yacht Club Room Review
There are several different room options at the Yacht Club. There is Standard View, Water View, Garden or Woods View, and 2 Bedroom Suites. All of the view rooms also have club level options.
I was able to stay in a Water View room. The room was absolutely delightful! It had a nautical theme to match the rest of the resort, and it was quite spacious. The room had two queen beds and a pull out couch, so it was able to sleep up to 5 guests. We only had 4 guests in our room, but I could imagine the pull out bed might make the room feel a little more cramped.
The room had large closets with space to hang clothes, and a big sink and bathroom area with two sinks. The shower had a sliding glass door, which I prefer over a curtain.
I really liked that this room had wood flooring compared to carpet. It added to the nautical theme very well. The room also had a balcony that looked over the back entrance of the lobby and the water. Overall, the room was very nice, and I thoroughly enjoyed its set up!
Yacht Club rooms average in price anywhere between $400 to over $3000 per night depending on what room you stay in and what time of the year you visit.
Dining Options At The Yacht Club
There are some really great and delicious dining options at the Yacht Club. This resort has two restaurants, two lounges, a quick service restaurant, a restaurant located in between the Yacht and Beach Club, and a pool bar.
The two restaurants at the Yacht Club are Ale & Compass and Yachtsman Steakhouse. Yachtsman Steakhouse is currently temporarily unavailable, but Ale & Compass is open for breakfast and dinner. This restaurant follows the nautical theme with a relaxing atmosphere and some delicious coastal eats.
The Ale & Compass Lounge is located adjacent to the restaurant. Here, you can order off the lounge menu and even the restaurant menu. This lounge can fill up quickly at night though, so make sure to grab a seat early if you want to eat or drink here.
The other lounge, Crew’s Cup Lounge, is right next to Yachtsman Steakhouse and is also temporarily unavailable. We hope that the lounge and restaurant will open soon!
The quick service location shares a spot with the Yacht Club’s gift shop. When you enter the Market at Ale & Compass, on the right is the gift shop and on the left is the quick service restaurant. They serve coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and more. This is a great place to stop for a quick bite to eat to or from the parks!
Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is the hidden gem of the Yacht and Beach Club Resorts! This restaurant is located in between the two resorts and serves some wonderful food! They are open for lunch and dinner and they serve sandwiches and burgers. My favorite is their Grilled Cheese sandwich, its delicious!
However, save room for the best part of this restaurant. The ice cream! They have shakes, floats, and sundaes! You can’t go wrong with whatever you choose. If you’re feeling really brave though, try the Kitchen Sink sundae. This sundae is meant for 4 or more people, and includes every topping and a whole can of whipped cream! I have attempted it twice, and I still haven’t been able to finish it. Maybe you can!
Hurricane Hanna’s Grill is the pool bar located right next to Stormalong Bay. They have a few food items and some refreshing drinks.
If you’ve tried everything at the Yacht Club and want something different, head over to the Beach Club! Here you can find even more restaurants and tasty eats!
Yacht Club Swimming Pools
The Yacht and Beach Club have hands down the best swimming pools on Disney World property. It’s considered more of a small water park than swimming pools because it’s so large!
Stormalong Bay is 3 acres of refreshing fun! It includes a large sand bottomed pool and a lazy river. There are waterfalls, a volleyball net in the pool, and a water slide.
This water slide is no joke. You climb a large shipwrecked ship all the way to the top and then slide down this long and exciting slide! Stormalong Bay even has a “beach” area with sand to play with! After all that fun, go relax in one of 3 whirlpool spas.
Right by the entrance to the water slide is a small kid play area with a mini water slide. This is a great introduction to the big slide for nervous kids!
Don’t need all the excitement of Stormalong Bay? There are also 3 leisure pools at the Yacht and Beach Club for guests to enjoy.
If you plan on staying at the Yacht Club, you must plan a resort day into your schedule! Make some time for this awesome mini water park and relax away from the parks! You won’t regret it.
Amenities At The Yacht Club Resort
There are so many fun amenities and things to do at Disney’s Yacht Club. When it comes to activities, there are fishing excursions, a tennis court, a sand volleyball court, jogging trails, motorized boat rentals, an arcade, and a fitness center. Just ask the front desk if you’d like to book a fishing excursion or rent a boat to go out on the water!
