Disney Does It Again
Disney's Yacht Club Resort is one of those places that makes you realize why people keep coming back to Disney World - and it's not just the parks. This resort is absolutely beautiful. From the moment you pull up, the New England nautical theming sets the tone for something special. It's elegant, it's fun, and it's got that Disney magic that makes everything feel just a little more special than it should.
I stayed here on a trip to Orlando and honestly, I could have spent the entire vacation at the resort without ever stepping foot in a park and still had an amazing time. The grounds are immaculate, the design is gorgeous, and there's so much to do that you almost forget you're at Disney World - until you see Spaceship Earth peeking over the trees from the Boardwalk.
The Resort
Beautiful Design Everywhere You Look
What really sets the Yacht Club apart is the design. Disney went all in on the New England yacht club theme, and it shows in every detail. The lobby has this grand, airy feel with nautical touches that are classy rather than cheesy. Dark wood, brass fixtures, model ships, and maritime artwork - it all comes together to create an atmosphere that feels refined but still welcoming and fun.
Walking around the resort is an experience in itself. The hallways, the common areas, even the exterior architecture - everything is thoughtfully designed. You can tell Disney put serious attention into making this place feel like a real New England coastal resort, and they nailed it. It's the kind of place where you find yourself stopping to take photos of the building itself, not just the views.
Stormalong Bay - The Best Pool at Disney
Let's talk about the pool, because Stormalong Bay deserves its own section. It's not just a pool - it's a mini water park. Shared between the Yacht Club and Beach Club, this thing is massive. There's a sand-bottom pool area, a lazy river, a waterslide built into a shipwreck replica, and plenty of spots to just float around and relax. It's easily the best pool at any Disney World resort, and honestly one of the best hotel pools I've ever seen anywhere.
On a hot Florida day, spending the afternoon at Stormalong Bay is absolute perfection. Grab a drink from the pool bar, find a lounge chair, and you're set. The kids were having the time of their lives on the waterslide while I was perfectly happy floating in the lazy river. It's the kind of pool that makes you skip the parks for a day, and you won't regret it.
Pool, Dining & More
Great Dining Without Leaving the Resort
One of the best things about the Yacht Club is the dining situation. The resort has its own restaurants, and because you're right on the Boardwalk, you've got even more options just a short walk away. Whether you want a sit-down dinner, a quick bite, or just a snack by the pool, you're covered. The on-site restaurant serves great food, no need to trek to a park just to eat well.
And speaking of the Boardwalk - it's right there. You can walk out of the resort and stroll along the water to restaurants, shops, and entertainment. In the evenings, the Boardwalk comes alive with street performers, live music, and that classic Disney atmosphere. It's the perfect way to end a day, and you don't need a bus or a car to get there.
Location, Location, Location
The Yacht Club's location is hard to beat. You can walk to EPCOT - literally walk right through the International Gateway entrance in about 10 minutes. Hollywood Studios is also walkable via the Boardwalk, or you can take the boat. Having that kind of access without relying on buses or rideshares is a game changer, especially when you want to pop over to a park for a few hours and then come back to the resort for some pool time.
The boat transportation is also a nice touch. There's something about cruising across the lagoon to get to your park that just feels right. It's relaxing, it's scenic, and it beats standing in a bus line every time.
What I Loved
- Absolutely beautiful resort - the design and theming are top-notch
- Stormalong Bay is hands down the best pool at Disney World
- Walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios via the Boardwalk
- On-site restaurants are excellent - no need to leave the resort for great food
- The nautical New England theming is elegant without being over the top
- Disney's attention to detail is everywhere - it feels truly special
- Shared amenities with the Beach Club doubles your options
- Boat transportation to the parks is a fun, relaxing way to get around
Keep in Mind
- It's a Disney Deluxe resort so it comes with Deluxe pricing
- Can get very busy during peak seasons - especially the pool
- Some rooms are a long walk from the lobby depending on your building
The Verdict
Disney's Yacht Club Resort is beautiful, fun, and everything you'd want from a Disney Deluxe resort. The design is stunning, Stormalong Bay is the best pool on property, the dining is great, and the location gives you walkable access to two parks. Whether you're there for business, a family trip, or just a getaway, this resort delivers. It's the kind of place that makes the whole trip feel elevated, and that's the Disney magic at work. I'd absolutely stay here again.
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Walt Disney World · Orlando, Florida
Visited 2024
