Liberty Square Riverboat: Tips For Guests Needing Mobility Access
5 min read
Board the Liberty Square Riverboat at Riverboat Landing, and enjoy a scenic cruise on the Rivers of America at the Magic Kingdom. The Liberty Belle is well suited for Guests in a wheelchair or mobility scooter who need mobility access. You may remain seated in your assistive device for the entire time at this attraction.
The attraction is not a thrill ride. However, it is relaxing and a chance to ride an authentic steam-powered paddle wheeler. I like to think of it as a great escape from the crowds at the Magic Kingdom. It’s also an opportunity to view parts of the Magic Kingdom from a different perspective.
Guests In Wheelchairs And Mobility Scooters Are Limited To The Lower Deck
The Liberty Belle has four levels (the lower three available to the public) with limited seating and plenty of room to move around. However, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are limited to the lowest deck. It’s easy to access that deck by going down one of the two exit ramps. These exit ramps are located on the RIGHT and LEFT sides of the upper main entrance.
The exit ramps are inclined but not excessively steep. Guests in manual wheelchairs may need assistance from friends or family, especially on the uphill climb. Additionally, you may encounter other Guests coming back up the ramp who have just completed their riverboat cruise ride. So limit your speed and be careful that you don’t run into other people.
Leading To The Lower Deck of The Vessel
Once you get to the bottom of the ramps, head to the midship area—the area between the ship’s bow and stern (rear). A Cast Member will direct you to the boarding ramp allowing wheelchair and mobility scooters to access the lower deck.
Head To The ship’s Bow For The Best Views
I usually head to the ship’s bow (front), which offers the best views. Position your mobility device on either side, parking against the railing. When comfortable with your chosen spot, turn off your electric wheelchair or mobility scooter. No one will chock your wheels.
Onboard The Liberty Square Riverboat
If you’re using a manual wheelchair, lock your brakes. When the ship is in motion, you don’t want to roll around unexpectantly. I’ve seen this happen, so I’m mentioning it as a precaution, especially for those in manual wheelchairs.
Boarding The Liberty Belle Riverboat With A Rollator Or Walker
Lately, I’ve received emails requesting suggestions for using rollators or walkers at attractions. I’ve made my thoughts known about these devices in previous blog postings. I prefer using a mobility scooter for my assistive device needs. However, during several recent Disney trips, I’ve noticed an increase in the number of Guests using rollators or walkers. Whatever works well for you is your decision.
Midship At The Second Deck Level Of The Liberty Belle
You’ll Have To Pass Through A Turnstile With Your Rollator Or Walker Before Boarding The Liberty Belle
With this in mind, I wanted to let you know that rollators and walkers are welcome on the Liberty Belle just as wheelchairs and mobility scooters are. Furthermore, you may board the vessel at two locations. You can board on the lower deck or main entrance for the middle deck level. The only restriction is the ability to pass through the turnstile at the main entrance.
The Liberty Belle At The Middle Deck With A Rollator Or Walker
Guests using a rollator or walker may have to be creative in getting the device through the turnstiles. For instance, you can partially fold the unit while pushing it as you go through the turnstile. Another alternative is picking it up and passing it to a friend or family member who’s already made it through.
While looking at the picture below, you’ll see the four turnstiles at the main entrance. However, if you carefully look, you’ll notice more passage space at the far left and right turnstiles. So I’d pass through one of those entry points.
Once past the turnstiles, you’ll board the Liberty Belle by walking up a slight incline onto the middle deck. Then claim any vantage point you wish while enjoying the seventeen-minute, half-mile cruise.
Second Level Deck of The Liberty Belle
At The End Of The Cruise, All Guests Disembark The Ship At The Lower Deck Level
You’ll reverse your boarding procedure when the Liberty Belle docks at the end of your river cruise. It’s best to wait a few extra minutes allowing other Guests to depart first. Then, you’ll be able to maneuver your wheelchair or ECV easier in non-crowded conditions. Remember to go off the boarding ramp entirely before turning in your intended direction. Then, head to either the exit ramp on the RIGHT or the LEFT to return to Liberty Square.
However, the disembarking procedure is another thing you must consider when using a rollator or walker. All Guests leave the ship at the lower level. That means you must be able to walk down the steps from the upper decks to the lowest. Therefore, depending upon your abilities, you may need assistance from a friend or family member to meet this requirement.
Summing Things Up
The Liberty Belle is easy to board, regardless of your assistive device choice or mobility access requirements. Take the cruise if you seek a peaceful period during a hectic Magic Kingdom day. Enjoy the scenery and the gentle breeze while the vessel is in motion. Click here for a more in-depth look at this attraction provided by www.wdwinfo.com.
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