Warning: Disney World's Bus Shortage Will Ruin Your Morning Plan
Pack your patience due to a stated shortage of Walt Disney World buses. See how this affected our Early Entry strategy.
Disney World Transportation
One large perk for Walt Disney World Guests is the use of free transportation. Due to the massive size of the Walt Disney World Resort, this is a much-needed perk for Guests.
From the Skyliner, buses, ferry boats, and, of course, the monorail, there are many options for Resort Guests to arrive at each of the Walt Disney World Parks.
However, there are specific transportation options based upon the Walt Disney World Resort you are staying at.
Disney Bus Delays
At times, delays and transportation closures cannot be avoided, and guests need to be aware of these changes.
This week we stayed at Disney's All-Star Movies. Only bus transportation is offered at Disney's All-Star Resorts. Unfortunately, our attempt to arrive early at the Disney Parks was dampened by a Disney bus shortage.
On Wednesday, July 22nd, we were second in line at the Disney's Hollywood Studios bus stop for the first bus of the morning. That morning, Disney's Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Magic Kingdom all offered Early Theme Park entry at 8:30 am.
While we waited for our Disney's Hollywood Studios bus, three buses arrived for Magic Kingdom, one third-party charter bus (more on that in a moment) arrived for EPCOT, and finally one arrived for Disney's Hollywood Studios.
By the time we arrived at Disney's Hollywood Studios, we were at the very back of the touchpoint canopy. This was a pretty disappointing start to our day.
The following day, July 23rd, we were first in line for the first bus to EPCOT. Early Entry time was the same for all three Parks mentioned above. Again, three buses arrived for Magic Kingdom, one arrived for Disney's Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT was left with a growing line.
Disney Bus Shortage Explained
A Disney Transportation Cast Member was present on July 23rd. I (Donna) friendly joked about our similar experience the day before. The Cast Member was apologetic, explaining that they have a current shortage of Disney buses.
Early Entry due to a Walt Disney World bus shortage.
Due to the bus shortage, they have had to contract third-party buses to help transport Guests. When our bus to EPCOT arrived, it was a third-party contract bus. When we arrived at EPCOT, the bus driver took a wrong turn, and we spent a few moments backing up to take the correct path.
Once we finally reached the entrance, we were again further back than we typically are when we are first in line at the bus stop. We still had a great day at the Disney Parks, but this delay was quite disappointing.
It is unclear how long this Disney bus shortage may impact Guests, but it is something to prepare for if you plan to enjoy Early Entry. At least one Disney bus was temporarily unavailable this week when a Disney bus was evacuated due to thick smoke.
Have you experienced Disney transportation delays? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Donna loved Disney from an early age. As a child, her family would joke that she lived in "Donna Land." As an adult, she enjoys planning and creating magical vacations for her family. She always brings a little faith, trust, and a little bit of Pixie Dust!
