Choosing the best water ride at Disney World can feel a bit like navigating through a sea of endless options.
For those grappling with this decision, this blog post will guide you through the top 10 water rides that offer both thrill and memorable experiences that make them stand out among their peers.
Top 10 Water Rides at Walt Disney World
Splash Mountain
Ride Style: Log Flume
Let me take you on a journey about Splash Mountain, one of the most iconic water rides at Disney World in Florida.
This thrilling log flume adventure takes you through a sprawling Southern bayou and straight into the heart of Uncle Remus’ folk tales!
As an animated musical set to catchy tunes from “Song of the South,” Splash Mountain gives you immersive storytelling before culminating in an exhilarating 5-story waterfall plunge!
You’ll face Brer Rabbit’s misadventures and meet his cunning foes, Brer Fox and Brer Bear – all while being swept away by rollicking rhythms. Trust me, it lives up to its reputation as one of the best water attractions at Walt Disney World!
Kali River Rapids
Ride Style: River Rapids
One of the top water rides at Walt Disney World is Kali River Rapids. Located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, this daring raft ride takes you on a wild adventure through the rainforest.
As you navigate turbulent waters and encounter unexpected twists and turns, be prepared to get soaked! The immersive theming of Kali River Rapids adds to the excitement, with detailed scenery and animatronic animals bringing the rainforest to life.
It’s a perfect choice for those looking for an exhilarating water experience and a refreshing way to cool off in the Florida heat!
Pirates of the Caribbean
Ride Style: Slow-paced Boat Ride
Ah, Pirates of the Caribbean, one of our absolute favorite water rides at Disney World! This classic attraction takes you on a swashbuckling adventure through pirate-infested waters.
As you board your boat, get ready to set sail and enter a world filled with treasure, cursed pirates, and catchy sea shanties. The attention to detail in this ride is simply amazing – from the lifelike animatronics to the stunningly realistic sets.
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight into a scene from the legendary Pirates of the Caribbean movies. So hop aboard matey and prepare for an unforgettable journey on Pirates of the Caribbean!
Though this is a water ride, its not one you get very wet on! So if you are looking for a super soaker, this isn’t one! On the other hand, if you hate getting soaked, this is a water ride more suitable for you.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Ride Style: Spinning Flying Carpet Ride
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin” isn’t essentially a water ride, but there’s a chance you may get wet from the camel statues in the ride vicinity that spit water at random intervals.
These playful camels are part of the attraction’s theme and add an element of surprise for guests. It’s all part of the fun, but if you’d prefer to stay dry, it’s best to keep an eye on them as you enjoy the ride.
This ride is targeted towards younger adventure seekers who may be too little to go on the more intense water rides!
Jungle Cruise
Ride Style: Guided Boat Tour
Jungle Cruise is a classic water ride at Walt Disney World that takes you on a tropical adventure through exotic jungles and rivers.
As you board the boat, get ready to encounter animatronic animals, lush vegetation, and even some unexpected surprises along the way.
The skippers add humor and entertainment with their witty commentary, making the experience even more enjoyable. This family-friendly ride offers a mix of relaxation and excitement, perfect for all ages to enjoy together.
Liberty Square Riverboat
Ride Style: Gentle Riverboat Cruise
One of the most relaxing and picturesque water rides at Disney World is the Liberty Square Riverboat.
This classic steam-powered paddleboat takes you on a leisurely cruise along the Rivers of America in Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square.
Once the boat sets sail, you can find a cozy spot on one of the upper decks and enjoy stunning views of iconic Disney landmarks such as Haunted Mansion and Tom Sawyer Island.
The gentle rocking motion of the boat combined with the soothing sounds of splashing water creates a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for taking a break from the park’s hustle and bustle.
As you glide along, listen to narrations about American history delivered by knowledgeable cast members dressed in period costumes. You’ll learn interesting facts about early American settlements and even catch glimpses of wildlife along the riverbanks.
