Disney World just filed a new construction permit for the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel!
Disney announced early last year that the former hotel building would be converted into office space for Walt Disney Imagineering. It looks like construction is well underway!
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was a one-of-a-kind immersive hotel that opened in March 2022. Guests were immersed in their own Star Wars adventure by boarding a cruise-like spaceship to take them to Battuu, the outpost in Galaxy’s Edge, filled with live entertainment, themed dining offerings, and exclusive merchandise. The hotel closed in 2023 due to high operating costs for Disney. This also came after many fan complaints about the price of the experience. For reference, a voyage on the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser started at $4,809 for a party of two for a 2-night stay.
The former hotel is being converted into office space for Walt Disney Imagineering, which is expanding its presence in Florida. The new Notice of Commencement permit was filed for general construction, which can include structural work, interior finishing, and utilities.
Balfour Beatty Construction is handling the construction work, which included the first phase last year. Balfour Beatty Construction has worked on Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge, Pandora – The World of Avatar, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. They’re also involved in Universal’s new Texas theme park, Universal Kids Resort.
Construction is already underway on the former hotel, and thanks to @bioreconstruct, we have some new aerial photos! Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser featured a climate simulator for guests to view the outdoors. Here’s what it looked like when we visited the Galactic Starcruiser:
And here’s what it looks like now! There are plenty of construction workers on site renovating the building, plus some materials stored outside. It looks like the climate simulator stayed intact, so we’re curious how Imagineers will utilize it in their future office. Wouldn’t that be a fun break room?
We’ll be on the lookout for more construction updates at the Galactic Starcruiser. Stay tuned to AllEars for more Disney World construction news!
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Were you able to stay on the Galactic Starcruiser? Comment below!
I’m still puzzled why Disney went forward with Galactic resort. Common sense told you it was too expensive, with a limited audience, too difficult to maintain long term. Sad they didn’t keep it open as a resort though. I would have stayed there, minus the immersion experience.