Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Nestled along the shores of Crescent Lake at Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort stands as a testament to the refined elegance of New England’s maritime heritage. This deluxe resort, with its striking gray and white exterior, nautical accents, and sophisticated atmosphere, offers guests a unique blend of luxury, convenience, and Disney magic. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything this remarkable resort has to offer, from its accommodations to its dining options, recreation facilities, and beyond. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is a Walt Disney World Deluxe Resort, and located in the Epcot Resort Area. It is one of the Beach Club Resorts, along with Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disneys’ Beach Club Villas.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Summary

• A deluxe Walt Disney World resort designed in the style of New England’s seaside hotels of the 1880s, featuring sophisticated nautical theming throughout its architecture and decor
• Ideally located within walking distance of Epcot’s International Gateway and Disney’s BoardWalk, with boat service to Hollywood Studios and access to the Disney Skyliner gondola system
• Home to Stormalong Bay, an expansive 3-acre water complex featuring a sand-bottom pool, 230-foot waterslide built into a shipwreck, lazy river, and dedicated children’s area (shared with Disney’s Beach Club Resort)
• Notable dining options include the signature Yachtsman Steakhouse, casual Ale & Compass Restaurant, the intimate Crew’s Cup Lounge, and the popular Beaches & Cream Soda Shop
• Contains 621 guest rooms and suites with various view options including water views of Crescent Lake, plus Club Level accommodations with access to the Regatta Club Lounge
• Features extensive convention facilities (shared with Beach Club), making it popular for both vacation and business travelers, plus dedicated wedding venues for special events
• Offers a range of recreation options beyond Stormalong Bay, including tennis courts, boat rentals, fishing excursions, and easy access to the entertainment and dining along Disney’s BoardWalk

Disney’s Yacht Club Theme

Opening its doors in November 1990, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort was designed by acclaimed architect Robert A.M. Stern, who drew inspiration from the upscale seaside resorts of New England’s late 19th century. The resort’s design perfectly captures the essence of Newport, Rhode Island, during its golden age, with its classic architectural details, wood-paneled walls, and brass accents throughout.

The nautical theme is thoughtfully integrated into every aspect of the resort, from the lighthouse that serves as its beacon to the ship’s wheels, maritime artwork, and model ships that adorn the public spaces. Even the cast members’ uniforms reflect this maritime heritage, with their crisp, naval-inspired attire adding to the authentic atmosphere.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Lobby

Stepping into the Yacht Club’s main lobby transports guests into the golden age of New England’s seaside resorts. The space strikes an impressive balance between grandeur and intimacy, with its soaring ceilings and abundant natural light creating an open, airy atmosphere while comfortable seating areas maintain a cozy feel. The lobby’s architectural details showcase the resort’s nautical heritage through a sophisticated lens, avoiding any sense of theme park artificiality.

The centerpiece of the lobby is a magnificent globe, mounted in brass and slowly rotating throughout the day. This impressive feature serves as both a functional piece of art and a popular meeting point for guests. Surrounding the globe, detailed nautical charts and historic sailing vessels’ paintings adorn the walls, while model ships in glass cases display exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The lobby’s color palette draws from maritime traditions, with rich navy blues, crisp whites, and warm woods creating a refined nautical atmosphere. Brass accents appear throughout the space, from the elegant light fixtures to the ship’s wheel decorations and railings. The wooden floor, designed to evoke a ship’s deck, features intricate inlay patterns that add to the sophisticated ambiance.

Comfortable seating areas are thoughtfully arranged throughout the lobby, offering guests places to relax and plan their day. Wing-back chairs and plush sofas in nautical stripes and leather provide convenient spots to wait for dining reservations or simply enjoy the atmosphere. Large windows flood the space with natural light and offer views of the meticulously maintained grounds and Crescent Lake beyond.

The front desk area continues the nautical theme with its rich wood paneling and brass accents. The desk itself resembles the curved lines of a ship’s hull, while the cast members’ naval-inspired uniforms complete the maritime atmosphere. Adjacent to the front desk, a model lighthouse serves as a symbolic beacon, welcoming guests to their vacation home.

In one corner of the lobby, a comfortable library nook features built-in bookshelves filled with nautical literature and decorative objects. This quiet space provides a peaceful retreat for guests seeking a moment of tranquility. Nearby, a concierge desk offers personalized assistance with dining reservations, park tickets, and special requests.

During the winter holiday season, the lobby transforms with elegant decorations that complement its nautical theme. A magnificent Christmas tree adorned with maritime-inspired ornaments becomes the seasonal focal point, while subtle holiday touches throughout the space maintain the resort’s sophisticated atmosphere.

Disney’s Yacht Club Accommodations

The Yacht Club Resort features 621 guest rooms and suites, each offering a sophisticated retreat after a day in the parks. The standard rooms, measuring 381 square feet, provide ample space for families and couples alike. These rooms feature either two queen beds or one king bed, with some rooms offering additional sleeping capacity through a daybed or pull-down murphy bed.

