Disney Parks

Old Key West Guests Affected by Ongoing Boat Transportation Issues Due to Dock Refurbishment

Andrew Boardwine March 24, 2025

0 1 minute read

A scenic view of a waterfront restaurant with a light blue exterior and white roof. The building, reminiscent of Disney World Resorts, is surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees. Several boats are docked at the wooden pier in front, and people can be seen dining outside under covered patio areas. — Credit: Disney

If you’re heading to Disney’s Old Key West Resort anytime soon and had your heart set on a breezy boat ride to Disney Springs, you’ll want to change up those plans. The beloved water taxi service that runs along the Sassagoula River remains temporarily unavailable while refurbishment work continues at the resort’s dock.

Old key west resort waterfront view — Credit: Disney

This closure started in early February and was announced on Disney’s official website as a temporary refurbishment. While Disney has stated that the dock project is expected to wrap by early April 2025, there hasn’t been a firm reopening date shared just yet. In the meantime, transportation to Disney Springs from Old Key West has shifted to bus service only.

If you’re staying at the resort, you’ll notice several signs alerting guests to the temporary change. Two large folding signs sit directly in front of the dock’s entrance, blocking access. There’s also a refreshed wooden sign to the side, painted in a coordinating color scheme that includes a sapphire blue border and decorative wave-like accents. It reads, “Not Operating at this time.”

A large water tower with the words "Disney Springs" painted on it stands against a cloudy sky. Elevated on a metal frame and surrounded by palm trees and nearby buildings, the scene is lit by soft, warm evening light, evoking the enchanting atmosphere of Disney World. — Credit: Disney

Though the dock doesn’t look dramatically different, subtle changes are underway. The wooden planks that make up the walking surface have been swapped out for newer, lighter ones, replacing the weathered brown boards that had aged over the years. Missing for now are the familiar rope barriers and handrails that usually line the sides of the dock, and a bundle of metal posts has been spotted nearby, possibly waiting to be installed.

While the pause in service may be disappointing for fans of the relaxing water route, there’s still a silver lining: the Sassagoula River Cruise is still running. Guests can still take a boat ride from Old Key West to Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and the Treehouse Villas. It’s not quite the same as arriving at Disney Springs by boat, but it’s still a scenic alternative.

A picturesque lakeside scene features pastel-colored buildings with a gazebo, surrounded by green lawns and trees. A blue and yellow boat floats on the calm lake water under a clear blue sky. — Credit: Disney Parks

Until ferry service resumes, guests are encouraged to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time when using buses. It’s all part of keeping the resort safe and refreshed for future visits. The refurbishment may be an inconvenience in the short term, but it should lead to a better guest experience when it’s complete.