A ferry boat crash at Disney’s Transportation & Ticket Center (TTC) in Orlando, Florida, on July 31, 2025, left several guests injured, with paramedics treating those affected on the scene. The incident, involving one of Disney’s popular ferry boats, the General Joe Potter, has raised serious concerns about the safety of the ferry service that transports guests between the TTC and Magic Kingdom theme park.
The crash occurred when the ferry, in the process of docking, reportedly hit the dock with more force than usual. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as passengers were thrown forward upon impact, causing some to fall and others to suffer injuries. Images shared with FOX 35 Orlando showed first responders from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District's Fire Department assisting injured individuals, including several in wheelchairs.
A Chaotic Scene: Passenger Reactions and Witness Accounts
Guests aboard the General Joe Potter shared their accounts of the incident with FOX 35. One passenger, Tami Hackett, visiting from Houston with her family, recalled the violent impact of the crash: “Suddenly we crashed into something and we all went flying forward, falling. The stroller landed on its back causing the girls to hit their heads. A lot of people screaming and really hurt bad.” Hackett also expressed frustration over the lack of communication from Disney staff, describing the situation as “unacceptable” after the crash.
Another passenger, Kelly, also reported her granddaughter’s stroller being overturned during the crash, causing her to hit her head. She voiced her displeasure with Disney’s handling of the situation, saying, “There was no announcement made after hitting whatever we hit at full speed. The captain was not apologetic whatsoever.”
Heidi Goldsworthy, a regular ferry rider since 1971, recounted her shock after the incident. “It was so sudden and it was chaotic, completely chaotic afterwards. Passengers were helping passengers get up, checking on people, making sure that everybody was okay.” She noted that the crash occurred during heavy rain, which only added to the confusion and difficulty of the situation for both guests and crew.
Paramedics and Safety Measures
Following the crash, paramedics from the Orange County Fire Rescue Department and Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS were called to the scene to assist the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District’s Fire Department. While the full extent of the injuries remains unclear, reports indicate that some guests were treated at urgent care. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported.
Despite the gravity of the situation, witnesses reported a lack of communication from Disney staff regarding the incident. Passengers were disembarked without any formal instructions or updates, which contributed to the confusion and distress felt by many.
Ongoing Investigation and Disney’s Response
As the investigation into the incident continues, FOX 35 Orlando has reached out to Disney, as well as the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District and its fire department, for further comments. At this time, the cause of the crash remains undetermined, and no information has been provided regarding whether the weather conditions or the ferry’s docking procedure played a role in the incident.
The General Joe Potter ferry, part of Disney's fleet of two-level boats that ferry guests across Disney’s Seven Seas Lagoon, remains an integral part of the transportation experience at Walt Disney World Resort. Given the high volume of passengers who use this service daily, safety remains a top priority.
While Disney has yet to make a public statement about the ferry accident, the incident brings to light the need for improved safety measures and clearer communication in the event of emergencies. With the ferry service being a popular and essential mode of transportation for park visitors, many are left wondering how Disney will address this incident and ensure future safety.
As investigations progress, guests will be looking for updates from Disney on the next steps and how they plan to address safety concerns surrounding the ferry rides at Walt Disney World.
