June Dateline Disney Extra: Its a Pirates Life and More - Wondrous Water Adventures Await Kids at Walt Disney World Resort


LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Wee pirates and other seafaring adventurers with a penchant for mystery and treasure need look no further than their own backyard -- at Walt Disney World Resort, that is.

Adventurous kiddies between 4 and 10 years old can sail the high seas and pillage, plunder and pilfer their hearts out -- or go on a quest for Mardi Gras fun -- during special programs that set sail from four different Walt Disney World resort hotels.

Here's a rundown of the booty-seeking adventures offered:

* The Pirate Adventure at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa -- Lil' mateys don pirate bandanas and follow clues around Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon in search of buried treasure. With a pirate's trail leading the way, children sail to exotic ports of call while listening to "The Legend of Gasparilla," the story of a real Florida pirate. As the clues come together piece by piece, children reach their final destination and split up a chest full of treasure. (Offered Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.)
* Caribbean Pirate Adventure at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort -- Young adventurers board a boat resembling an old battle relic as they sail the Ports of the Caribbean waters as Captain Jack Sparrow did on the Black Pearl. A pirate leader shares the story of Old Port Royale as young pirates search for props and signs to guide them through the perilous waters. Once the treasure is found and secured on the boat, the pirates sail to Fort Cay where they attempt to trade for grub (i.e., a lunch of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, gummy bears, goldfish treats and a juice box) before unlocking and sharing the bounty. (Offered Sundays and Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.)
* Albatross Treasure Cruise at Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts -- Children search Crescent Lake and Epcot's World Showcase lagoon for map clues while learning "The Legend of the Albatross." The cruise concludes near the resort's pirate ship themed pool where each peewee pirate snags a goodie bag of beads, rings, "gold" coins and other trinkets. (Offered Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.)
* Sassagoula River Adventure Cruise at Disney's Port Orleans Resort-Riverside -- In this Mardi Gras themed adventure, a guide shares the history of an ancient court jester said to live within the region. Young guests embark on a clue-driven journey with a grand finale appearance by the Jester himself! Children, proclaimed Honorary Jesters, are taught how to bring happiness to all those they encounter, just as the Jester did in his time, before receiving gifts of enchantment (a goodie bag) and a group lunch. (Offered Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.)

All adventure cruises are available to children ages 4 to 10 (kids must be potty trained) for $28.17 plus tax. Each includes lunch and a themed goodie bag and is supervised by two Disney cast members, one of whom is a certified lifeguard. For reservations, call 407/WDW-DINE.

Source: Walt Disney World