The Yacht Club even has a spa! Ship Shape Massage Salon is a full service spa that can do massages, facials, hairstyling, and nails. We all need a relaxing day every once and awhile! Why not enjoy the spa on your day off from the parks?
The resort also has campfire activities, movies under the stars, and a Pirate Adventure Cruise (which is unfortunately temporarily unavailable at the moment). The Yacht Club is within walking distance of the Fantasia Gardens & Fairways Miniature Golf. Go show off your mini golf skills at this adorably themed course!
This resort really has a lot of fun things for you and your family to enjoy! You will definitely want to take a day away from the parks to enjoy this amazing resort!
Overall Thoughts On Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
We at Disney Trippers absolutely love Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. The whole place is incredibly peaceful and beautiful. It has the perfect mix of being family friendly and adult friendly with lots of things to do. So whether you’re traveling with a bunch of adults or your kids, everyone will enjoy it!
Most everything is in super close distance to this resort. The only time you will have to take the bus is to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Spring, or the water parks. The other parks and some resorts are really easy to get to, making this a top notch location for a resort.
If you have a day off from the parks, make sure to enjoy all of the amenities the Yacht Club has to offer. You could spend a whole day just having fun at the resort! You definitely don’t want to miss out on this place!
Have you ever stayed at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort? If so, did you enjoy it as much as we do? What do you liked to do while staying there? We want to hear your opinions on this Disney resort!
Reader Interactions
February 23, 2021 at 3:18 pm
We stayed at the Disney Yacht Club the last time we were at DW. We loved it. The staff was outstanding. It was an adult family vacation, and due to different work schedules, some family members had to fly in at different times. The staff accommodated each one and made them feel as if they already knew them. We loved the location as we could walk to different locations. We tried the Kitchen Sink sundae, but couldn’t finish it. We sure had fun trying. We actually took one day to enjoy the resort and were not disappointed. We spent time in the swimming pool, which was amazing with the sand bottom. Lunch was an delicious lobster roll and we finished off at the steakhouse. I would certainly recommend this resort to all who are considering a trip to Disney World.
February 23, 2021 at 9:27 pm
Thank you for sharing!!!! We LOVE this resort too!!!
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Disney FriendShips Boats Guide (Routes, Hours, and Tips)
Often called the Friendship Boats, Disney’s FriendShips navigate two routes at the Walt Disney World Resort. They are one of the most pleasant forms of Disney transportation available. Below, we’ll discuss the Friendship Boats at Walt Disney World, including their routes, hours of operation, and a few tips for utilizing the boat service. Those staying in the immediate area or with plans to park hop between Epcot and Hollywood Studios will likely want to use the boat service.
One set of Friendship Boats services the Epcot Resort Area . This route takes guests between Hollywood Studios and Epcot, stopping at the resorts in between. Another set of Friendship Boats travels across the World Showcase Lagoon at Epcot. This route takes guests between the World Showcase Plaza and docks at the Morroco Pavilion.
Here is a photo of the newer paint scheme of the Friendship Boats. They have a dark bottom, which is not supposed to show as much dirt.
Disney Friendship Boats Route
We’ll first look at the Friendship Boats that travel between Epcot and Hollywood Studios. These boats travel in a specific order, stopping at each area resort between the two parks. Once you get their route down pat, you’ll have a good idea of how to use this form of transportation. During the busier portions of the day, you can expect to see two to three Friendship boats running through the area.
One route starts at Epcot and travels to Hollywood Studios, and the other begins at Hollywood Studios and ends at Epcot. Each route has three resort stops before it reaches its destination. The FriendShips continually pass each other along the waterway throughout the day. Each boat follows the same route. At the end of each route, they change directions and head back the opposite way.
Here is the Friendship Boat route for the Epcot Resort Area.
Friendship Boat Route from Hollywood Studios to Epcot:
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Swan and Dolphin Hotel (includes Swan Reserve)
- Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort (One Stop)
- Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
Friendship Boat Route from Epcot to Hollywood Studios:
- Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club (One Stop)
Friendship Boat Schedule (Hours)
Per Disney’s website, hours of operation vary subject to water and weather conditions . At the time of this update, Disney’s Friendship Boats begin running in the Epcot Resorts area around 7:00 a.m. and continue until about one hour after the parks close.