The resort offers several distinct view categories, each providing its own unique perspective of the property. Standard View rooms typically overlook the parking area or rooftop facilities, but their location can be convenient for guests wanting quick access to transportation. Garden View rooms offer peaceful vistas of the resort’s meticulously maintained landscapes, with some rooms featuring views of the quiet pool area. Woods View rooms face the natural areas surrounding the resort, providing a serene setting particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Water View rooms are among the most sought-after accommodations, offering stunning views of Crescent Lake or Stormalong Bay. Rooms facing Crescent Lake provide entertainment in the form of passing friendship boats and views of the BoardWalk’s evening activities across the water. Some water view rooms offer partial views of Epcot, treating guests to distant glimpses of the park’s nighttime spectaculars. Lagoon View rooms specifically face the resort’s swimming complex, offering views of Stormalong Bay’s activities and the distinctive lighthouse.

Most rooms include a furnished balcony or patio, allowing guests to enjoy these views in comfort. Corner rooms on higher floors are particularly desirable, as they often feature wraparound balconies providing expanded views of the surrounding area. Fifth-floor rooms in the main building offer some of the best views, with some providing spectacular vistas stretching from Crescent Lake to Epcot.

For guests seeking an enhanced experience, the Club Level rooms offer access to the exclusive Regatta Club Lounge. This concierge level service includes a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, midday snacks, and evening hors d’oeuvres and desserts. The lounge also offers select beer and wine options, along with dedicated concierge service to assist with vacation planning and special requests.

The resort’s suite offerings cater to those requiring additional space or seeking the ultimate in luxury accommodations. These range from junior suites to expansive two-bedroom suites, featuring separate living areas, multiple bathrooms, and extended balconies. Many suites also include Club Level access, combining spacious accommodations with premium services.

All rooms at the Yacht Club maintain the resort’s nautical theme while providing modern amenities for guest comfort. Standard features include a mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, smart TV with streaming capabilities, in-room safe, and H2O+ bath products. High-speed wireless internet ensures guests can stay connected throughout their stay.

Disney’s Yacht Club Dining

The dining offerings at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort cater to a variety of tastes and occasions, from casual quick-service options to signature dining experiences. The crown jewel of the resort’s dining collection is the Yachtsman Steakhouse, one of Walt Disney World’s premier dining destinations. This signature restaurant features an open kitchen with an on-stage butcher room where guests can watch as premium cuts of beef are aged and prepared. The extensive wine list and elegant nautical atmosphere make it perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated evening out.

For more casual dining, the Ale & Compass Restaurant offers New England-inspired comfort food in a modern gastropub setting. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a particularly popular weekend brunch offering. The connected Ale & Compass Lounge provides a cozy spot for craft cocktails and light bites, requiring no reservations and perfect for both pre-dinner drinks or a relaxing nightcap.

The Crew’s Cup Lounge, tucked away adjacent to Yachtsman Steakhouse, offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that exemplifies the resort’s nautical theme. With its rich dark woods, leather seating, and maritime decor, this intimate lounge provides an upscale experience without the formality of the steakhouse. The lounge is known for its carefully curated selection of wines, craft beers, and cocktails, along with an impressive bar menu featuring elevated pub fare. Popular items include truffle fries, charcuterie boards, and short rib sliders. Opening daily at 4:00 PM, the Crew’s Cup requires no reservations, making it perfect for both impromptu gatherings and pre-dinner drinks.

The Market at Ale & Compass serves as the resort’s quick-service location, where guests can find grab-and-go items, fresh pastries and coffee, made-to-order breakfast items, and various sundries for convenience.

A beloved dining option shared with Disney’s Beach Club Resort is the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. This classic American diner is famous for its ice cream desserts, including the legendary Kitchen Sink sundae. The restaurant also serves hearty comfort foods like burgers and sandwiches, while a takeout window caters to those seeking just ice cream treats.

Disney’s Yacht Club Recreation

The crown jewel of the Yacht Club’s recreational offerings is the magnificent Stormalong Bay, a three-acre water recreation area shared with Disney’s Beach Club Resort. This premium pool complex stands apart from other Disney resort pools through its unique features and extensive size. The centerpiece is a massive sand-bottomed pool that creates a genuine beach experience, complete with gently sloping entry and soft, clean sand perfect for building castles or simply wiggling your toes.

The complex’s water areas are thoughtfully designed to accommodate guests of all ages and swimming abilities. The main pool ranges in depth from zero entry to 8 feet, with clearly marked depth changes throughout. A dedicated swimming area features lanes for exercise, while multiple shallow areas provide safe spaces for younger swimmers. The sand bottom extends throughout much of the main pool area, creating an authentic beach feel that’s particularly unique among Disney resorts.

