The Disneyland versus Disney World debate might be never-ending, but there is a ride that has a clear advantage at one resort versus the other…
While Disney World and Disneyland often have a lot of cloned rides, the two theme park juggernauts each have attractions that are mostly the same, albeit with some noticeable differences. Such is the case with the ever-popular Pirates of the Caribbean. When it comes to the two versions, it’s safe to say Disney fans have A LOT of thoughts!
Neither version of the ride opened with their respective park. Disneyland’s opened in 1967 just a few months after Walt passed away and Magic Kingdom’s opened in 1973.
Disneyland was well-established by the time Pirates rolled around. The park opened in 1955 and Walt himself was instrumental in expansion plans. This was the last ride he oversaw before his passing.
Disney World’s version is a bit messier. When Magic Kingdom opened in 1971 it DID NOT include Pirates of the Caribbean, and that made Disney fans pretty upset. So Disney World rectified the situation by opening a newer version of the same ride two years later, albeit very abridged. Disneyland’s version is over 15 minutes long while Magic Kingdom’s is under 9 minutes. This has obviously led to some very big changes between the two.
We wanted to find out from you what your thoughts were on the differences between the Disneyland and Disney World versions of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, and wouldn’t you know? You were kind enough to have already left us your opinions right here at AllEars! Let’s have a look at some of your most recent thoughts on the rides!
“It’s not as good as the Disneyland version…”
One of our anonymous AE readers gave the Walt Disney World version a solid 10 out of 10, saying, “This is one of the best rides ever! I do miss the old classic version of this ride, but I like the new version too! It’s not as good as the Disneyland version, and I still prefer the old version of this ride!”
This reader is definitely feeling the nostalgia, and there’s no denying that Pirates of the Caribbean is a classic. The immersive sets, the iconic music, and the fact that you’re literally riding through pirate-infested waters make it a must-do at any Disney park. That being said, even the most loyal fans can admit that something’s missing in the Florida version, especially when compared to Disneyland’s
“That’s It?”
Another anonymous reader, who’s clearly more familiar with Disneyland, wasn’t as generous with their rating. They gave the Magic Kingdom Pirates ride a 6 out of 10 and shared, “I know it’s a popular meme but, having ridden the Disneyland version of this ride ~7 times in the last 5 years after a lifetime of only riding Orlando’s (as a FL resident), the Magic Kingdom iteration is kind of a joke. At the end of it, my mom said ‘that’s it?’ and that summed up my feelings this time around as well. Anaheim’s may only be twice as long, but it’s about ten times more enjoyable.”
Ouch. While the Orlando version has all the makings of a great attraction, it’s hard to argue with the difference in length. Disneyland’s version is almost twice as long and packs in more scenes, drops, and overall pirate-y goodness. When you’ve been on the more epic version, the shorter Magic Kingdom ride can leave you feeling like, “Wait…that’s all?”
“I wouldn’t waste my time…”
AE reader DisneyGirlMelissa didn’t hold back, rating the ride a 4 out of 10 and giving us this hot take: “People who have been on this ride in both DL and WDW, I don’t get how you love the WDW one sooo much! It was sooo disappointing compared to DL! It’s way shorter, missing multiple scenes, and only one drop! I wouldn’t waste my time in WDW on this one again knowing DL is so much better. I guess if WDW is closer for you, though, that it will do.”
Even though it feels like a bit of tough love here, she makes a solid point. Disneyland’s Pirates has more drops, more scenes, and, overall, just more adventure. If you’ve been spoiled by the West Coast version, the Florida one might feel a little lackluster, but for those who live closer to WDW, though, it’s still a fun ride to enjoy when you’re in the mood for some swashbuckling action.
Both Rides, Different Vibes
At the end of the day, it’s clear that Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean holds a special place in fans’ hearts and with good reason. The longer ride time, extra scenes, and overall immersive experience really are hard to beat, but for those who haven’t made it to Anaheim, Walt Disney World’s version is still a classic that’s worth hopping on, even if it’s just for a quick ride through those pirate-infested waters.
Well, that’s all we’ve got for ya! Those are your thoughts on the differences between the Disneyland and Walt Disney World versions of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. But WAIT! Before you go, we know you have opinions, and we want to hear them! Leave a review on Disney rides, restaurants, and more right here on AllEars. Good or bad, let your voice be heard, and be sure to stay tuned to AllEars for all the latest Disney news!
Why Isn’t Anyone Talking About This NEW Disney World Ride?!
Which version of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride do you prefer — Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Share your thoughts with us down in the comments!
The Disneyland ride is so much better. I do like the old version the best.
I enjoy both as I love the pirates attraction !!! I’ve been to Disney world several times and always enjoy the attraction !!
Sorry to disappoint you, Paris is better tjan botj domestic pirate rides, and the CLEAR winner of the pirates debate is Shanghai, no doubt
I still dislike the Depp-ification of the rides.
They same can be said about the differences in It’s a Small World. ANAHEIM must be 10 times longer because I can’t get that damn song out of my head after a year!
The Disneyland version is definitely better, starting with the starlit ride through the bayou, complete with Walt Disney’s own suggestion to add fireflies. But Pirates is not the only ride that’s better at Disneyland. So is Small World, with its grand outdoor facade, complete with a better time clock and March of the dolls. Actually, all of Fantasyland is better. Disney world is missing many charming rides, like the Canal Boats, Casey Junior train, Alice in Wonderland, the walkthrough at Sleeping Beauty’s castle, and the Matterhorn. PLUS, they have respect for the theming of their distinctive “lands.” Disneyland is NOT bulldozing the Rivers of America to make way for a misplaced CarsLand.