An introvert’s escape: Blue Launch boat crawl in Magic Kingdom Resort area
Introversion Insight:
It’s inevitable that introverts will find themselves in busy places with crowds. And sometimes they voluntarily put themselves in these places to have fun or see something new. To avoid an introvert hangover, though, it’s important to find ways to recharge—away from the action.
You’ve just watched the 3 o’clock parade at Magic Kingdom. Are you starting to feel tired, physically and mentally? Here’s a way to recharge so that you’ll make it through the whole park day.
(And if you’re just having a Resort day or wanting a new way to experience the parks as a local, this is for you as well.)
Hop on a boat and explore three Disney Resorts!
Stop 1: Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Step 1: Hobble your way to the Magic Kingdom exit and make a left. You’ll follow a path and cross the street to reach the Contemporary.
Note: If you’re a local and not visiting the park, you may find it difficult to park at the Contemporary without a stay or dining reservation. I suggest parking at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and making that Resort your first stop in this boat crawl.
Step 2: Grab a spot at the Steakhouse 71 lounge or bar.
After entering the Contemporary, make a left and walk past the check-in area. Steakhouse 71 will be on your left. The lounge and bar don’t require a reservation, so just ask the host if there’s room. You’ll find tables and chairs on the right, which are part of the lounge, and then traditional bar seating at the bar itself.
Tip: Opt for the lounge. I find that if I sit at the bar, the bartender is more likely to engage in small talk.
My favorite drink?
Heron Gimlet – Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Chartreuse Green Liqueur, Seedlip Garden, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, and Lemonade
Stop 2: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Step 3: Hop on a boat to Wilderness Lodge.
Once you exit Steakhouse 71, make a left out the back of the Resort. The boat dock is straight out from there.
Note: You’ll be taking what’s called the Blue Launch (or Flag) route. Interestingly enough, the signs at the Contemporary’s dock don’t say it’s the Blue Launch route. Just look for the sign that says, “Boat to Wilderness Lodge.” It will be on the left. The boat itself also has a blue flag—hence the route name.
Step 4: Grab a spot at Geyser Point Bar & Grill.
Once you disembark, head left, taking the path near the water. You’ll pass the pool area and, if you’re lucky, catch a geyser going off on the left. Geyser Point doesn’t require a reservation, but you can join the walk-up list in the My Disney Experience app as you get closer to the restaurant. If you don’t use the app, you can walk right up and put your name down.
My favorite drink?
Seasonal margarita flight – It’s not typically on the menu, so be sure to ask if they have one.
Stop 3: Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Step 5: Hop on a boat to Fort Wilderness.
You’ll head back to the same dock to board the boat to your final spot. Look for the sign for the Blue Flag route (right side).
Step 6: Grab a spot at Crockett’s Tavern.
Once you go ashore, follow the path past the beach area. The first building you’ll encounter on your right is Crockett’s Tavern. Once again, no reservation is needed. You can seat yourself at a table, or you can get drinks or food items to go from the pickup window. If you opt for to-go items, walk around the building and sit in the rocking chairs that face the water.
My favorite drink?
Meadows Cup – Pimm’s No. 1 Liqueur Cup, Hendrick’s Gin, Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, and Strawberry
Step 7: Hop on a boat back to the Contemporary.
You’ll head back to the same dock to return to your starting point. Look for the sign for the Blue Flag route (right side).
You’ve now done the loop! I hope you’re feeling recharged (and maybe a little buzzed). Time to finish out your magical evening at Magic Kingdom.
An introvert’s escape
The Blue Launch boat crawl is fun for all, but I think it’s especially great for D•Introverts who need a reset from the hustle and bustle that is Magic Kingdom.
- I chose these lounge locations because they’re close to the boat docks. There’s less of a chance of getting lost this way!
- If you imbibe, liquid extroversion is always a nice option, especially since Magic Kingdom is mostly a dry park.
- Boat transportation can be relaxing and recharging. Just being on the water helps.
Blue Launch boat crawl
Route: Magic Kingdom Resort area with stops at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (in that order typically)
Time required: 2–3 hours
(depending on how long you stay at each stop)
Operating hours: 3 p.m.–10:45 p.m.