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Old 05-21-2017, 07:21 PM   #1
Sunsecret
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Making the pirate cruise in time

We are staying at the Pop Century Resort. We have our littles scheduled for the pirate cruise at the Grand Floridian at 9:45am, I believe.
What is the best way to get there in time?
I received 2 different answers from Cast Mrmbers.
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Old 05-21-2017, 08:15 PM   #2
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I would take the bus to the Magic Kingdom and then either monorail or boat to the Grand Floridian.

Curious--what were the two different ways Cast Members suggested?
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Old 05-21-2017, 08:22 PM   #3
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I agree with Toddjodybrent, that is how i would go. But know that it will take over an hour most likely. If you want to sleep in or are running late, get an UBER/taxi. yes that cost more but is also more direct.
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Old 05-21-2017, 08:41 PM   #4
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I would probably take a taxi myself if you don't have a car available. I say that because AFAIK, Disney has moved the security check points at the MK away from the turnstiles and much closer to the bus stop. I'd hate to see you have to spend time going through there just to get the boat or the monorail to the GF. Plus this way, you'll get to stay in your room for longer that morning.
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Old 05-21-2017, 08:42 PM   #5
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I think the question here is actually if you have "Littles" do you have the car seats/boosters they need to travel via a car. If yes, then I would definitely drive or Uber. If not then your only option really is bus to MK and then monorail or boat to the GF. The plus to this is that the boat will take you literally to where you need to be - the marina. Drawback is the time needed for this would be a minimum of an hour and honestly I would a lot more for a buffer.

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Old 05-21-2017, 10:40 PM   #6
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...bus to MK and then monorail or boat to the GF. The plus to this is that the boat will take you literally to where you need to be - the marina.
Probably, the boat would be faster. I can't recall how often those come to the MK dock, but that route is MK-GF-Poly. I've only ridden that one solo one afternoon when DH (scooter user) wanted a nap.

The catch is that if you have kids using a stroller, that boat can't take either strollers, wheelchairs or scooters.

The monorail goes MK to Contemporary to TTC to Poly before the GF, so that can take a good long while. Plus, you may wait 10-20 minutes for the next train if unlucky enough to get to the station just as the train leaves.

Definitely allow an hour and a half, probably two hours for insurance.

Best option is taking Uber or a cab if you can, as rphstearns and cattailmarsh indicated.
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Old 05-22-2017, 12:13 AM   #7
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Wow. Feeling slightly anxious now. Thank you for responding tho.
We have two - 6yr olds. We have never been here. We're so new to this. Boat, monorail, taxi.....my anxiety is screaming cancel and let the girls swim.
One method explained by a Cast Member was to go to MK then the monorail. Another was Pop Century to any park then bus to GF.
I'll really have to talk this out. I'm not sure we can make the 9:45am.
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Old 05-22-2017, 04:27 AM   #8
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Honestly, Disney transportation sounds much more difficult to use than it actually is. Really, truly! It all sounds more complicated now than you'll find it is once you begin using its various forms. It takes time to get from A to B, though, lots of time.

That IS a good point about taking a bus to a park, any park, and then the resort bus to the GF. That would work.

The catch is going to be that EVERYBODY in the world (not just World! ) will seem to be waiting for and riding the buses from about 7:00 to 9:00 trying to get to various parks for their openings or to resorts for breakfast. This is why we're recommending allowing 1-2 hours for security's sake; that's particularly so since you're not experienced users of Disney transportation.

With kids their ages, I suggest as I did originally, take the bus to the MK and then walk over to the boat dock marked for the GF--not far and signs are easy to spot and clear. The boat would likely be easiest (a brief ride) since most everyone else will be on bus, monorail or the large ferry trying to get TO the MK.

You could, however, do the one CM's suggested bus to the MK and monorail around the resort loop to get to the GF. Thing is with getting off the monorail, the GF station is on the second floor of the main building. For WDW newbies, finding your way from there over to the marina is going to be confusing.

MUCH easier to take bus, then boat. As mentioned earlier, the boat will drop you right at the GF marina where you want to be.

The very easiest would be Uber or a cab which won't cost you a fortune.. Many of us old-timers do that when getting to breakfast reservations. Your resort's front desk CMs will call a cab for you.
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Old 05-22-2017, 11:16 AM   #9
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Wow. Feeling slightly anxious now. Thank you for responding tho.
We have two - 6yr olds. We have never been here. We're so new to this. Boat, monorail, taxi.....my anxiety is screaming cancel and let the girls swim.
One method explained by a Cast Member was to go to MK then the monorail. Another was Pop Century to any park then bus to GF.
I'll really have to talk this out. I'm not sure we can make the 9:45am.
Making it to ADRs & activities even for seasoned Disney veterans can bring anxiety. As Dot pointed out, it really is not that bad. Personally it is most difficult to run through the scenarios and determine what works best for your family. I hear the Pirate cruise is awesome so don't miss it just bc of transportation!

For the ease of everything including time whike all the options would work of it was me I would 1st - Uber if that is possible with the girls size and 2nd - travel to MK and hop on the boat. The boat ride is a favorite transportation option of mine as it is relaxing and bonus you will be at the marina very near where you need to be.

Then make sure you enjoy your time exploring the resorts while you wait. There is some beautiful paths at the Poly and the GF. Shopping or dining would also be a great option for you. If you think you will be pressed for time in the morning - I would do some simple cold breakfast items to hold the girls and then go to a brunch or early lunch when they return from their excursion. And do not forget to ride the entire Monorail loop for the experience when you are not rushing to get somewhere. It is a must do for visitors even those of us who have traveled many times.

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Old 05-22-2017, 01:58 PM   #10
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Heck, yeah, riding the monorail is fun! We sometimes get on it and ride it around the loop for the enjoyment.

Still gives me a thrill despite having done it numerous times to watch as the train pulls INSIDE the CR Tower. That is just SO COOL!
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