Disney World's Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will make its final voyage this fall
Walt Disney World's Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will make its final voyage this fall.
The first-of-its-kind experience debuted in Spring 2022, letting longtime Star Wars fans enter the Star Wars universe for an immersive two-night adventure.
"It's essentially a spaceship that guests board, themed out to feel exactly like Star Wars, and our Imagineers did an incredible job pulling this asset together and our guests gave it very high ratings," Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products said in a question-and-answer session at the JP Morgan Global Technology, Media & Communications Conference on Monday. He also commended cast members' "exceptional job of pulling it off," but said, "it didn't perform exactly like we wanted it to perform, so we decided that we are going to sunset this in September."
Disney first announced the closure on Thursday, the same day the company announced it would not be moving forward with its planned Lake Nona campus in Florida.
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What is the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser?
While it's sometimes referred to as a Star Wars hotel, it's much more immersive. Guests embark on a simulated two-night cruise through space with familiar Star Wars icons and characters developed specifically for the Galactic Starcruiser. They're pulled into a Star Wars story unfolding in real-time with live-action role-play and themed dining and entertainment, including lightsaber training and a quest in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios. No two voyages are the same.
When is the last Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser voyage?
The final voyage will be Sept. 28-30 of this year.
How much does it cost to stay at Galactic Starcruiser?
The starting price is roughly $4,800 for two guests and just under $6,000 for four guests sharing a cabin.
Why is Galactic Starcruiser so expensive?
The all-inclusive experience is expensive because it's a one-of-a-kind chance to live out a fully fleshed Star Wars story, as opposed to simply watching one on TV or the big screen.
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What happens if you booked a trip for later in the year?
Disney will contact guests who had reservations for dates after the final voyage, about rescheduling or canceling their plans. Refunds will be available for guests who can not make an earlier voyage.
Can you still book new Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser trips?
Yes, but sit tight. New reservation bookings are being paused until May 26, while guests with rescheduling needs are accommodated.
What does this mean for other Star Wars experiences at Disney parks?
The closure will not impact existing experiences at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney World and Disneyland. Just last month, Disney Parks announced that new characters and stories will be added to the Star Tours attractions at both resorts and Disneyland Paris next year.
What will happen to cast members?
Disney is working to assign Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser cast members to other areas following the final voyage. Those participating in the Disney College Program will be able to complete their program.
What's next?
D'Amaro said the Galactic Starcruiser "raised the bar, from a creativity perspective, on where we can go next." The Galactic Starcruiser won the Themed Entertainment Association's Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement - Brand Experience, which is like an Oscar for theme parks.
A Walt Disney World spokesperson statement Thursday said, "This premium, boutique experience gave us the opportunity to try new things on a smaller scale of 100 rooms, and as we prepare for its final voyage, we will take what we’ve learned to create future experiences that can reach more of our guests and fans."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Disney World's Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser closing this fall
