Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat
Ultimately, the Riverboat was late to its own celebration, arriving the day after Disney World’s official grand opening in 1971, according to legend. The absence of the host did not go over well with the guests. Once 1980 arrived, Admiral Joe Fowler was forced to undergo a normal rehabilitation program. Unfortunately, when being pulled out of the sea, Joe collapsed and shattered the hull, rendering it unsalvageable. In order to be buried somewhere on Disney grounds, the boat was transported to the backstage boneyard. As far as abandoned tourist attractions go, this one was at least given a dignified burial.
Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat
Plaza Swan Boats
Starting with the obvious question of who wouldn’t like to cruise about in an oversized swan? The Swan Boats were widely regarded as one of the most soothing sights in the area. Although it was no Splash Mountain, it did provide some spectacular views of Cinderella’s Castle. Some claim that the cost of maintenance during the busy summer months was prohibitively expensive, but the true cause for the attraction’s closure in 1983 remains a mystery. A handful of the original Swans made their way to auction, where they were eventually purchased by long-time enthusiasts of the theme park attraction. Let’s hope the buyer had a swimming pool large enough to accommodate a massive swan boat.
Plaza Swan Boats