It’s a Small World
Ride Style: Slow-paced Boat Ride
One of the classic water rides at Walt Disney World that shouldn’t be missed is “It’s a Small World.” This iconic attraction takes you on a gentle boat ride through different scenes representing various cultures from around the world.
As you sail along, you’ll be treated to catchy tunes and animatronic dolls dressed in traditional attire. It’s a fun and lighthearted experience that will leave you with a smile on your face.
No matter how many times I’ve been on this ride, it never fails to transport me into a whimsical world of joy and harmony.
Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station
Ride Style: Interactive Water Play Area
Though it’s not a ride, Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station is a delightful water attraction located in the Fantasyland area of Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
Inspired by the beloved story of Dumbo, this interactive play area is perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
With various water features and fountains, you can splash around and have fun with your friends and family. There are also shaded areas nearby where parents can relax while keeping an eye on their little ones enjoying the water play.
It’s a great way to take a break from the rides and create lasting memories in a whimsical setting.
Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
Ride Style: Slow-paced Dark Ride
One of the most enchanting immersive rides at Disney World is Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid.
This ride takes you on a journey through Ariel’s underwater world, bringing this beloved Disney movie to life.
As you board your clamshell-shaped ride vehicle, you’ll dive beneath the sea and be surrounded by vibrant scenes and catchy songs from the film. From exploring Ariel’s grotto to encountering Sebastian and his lively band, every moment is filled with magic.
Please note that this is an immersive, visual water ride. There isn’t any physical water at all, so you won’t be getting wet!
Avatar Flight of Passage
Ride Style: Immersive 3D Simulation Ride
One of the most breathtaking rides at Disney World is Avatar Flight of Passage. This immersive experience takes you on a riveting journey through the world of Pandora, as seen in the movie Avatar.
As you step into your own personal banshee mount, you’ll feel the wind in your face and the mist from waterfalls as you soar through this magical landscape. The stunning visuals and realistic motion make it feel like you’re truly flying, creating a sense of wonder and excitement that’s hard to beat.
Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just looking for an exhilarating adventure, Avatar Flight of Passage is a must-try ride at Disney World that will leave you wanting more.
Tips for Staying Dry on Water Rides
As an avid water ride enthusiast myself, I understand the struggle of wanting to experience the thrill without getting soaked from head to toe.
Here are a few tips that have helped me stay relatively dry on those wild Disney World water rides.
Choose your seat wisely. If you’re aiming to avoid the majority of splashes, try sitting towards the back or sides of the ride vehicle. This way, you tend to minimize your exposure to direct hits from water cannons and fountains.
Wear thin, quick-drying clothing or even a poncho. These will not only protect your clothes but also allow for faster drying time once you’re off the ride. Trust me; it’s much more comfortable walking around in dry clothes!
Consider Bringing a Change of Clothes: If you have space, id consider packing a few extra clothes, especially socks, as there is nothing worse than walking around with damp feet!
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to the best water rides at Disney World, there are plenty of exciting options to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for thrilling drops on Splash Mountain or a relaxing cruise through Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, there is something for everyone.
FAQs
Where Is Best To Sit on Splash Mountain to Get The Least Wet?
In my experience, the best place to sit on Splash Mountain to get the least wet is towards the back of the log.
As the log makes its way down the drops and splashes, the front rows tend to take the brunt of the water. By sitting in the back, I can usually avoid the direct impact of the splashes and stay relatively dry.
Of course, it’s essential to remember that Splash Mountain is a water ride, so some degree of splashing is inevitable.
Are fast passes available for these water rides?
Fast passes are typically not available for water rides at Disney World as they primarily focus on attractions that involve actual physical movement rather than virtual experiences or passive forms of entertainment such as viewing shows within theaters etc.
Which water ride is suitable for young children?
It’s a Small World is one of the most suitable water rides for young children as it offers a gentle boat ride through various scenes featuring animatronic dolls representing different cultures from around the world.