Stormalong Bay’s most striking feature is the life-size shipwreck, home to one of the highest hotel waterslides at Walt Disney World. The 230-foot slide begins at the top of a 56-foot-tall mast, accessed by climbing the wooden stairs inside the structure. The slide’s journey provides thrilling views of the resort before splashing down into a dedicated plunge pool. A second, smaller slide near the children’s pool area offers younger guests their own water adventure.

The lazy river element of Stormalong Bay winds through the complex, offering both sun-soaked and shaded areas as it meanders. Various water currents provide different experiences, from gentle floating to more vigorous swimming against the flow. Multiple entry and exit points allow guests to join or leave the river at their convenience, while inner tubes are provided complimentary for a relaxing journey.

Three separate hot tubs offer different experiences: one is perfectly positioned for sunset views over Crescent Lake, another is nestled among tropical landscaping for privacy, and the third offers a more social atmosphere near the main pool area. Each spa maintains a different temperature, allowing guests to find their perfect relaxation setting.

The children’s area features its own sandy beach and shallow pool, complete with a miniature slide and interactive water features. This area is partially secluded from the main complex while remaining easily visible to parents, creating a safe and entertaining environment for younger guests.

Stormalong Bay’s amenities extend beyond the water features. The complex includes plenty of seating options, from standard loungers to premium umbrellas and cabana-style structures. Multiple towel stations ensure convenience, while private lockers are available for storing personal items. The nearby Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill provides food and beverage service without requiring guests to leave the pool area.

Access to Stormalong Bay is strictly monitored, with guests required to show their resort ID and wear specific wristbands. This exclusive access ensures the complex never feels overcrowded, maintaining its appeal as one of Disney World’s premium pool experiences.

Beyond the pool complex, the resort offers numerous additional recreational opportunities including a world class fitness center. The Ship Shape Health Club provides 24-hour access to state-of-the-art exercise equipment. Outdoor activities include tennis courts, volleyball, and scenic walking or jogging paths around Crescent Lake. Guests can rent motorized boats for exploring the waterways or try their hand at fishing excursions. Surrey bike rentals offer a fun way to explore the resort area, while evening activities include movies under the stars and campfire experiences.

For indoor entertainment, the Lafferty Place Arcade provides both classic and modern gaming options in an air-conditioned environment. The Admiral Pool offers a quieter swimming alternative to Stormalong Bay, perfect for guests seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.

Disney’s Yacht Club Transportation

One of the Yacht Club’s greatest assets is its prime location within Walt Disney World. Situated in the Epcot resort area, the resort hotel offers guests multiple convenient ways to reach all Disney destinations. The resort’s proximity to Epcot is particularly noteworthy, as guests can reach the park’s International Gateway entrance with an easy 5-10 minute stroll along the shores of Crescent Lake.

The resort features two convenient bus stops for accessing the theme parks, water parks and other Disney destinations. The main bus stop is situated in front of the Yacht Club’s main entrance, while a second stop is located near the Beach Club. Both stops are equipped with digital displays showing wait times for the next bus, comfortable covered seating areas, and benches for guest comfort. The main Yacht Club stop often proves less crowded than its Beach Club counterpart, offering a more peaceful waiting experience.

For reaching Magic Kingdom, complimentary bus transportation runs throughout the day from both stops. The journey typically takes 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. These buses operate continuously, with increased frequency during peak park hours and around park opening and closing times.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also accessible via dedicated bus service, with the ride usually taking about 25-30 minutes. Buses run regularly throughout operating hours, and guests can check the digital displays at each stop for accurate arrival times. It’s recommended to leave the resort about an hour before any dining reservations or scheduled activities to ensure timely arrival.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers guests two convenient transportation options. The first is a relaxing boat ride across Crescent Lake, which takes approximately 20 minutes and provides beautiful views along the way. Alternatively, guests can walk to the International Gateway and take advantage of the Disney Skyliner, an aerial gondola system that provides a scenic 10-minute journey to the park’s entrance.

Visiting Disney Springs is possible through direct bus service from the resort. The journey typically takes 20-25 minutes, with buses running continuously during Disney Springs operating hours. In the evenings, when Disney Springs is particularly popular, bus frequency increases to accommodate larger crowds.

For guests visiting Epcot, the proximity of the International Gateway entrance is one of the Yacht Club’s greatest advantages. This secondary park entrance, located in the World Showcase between the United Kingdom and France pavilions, can be reached by either a short walk or a pleasant boat ride across Crescent Lake. This convenience is particularly valuable during Epcot’s various festivals throughout the year.

