Disney recently announced the closure of the Fuentes del Morro Feature Pool and Aquatic Play Area at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. The closure, scheduled to begin on January 13, is set to last until the end of the month for routine maintenance. The abruptness of the notification left many Disney guests feeling frustrated, especially those with planned visits during this period.
Notably, some guests received an email from Disney that provided the closing details, outlining that while the main feature pool would be unavailable, other pools within the resort would still be accessible. This included leisure pools such as the Aruba Village Pool, Barbados Village Pool, Jamaica Village Pool, Martinique Village Pool, and Trinidad Village Pool.
However, for families who had prioritized using the Fuentes del Morro pool, this news fell short of expectations. The feature pool set the stage for unique aquatic experiences, including water slides and a pirate-themed play area, making it a centerpiece for many visitors.
Related: Here Are A Few Reasons Why We Love Caribbean Beach Resort
Importance of Fuentes del Morro Feature Pool
The Fuentes del Morro Feature Pool is more than just a place to swim; it serves as a social hub for families and children visiting the Caribbean Beach Resort. Families often plan their entire stay around the amenities offered at this aquatic area. Its vibrant atmosphere, complete with interactive water features, has long been a draw for both adults and children alike. With its picturesque seaside design and engaging activities, it is a destination in its own right within the resort.
For many Disney guests, the chance to engage in water play while enjoying the sunny ambiance of the resort is a highlight of their vacation. This sudden closure risks diminishing the overall experience and can create an emotional disconnect for families who booked their trips with the expectation of enjoying all that the resort offers, particularly its focal pool. The announced closure has prompted discussions, social media posts, and, in some cases, backlash from visitors who feel that better communication and planning could have alleviated their frustrations. One guest shared:
“We have a trip to CBR at the end of the month and I just got this email:
To ensure our facilities continue to meet our high standards, we will be refurbishing the Fuentes del Morro Feature Pool and Aquatic Play Area during your stay. You will have access to additional pool options at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. You are welcome to enjoy the following leisure pools:• Aruba Village Pool• Barbados Village Pool• Jamaica Village Pool• Martinique Village Pool• Trinidad Village Pool
Seeing as how this is being announced with less than 3 weeks notice, I’m kind of pissed. I may have chosen a different resort if I had known, as we’ll have multiple days that we were planning to hang out at the pool. I know the other “normal” pools will still be open, but the big feature pool is part of why you choose a resort like this. Is it typical for Disney to close things for refurbishment at the last minute like this? I don’t see this closure listed anywhere else.”
Caribbean Beach Resort feature pool closed
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Alternative Pool Options Available
While the announcement regarding the Fuentes del Morro Feature Pool was undoubtedly disappointing for many, Disney has pointed out that several alternative pool options are available at the Caribbean Beach Resort. Guests can still enjoy various leisure pools scattered throughout the property, providing them with a chance to relax and unwind.
The leisure pools, positioned near each of the resort’s themed villages, offer a more traditional swimming experience without the active play elements of the feature pool. These alternatives may not match the excitement offered by the main pool, but they do present an opportunity for guests to engage in swimming and relaxing in the sun. Furthermore, the Caribbean Beach Resort’s lush landscaping and Caribbean-inspired architecture continue to provide an aesthetically pleasing environment for relaxation and leisure.
Routine Maintenance as a Common Practice
Disney employs a rigorous maintenance philosophy at its resorts to ensure that facilities remain in optimal condition. Routine maintenance, including pool refurbishments and repairs, is a standard practice that occurs regularly across the various properties. Disney’s commitment to high standards often necessitates taking pools and other amenities offline for inspections, cleaning, and enhancement.
During the cooler winter months, maintenance becomes critical as the lower guest volume can serve as an ideal time for such work. However, this philosophy inherently poses challenges regarding timing and guest experiences. Guests may find it difficult to comprehend why a facility may be temporarily unavailable during their stay, especially if the closure coincides with peak vacation times.
Balancing the need for repairs with guest satisfaction represents a constant struggle for Disney. The resort industry, particularly around beloved destinations such as the Caribbean Beach Resort, centers around providing memorable experiences. As such, Disney must carefully consider how maintenance needs align with guest expectations.
