The unique Amphicar tour experience has been suspended at Disney Springs due to the ongoing low water levels in Lake Buena Vista and the connecting waterways. Late last month, the water taxi service from Disney Springs to area resorts was suspended due to low water levels, but the Amphicar experience continued for some time. Now, the Amphicar tour service has been suspended too.
In speaking with Cast Members, they estimated that Central Florida would need weeks of strong rain storms to resume service. Over the next 10 days, three days have a forecasted rain percentage above 50% – so it might be some time before service returns to the Disney Springs area waterways. In the case of the Sassagoula River Cruise water taxi service, alternative transportation is being supplemented by additional buses while the waterways are closed.
The Amphicar tours are rather unique, with The BOATHOUSE being the only operator in the world that offers the experience. There were thousands of Amphicars produced back in the 1960s, but less than 400 exist today. The BOATHOUSE purchased its fleet from private collectors. Tours are typically offered daily from 10am to 10pm for $125 per car. The 20-minute tour can hold 3-4 people.
The model 770 Amphicar was named after its ability to achieve speeds of seven knots in the water and 70 mph on land. 3,878 Amphicars were manufactured in Germany from 1961 tp 1968. During that time 3,046 were imported into the United States. The Amphicar is rear-engined and uses a 4-cylinder British-built Triumph Herald moter producing 43 hp. All Amphicars are convertibles, offered to civillians in four colors; Beach White, Regatta Red, Lagoon Blue, and Fjord Green (Aqua).
Two American Presidents owned Amphicars; Jimmy Carter and Lyndon B. Johnson. President Johnson would invite friends and even foreign dignitaries to his Texas ranch for a joyride in his car. Today, The BOATHOUSE is the only location in the world that offers Captain Guided Amphicar tours in a unique water experience around Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
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