Good afternoon from EPCOT where we’re taking a look at the recently repainted FriendShip VIII. As you might remember, we got a first look at the new paint scheme for the boat a few weeks ago when it was parked in the back of the Gamora parking lot at EPCOT.
Now, FriendShip VIII is in the water and transporting guests between EPCOT, the EPCOT area resorts, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. When we first saw the FriendShip VIII in the parking lot, we assumed that it was part of the ongoing fleet refresh. As it turns out, it is actually going to be the first of a new wave of new paint schemes for the FriendShip boats after Disney was reportedly unhappy with the look of the FriendShip III and FriendShip IV.
Here’s a look at the previous updated paint scheme, which included a white hull.
And here’s a look at the all-new paint scheme for the FriendShip VIII with blue hull. This blue hull will roll out to other boats soon, including FriendShip III and FriendShip IV, which were repainted recently.
While the watercraft is mostly the same with the exception of a new paint scheme, we did notice that the American Flag flying at the back of the boat was not centered, perhaps to prevent it from being damaged by soot as happens with other watercraft. We expect that this change will continue forward with the fleet refresh.
Here’s a closer look at a few details before it sails away again.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!