You’ve made it to EPCOT. You’re probably thinking about hitting Spaceship Earth, booking your Lightning Lane for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, or planning which country you want to eat your way through first. But before you start power-walking around the World Showcase Lagoon, let’s talk about an often-skipped piece of the EPCOT experience: the FriendShip Boats.
Yes, they’re back. And yes, the route has changed—again. But this time, there’s more reason than ever to hop aboard.
From a Simple Boat Ride to a Park Hack
The FriendShip Boats aren’t just about giving your feet a break. They’re a scenic shortcut that can help you get from one side of the park to the other without dealing with the midday heat, crowds, or endless walking.
Right now, boats are sailing from the Canada Pavilion to the Germany Pavilion. This is a departure from the more typical route that used to take guests between Canada and Morocco. That route gave you a nice diagonal across the lagoon. But now, Germany is the destination—and it’s a smart one.
Germany is central enough to drop you right in the middle of several pavilions. You’re steps from Italy, Japan, and the American Adventure. If you’re timing out meals, shows, or shopping plans, this stop can cut your walking down significantly.
Why This Change Might Stick Around
The Germany dock has had an on-again, off-again status for years. It reopened briefly in early 2024, then shut again after Morocco’s dock came back online. But now, with Morocco closed and a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at Germany’s dock this past weekend, there’s good reason to believe this setup may last.
Disney hasn’t confirmed anything officially, but the signs are promising—except for the actual signs. The closed docks in Mexico and Morocco are sporting confusing, likely temporary signage that doesn’t match their usual destinations. That may mean new signage (and maybe new plans) are in the works.
More Than Just a Ride
The FriendShip Boats run from around 11 a.m. through the early evening, making them perfect for mid-day hops or evening transitions. But even more than their utility, they offer one of the most relaxing EPCOT experiences. The breeze, the view, the stillness—it’s a calming break in a park that can sometimes feel go-go-go.
And for families, especially those with strollers or tired little legs, this boat ride might just save your day.
Don’t Miss It
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Disney pro, the FriendShip Boats can add something different to your EPCOT day. They aren’t flashy or fast, but they’re part of the park’s charm—and they let you see World Showcase from an entirely different perspective.
So next time you’re standing at the edge of the lagoon wondering whether you’ve got it in you to walk all the way to Japan, remember: there’s a boat for that.
