Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid in MC | Imagine Fun

What is the History of Under the Sea - Journey of The Little Mermaid?
When The Little Mermaid debuted in theaters in 1989, it was a massive hit and ushered in a revival of Walt Disney Animation films. Imagineers wanted to create a Little Mermaid dark ride in the ’90s, but their ideas were never realized. Instead, The Little Mermaid’s presence in the parks was relegated to mostly parades, character meets, and the Voyage of The Little Mermaid show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. However, a computer-generated ride-through of Imagineering’s original plans for a dark ride were included in the 2006 Platinum Edition DVD of The Little Mermaid.
It wasn’t until 2011 that guests were finally able to journey under the sea with The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure attraction which debuted at Disney California Adventure. Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom received a nearly twin version of the attraction with the park’s New Fantasyland on December 6, 2012.
What Do You Need to Know About the Queue for Under the Sea - Journey of The Little Mermaid?
For those who love details, the queue for the Under the Sea - Journey of The Little Mermaid may be more impressive than the attraction itself! The ride appears to be housed inside of Prince Eric’s castle! Seriously, the castle is impressive and looks just like it does in the film. The queue takes guest around the base of the castle, past gorgeous rock work and water features, and into a grotto filled with gadgets, gizmos, and thingamabobs.
(c) Disney
There’s even an interactive game where little crabs gather trash or treasure, as well as an audio-animatronic Scuttle who serves as the narrator for the adventure.
What is the Ride Experience Like for Under the Sea - Journey of The Little Mermaid?
(c) Disney
The ride begins with a descent “underwater” meaning the clam shell ride vehicles slowly descend backwards while water effects create the illusion guests are going under the sea. The rest of the ride consists of scenes depicting major musical moments from the film, such as “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Kiss the Girl.”
(c) Disney
The Ursula audio-animatronic for the “Poor Unfortunate Souls” scene is especially impressive! Overall, the ride experience is slow and smooth with no surprises or sudden, jerky movements.
What are the Ride Vehicles Like for Under the Sea - Journey of The Little Mermaid?
The ride vehicles are large colorful clam shells which seat 2 adults. Cast Members often allow 2 adults and a small child or 1 adult and 2 small children.
(c) Disney
Guests sit on a hard bench with a tall back and a single pull down safety bar. Guests need to take small step up from a continuous moving walkway.