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Jungle Cruise at Walt Disney World Closes Its Doors

Passengers on a jungle-themed ride, including a child in a green dress pointing excitedly, as a guide in a hat speaks into a microphone.
Credit: Disney

Hold onto your safari hats, Disney fans! Walt Disney World’s beloved Jungle Cruise has temporarily docked for its annual makeover.

As of August 26, 2024, the classic attraction has set sail on its last voyage of the season. But don’t worry, this isn’t a permanent goodbye—it’s simply time for some well-deserved Refurbishment & Refreshment (or R&R, as we like to call it) before it reemerges with its festive holiday twist: Jingle Cruise!

A vibrant image of a Disney castle with fireworks bursting in the sky above. Various Disney characters in colorful costumes are gathered in front of the castle, creating a festive atmosphere. Blue sky and scattered clouds in the background.

Credit: Disney

Why the Jungle Cruise is Taking a Break

Every adventurous skipper and their trusty animatronic companions deserve a little rest. After all, those cheeky hippos and clever crocodiles have been working tirelessly, providing laughs and thrills to countless guests.

The Jungle Cruise’s closure is part of a scheduled refurbishment aimed at ensuring the attraction is in tip-top shape for the holiday season. While we might miss the classic jokes and the legendary backside of water for a few weeks, the return of Jingle Cruise is definitely worth the wait.

The closure started on August 26, 2024, and is expected to last until October 18, 2024. During this time, the attraction will not be available, as indicated on Disney’s website. However, fans can look forward to Jingle Cruise’s festive debut just in time for the holiday season, promising to bring a splash of cheer to your Magic Kingdom adventure.

Jungle Cruise Jingle Cruise Sign

Credit: Disney

What is Jingle Cruise?

For those new to this seasonal delight, Jingle Cruise is the holiday version of Jungle Cruise, transforming the classic attraction into a festive wonderland. Picture this: holiday-themed décor, cheerful Christmas tunes, and skippers donning Santa hats—all while delivering their trademark puns with an extra sprinkle of holiday spirit.

This seasonal overlay has become a cherished tradition for Disney-goers, and it’s easy to see why.

While Disney keeps details about this year’s Jingle Cruise under wraps (skippers are notoriously tight-lipped), past overlays have included festive touches like sparkling lights on the Jungle Navigation Company boats and Christmas garlands draped over the animatronic animals.

Expect plenty of holiday-themed puns that will keep you laughing all the way through your jungle adventure.

Jungle Cruise Holiday Decor for Jingle Cruise

Credit: Disney

Why You Should Experience Jingle Cruise

So, why should you make Jingle Cruise a top priority during your holiday visit to Walt Disney World? Here’s why:

1. Full Holiday Overlay

Unlike many attractions that incorporate subtle seasonal touches, Jingle Cruise goes all out. The entire experience is transformed into a holiday celebration, turning your river journey into a jolly adventure.

2. Unique Holiday Fun:

There’s something uniquely magical about combining the classic charm of Jungle Cruise with festive cheer. From a gorilla in a Santa hat to the sound of jingle bells in the jungle, Jingle Cruise creates an unforgettable holiday experience.

3. Nostalgic Appeal:

Jungle Cruise is a Disney classic that many guests consider a must-do on every visit. Jingle Cruise adds a new layer of fun to this iconic attraction, making it a delightful tradition for families and Disney enthusiasts alike.

A joyful scene of a woman and two children enjoying a festive moment at night. Dressed in red and white holiday attire, with the woman wearing silver mouse ears, they smile and look up in delight as snow falls around them, colorful lights in the background—and for this annual passholder family, it's pure magic.

Credit: Disney

Tips for Enjoying Jingle Cruise

Planning to hop aboard Jingle Cruise this holiday season? Here are some tips to ensure you have a fantastic experience:

1. Arrive Early: Jingle Cruise is a popular attraction, especially during the holidays. To avoid long lines, try to visit early in the day or use Genie+ to secure a Lightning Lane reservation.

2. Enjoy the Details: Disney’s attention to detail is legendary, and Jingle Cruise is no exception. Look out for holiday decorations throughout the ride and festive changes in the queue area, like Christmas cards and presents sent to the skippers by their families.

3. Embrace the Jokes: Skippers are known for their jokes, and Jingle Cruise is no different. Prepare for a barrage of holiday-themed puns and don’t be shy about laughing along—your skipper will appreciate it!

4. Get into the Spirit: Embrace the holiday spirit by wearing festive attire. Whether it’s holiday Mickey ears, a festive T-shirt, or jingle bells, dressing up adds to the fun.

5. Capture the Magic: Don’t forget to take photos! From the holiday décor to selfies with your skipper, capturing your Jingle Cruise adventure will make for great memories.

Two hands hold up festive green and red Christmas stockings featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed as elves. The stockings are decorated with wrapped presents. The cozy setting includes a stone fireplace and a garland.

Credit: Disney

More Holiday Magic at Walt Disney World

The holiday season at Walt Disney World is truly a magical time. Beyond Jingle Cruise, here are some other seasonal highlights to enjoy:

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: This after-hours event at Magic Kingdom features special character meet-and-greets, a festive parade, and even snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A. It’s a must-do for anyone looking to immerse themselves in holiday cheer.

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays: Explore global holiday traditions at Epcot, with festive food, live entertainment, and the beloved Candlelight Processional.

Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll: Stroll through Disney Springs and admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each themed after different Disney movies or characters.

A woman and two children pose with a person in a Donald Duck costume in front of a decorated Christmas tree. The children are wearing festive Minnie Mouse headbands. All are smiling and appear to be enjoying a holiday-themed setting.

Credit: Disney

As we eagerly await the return of Jungle Cruise as Jingle Cruise on October 18, 2024, the anticipation is building. While we’ll miss the classic version of the ride, the promise of holiday fun and festive puns makes the wait more than worthwhile. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a seasoned Disney pro, Jingle Cruise is a holiday experience you won’t want to miss.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a jolly adventure! See you on the rivers, adventurers—where holiday magic awaits!

Are you excited to experience Jingle Cruise this year? Share your plans and thoughts in the comments below!

About Jamie Sylvester

I'm a Disney nerd! A kid at heart who loves the magic and memories of Walt Disney World. I follow all things Disney and enjoy the vacations, day trips, weekend getaways, and geek out over the planning of such events. My goal is to experience as many Disney desserts and cocktails as possible! Married to another Disney nerd and blessed with a daughter and son, we thoroughly enjoy the magic at Disney and are here to help others experience the magic as well.

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