Social Distancing On Walt Disney World Buses

Complimentary transportation is one of my favorite things about staying at a Walt Disney World Resort. However, since COVID-19 has become an issue I've wondered if my days of riding the Disney bus were over. On a recent trip to Florida I took Disney transportation so that I could share with you what the differences were and how I felt riding.


Social Distancing On Walt Disney World Buses


On first glance the Disney Resort Bus Stops aren't that much different and I can imagine that one might be able to overlook the signage when herding a family to the Parks. However, when you pay attention to your surroundings, as we all need to do these days, it's obvious that Disney has some new policies and procedures in place when it comes to transportation.


Disney Transportation With Social Distancing
Riviera Resort Bus Station


The most obvious indicator is that guests are greeted with signage reminding them to keep their parties standing 6-ft apart. Ground markers also show guests exactly where to wait for their particular bus. Hand sanitizer stations are available and guests are required to wear Disney approved face masks.


Ground Markers Show Where To Wait
Signage Reminds Guests To Maintain Distance


While all of the benches in the bus stations remain, every other bench is labeled as out of service to help keep parties socially distant.


Some Benches Were Out Of Service


When your bus arrives, it's important to wait for arriving guests to disembark.

Once everyone has left the bus, the driver will ask you how many people are in your party. A you board you will be directed to a section of numbered seats for you and your party to sit in.


Guests Are Assigned Seating On The Bus


During my rides the bus drivers sat guests as far apart as possible on the bus. Plastic separators have been installed between some of the seats so that guests more isolated from each other.


Some Tan Dividers Have Been Added Between Seating


Buses are operating at limited capacity and there is no standing allowed. Straps have been zip-tied to the rails so people aren't tempted use them.


Straps Have Been Secured Out Of Use


Upon arrival at the destination the bus drivers attempted to direct guests in the front of the bus to use the front exit and in the back of the bus to use the rear exit. While I appreciated the effort, most guests I saw headed right for the back exit so the results on that procedure were mixed.

None of the buses I rode on during this trip were very crowded which made for generally pleasant trips overall. However, I do think that even when on fuller bus with limited capacity I would feel fairly comfortable with the distancing. Your mileage may vary. I can see how capacity limits may cause longer waits at certain times of day. Just be sure to pack your patience.

Will you be using Disney transportation on your next trip to the Vacation Kingdom? Let me know in the comments!