Bad News Confirmed for Disney World Vacations Through 2027

Disney World has announced disappointing news for guests planning to visit through the end of 2026.

Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, a Disney World hotel where thousands of guests enjoy their vacations. — Credit: Disney

Disney World Gives Disappointing Update for Vacations Through 2026

The sound of construction equipment humming across Crescent Lake wasn’t what most guests expected when checking into one of Disney’s most beloved deluxe resorts. Families who dreamed of lazy afternoons drifting down the Stormalong Bay lazy river are now greeted by scaffolding, construction walls, and detours. For many, this feels like an unexpected twist at a resort long considered the crown jewel of Walt Disney World’s resort lineup.

Here’s the surprise: what was once a routine refurbishment scheduled to wrap up in 2025 has now been stretched into 2027. Guests who booked months in advance are left wondering—how much of their vacation magic will be interrupted, and is the Yacht and Beach Club still worth it?

This article will unpack everything you need to know: the latest updates, how to navigate the changes, and the insider tips that will help you enjoy your Disney vacation despite the long road ahead for this iconic resort.

Disney's Beach & Yacht Club — Credit: Disney

What’s New: Disney Extends Yacht & Beach Club Renovations

If you’re a frequent reader, you know 2025 has already been a whirlwind for the Yacht and Beach Club. For the past nine months, Stormalong Bay—Disney’s most elaborate resort pool—has been undergoing major refurbishment, while exterior facelifts took over both resort towers.

Originally slated to end by September 2025, Disney extended the timeline into late 2026. But now, a fresh update on the resort’s official website confirms yet another extension: the refurbishment will continue through 2027.

In addition:

The porte cochere (main entrance) will remain closed through November 2025.
Views across the resort may be blocked due to construction equipment and scaffolding.
Daytime construction noise could impact guest experiences.
Disney confirms that valet, luggage assistance, and transportation remain fully available, and all amenities will continue operating despite the updates.

A man and his son with Rafiki and Timon at Disney's Animal Kingdom, a Disney World theme park. — Credit: Disney

How to Navigate the Renovations Like a Pro

While news of construction isn’t ideal, savvy guests can still maximize their stay. Here’s how:

Request a room away from construction zones when booking or at check-in. Cast Members will do their best to accommodate requests.
Use alternate entrances: since the porte cochere is closed, Disney provides clear signage for reroutes. Build extra time into your schedule.
Plan pool time wisely: while Stormalong Bay sees phased updates, ask which sections are open. Consider visiting quiet pools for less disruption.
Leverage Disney transportation: buses, boats, and Skyliner access remain unaffected, making park travel smooth despite on-site changes.

A young girl wearing Mickey Mouse ears smiles joyfully while being held up by an adult in a blue jacket with "It's Joyful Celebr..." written on the back. They're outdoors at Disney World, surrounded by trees on a sunny day. — Credit: Disney

Hidden Hacks and Insider Secrets

Frequent visitors to Crescent Lake know a few tricks that can save your trip:

Dine at neighboring resorts: Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Swan & Dolphin offer quieter dining escapes just steps away.
Use EPCOT’s International Gateway: a quick walk from the resort gives you a low-stress, less crowded entrance into EPCOT.
Late-night strolls along Crescent Lake: even with construction, nighttime views remain enchanting and far less impacted by daytime work.
Grab exclusive Yacht & Beach Club treats: the Kitchen Sink sundae at Beaches & Cream is still fully available—and worth the detour.

Guests riding the Walt Disney World Railroad at Disney World — Credit: Disney

Why This Matters for Disney Fans

For longtime Disney fans, this renovation isn’t just about new paint and pool updates. The Yacht and Beach Club hold deep nostalgic value: family reunions, holiday getaways, and decades of Disney memories are tied to its charm. Extending the refurbishment into 2027 signals Disney’s commitment to keeping this fan-favorite resort in top-tier condition for the future.

Online, reactions are mixed. Some guests express disappointment at the long timeline, while others are optimistic, excited to see what enhancements await. Social media threads show growing curiosity, and Disney’s decision aligns with trends of investing heavily in resort experiences to match new park expansions.

For now, the magic continues—just with a little extra construction dust in the air.

Guests at the Grand Floridian hotel — Credit: Disney

The Bottom Line

Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are undergoing a transformation that will stretch into 2027, meaning guests should plan with patience and flexibility. With the right hacks and expectations, your stay can still be magical, even if the backdrop includes cranes and construction walls.

✨ Pro Tip: If peace and quiet are a top priority, consider staying at a neighboring Crescent Lake resort while the Yacht and Beach Club undergo their glow-up.