Refurbished Richard F. Irvine Returns, Restoring Magic Kingdom Ferry Fleet
The comeback follows permit approval to enlarge the ferry dock and queue, signaling plans to handle higher guest volumes.
Overview
- The Richard F. Irvine ferryboat is back in service after a dry-dock refresh, bringing the Transportation & Ticket Center–to–Magic Kingdom route back to three operating boats.
- Visible updates include darker exterior trim, freshly painted signs, and widespread repainting and refinishing of onboard wood and railings reported by outlets and cast members.
- Local authorities approved Disney’s permit in late March to expand the Magic Kingdom ferry loading area and dock, clearing the way for construction tied to future capacity needs.
- Disney has not announced a construction start or any dock closures, and outlets report no confirmation that the Irvine received engine or other mechanical work during the refurb.
- The fleet now consists of the Richard F. Irvine, General Joe Potter, and Admiral Joe Fowler, and some coverage links the dock project to expected attendance growth from new Frontierland areas, with any talk of a fourth ferry described as speculation.