That said, we recommend checking the boat service’s operating hours after you arrive at the hotel. Hours fluctuate based on the park’s opening hours and should be posted at your hotel, along with hours for other transportation options.
Special Circumstances:
We recently stayed at Disney’s Yacht Club and attended After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , where the park remained open until approximately 12:30 a.m. Since this was a special ticketed event, the Friendship Boats closed at their regular time.
Since the boats were not available, guests in the Epcot Resorts Area could walk or take a bus back to their resorts. So, if you are staying in the area with plans to attend After Hours at Epcot or Hollywood Studios (or a similar event), know that the Friendship Boats might not be available afterward.
Friendship Boats Accessibility
The FriendShips have a dedicated interior area for guests in wheelchairs and ECVs. However, as you can see in the statement below, existing water levels could be a concern with some resort boat services. Most transportation options at Disney World accommodate guests with accessibility needs. Disney provides an overview of each form of transportation on their website. Learn More: Transportation and Mobility Disabilities at Disney World
Per Disney, “Watercraft access varies depending on the type of watercraft and the existing water levels and conditions. Please contact a Disney Cast Member at the watercraft dock for information and assistance.”
Resorts with Disney Friendship Boats
Guests of the following resorts have immediate access to the Disney Friendship Boat service:
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resort
- Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
As noted above, the Friendship Boats run in two directions. Therefore, when boarding a boat from your resort’s dock, you’ll want to be careful to get in the correct line.
It is not uncommon for two boats to dock simultaneously at any of the resorts. Therefore, each resort dock has two sides.
Friendship Launch at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club
Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club guests share a boat dock at the Yacht Club’s lighthouse. It’s a reasonably large area. A sign indicates where guests should line up on each side of the lighthouse.
In the picture below, you can see a boat docked at the Yacht Club. At each stop, guests onboard are allowed to disembark. Then, guests waiting can board the vessel. The boat has arrived from the Swan and Dolphin Hotels and will travel to Disney’s Boardwalk next. After that, it will continue to Epcot.
Guests going to Epcot or the Boardwalk will line up on the left-hand side. When the boat leaves, it will stop at the Boardwalk before Epcot.
Note: Most guests staying at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club will want to walk to Epcot. The walk ranges from 5-10 minutes and will take less time than the boat service.
So, if you’re leaving the Beach or Yacht Club and going to Disney’s Boardwalk, you’ll want to take the Epcot Friendship Boat. This route is an excellent alternative for walking to Disney’s Boardwalk.
For instance, if you’re dressed up for dinner, you might not want to work up a sweat by walking to the restaurant. Instead, you can take the boat and then enjoy a casual stroll around Crescent Lake on your way back in the evening.
Related Resort Reviews:
- Disney’s Beach Club Review
- Disney’s Yacht Club Review
Boardwalk Inn Boat Dock (Promenade Pier)
Our next stop along the Friendship Boat route is Promenade Pier at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn. Below is a look at the boat dock during the evening. It sits in the center of the Boardwalk.
This boat dock works similarly to the one at Disney’s Yacht Club. Make sure to get in line on the right side to reach your next destination.
From the left side of the dock, you’ll travel in the following order:
- Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club (one stop)
- Disney’s Swan and Dolphin (includes Swan Reserve)
From the right side of the dock, you’ll travel directly to Epcot. There are no other stops along this route.
Related: Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Review
Swan and Dolphin Hotels Boat Dock
Next, we’ll look at the Friendship Boat dock at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, including the Swan Reserve. These resorts are unique because Disney doesn’t own or operate them.
This boat dock is on a walkway between the Swan and Dolphin Hotels. Guests of the Swan Reserve must walk over to access the Friendship Boat service.
The right side goes directly to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests headed to Epcot or the other resorts will board on the left side. Stops are in this order:
Tip: If you’re returning from Hollywood Studios and going to the Boardwalk Inn, you can exit at the Swan and Dolphin. You will have to walk over the bridge to the Boardwalk, but it’s only a five-minute walk at the most. This will eliminate having to stop at the Yacht and Beach Club next and save you approximately 10-15 minutes of travel time.
