Posts Tagged ‘Crescent Lake’

They cruise the World Showcase Lagoon and ply the waterways of Crescent Lake, offering a welcome sight to park-weary guests emerging from EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  They are Disney’s Friendships; eight boats that ferry their passengers between docks around the World Showcase Lagoon, and make the rounds of Disney’s Boardwalk, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Clubs, the International Gateway at EPCOT, the Swan and Dolphin hotels, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Numbered from I to VIII, each Friendship sports its own distinctive trim colors.  Their design was inspired by European canal and river boats and while the seats may not be planned for comfort, the air-conditioning definitely is!  Generally both stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, adverse wind and water conditions may prevent roll-on boarding.  There will be a sign posted at the landing announcing any changes.

Two boats run routes in the World Showcase Lagoon, one between the landings at the Canada pavilion and the Morocco pavilion, the other making the trip from Mexico to Germany and back.  While not always a time-saver, taking the boat is a pleasant way to enjoy the surroundings and avoid part of the 1.3-mile trek around the lagoon.

It’s a relatively short walk from Disney’s Beach Club Resort to EPCOT; a slightly longer journey from Disney’s Yacht Club or Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Villas.   A longer walking path leads from the Boardwalk area to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.   Most guests, though, feel they get plenty of exercise during a visit to Walt Disney World and opt to hop a Friendship.  Boats travel between these parks,  stopping at the resorts that surround the lake and canal.

Service typically begins around 8:30 a.m. and runs until approximately one hour after park closings.  If you’re lucky, you may find yourself onboard with the birdman.  His pockets are always filled with treats and the birds seem to know he’s coming; flocking to the dock and approaching him when his boat arrives!

Photo by Candis Davis

She’s a beautiful sight skimming across the water of Crescent Lake, her spray sparkling in the Florida sun.  The wonderful Breathless II, a reproduction of a Chris-Craft mahogany runabout, circa 1930, is docked at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club marina waiting to make memories for some fortunate guests.

While there are a number of specialty boating experiences available at the Walt Disney World Resort, the Breathless II offers a uniquely exhilarating ride.  Up to seven passengers have an opportunity to fly through the water at speeds of more than sixty miles per hour.

An onboard CD player adds musical ambiance as guests cruise the lake and the canal to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and travel close to the World Showcase Lagoon, enjoying close-up views from a new perspective.  Fun details include an easel at the water’s edge with a painting of the International Gateway.

Named for the Dick Tracy character Breathless Mahoney, the Breathless II is available for half-hour and hour-long daytime outings as well as Illuminations cruises at night.  Embarkation can be arranged from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, or Disney’s Boardwalk.

Due to its small size, food options for the cruise are limited, but guests looking for a romantic add-on can order champagne and strawberries. Newlyweds searching for an unusual photo opportunity might consider flying a “Just Married” flag during their wedding-day cruise!