Experience Disney Fireworks from the Water: What to Know About Fireworks Cruises

The Travel Grown team recently went on our first fireworks cruise and it RUINED watching fireworks any other way. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND! But, if you’ve never watched the fireworks before, you may want to skip this for your first time (at least at Magic Kingdom.) Keep reading to decide if it’s for you!

These nighttime cruises offer a private, relaxing spot to watch the spectacular displays over Magic Kingdom or EPCOT right from the water. Away from the crowds and surrounded calm, you’ll have the best seat in the house. The cruises even include synchronized audio, so you can enjoy the full show just as you would inside the parks.

What to Expect

From the comfort of your boat, you and your family can set sail for either International Gateway near EPCOT or the waters of Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon near Magic Kingdom. Synchronized audio plays onboard, so you can enjoy the full fireworks experience without missing a single note or burst of color.

Each cruise includes a Disney captain, assorted snacks, and soft drinks for your group. It’s a relaxed, intimate setting, great for birthdays, celebrations, or simply creating unforgettable vacation memories.

We did the Magic Kingdom cruise and we got an up close view of the Disney World Electrical Water Pageant!

A Note About the Magic Kingdom View

While the fireworks view is incredible, it’s worth mentioning that you don’t get the most up close view of the castle projections from the water. You can still see them, but if it’s your very first time seeing the show, you might want to stay in the park to fully experience the projections. They’re what make the show truly magical.

That said, if you’ve already watched it before or you don’t have little kids with you, the cruise has become my favorite way to watch. It’s calm, comfortable, and a lot less hectic than being shoulder-to-shoulder in the park.

Pricing and Reservations

Prices start at $499 plus tax and vary by date. Boats seat up to 10 guests. The pricing is per boat, not per person.

You can make a reservation up to 60 days in advance. Book through the My Disney Experience app, call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529, or let me take care of the booking for you.

Important Details

  • Full payment is due at booking.

  • Fireworks may be rescheduled or canceled due to weather, so double-check showtimes in the My Disney Experience app before your cruise.

  • Guests under 18 need a parent or guardian to call.

  • Arrive about 1 hour and 15 minutes before fireworks begin.

  • Cruises still run in rain or cold, but they may be canceled for severe weather.

  • Life vests are required for kids 12 and under and available for everyone on board.

  • Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Departure Locations

EPCOT Fireworks Cruises:

For the Epcot show, boats depart from Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts.

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruises:

For the Magic Kingdom show, boats sail from the Contemporary Resort.

Why It’s Worth It

A fireworks cruise is one of the most peaceful and magical experiences you can have at Disney. There’s something about watching the fireworks burst over the castle or World Showcase Lagoon, hearing the music, and knowing you have the whole moment to yourself without a crowd in sight.

If that sounds like your kind of evening, let me know, I’d love to help you book it.

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