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“Offensive” Pirates of the Caribbean Changes Resurface as Ride Breaks, Sending Guests Backward

Recently, guests visiting the Walt Disney World Resort experienced an unusual incident during their ride on Pirates of the Caribbean. As the attraction broke down, the boats unexpectedly began traveling backward down the track.

During the malfunction, overhead lights activated, providing illumination that contrasted sharply with the usual dark and immersive atmosphere of the ride. A TikTok user (@hi.imclover) documented this unexpected situation, giving viewers a glimpse into what it felt like to be on the ride at that moment:

@hi.imclover

Stuck on Pirates of the Carribean ride @Walt Disney World #piratesofthecaribbean #stuckatdisney #hilarious #waltdisneyworld

♬ original sound – Hi.I’mClover

The family captured moments of confusion and amusement on camera as they drifted backward. “We’re drifting backward… because we’re stuck on the ride,” one young guest remarked.

After about ten minutes of uncertainty, they expressed their bewilderment at not knowing what would happen next as they recorded other boats also moving in reverse. While they eventually made it off Pirates of the Caribbean, it remains unclear whether the ride was restarted or an evacuation occurred. The attraction reopened shortly after that.

Controversies Surrounding Pirates of the Caribbean Ride

pirates of the caribbean disney world
Credit: Disney

The Pirates of the Caribbean ride has been a focal point of ongoing debates and controversies. Some years ago, changes were made to the ride’s content, specifically removing the sexist bride auction scene that had drawn considerable criticism.

In response to backlash, Walt Disney World Resort revamped this part of the ride. Instead of showcasing female figures being sold to the highest bidder, Walt Disney Imagineers incorporated animatronics of female pirates who exhibit their independence and agency.

pirates of the caribbean disney world
Credit: Disney

While this update was intended to modernize the ride, it was met with mixed reviews. Some Disney Park fans expressed relief over the changes, while others felt the modifications did not go far enough. One viral 2023 TikTok suggested the ride’s male animatronics ogled female Disney Park guests.

“I just think this is kind of a weird ride,” the Disney Park guest said. “I don’t know… It’s just a little bit rapey.”

“I always felt violated on this ride,” read one of the video’s comments.

Have you gotten stuck on a ride at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Share your experience with Disney Dining in the comments. 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

One Comment

  1. People today are REALLY STUPID… feeling violated? feeling the ride is a bit rapey? They’re Pirate watching potential prey for God’s sake!! and they’re animatronics!! OMG what happened with the IQ in people in the last 20 years?

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