If you are looking for a wonderful, unique experience while at Disney World I have a suggestion…try a Fireworks Cruise! Fireworks cruises are offered not only to view Magic Kingdom’s Wishes fireworks but also for IllumiNations at Epcot as well. Whether you are interested in a romantic evening with that special someone or want to get away with friends or as a family, you can’t go wrong with a fireworks cruise! Each pontoon comes with a driver, snacks (pretzels, chips, granola bars and such) and non-alcoholic beverages such as soda and bottled water.
The pontoon boats set sail from various marinas on property. If you are viewing Wishes, you can depart on a boat from Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Resort or Disney’s Ft. Wilderness Campground. The Magic Kingdom fireworks offer two different sized boats. There is a 21′ pontoon boat that seats up to 8 guests and will cost $318.44. There is also a 25′ pontoon boat that seats up to 10 guests and will cost $371.69.
IllumiNations fireworks cruises offer 25′ boats only that seat up to 10 guests and depart from Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club Resort Marina. The pontoons used for Wishes pipe music in so you not only SEE the most amazing view of fireworks but you also HEAR the beautiful soundtrack. In the past, only the larger 25′ pontoon offered music but Disney has been upgrading the boats and now all the pontoons should have the ability to have music piped in! IllumiNations pontoons do not have music piped in but not to worry, you will be able to hear it from where the boat docks which is in front of the bridge in between United Kingdom and France in Epcot’s World Showcase.
If you take the fireworks cruise for Wishes, not only do you get a truly fabulous view of the fireworks but you also get to view the Electrical Water Pageant. We were able to view it twice, as it stopped in front of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and once as it stopped in front of Disney’s Grand Floridian. Before the fireworks and water pageant, you will also be driven around Bay Lake which is not only relaxing but you’ll also learn interesting facts about the different resorts and islands. The driver we had (David) was very entertaining and knowledgable and added to the whole experience.
Overall, I can’t recommend this experience enough! It was relaxing, one of a kind and entertaining all at the same time. Please note prices do vary according to the season, tips are not included and it is possible fireworks could get cancelled so it’s best to reconfirm at least two weeks prior.
Are you planning a trip to Disney World? If so, I’ll be glad to assist! You can contact me at corby@travelwiththemagic.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
Hi Corby,
I am helping plan my sister’s engagement on Friday April 24th and was hoping you could give me some info on a private fireworks cruise. There would be 7 of us. Is there availability or do you have any good suggestions of how to do this? Thank you!
Kathryn