Popularity of Stormalong Bay
Stormalong Bay, located at Disney World’s Beach Club and Yacht Club, is the most favored resort pool among visitors. Guests report that its unique offerings, such as a lazy river, whirlpools, and expansive swimming areas, elevate their vacation experience. The pool area’s sheer size, spanning three acres, allows plenty of space for families to enjoy the sun and fun.
The pool’s remarkable features, including one of the largest waterslides within Disney properties — a 230-foot slide that begins at a replica of a shipwreck — attract a diverse crowd of thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Compared to other resort pools at Disney World, Stormalong Bay offers an unbeatable mix of amenities that caters to guests of all ages. Visitors often rank it the clear winner for a comprehensive pool experience, making it a must-visit destination for Disney fans and families.
The History of Design and Concept
The Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts opened in November 1990. They were designed to mimic the charm of New England seaside towns from the 1920s and ’30s. This historic context gives Stormalong Bay its unique aesthetic. Disney’s original vision was an ambitious plan that included creating a snorkeling lagoon where guests could swim alongside tropical fish, thus positioning the pool as a novel attraction.
As the first Deluxe Resorts located near EPCOT, these hotels aimed to redefine luxury for guests visiting Disney World. The innovative, creative concept behind Stormalong Bay hinted at Disney’s long-standing commitment to providing immersive experiences for its visitors. However, this concept was based on an ambitious idea that had yet to be executed thoroughly.
Transition from Snorkeling Lagoon to Lazy River
Maintaining the original snorkeling lagoon turned out to be more problematic than anticipated. Guests were allowed to swim with live fish; however, this setting soon proved unsustainable due to cross-contamination with the nearby saltwater areas. Consequently, some fish began to fall ill, prompting Disney to reconsider the lagoon’s viability.
By 1999, during Stormalong Bay’s expansion, Disney decided to close the snorkeling area permanently. The evolution to a lazy river brought excitement, transforming the space into a popular aquatic haven. Although the snorkeling feature was removed, the depth and shape of the current lazy river still reflect hints of its original concept, connecting guests to the pool’s unique heritage.
Unique Elements of Stormalong Bay
The design of Stormalong Bay draws heavily from the serene coastal towns of New England, enveloping the pool area in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. Guests can enjoy various distinctive features, including a sand-bottom kiddie area, whirlpools, and game zones, all contributing to a family-friendly environment.
The layout of Stormalong Bay showcases an impressive construction, with a blend of artistic design and functionality. While shorter and deeper than expected, its lazy river still provides an enjoyable experience as guests float leisurely along. The architectural elements and the pools’ innovative attractions create an immersive escapade for families looking to unwind.
In summary, Stormalong Bay at Disney World’s Beach Club and Yacht Club not only stands out for its attractions but also for its fascinating history, which underscores Disney’s ability to adapt and evolve in response to the interests and needs of its guests. Visitors can appreciate not just the thrill of the water slides and the tranquility of the lazy river, but also the layered story behind the pool’s design, making it a cherished spot in the realm of Disney resort experiences.
