Disney Cruise Line is FINALLY Addressing the Most Frustrating Feature of the ‘Disney Wish’

Walt Disney Imagineers have created remarkable and magical experiences aboard Disney Cruise Line. However, what sounds amazing in theory could actually turn out to be more frustrating than it’s worth. The Disney Wish, in particular, paved the way for experimentation brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. One such creation was the fancy motion-activated buttons found in the elevators of the cruise ship. However, these Disney Wish elevator buttons did not work out as intended, and the company is now replacing them.

Disney Wish Elevator Buttons Cause Chaos

The Disney Wish is a remarkable addition to the Disney Cruise Line fleet, offering Guests an unforgettable vacation experience. This elegant ship features exclusive spaces like the Grand Hall, an enchanting atrium where families can gather for magical moments. The AquaMouse water attraction is a thrilling highlight, inviting Guests to embark on a whimsical adventure on a slide-filled water ride. The Quiet Cove is an idyllic retreat for adults seeking relaxation, while the Oceaneer Club provides imaginative fun for young adventurers. The vessel also features the unique Hyperspace Lounge, themed entirely around Star Wars, and the Walt Disney Theater houses three incredible Broadway-style shows. Disney Wish stands out with its unique attractions and spaces, making it a truly special choice for a memorable Disney cruise vacation.

However, the elevators have been a constant source of frustration among reviews of the company’s newest vessel. The Disney Wish elevator buttons were designed with Covid-19 protocols in mind, meaning they can activate just by placing a finger near them and not physically touching them. It’s a brilliant concept but also quite short-sighted.

Disney Cruise Line removed the elevators at midship when designing the Disney Wish,  meaning Guests are limited to the forward and aft locations. With fewer elevators as a whole, these units often fill up with people. The buttons are designed to react to motion, often seeing accidental buttons pressed by Guests leaning near them or children waving their hands in front of them. In turn, the elevators stop at many extra floors on their way to the intended destination.

Removing the Problem

Disney Cruise Line has finally got the message that these elevator buttons are frustrating, as they have recently started replacing them. Scott Gustin on Twitter posted an image of them, wondering how it actually took this long for the company to address this consistent problem on the Disney Wish.

Disney Cruise Line is FINALLY replacing the elevator buttons on the Wish. IYKYK. I’m shocked it took this long. https://t.co/9lOyJ9y5T5 pic.twitter.com/HWutL1NK41

— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) July 5, 2023

Gustin also provided an image of the new buttons, which are now more in line with the other vessels in the fleet. They most likely do not react to motion anymore and require a physical press. This will surely help stop unintended floor stops and keep Guests happier while navigating the vessel.

A look at the new buttons via @MichaelK0221: pic.twitter.com/TK7dJOXOQV

— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) July 5, 2023

Related: Is Disney Bringing a True Roller Coaster Attraction to Its Ships?

Guests Finally Get Their Disney Wish

Covid-19 protocols are almost entirely nonexistent on Disney ships now. However, the Disney Wish does still retain some additions from the pandemic. The popular Marceline Market buffet location has glass blocking Guests from the food and requires a Crew Member to provide portion choices over self-service.

There are three more ships currently in development for Disney Cruise Line. The Disney Treasure will be a sister ship to the Disney Wish, but the company will likely remember to address this oversight long before the vessel sets sail. Motion-activated buttons on a crowded elevator are definitely not the greatest success story for Disney Cruise Line.