Disney World and Disney Springs Has Great News for Hundreds of Guests
A Free Transportation Service Is Back
Walt Disney World Resort guests staying at one of the Resorts will now have access to a free transportation service directly to Disney Springs.
Disney Springs Just Got a Lot Easier To Get To Thanks to This New Information
While most guests focus on new rides and crowd surges, a quiet return just changed the game for fans of slower, more peaceful Disney travel. The water taxi service at Disney’s Old Key West Resort is officially back in operation—silently slipping into service with a brand-new dock and the same calm magic that’s made it a longtime favorite.
If you’re someone who enjoys the quieter corners of Walt Disney World, this update is for you. Here’s what happened, how to catch a ride, and why it’s worth including in your next trip—even if you’re not staying at the resort.
What Happened: Water Taxi Returns to Old Key West
The boat service between Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney Springs was temporarily paused earlier this year while crews worked on updating the boat dock. Now, after months of waiting, the water taxi is officially operating again—giving guests another option for traveling to Disney Springs that doesn’t involve buses or walking.
Guests staying at Old Key West can now board the ferry-style boat near the Hospitality House, where a new dock has been installed. This service offers a relaxed and enjoyable ride along the Sassagoula River, away from the usual transportation noise.
⚠️ Weather Reminder: Just like other Disney water transport, the boats will be suspended during storms or high winds.
How to Use It: Boarding Times and Tips
Here’s everything you need to know to take advantage of this laid-back route:
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Location: The dock is located behind the Hospitality House area at Old Key West.
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Schedule: Boats generally run every 20–30 minutes from late morning through the evening.
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Fare: Free for all Disney guests.
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Ride Duration: About 20–25 minutes from dock to Disney Springs.
The water taxi is especially useful if you’re heading to a dinner reservation, a concert at House of Blues, or just want a less stressful route for shopping and exploring.
Insider Tips: When and Why to Ride
Guests who know the ins and outs of Disney often consider this ride one of the best hidden transportation perks.
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Best Time to Ride: Aim for late afternoon or sunset for the best scenery.
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Seats to Grab: Sit toward the back of the boat for open-air views.
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Escape the Crowds: Evening bus lines from Disney Springs can get long—this boat often remains half empty.
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Add Some Calm to Your Day: If you’re not doing a full park day, this is a peaceful Disney activity that requires no tickets.
Even if you’re not staying at Old Key West, a meal or drink at the resort’s Olivia’s Café gives you an excuse to explore—and take a boat ride after.
Why It Matters to Fans
There’s a special kind of magic in Disney’s transportation system—and for many, the return of the Old Key West ferry is about more than convenience. It’s about charm, nostalgia, and slowing down.
The boat ride offers something many Disney fans crave: a quiet moment. No FastPass. No app refreshing. Just calm water, chirping birds, and a breeze through the trees. In an era where everything at the parks is faster, louder, and more scheduled, this is one of the few moments where the magic still feels personal.
Disney Springs Now Faster To Get To Thanks to Disney’s Water Taxi Service Returning
Not every update has to be a major ride opening to make a difference in a guest’s experience. The return of the Old Key West boat service is proof that small touches still matter—and for many, it’s the kind of thing that makes a vacation feel complete.
Next time you’re at Disney World, carve out some time for a ride that reminds you why fans fall in love with Disney in the first place.
Source: MickeyBlog
