Disney World Hotel Closures Start Today: Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts Affected

Disney World's construction boom shows no signs of slowing down, and two major hotel closures are starting today, August 17th. The first is at Disney's Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts, where the FriendShip Boat dock will be closed for maintenance until August 21st, 2026. This means that guests will have to use direct bus transportation or walkways to get to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

The larger refurbishment is taking place at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge - Kidani Village. The lobby and nearby areas are being renovated in phases, with the main lobby closed until October 9th. Check-in will be moved to the Palace Library during this time. Other areas of the hotel will also be closed for varying periods throughout September and October.

The closures may affect guests' stays at these hotels, especially the closure of the Animal Kingdom Lodge's lobby. However, Disney has not announced any extended closures like it has in the past.