One of Magic Kingdom Park’s most talked-about attractions, Pirates of the Caribbean, was briefly taken offline again this week, and it didn’t take long for guests trapped on the ride to share their frustrations online.
On Friday, Walt Disney World Resort guests riding Pirates of the Caribbean found themselves stuck inside the attraction when it unexpectedly shut down mid-ride. TikTok user @randalekolbolt shared a video documenting the incident and the eventual evacuation, which reportedly required assistance from the local fire department. According to the guest’s post, “A LONG time” passed before riders were rescued.
@randalekolbolt Went to #disneyworld and got stuck on the #piratesofthecaribbean ride for a LONG time. We #survived but now know A Pirates Life by #heart . #vacation #florida #magickingdom @??
The cause of Friday’s shutdown has not been confirmed. However, the unknown issue was eventually resolved, and the attraction returned to normal operation.
Pirates of the Caribbean has long been a cornerstone of Disney Park storytelling, but in recent years, it has become one of the more controversial rides still operating. The attraction has undergone several significant updates, from the addition of Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) animatronics to the removal of the infamous bride auction scene. The former “brides for sale” gag was replaced with female pirates portrayed as empowered characters—a move that pleased some Disney Parks fans while upsetting others.
The debate over the ride’s content resurfaced in 2023 when a video of a woman expressing discomfort with the attraction’s tone went viral. “I just think this is kind of a weird ride,” she said. “I don’t know… It’s just a little bit rapey.”
Her remarks drew some backlash, but garnered support from other female Disney Parks fans who have long felt uneasy about certain scenes.
“It feels like we’re the entertainment for them and I do not like it,” one woman said.
“I always felt violated on this ride,” another Disney Park guest commented.
Despite the criticism, Pirates of the Caribbean continues to welcome thousands of guests each day. The ride remains a major draw in Adventureland, so much so that Walt Disney World Resort is currently finalizing a new Pirates-themed lounge in the area called The Beak and Barrel. The family-friendly addition promises to expand on the Pirates universe with food, drink, and themed decor.
Should Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort further modernize Pirates of the Caribbean? Share your thoughts with Disney Dining in the comments!
MY ALL TIME CLASSIC FAVORITE
NO SO FOR UN- SATISFIED MISERABLE TOURISTS
DO US A FAVOR GO RIDE DUMBO STAY AWAY FROM THE BEST CLASSICS
yes, people are ridiculous! if you don’t like it, just don’t ride it but don’t ruin it for the rest of us!
If it upsets you, stay away and go ride it’s a small world!!! ….