Everything You Need to Know About Voyage of the Little Mermaid

You’re going on vacation to Walt Disney World! The only problem? You’re not sure which attractions are right for you and your kiddos and you have questions. Which attractions are too intense for little ones? What rides do I really need a FastPass+ reservation for? What’s disability access like for certain attractions? We’re answering all those questions and more in our Everything You Need to Know attraction series with today’s focus on Voyage of the Little Mermaid at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

What is Voyage of the Little Mermaid?

Voyage of the Little Mermaid is a stage show highlighting classic moments from the 1989 Disney animated film through the use of live actors, puppetry, special effects, and clips from the movie.

At the time of writing, Disney has Voyage of the Little Mermaid listed as temporarily unavailable. 

Where is Voyage of the Little Mermaid?

Voyage of the Little Mermaid is located in Animation Courtyard across the way from the Disney Junior Dance Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

What is the History of Voyage of the Little Mermaid?

Voyage of the Little Mermaid opened at what was then called Disney-MGM Studios on January 7, 1992. Inspired by the incredibly popular The Little Mermaid animated film, Voyage of the Little Mermaid replaced “Here Come the Muppets,” a live show featuring walk-around Muppet characters that opened on May 25, 1990.

What You Need to Know About the Queue

There is an outdoor extended queue for the show leading into a nautical-themed pre-show room resembling the hold of a ship and filled with undersea artifacts.

Some are clever, such as the “sea monkey,” and others are truly magical! Be sure to take the time to explore what Imagineers have created for this space.

What You Need to Know About the Experience

Voyage of the Little Mermaid is a 17-minute show highlighting the musical numbers of The Little Mermaid. The show utilizes puppets, live actors, blacklight, and lasers, along with interposed clips from the animated film. Some of the effects are a little outdated, but others still hold up.

The show kicks off with a blacklight puppet performance of “Under the Sea” followed by a live actress as Ariel singing “Part of Your World.” The final musical number, “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” features a towering 12 foot tall Ursula puppet!

The show concludes with an effect where Ariel is transformed into a human and reunites with Prince Eric.

What You Need to Know About the Theater

Guests entering the theater will feel as if they’ve voyaged under the sea! The theater looks (and feels!) as if it’s underwater complete with a curtain of water, light mists, and even the occasional chilly breeze.

Upon entering the theater, we suggest heading towards a central or rear row for the best view of the stage and effects. We also recommend allowing several people to enter a row ahead of you for a more central viewing location.

Guests sit in individual standard theater padded seats with armrests. There are no safety restraints.

What You Need to Know About Accessibility

Guests may remain in a wheelchair/ECV to experience this show.

What You Need to Know About Health and Safety Advisories

There are no health or safety advisories for Voyage of the Little Mermaid!

Do be aware that the theater is dark to simulate the bottom of the ocean, and some children may be frightened by the dark surroundings, moments of darkness during the show, and scenes featuring the giant Ursula.

What are the Height Requirements?

There are no height requirements. This show can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Does Voyage of the Little Mermaid Offer FastPass+?

Yes; however, it’s rarely necessary. Usually, the only waiting required for this attraction is waiting for the next show to start.

Note: At the time of writing, FastPass+ is currently suspended at Walt Disney World.

Does Weather Affect Voyage of the Little Mermaid?

No. Since this show is located in an indoor theater, inclement weather isn’t an issue. The exterior, extended queue is outdoors but covered.

What’s the Best Time of Day to Experience Voyage of the Little Mermaid?

Anytime! It’s unusual for anyone in line not to be admitted into the next showing of Voyage of the Little Mermaid. Typical waits are under 25 minutes for most of the year.

Did I answer all of your questions about Voyage of the Little Mermaid at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Is this attraction at the top of your family’s vacation to-do list? Let us know in the comments.