Here is a photo that shows the distance between the Swan and Dolphin Friendship Boat dock to the Boardwalk. The entrance to Disney’s Boardwalk is at the end of the bridge on the far left-hand side of the image.
Related: Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Review
Friendship Boat Dock at Hollywood Studios
After leaving the Swan and Dolphin Resort, our Friendship Boat continues to its last stop at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This Friendship Boat will stop at Hollywood Studios to unload and reload before returning in the opposite direction.
Friendship Boats at Epcot
Last, we’ll examine the Friendship Boat dock at Epcot’s International Gateway. This boat dock is only a few short steps from the back entrance to the park. One of the great things about this location is that it rarely has long lines to enter the park.
The International Gateway is shared among guests of the Epcot Resorts or those arriving from the Skyliner Resorts. In addition, guests park hopping between Hollywood Studios and Epcot also use this entrance.
Alternatives to the Friendship Boats
If the Friendship Boats are unavailable or you don’t want to wait, there is a walking path between Hollywood Studios and Epcot. This path will pass by most of the resorts on the way. When you reach the Boardwalk, you can continue to Epcot via the Boardwalk side or the Beach and Yacht Club side. At this point, the Swan and Dolphin Hotels will be to the immediate left.
Related: Walking from Hollywood Studios to Epcot via Disney’s Boardwalk
Additionally, guests can take the Skyliner from Epcot to Hollywood Studios or vice versa. We discuss that route in detail in a separate article. However, note you will altogether bypass the Epcot Resorts when taking this route.
Related: Disney Skyliner Route
Disney Friendship Boats in Epcot
In addition to the boats in the Epcot Resorts Area, you will find a separate Friendship Boat transportation option within Epcot. These boats travel from the World Showcase Plaza across the World Showcase Lagoon and then to the Morocco Pavilion .
Unfortunately, these boats won’t save you much time unless you were to happen upon one that’s departing. However, they will save you steps. The only drawback is that you’ll miss touring a few countries in the World Showcase along the way. But if you find yourself in need of this service, by all means, take advantage of it.
You’ll want to remember that Epcot has a fireworks show on the lagoon each evening. On a standard schedule, these boats typically begin running around 11:00 a.m., and the last boat departs across the lagoon at approximately 7:30 p.m.
Final Thoughts on Disney’s Friendship Boats
Disney’s Friendship Boats are a great way to get around the Epcot Resorts area. They are an instrumental form of transportation if you aren’t familiar with the area or are a first-time visitor. While they aren’t the fastest transportation, the boats provide a solution for those traveling with small children or anyone not up for a long walk between the parks and resorts.
Knowing your transportation options at Walt Disney World will benefit your vacation tremendously. We hope this guide gave you a base knowledge of how, when, and why you might want to use Disney’s Friendship Boats.
For more about transportation, we have transportation guides for each of the Epcot Resorts:
- How to Get From Disney’s Beach Club To Other Destinations
- Tips for Traveling From Yacht Club to Disney Parks and Disney Springs
- Disney’s Boardwalk Transportation For Every Disney Park and More!
- Swan and Dolphin Transportation How To’s
Or you might enjoy these other popular articles:
- Magic Kingdom Ferry
- Disney World Monorail
- Disneys Springs Transportation Guide
- Using Disney’s Complimentary Bus Transportation
Our documented transportation times share how long it takes to get to and from every resort hotel at Walt Disney World to every major destination.
In the Comments
Hopefully, this review of Disney’s Friendship Boats will help you plan your upcoming trip. If you have any comments or questions about the Friendship Boats, please leave them below. We value your opinions and experiences, so feel free to share your thoughts.
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Hi, I'm Amber the owner of Resorts Gal . We have stayed at every single Disney Resort Hotel. Our philosophy? We believe you can have an incredible time at the resorts without ever setting foot in a theme park. We visit the resorts and parks regularly and would love for you to follow along!
I really like this comprehensive explanation regarding the Friendship Boats. It’s very helpful to know about when the World Showcase boats stop running. I’m going in November and will have some folks who will need to use them with me (and I think it will be fun to ride them for the first time). Thank you!
Hope you have a nice time!
