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Walt Disney World Resort is famously known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” and with good reason!
Between the enchanting realms of Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT, it’s easy to see why the experience spellbinds guests. However, even the most magical of places aren’t immune to the occasional hiccup that can momentarily disrupt the spellbinding atmosphere.
Credit: Disney
While minor inconveniences like a baby crying, unexpected weather, or technical glitches can occasionally cast a small shadow on the magic, they’re part and parcel of any large-scale operation.
We’re not here to point fingers at these everyday occurrences. Instead, let’s dive into a recent technical hiccup that caused quite a stir among Disney fans and how it might affect your magical experience.
A Glitch in the Magic: An Unfortunate Animatronic Malfunction for Princess Ariel
Recently, a video shared by a guest revealed a rather unusual sight on the beloved Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid attraction at Magic Kingdom.
This dark ride, which lovingly retells the story of Disney’s 1989 classic The Little Mermaid, is known for its captivating scenes and charming animatronics. However, it appears that Ariel, the iconic Disney princess, had a bit of an off day.
@guttermangirls Why is it so funny to me when the animatronics aren’t working properly 😂😮 #disneyworld #disneyworld50 #disneymom #distok #distokfam #animatronic #wdw #disneyhacks #disneyfails
In the video, viewers can see that Ariel’s animatronic is stuck with a fixed, unblinking gaze and a mouth that remains unmoving. Instead of the usual graceful and animated presentation, this malfunction creates a rather surreal and somewhat eerie effect.
While first-time visitors might not immediately notice the issue, Disney regulars will quickly spot the discrepancy, and it can put a damper on the otherwise enchanting ride.
Credit: Disney Parks
It’s unfortunate when a technical glitch affects a major part of the ride experience. Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid is meant to transport guests into the magical underwater world of Ariel, complete with lively and engaging animatronics that bring the story to life.
However, when the animatronic’s mouth isn’t moving as expected, it can be a bit jarring, especially during some of the most memorable and magical parts of the attraction.
For families visiting the park, this malfunction can be a mixed bag. Parents might find humor in the situation, chuckling at the unexpected glitch. Meanwhile, younger guests—who are often more attuned to the details of their beloved characters—might find the sight a bit unsettling.
In some cases, this could even lead to tears or a bit of disappointment, especially if their expectations of a perfect, magical experience are dashed by a mechanical hiccup.
Credit: Disney
As with any technical issue, the hope is always for a swift resolution. Disney’s dedicated maintenance teams are well-versed in handling such challenges, and we’re confident that Ariel’s animatronic will soon be back to her usual sparkling self.
Until then, guests can continue to enjoy the charm and magic of the Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid with a touch of patience and understanding.
Disneyland and Walt Disney World are known for their commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. While occasional glitches are part of the amusement park world, they don’t detract from the overall enchantment. Here’s hoping Ariel’s animatronic is back to her radiant self soon, ensuring that every ride on Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid is as magical as it was meant to be!
In the meantime, let’s cherish the many other magical moments and attractions that make Walt Disney World the enchanting wonderland we all adore. After all, it’s the blend of magic and real-life quirks that make each visit to the park a unique and memorable adventure.
