Are you ready for splashdown? It may be difficult to get an advanced dining reservation for The Boathouse at Disney Springs. But whether you’re lucky to dine there or not, you need to check out the vintage vessels at The Boathouse marina. The fleet includes 19 antique and modern boats, including nine vintage Amphicars.
With nearly 4,000 built between 1961 and 1968, the Amphicar has become a quirky classic known as the first mass-produced amphibious automobile. Our first question for the cast of The Boathouse–are those in their fleet true vintage or replica vessels? We were assured they were the real thing, with rear mounted engines, four-speed manual transmission, and reversible propellers at the rear. One interesting factoid—the Amphicar was featured as a ride during the 1964 New York World’s Fair and was a hit with riders and photographers. But with a reputation as a lousy car and a lousy boat, the Amphicar concept never caught on and has joined the ranks as a novelty automobile prized by collectors.
The cost to take a spin on one of The Boathouse Amphicars? Up to three guests for a 20-minute cruise—$125. The cost for dinner at The Boathouse? $30 to $60 per person is the average bill (lunch is also served). The cost to find a viewing location near the Amphicar ramp to gawk, take pictures, and watch a launch? FREE and totally priceless.
(All photos from the authors’ personal collection.)
Looking for Magic is Kathy @ Two Roads Photo and Sean @ Shamrock Photo. Kathy is a librarian, walker of many miles, and Paper Bag Princess, who dreams of having coffee with Belle at the castle and co-administering a fantasy book discussion group. Sean is a fire fighter, pilot, and closet superhero, who would like to join the pack with Tigger to use his bouncy and fun powers to make people smile.
Kathy can be contacted at imtxag85@aol.com Sean can be contacted at spoc65@aol.com