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The Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts
By Leigh Caldwell 2 Comments
There are LOTS of Disney resorts , and it can be hard to choose which one to stay at.
Disney’s Yacht Club
If you’re a big Disney food fan (like we are!), the restaurants at each resort may influence your decision. Allow us to make that decision easier for you! Let’s head over to Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts for The Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts!
There are 10 places you can eat at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. Let’s take a look at the tried-and-true favorites at each location!
Ale & Compass Restaurant
Ale & Compass is known for its New England-inspired comfort food. It is part of a larger complex that includes the Ale & Compass Lounge and a small market. If you’re a fan of sweet breakfasts, don’t miss the Dark Chocolate Waffle, which is served with Cherry Compote and Espresso-Mascarpone Cream.
So much yum!
At dinner, the New England Seafood Pot Pie (with shrimp, scallops, crab and vegetables in a flaky crust) is a favorite. You’ll also find classics like steak, roast chicken, and burgers on the menu.
Click Here to Read Our Latest Review of Ale & Compass
Ale & Compass Lounge
The Ale & Compass Lounge just off the Disney’s Yacht Club Resort lobby is a great place to grab a drink and an appetizer. It was remodeled a few years ago, and the look now is modern and sleek, with nautical touches.
It just seems right to drink a Dark & Stormy or a Regal Manhattan in this classy space. Food is served here from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly, and while it is labeled as appetizers, you can get a burger or a flatbread that is definitely large enough to serve as dinner.
Click Here for Our Latest Review of Ale & Compass Lounge
The market at ale & compass.
This quick-service location has a focus on grab-and-go items such as cold sandwiches, fruit cups, and salads. But there is a coffee bar, and there are hot items available here, as well.
Chilled Options
Best bets here include the Ham and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich served on a Pretzel Roll , or the Cuban Sandwich for lunch or dinner. The Market is also a great place to find special, themed cupcakes and other treats around the holidays.
Click Here for Our Review of a Seasonal Cupcake from the Market at Ale & Compass
Cape may cafe.
Cape May Cafe is home to a popular character breakfast — the Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast. You can usually find Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy here — and they are all dressed up in adorable beach wear! The buffet is pretty standard breakfast fare, with the Salted Caramel “Beach Buns” as a highlight.
Minnie is ready for a day at the beach!
At dinner, the Cape May dinner buffet features New England seafood favorites, including Clam Chowder, snow crab legs, and fried seafood. Do not miss the Oreo Bonbons among the dessert selection here. They are a cookies-and-cream mousse-filled bonbon on top of an Oreo cookie, and they are a perennial DFB favorite!
Click Here for Our Latest Review of the Cape May Cafe Character Breakfast!
Beaches and cream.
There’s one place to go when you want large and over-the-top ice cream treats, and that’s Beaches & Cream ! We particularly love the No Way Jose Sundae and Kitchen Sink offerings.
Kitchen Sink Sundae
We suggest grabbing the Kitchen Sink only if you’re with a group because it’s a LOT of ice cream to finish! This giant treat includes a scoop of every ice cream on their menu, along with every single one of their toppings , so it really is a challenge! While you do need a reservation to dine inside the restaurant , the to-go window offers ice cream to take with you to your final destination. You can also grab a burger and fries here for lunch or dinner!
Learn more about Beaches & Cream here!
Beach club marketplace.
Like The Market at Ale & Compass, Beach Club Marketplace is a quick service location where you will find both hot food and grab-and-go options. The Steak and Egg Breakfast Sandwich with Swiss Cheese and Garlic-Peppercorn Ranch Dressing is a specialty in the mornings.
Rainbow Mickey Caramel Cheesecake
This is another good place to look for fun seasonal treats, like this Rainbow Mickey Caramel Cheesecake we found there for Pride Month. If you’re looking for an inexpensive dinner option, the Half-Roasted Chicken Dinner with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and cornbread is big enough to split and less than $15.
Check Out These BEAUTIFUL Cupcakes We Found at Beach Club Marketplace!
Martha’s vineyard lounge.
We suggest the wings and mussels at Martha’s Vineyard . And if you’re a fan of out-of-this-world drinks, this is a place you will want to check out. The space is designed to be reminiscent of a New England beach house, but we will say that the theming here isn’t great compared to other lounges on the property.
