If you have an upcoming stay at Disney's Old Key West Resort, there's something worth knowing before you pack your bags. Disney has begun notifying guests with August reservations that boat service along the Sassagoula River Cruise route may be temporarily unavailable during their visit.

What Disney Is Saying

The message guests are receiving reads:

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the guest experience, refurbishment work will be taking place along the Sassagoula River Cruise boat route during your stay. During this time, boat service may be temporarily unavailable.

If service is interrupted, complimentary bus transportation will be available to and from Disney Springs.

So while the scenic water route may not always be an option, Disney is making sure guests can still get to and from Disney Springs without any added cost.

What's Been Happening Along the Sassagoula River

The Sassagoula River winds past several beloved Walt Disney World resorts, including Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Disney's Port Orleans Resorts (both Riverside and French Quarter), and Disney's Old Key West Resort, before reaching Disney Springs. Boundary wall work along the river began back in March, though at that time there was no official word about potential service interruptions tied to the construction.

More recently, refurbishment work has also been spotted at the Disney Springs West Side Sassagoula boat dock — including roof replacement — though that particular dock has not reopened since it closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Quick Reminder About Disney Springs Access

It's also worth noting that Disney Springs no longer permits boat or bus access for non-resort guests, so these transportation options remain a perk for those staying on property.

If you have an August stay at Old Key West on the books, keep this potential disruption in mind as you plan your days. Will it affect your trip? Let us know!