Walt Disney World Resort has officially confirmed its plans to expand the highly popular Pirates of the Caribbean ride, and more experiences are coming soon to Magic Kingdom.
Disney World Confirms Pirates of the Caribbean Expansion; A Controversial Ride?
Pirates of the Caribbean is a dark ride featured at Disneyland, Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Park at Disneyland Paris. The ride narrates the adventures of a band of pirates in the Caribbean Sea during the 17th and 18th centuries, detailing their voyages, troubles, and exploits. The original version debuted at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, in 1967 and was the last attraction personally overseen by Walt Disney before his death three months before its opening.
Following its immense popularity, the ride was replicated six years later at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, near Orlando, Florida, in 1973. Subsequent versions were introduced at Tokyo Disneyland in 1983 and Disneyland Paris in 1992. While each of the four initial versions features a different façade, the ride experience remains consistent across locations.
One of the original scenes in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride depicted a “bride auction,” where pirates auctioned female characters. As cultural sensitivities evolved, this scene faced increasing scrutiny for its portrayal of women. In response, Disney redesigned the scene to eliminate the auction element and featured the women as pirates.
WDW Finally Confirms Expansion
The updated scene, which first appeared at Disneyland Paris in 2017 and was later implemented in other parks, transformed the auction into a sale of stolen goods. The central female character, Redd, is now portrayed as a pirate auctioneer. Visitors to the ride now encounter a completely different scenario from the original, with Redd, the pirate, saying, “Send those chickens to Davy Jones; it’s the rum they want!”
This change marked a significant shift towards a narrative emphasizing empowerment and equality, aligning the ride with contemporary values and demonstrating Disney’s commitment to responsible storytelling. The Walt Disney World website has announced the Pirates of the Caribbean gift shop closure at Magic Kingdom. Tortuga Treasures, a temporary store at the former Tortuga Tavern quick-service restaurant across from the Plaza del Sol Caribe Bazaar, will be a replacement during this period.
Recent reports indicated that construction walls had been erected in the gift shop, likely to support the transformation of the former Pirates League space into a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed bar. Efforts to obtain additional information from Disney World regarding the ongoing construction at Plaza del Sol Caribe Bazaar have been unsuccessful.
The expansion of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride means several significant changes for Disney World guests and fans of the attraction. First, redesigning the “bride auction” scene reflects Disney’s efforts to align the ride with modern cultural values, promoting themes of empowerment and equality. This update enhances the overall experience by making it more inclusive and respectful, ensuring all guests feel comfortable and represented.
For long-time fans of the attraction, introducing new elements, such as the character Redd as a pirate auctioneer, adds fresh excitement and revitalizes a beloved classic. This update preserves the nostalgic charm of the original ride while integrating contemporary storytelling that appeals to both new and returning visitors. Moreover, the expansion underscores Disney’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
By responding to evolving cultural sensibilities and guest feedback, Disney demonstrates its dedication to maintaining the relevance and appeal of its attractions. This approach not only enhances the guest experience but also reinforces Disney’s reputation as a leader in theme park entertainment. Expanding the Pirates of the Caribbean ride offers an enriched and modernized experience for Disney World guests, ensuring that the attraction remains a cherished and progressive part of the park’s offerings.