It’s a Candy Cane Mimosa!
We’ve seen candy cane mimosas and jelly bean cocktails at this location before , so Martha’s Vineyard may be a fun place to check out.
Are These Drinks at Martha’s Vineyard a Little TOO crazy? You Tell Us!
Hurricane hanna’s .
Hurricane Hanna’s is the pool bar for the Yacht and Beach Club’s Stormalong Bay pool. You should know that you cannot swim in the pool unless you are a guest of the Yacht Club or Beach Club, but anyone can enjoy a drink or a snack at Hurricane Hanna’s.
Storm Chaser and Souvenir Cup
The food here will not be the best thing you eat on the trip, but it is decent for a day enjoying the sunshine. Kids’ meals are served in a plastic sand bucket with attached shovel, which is a fun treat that can then be put-to-use playing in the sand! We DO love a good blue drink, and the Storm Chaser — made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Bacardi Superior Rum, Blue Curaçao and Sweet-and Sour topped with Sprite — is a fun reason to spend some time watching the action in the pool here.
Click Here for Our Review of the Stormchaser!
Yachtsman steakhouse.
We highly recommend Yachtsman Steakhouse as the place you can find some of the best steaks on Disney World property. You will get a traditional steakhouse experience here — one that caters to nearly all tastes.
Filet Mignon at Yachtsman Steakhouse
We definitely recommend ordering the Cognac-Truffle Butter for your steak, and the Truffle Mac and Cheese is a side dish that would please just about anyone. We find the size of the side dishes to be big enough for two — so keep that in mind when ordering here!
Click Here for a Recent Review of Yachtsman Steakhouse!
Crew’s Cup Lounge
The Crew’s Cup Lounge is right next door to Yachtsman Steakhouse. We love the cozy vibes here! While you won’t find a lot of specialty drinks, the Crew’s Cup Lounge is a good place for beer or a glass of wine, and stocks several scotches and cognacs . It’s also a good place to watch a game if you’re missing watching sports while on vacation.
Starting at 5PM, Crew’s Cup serves a limited menu of favorites from the steakhouse next door. We recommend the Yachtsman Signature Bread (especially the onion pull-apart rolls!), and the Lobster Bisque .
Click Here for a Recent Review of Crew’s Cup Lounge!
Epcot festivals.
You can walk to EPCOT from this resort, so we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that some of best eats available to you could be right inside EPCOT’s International Gateway if there’s a festival going on!
EPCOT Food & Wine Festival
EPCOT festivals truly have a plethora of different options , so it’s great if no one in your group can decide on one place to eat, or if you have many items to check off your festival list anyway! Check the pages below for the latest dates, menus and information on EPCOT’s festivals:
- EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
- EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival
- EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival
- EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
Walking around Disney’s BoardWalk is also a great option, as it’s really close by and has some great restaurants as well .
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
With DOZENS of places to eat at Disney World, we know it can be tough to plan your meals. That’s why we wrote the DFB Guide to Dining at Walt Disney World . We have reviews, pictures and details about every restaurant all in one digital download – along with ALL of our best tips and strategies from decades of Disney World trips. We’ve got a special discount code for DFB readers, too! Use WDW2022 at checkout for 25% off !
The DFB Guide to Dining
If you’re looking for all the latest Disney food news, be sure to stay tuned to DFB!
Beware — these will be the hardest dining reservations to get in 2023!
Need disney restaurant advice we’ve got everything you need to know, the only disney dining planning tool you’ll need is here – get the dfb guide to walt disney world dining, see our complete disney world restaurants guide, the best magic kingdom restaurants, the best epcot restaurant restaurants, the best hollywood studios restaurants, the best animal kingdom restaurants, the best disney springs restaurants, check out dozens of disney dining tips and tools, learn all about tipping at disney restaurants, how to use mobile order in disney world, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney food news right in your inbox click here to subscribe.
What’s your favorite thing to eat at a Disney World hotel? Let us know in the comments!
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December 18, 2022 at 7:37 pm
It is hard to beat Ale and Compass for a delicious breakfast and we love lunch at Beaches and Cream…especially the tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwich. Yum! Both of these restaurants are good reasons to stay on the Boardwalk as far as we are concerned!
