Disney World has officially resumed ferryboat service at Magic Kingdom after an unexpected docking incident earlier this morning left guests rattled and the transportation system temporarily shut down.
The incident occurred as one of the ferryboats approached the Magic Kingdom dock, but instead of a routine docking, the vessel struck the support pillars with an audible impact. The force was strong enough to shake the boat and startle everyone onboard. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the impact was enough for Disney to immediately suspend ferry operations.
Guests who witnessed the crash took to social media, describing the scene as “jarring” and “unexpected,” though many praised the Cast Members for their calm and efficient response. Disney redirected guests to the monorail and bus system, and some guests reported receiving Lightning Lane passes as a courtesy.
Operations resumed just after 11 a.m., with Cast Members confirming the shutdown was purely precautionary. Still, this incident has sparked renewed attention to Disney’s infrastructure—particularly its transportation systems.
The ferryboats are often seen as a peaceful and scenic way to approach the Magic Kingdom, offering stunning views across Seven Seas Lagoon. But they’re also part of an aging transportation network that millions of guests rely on daily. When something goes wrong, it quickly affects operations park-wide.
It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time Disney has faced issues with its watercraft. A similar incident in 2021 involving the General Joe Potter ferryboat required local law enforcement response. That makes two notable events in just four years—concerning, to say the least.
As Disney continues to expand, from park attractions to hotel capacity, the pressure on infrastructure increases. Today’s crash, while minor in the grand scheme, could serve as the catalyst for broader discussions on ferry maintenance, dock design, or even new investments in water transportation technology.
So while everything is “back to normal” on the surface, many fans and observers are wondering how long that normal will last—and what steps Disney will take next to ensure ferry travel is just as magical as the destination itself.
