Walt Disney World Resort, renowned as the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” is celebrated for its enchanting experiences and seamless operations. However, even this magical realm isn’t immune to the occasional technical hiccup. Attractions breaking down is a common occurrence in theme parks around the world, including Disney’s iconic parks. Despite the high level of service and meticulous planning, sometimes issues arise, causing temporary disruptions. One such incident recently unfolded at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain, one of the park’s most exhilarating rides, experienced an unexpected breakdown.
This situation highlights the importance of understanding what to do and what to expect when a Disney ride malfunctions. Here’s everything you need to know about dealing with ride breakdowns at Walt Disney World and ensuring your visit remains magical.
What Happened: Expedition Everest Breakdown
During a recent visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a guest found themselves in a less-than-ideal situation when Expedition Everest, the park’s thrilling roller coaster, unexpectedly stopped. As the ride vehicles ahead of theirs were successfully evacuated, the guests on their ride remained stranded. This breakdown led to a significant delay, with guests waiting in the Florida heat for half an hour before any assistance arrived:
Our train got to the station, the one ahead of us deboarded, but we’ve been sitting here 20 minutes so far. There are a lot of cast members on the platform but no one is doing anything. The only thing they’ve said to us is to yell at someone who was able to wiggle out of the lap bar and stand up (and tell them to sit down). They just tried to make an announcement but none of us could understand it.
While such incidents can be frustrating, they are part and parcel of the theme park experience. Technical difficulties can occur due to a variety of reasons, from system malfunctions to safety checks. Despite the inconvenience, it’s crucial to understand the procedures and protocols in place to handle such situations.
Understanding Ride Breakdowns
At Walt Disney World, the safety of guests and cast members is the utmost priority. Ride breakdowns are managed with careful consideration for safety and efficiency. Here’s a closer look at why these incidents occur and how they are handled:
- Technical Issues: Roller coasters and other attractions are complex systems with numerous moving parts. Sometimes, sensors detect a potential issue that necessitates a temporary shutdown to prevent any risk.
- Safety Protocols: When a ride stops unexpectedly, cast members follow established safety procedures to ensure everyone’s well-being. This may include checking the ride system, ensuring no immediate hazards are present, and determining the safest method for evacuation.
- Training and Expertise: Disney cast members are extensively trained to handle ride evacuations and technical difficulties. Their primary focus is to ensure that guests remain safe and calm while waiting for assistance.
What to Do When a Ride Breaks Down
If you ever find yourself stuck on a ride at Walt Disney World, here’s what you should do:
- Remain Calm: It’s natural to feel anxious when an attraction breaks down, but remaining calm is crucial. Disney’s cast members are trained professionals who will ensure that the situation is managed appropriately.
- Follow Instructions: Pay attention to any announcements or instructions given by cast members. They will provide updates and directions on what to do next.
- Stay Seated: Unless instructed otherwise, stay seated and keep your seatbelt fastened. This helps ensure your safety and prevents any potential injuries.
- Stay Hydrated: If you’re stuck outside or in a prolonged wait, make sure to drink water to stay hydrated, especially under the Florida sun.
The Role of Cast Members
Cast members are the backbone of Walt Disney World’s operations, and their primary role is to ensure guest safety and satisfaction. Here’s how they contribute during a breakdown:
- Communication: Cast members will keep you informed about the situation, including how long it might take for the issue to be resolved and what steps are being taken.
- Assistance: In the event of an evacuation, cast members will guide you through the process, ensuring that everyone exits the ride safely and efficiently.
- Problem-Solving: Behind the scenes, cast members work with technical teams to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Their goal is to minimize disruption and return the ride to normal operation.
Why It’s Important to Trust the Process
While being stranded on a ride can be inconvenient, trusting the process is essential. Disney’s commitment to safety means that any necessary delays are made with the well-being of guests and cast members in mind. Here’s why it’s important to trust the process:
- Safety First: Disney prioritizes the safety of everyone at the resort. If a ride breaks down, the delay often ensures that all safety protocols are followed, preventing potential hazards.
- Efficiency: Disney cast members are trained to handle these situations efficiently. Their goal is to resolve the issue and get the attraction back up and running as soon as possible.
- Guest Experience: Disney strives to provide the best possible guest experience, even in less-than-ideal situations. By trusting in their expertise, you contribute to a smoother resolution and maintain the magical spirit of your visit.
To minimize the occurrence of ride breakdowns, Disney invests heavily in maintenance and preventative measures. Regular inspections and maintenance routines help ensure that attractions operate smoothly. The technical teams work diligently to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.
If a ride breakdown significantly impacts your experience, don’t hesitate to speak with guest relations. Disney cast members can assist with compensation options or provide additional support to enhance your visit.
While ride breakdowns can momentarily disrupt the magic, they also highlight Disney’s commitment to safety and excellence. By understanding the procedures and trusting the expertise of Disney’s cast members, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Remember, even in these situations, the magic of Walt Disney World continues, and every effort is made to keep your experience as enchanting as possible.
Next time you encounter a ride breakdown at Walt Disney World, keep these tips in mind. Embrace the adventure and remember that the magic of Disney is always just around the corner!