January 31, 2023 at 11:56 am
Looking forward to our lunch at Beaches and Cream next month. Lunch choices will probably be chicken sandwiches, followed by dessert (No Way Jose and Strawberry Shortcake). We usually order burgers or grilled cheese, but the chicken sandwich sounds so delicious, so we decided to be a bit different; but we need our favorite desserts.
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What is the walking distance between the Yacht Club and Boardwalk resorts? What is the distance of the walk from the Boarwalk resort to Epcot? to Hollywood Studios? ”
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The driving distance from Disney's Yacht Club Resort to Epcot is only 3.6 miles (5.8 km), and the drive should take about 10 minutes, depending on the amount of traffic. There is a designated drop-off area at the front of Epcot for rideshares. TWO rideshare companies operate in Disney World - Uber and Lyft.
Option #4: Drive yourself to Magic Kingdom! Getting in your car and driving yourself is an often overlooked way to go from the Yacht Club to Magic Kingdom. It's probably the fastest way to travel since you don't have to wait for someone to pick you up. 🙂. The distance between these two locations is 4.6 miles (7.4 km).
Option #1. Take the Friendship Boats to Hollywood Studios! In my opinion, the most fun and relaxing way to get to Hollywood Studios from the Yacht Club is to take the FREE boat transportation using Disney's Friendship Boats. To find the boat dock, walk out the back of the Yacht Club and head towards Crescent Lake.
Yacht Club Resort Magic Kingdom transportation options: Bus service with extensive coverage, frequency. Details on water transportation and resort/park access. Efficient monorail park-resort connection. Scenic aerial Skyliner transportation. Direct walking path routes. Flexible rideshare service travel. Readily available taxis. Personal vehicle resort parking access. Premium on-demand Minnie ...
Disney's Yacht Club shares its bus service with Disney's Beach Club, its sister resort. So when you board the bus at the Yacht Club, you'll stop at the Beach Club. After that, you'll continue to the park. Disney's Yacht Club is the first stop when returning to the resort from Magic Kingdom. So you'll be at an advantage on the return ...
The Yacht Club (YC) is a five-story, 630 room resort, slightly larger than its sister resort, the Beach Club (BC), located along the shore of Crescent Lake, opposite the Boardwalk Resort.Themed after seaside New England hotels of the late 1800s, the Yacht Club has a stately, nautical look and feel; hardwood floors and brass accents enhance this feeling.
Delight in the formal grace of a grand New England-style yacht club at this lakeside hotel. Relax in the inviting elegance of a plush lobby replete with nautical touches, explore the whimsical Stormalong Bay and rent a variety of watercraft from Bayside Marina. Sharing many amenities with its pastel-toned sister, Disney's Beach Club Resort ...
Guests at the Yacht and Beach Club can easily walk to the Skyliner. The Beach Club is a bit closer, but it only takes about ten minutes from the Yacht Club lobby. The Boardwalk. The Boardwalk Hotel is on the same walking trail as the Yacht and Beach Club. In addition to the hotel is the Boardwalk entertainment area.
There are 635 guest rooms and 21 suites at the Yacht Club. The rooms are typically 381 square feet and feature two queen-size beds, a daybed, and a desk with chairs. There are some different categories to choose from: Standard View, Garden View, Water View, and Lagoon or Pool View. For an extra cost, there are also 70 club level or concierge ...
The Yacht Club is a beautifully themed resort with nautical and beach themes. We are going to tell you everything you need to know about this wonderful resort in our Ultimate Disney Yacht Club Review + Insider Tips! There are so many great aspects to this resort such as its location, pools, transportation options, and amenities.
Friendship Launch at Disney's Yacht and Beach Club. Disney's Beach and Yacht Club guests share a boat dock at the Yacht Club's lighthouse. It's a reasonably large area. A sign indicates where guests should line up on each side of the lighthouse. In the picture below, you can see a boat docked at the Yacht Club.
Option #2: Take a rideshare from the Yacht Club to Disney Springs. If you want to get to Disney Springs fast, using a rideshare service from Uber or Lyft from the Yacht Club is easy. This option can save a lot of time, especially if you just missed the bus. The easiest place to meet your driver is outside near the Yacht Club front lobby, as ...
