Mouse Extra

IllumiNations; Reflections of Earth is an example of the best Walt Disney World has to offer. It is one of Imagineering’s best achievements and truly should be experienced by everyone. The best way to see it is from the water, and the Mouse offers guests the chance to do just that.

The “IllumiNations Cruise” is a pontoon boat that leaves from the Yacht Club’s marina. It is very limited, as there are only a few boats available, and the demand is very high, so you must book right at the 90-day window that Disney offers. It is a per boat charge, not per person, so basically you get a private charter. The boat is spacious and comfortable and seats 10 adults rather easily. It includes snacks and soft drinks, and is captained by a Disney cast member.

The boat leaves the dock around a half hour before the fireworks begin, and takes you on a little sightseeing cruise around Crescent Lake and the surrounding waterways. You’ll motor past the Swan and Dolphin, down to the gate of the Disney-MGM Studios, and come back near the Boardwalk. Captain Ron was our skipper, and he filled the tour with history and humor, making the experience that much better.

As show time approaches, the boat makes its way towards the International Gateway.  The glow of the torches along the World Showcase promenade light the sky.  The captain brings the boat to the bridge that leads from the United Kingdom to France, and ties up under it.  Only minutes before the first firework races through the sky, the captain breaks out the chips and soda.  He tells about how Imagineering conceptualized the show, and the monumental effort it takes to stage and maintain it.  Our captain knew everything there was to know about Illuminations, and Epcot.

From here, the view is amazing.  There are no heads to get in the way, no kids bumping into you.  In fact, there are almost no obstructions of any kind.  The fireworks are all around you, and the inferno seems so close you can touch it.  There are only a few points around the World Showcase where you can see all the details on the globe, and none better than here.  I now go back to that bridge every time, and look jealously at the folks on the pontoon boats below.

This cruise can be expensive, especially if you are a small party.  But it is worth it, if only once.  But I am fairly certain you’ll go back.  The IllumiNations Cruise is truly a gem of Walt Disney World.

by Dave