What’s NOT Included With the New Disney World Annual Passes

Today, Disney World announced the return of Annual Passes with a new program.

There are now four different passes available with new pricing and updated perks. Some things have changed significantly, including the loss of some options that were available previously. So what’s missing from the new Annual Pass program? We’re breaking it down.

PhotoPass Downloads

Previously, those with Gold, Platinum, and Platinum Plus-level Annual Passes would get the Memory Maker add-on included with their passes. This means that all PhotoPass pictures (whether from Disney PhotoPass photographers or rides) would be available to download from the My Disney Experience app for no additional fee.

For regular guests, Memory Maker is $69 for one day, $169 in advance for your whole vacation, or $199 if bought during or after your trip. Now, all Annual Passholders will have to pay an additional fee for Memory Maker, with the $99 Annual Pass add-on. For those who had lower-level Annual Passes that didn’t include the Memory Maker, this could be helpful…but for those who had it included previously, it’s definitely a loss.

Water Parks and Sports

Previously, admission to the water parks and sports activities of Walt Disney World was included with the purchase of a Platinum Plus Annual Pass. That particular pass category is disappearing and instead, passholders will need to pay an additional $99 plus tax to add the Water Park and Sports option to their passes.

With the Water Park and Sports option, you’ll be given one admission to select experiences around Walt Disney World Resort, including Blizzard Beach, Oak Trail Golf Course, FootGolf, mini-golf, and more. Similar to the new Memory Maker add-on, this could be beneficial for those who didn’t have the Platinum Plus pass, but detrimental to those who did.

It may also be important to note that the Platinum Plus annual pass was previously $1,295 (at the initial purchase, plus tax) and included both the PhotoPass and the water parks and sports. The corresponding pass with the new system is the Disney Incredi-Pass for $1,299 (at the initial purchase, plus tax) and will not include those options. It will, however, offer 5 Disney Park Pass reservations and keep free standard parking and a variety of discounts around the resort.

Fewer Options for Florida Residents

Under the old system, Florida Residents had several different annual pass options. They could get the exclusive Gold Pass, Silver Pass, Weekday Select Pass, Theme Park Select Pass, EPCOT After 4PM Pass, or the Water Parks After 2PM Pass. On top of that, they were offered special rates on the Platinum and Platinum Plus passes.

Now, Florida Residents have three exclusive options or four choices in total. Only Florida Residents can purchase the Disney Pixie Dust Pass for $399 (plus tax) or the Disney Pirate Pass for $699 (plus tax). Florida Residents or DVC Members can purchase the Disney Sorcerer Pass for $899 plus tax. And all guests can buy the Disney Incredi-Pass for $1,299, but Florida Residents will pay the same price as everyone else.

There are special rates available for those renewing: $1,104 for Incredi-Pass renewals, $764 for Sorcerer Pass, $594 for Pirate Pass, and $339 for Pixie Dust Pass.

Fewer Options for Out-Of-State Guests

For those who live outside of Florida and aren’t DVC Members, there is only one pass choice now: the Incredi-Pass. Previously, these guests had the choice of the Platinum Pass or the Platinum Plus and they would decide depending on whether or not they wanted the water parks. Now, anyone who falls in this category has the singular option and must pay the $99 fee to add on the Memory Maker or the Water Parks and Sports.

No Free MagicBands

Finally, the other thing missing from the new annual pass program is the free MagicBand perk. We already knew that this option was going away, but it’s important to note for those renewing or purchasing this year.

The good news is that Disney is now offering MagicMobile, a new way for guests to scan into the parks using their smartphones. This feature in the My Disney Experience app connects to your phone’s wallet and can accomplish most of the things that a MagicBand could. Although, if you still want a MagicBand, they’re available for purchase online and in gift shops around the property.

If you’re interested in purchasing a Disney World annual pass (or you’re on the fence), make sure to stay tuned to AllEars for the latest news, updates, and need-to-know information!

Click Here to Check Out All the Details of the New Passes!

Will you be getting a Disney World annual pass? Let us know in the comments!

 

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