The addition of the Disney Skyliner has further enhanced the resort’s transportation options. Guests can walk to the International Gateway station and use this aerial gondola system to access other areas of Walt Disney World, including Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Yacht Club Shopping

The resort’s shopping venues cater to both practical needs and souvenir desires. The Market at Ale & Compass serves as a convenient stop for resort sundries, basic groceries, and swimming supplies, while also offering Disney merchandise and daily newspapers. Fittings & Fairings provides a more extensive shopping experience, featuring resort-specific merchandise, clothing and accessories, and limited edition items that make perfect mementos of a Yacht Club stay.

Disney’s Yacht Club Conventions

Together with its sister property the Beach Club, the Yacht Club Resort houses one of Walt Disney World’s largest convention centers. The convention center is 73,000 square feet of meeting space and includes the impressive Grand Harbor Ballroom and multiple breakout rooms, all equipped with advanced audiovisual capabilities. A full-service business center and dedicated convention services staff ensure successful events of any size.

The BoardWalk

A significant advantage of staying at the Yacht Club is its proximity to Disney’s BoardWalk, a quarter-mile promenade designed to capture the charm and energy of Atlantic City’s golden age. Just a short stroll across Crescent Lake, the BoardWalk comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of a bygone era, offering entertainment and dining options that complement the Yacht Club’s own amenities.

During the day, the BoardWalk serves as a pleasant destination for a casual walk or shopping excursion. Its covered walkways provide shelter from the Florida sun while offering spectacular views of Crescent Lake and the surrounding resorts. Street performers often appear in the afternoon, entertaining guests with acts ranging from juggling to magic tricks, adding to the authentic boardwalk atmosphere.

The evening brings a different energy to the BoardWalk as it transforms into one of Disney World’s premier adult entertainment districts. Jellyrolls, an adults-only piano bar, features talented performers engaging in musical duels on twin grand pianos, taking song requests from the energetic crowd. The Atlantic Dance Hall recreates the grandeur of a 1940s ballroom, offering live music and dancing in an elegant setting.

Dining options along the BoardWalk range from casual to upscale. Trattoria al Forno celebrates Italian cuisine with both breakfast and dinner service, featuring fresh pasta, authentic pizzas, and regional specialties. The restaurant’s exclusively Italian wine list offers over 60 selections from renowned regions like Tuscany, Veneto, and Piedmont. Flying Fish offers signature dining with an emphasis on seafood, while Big River Grille & Brewing Works serves craft beers brewed on-site alongside American comfort food. For quick bites, the BoardWalk features various vendors selling classic treats like funnel cakes, hot dogs, and saltwater taffy.

The BoardWalk’s proximity to the Yacht Club allows guests to easily enjoy these additional entertainment options without requiring transportation, making it a valuable extension of the resort experience. Whether seeking a romantic evening stroll, family entertainment, or nightlife options, the BoardWalk provides countless opportunities to enhance a Yacht Club stay.

Making the Most of Your Stay

Timing can significantly impact a Yacht Club Resort experience. Fall visits coincide with Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival, while spring brings the Flower & Garden Festival, both easily accessible from the resort. The less crowded periods of January and February often offer shorter wait times for attractions.

Room selection can enhance the stay experience. Water view rooms offer stunning vistas of Crescent Lake, while higher floors provide the best views. Rooms closer to the lobby reduce walking distance, particularly beneficial after long park days. For extended stays, Club Level rooms can provide value through their included amenities and services.

Dining at the resort requires some planning. Yachtsman Steakhouse reservations should be made 60 days in advance to ensure availability. Considering off-peak dining times can increase chances of securing desired reservations, while exploring nearby BoardWalk restaurants expands dining options. In-room dining provides a convenient alternative for tired park-goers.

Planning Your Visit

Successful Yacht Club visits begin with advance planning. Reservations should be made well ahead of time, especially during peak periods. Package deals including dining plans may offer better value, and Disney Vacation Club point rentals can provide cost savings. Prior to arrival, completing online check-in and making dining reservations streamlines the experience.

Packing should account for various activities: casual resort wear for day-to-day activities, at least one formal outfit for signature dining, and swimming gear for enjoying Stormalong Bay. Comfortable walking shoes are essential given the resort’s proximity to parks, and a light jacket may be needed for evening activities.

Why Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort offers a sophisticated escape within the magic of Walt Disney World. Its combination of elegant theming, prime location, outstanding amenities, and exceptional service makes it one of Disney’s premier resort experiences. The resort particularly excels for Epcot and Hollywood Studios focused vacations, adult trips and romantic getaways, convention and business travelers, families seeking upscale accommodations, and water recreation enthusiasts.

Whether planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or business trip, the Yacht Club Resort provides an exceptional Disney experience with a touch of New England charm. Its attention to detail, commitment to service, and array of amenities create an atmosphere that keeps guests returning year after year. As Walt Disney World continues to evolve and grow, the Yacht Club Resort maintains its position as one of the premier accommodations on property, offering a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and Disney magic.