Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid is a slow dark ride in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom that retells The Little Mermaid with Audio-Animatronics and the film’s songs. It opened on December 6, 2012, as part of the New Fantasyland expansion. There is no height requirement, so it works for babies, toddlers, grandparents and anyone who prefers a story to a thrill.
| Location | Fantasyland, Magic Kingdom |
| Ride type | Dark ride |
| Height requirement | None |
| Ride length | About 6 minutes |
| Opened | December 2012 |
| Thrill level | None |
| Lightning Lane | Check the My Disney Experience app for the current option |
What the ride is like
You board a clamshell-shaped vehicle on a continuously moving Omnimover track, the same type of system used at the Haunted Mansion. Disney notes there is no actual water, so you stay dry. The clamshell turns to face each scene from the film as it passes.
The story moves quickly from Ariel’s collection of human objects and “Part of Your World” to Sebastian leading the “Under the Sea” production number. After that comes Ursula’s lair, where a large Ursula figure looms over the vehicles, then the “Kiss the Girl” lagoon, and a finale with Ariel and Eric. The ride takes about six minutes.
There are no drops or sudden movements. The Ursula scene is darker than the rest and may bother some small children.
The queue
The building is themed as the rocky coast below Prince Eric’s castle, and the standby line winds through caves and past waterfalls. Inside the queue is a game where you help a group of animated crabs sort Scuttle’s collection of human objects by pointing at the items that do not belong. It gives children something to do during the wait.
Accessibility
Guests using an ECV must transfer to a wheelchair for this ride, and audio description and handheld captioning are offered. Each clamshell seats two to three people. The loading area uses a moving walkway, so ask a Cast Member if you need extra time to board. Disney’s accessibility details change, so confirm the current requirements in the My Disney Experience app.
Who it suits
This is a good choice for families with young children, fans of the film and guests who want a slow, seated ride. Anyone looking for speed or a game to play will find it mild, since you sit and watch from start to finish.
Tips
- Timing: Fantasyland lines are generally shorter just after park opening and late in the evening. Check current waits in the My Disney Experience app.
- Lightning Lane: The ride has been offered through Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Options change, so confirm in the app.
- Combine stops: Ariel’s Grotto is next door, and the rest of Fantasyland’s family rides are a short walk away.
Nearby: Ariel’s Grotto, Dumbo the Flying Elephant and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.