The Ale & Compass Lounge just off the Disney's Yacht Club Resort lobby is a great place to grab a drink and an appetizer. It was remodeled a few years ago, and the look now is modern and sleek, with nautical touches. Ale & Compass Lounge.
Generations of St. Francis Yacht Club sailors would agree. Our professional coaching staff offers youth sailing opportunities year-round with programs at the City clubhouse and summer sailing camps on Tinsley Island. Instruction is available for all skill levels and open to members and non-members.
Below is a virtual tour of a standard hotel room at Disney's Yacht Club Resort at Walt Disney World. These rooms can sleep up to five guests. These rooms can sleep up to five guests. We believe it's essential to preview your hotel room before booking, especially when traveling with little ones.
2. All Inclusive: So Much Comes With Your Yacht Club Fare -- Including Your Drink Package. There's no question that the Yacht Club is a splurge. Interior cabins start at around $2,800 for two ...
Disney's Yacht Club Resort is the complex between the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort, the latter being the resort closest to Epcot's International Gateway. Depending on your pace and how often you stop along the way, the commute between Disney's BoardWalk Inn & Villas and Disney's Yacht Club Resort is a ...
438 Yacht Club Dr APT F, Rockwall, TX 75032 is currently not for sale. The 1,348 Square Feet condo home is a 2 beds, 2 baths property. This home was built in 1983 and last sold on 2024-09-13 for $--. View more property details, sales history, and Zestimate data on Zillow.
Views of Stormalong Bay or Crescent Lake. 1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa or 4 Queen Beds. Sleeps up to 8 Adults. Check Availability. Add theme park tickets to your stay and, at no extra charge, reserve arrival times at select attractions, Character Greetings and more with FastPass+.
On September 7 at the S.B. Yacht Club's Charity Regatta for VNA Health, guests enjoyed a splendid, full day of socializing, dining, and watching the regatta at the S.B. Yacht Club (SBYC) and on spectator boats. This year marked the 20th anniversary of the event, which over the years has raised more than $2.5 million for the treasured ...
Cheboksary (Shupashkar in the Chuvash language) is a city in Russia with a population of about half a million people standing on the bank of the Volga River, the capital of the Chuvash Republic.. Located about 671 km east of Moscow, it is one of the cleanest and most comfortable cities in Russia.Photos by: Kirill Zdorov. Dawn in the historic center of Cheboksary.
Rogachevo (recorded in various sources as Belushya, Rogachvo, or Rogatschovo) is a military air base on Novaya Zemlya, Russia located near the settlement of Rogachevo, 9 km northeast of Belushya Guba.It was originally used as a staging base for intercontinental Long Range Aviation bomber flights (as a so-called 'bounce' airdrome). The base developed an interceptor role during the 1960s, partly ...
Option #2: Take a rideshare from the Yacht Club to Animal Kingdom. If you want to get to Animal Kingdom fast, using a rideshare service (Uber or Lyft) from the Yacht Club is easy. This option can save a lot of time, especially if you just missed the bus. The easiest place to meet your driver is outside near the Yacht Club front lobby, as there ...
The distance between MCO and the Yacht Club is approximately 22.1 miles (35.6 km). The drive should take about 30 minutes, assuming there is not much traffic. As you can see on the map below, there are a few different ways you can make the drive. Please note that if you take FL-417, there are tolls to pay.
6. Victory War Monument 1941—1945 and Eternal Flame. 41. Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues. By cebcolpitts. I say typical because of the massive size. Any war memorial I have seen in Russia is outstandingly large. Very moving. 7.
Where can you take the bus from Yacht Club Resort? The buses at Disney's Yacht Club Resort provide direct service to: Magic Kingdom: The bus ride is approximately 10 minutes. It is 4.5 miles (7 km) away. Animal Kingdom: The bus ride is typically between 10-15 minutes. It is 4.8 miles (7.2 km) away.
Among the drab concrete buildings, you can still find charming wooden beacons, wooden boats, wooden jetties and wooden houses as well as a "ramshackle tsarist-era yacht club." Many of the old wooden houses have large piles of wood outside to heat the wood stoves inside during the long winter.