WDW Fireworks boat rentals. I need some input.

[Goinginjune]

Some people from this board suggested doing a fireworks boat rental, which sounded like a fun change of pace for awhile. I was able to book one at Fort Wilderness campground for the Magic kingdom fireworks. According to the Disney rep you have a driver and a pontoon boat and you cruise for 1 hour. You cannot bring your own food or drinks and if you have them stock the boat with food it is very costly, around $200 to $300 for 4 people plus a $140.88 for the boat not including tax.
At first I was accually picturing in my mind renting a small man powered boat without a driver and was dissapointed to hear you don't decide where you go. I can't see too much fun involved being stuck out in the water without food and drink on a pontoon with a driver. Can someone tell me where the fun would be involved in this or is it possible to get a paddle boat somewhere for the fireworks?

[dizneeboy]

We've done the pontoon boat twice for birthday parties around fireworks time and it was a blast both times. They must have changed their policy becuase both times we ordered alcohol/soda, snacks for $20/adult $12 for children (las time was about 3 years ago). One of the two trips, we arrived and there was no champagne or beer like we had ordered and the captain took care of us (won't give any real details since it was a bit against policy, but we were very pleased with the service).

Last year, we rented the Grand One Yacht from the Grand Floridian, but the fuel line had a problem and they called us during dinner and said the trip had been canceled....bummer.

The pontoons give a great view of the fireworks and its a lot of fun being out on the lagoon at night.

[bams50]

We just did one in Feb... took BIL and wife and their 4 kids plus our 14 YO...

We opted for no refreshments, but were offered an option for about $90; I believe it was soft drinks and chips and the like...

We really enjoyed it! They take you out and show you around the lagoon for a bit, then moor facing MK; they supplied blankets, plus on-board soundtrack to the fireworks.

I highly recommend it- it was BIL and family's first time, and made the trip even more magical! We correctly decided that we could survive 1 hour without sustenance (had a nice dinner beforehand) and recommend same!

[Mark Goldhaber]

At first I was accually picturing in my mind renting a small man powered boat without a driver and was dissapointed to hear you don't decide where you go. I can't see too much fun involved being stuck out in the water without food and drink on a pontoon with a driver. Can someone tell me where the fun would be involved in this or is it possible to get a paddle boat somewhere for the fireworks?
There is no option to drive your own boat. Here's a couple of reasons: They don't want people to be driving their own boats at night where they can't be sure where they're going back to. Also, it's a lot harder to see and avoid the ferries at night. And if something happens, it's a lot harder to find someone in trouble in the dark. They can't just turn on the sun to search. It's boat with driver or nothing.

[LeslieM]

There is no option to drive your own boat. Here's a couple of reasons: They don't want people to be driving their own boats at night where they can't be sure where they're going back to. Also, it's a lot harder to see and avoid the ferries at night. And if something happens, it's a lot harder to find someone in trouble in the dark. They can't just turn on the sun to search. It's boat with driver or nothing.
I, for one, am grateful for this. Considering the idiotic way some people drive the water mice in the daylight, I can't imagine letting them loose in the dark.

As far as the Fireworks Cruises are concerned, I have never had the pleasure. But, I've only read good stuff from the folks who have.

[Goinginjune]

Whats better by boat. Magic kingdoms fireworks or Epcott's lazer show?
Is the view better by boat that land?