Walt Disney World's "Pirates of the Caribbean" Ride

What is it about this ride that has become so popular on such a grand scale? The better question would be, "What's not to love?" This is one theme park ride that truly offers something for everyone, pair that with the nostalgia created by its history, multiple generations of riders and the universal appeal of Pirate lore, and it's no wonder it's such a classic dark ride.

The Walt Disney World version does have some differences from the original at Disneyland. There are some changes in scene order as well as the lack of an upward waterfall at the end of the ride. But most of the differences are minor. (With the exception of the lack of an internal "Blue Bayou" restaurant and a return boat trip that is less interesting than the Disneyland version, which I think is a real shame.) I can't honestly say that I would choose one version over the other. Like many Disney preferences, it somewhat depends on which ride you grew up attending the most.

From a practical standpoint, the ride is designed extremely well. The wait is never long, even when the line is. Because boats are boarding non-stop and the waiting experience is indoor and air-conditioned, there's not that much to complain about even when you do have to wait. There are more modern lines, such as the one at, "Expedition Everest" that are more detailed, but even that one is mostly outside. When it comes to waiting in line in the Florida heat, you just can't beat the Pirates line for the break it offers you. Also, the corridors are far less narrow than they are at some other adventure rides, such as "The Indiana Jones Adventure" in Disneyland.

Then there's the ride itself. It's refreshingly long, clocking it at a nice long eight minutes and thirty seconds. Some scenes are exciting and extremely evocative of an eerie mood, others are exciting and humorous. In typical Disney fashion, there's something for everyone.

I find that every single time I'm on this ride; the illusions are so effective that I just want to get off my boat and explore the non-existent caves. That, to me, is the real thrill. It's not what's there, it's what you imagine should be there, what would be there if you were on a real adventure, or what you wish were there. It's just about as close as you get to your own real pirate adventure, in the glamorous sense of the word. (I hate to say, "pirate adventure" because contextually right now it just seems insensitive. But hopefully everyone understands my intent.)

There are also some amazing sensations that you encounter on this ride that are just so "vacation" distinct. There's the smell of the fog machines, the scent of the chlorinated water, the feeling of being in "show lighting", the splashes of water, the elaborate and rich surround sound systems, and of course, the smatterings of "oohs" and "ahs" from other people in your boat. It's a relaxing ride, it's a thrilling ride, and despite its age, it's also a very effective ride. If I had to send someone on one ride who had never been to a Disney theme park or didn't have the desire to go, this is the ride I would send them on to try to change their mind and show them what it's all about.

Of course, there is the universal gift shop located at the end of the attraction. But it's not too shabby as far as Disney gift shops go. I've found myself increasingly disenchanted with Disney gift shops over the past several years as they've attempted to sell more universal merchandise and less ride specific apparel and souvenirs. However, the gift shop after Pirates (as well as the gift shop after "Star Tours") has maintained a great theme and some distinct merchandise, overpriced though it may be.

I doubt I even have to say this, but I would recommend this ride to anyone of any age group. If you hate rides, but you end up at a Disney theme park for some reunion or corporate event, do not miss this one. It could quite possibly teach you what us theme park geeks are always going on and on about. There's nothing too thrilling for anyone, the ride is smooth and is safe for almost everyone, even those with minor medical problems such as joint pain. So do yourself a favor and give yourself a jolt to the imagination and a fun vacation sensory experience you won't soon forget, ride, "Pirates of the Caribbean".