Disneyland’s Fantasmic! recently made a grand return, only to face unexpected complications soon after its much-anticipated reopening. Just days after delighting fans with its stunning performances, the nighttime spectacular encountered technical difficulties, prompting immediate action from park officials.
The issue arose from debris obstructing the underwater track used by key components of the show, including the Sailing Ship Columbia and Mark Twain Riverboat. In an unexpected twist, a high-speed skiff boat was deployed in an attempt to clear the blockage. This impromptu stunt, reminiscent of the WaterWorld show at Universal Studios Hollywood, was captured on video by @theewalkerchronicles and quickly circulated on Instagram.
Despite these efforts, the skiff boat’s wake was insufficient to clear the debris, leading Disneyland to further intensify their response. Eventually, a skilled Disneyland diver managed to free the track, though not before the 9 p.m. performance had to be canceled. Fortunately, the 10:30 p.m. show proceeded as planned, thanks to the relentless efforts of the maintenance and dive teams.
The challenges faced by Fantasmic! highlight the intricate operations required to keep such a beloved show running smoothly. Interestingly, similar skiff boats are commonly used for maintenance tasks in other iconic shows like World of Color — ONE at Disney California Adventure.
For those planning a visit, Disneyland offers exclusive viewing areas for Fantasmic! through dining packages at Blue Bayou Restaurant, River Belle Terrace, and Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante, although modifications and the removal of the Hungry Bear Restaurant’s On-the-Go package have occurred recently.
Have you experienced the new version of Fantasmic? How do you feel about the updates? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going!
