Where Cars Make a Splash: Ride the Amphicars at Disney Springs

If you’re planning a visit to Walt Disney World, here’s something you absolutely should pencil into your day at Disney Springs: the Amphicar experience. It’s a one-of-a-kind ride that blends nostalgia, engineering novelty, and pure fun giving you the rare chance to ride in a vintage car that becomes a boat. Below, I’ll take you through the history of the Amphicar, how the Disney Springs experience works today, and tips to make the most of your splashy cruise.

A Bit of Amphicar History

The Amphicar has a quirky, fascinating backstory that reads like something from a retro futurist dream. Its roots can be traced back to post-World War II efforts to build vehicles that could operate both on land and water. The Germans had experimented with amphibious military vehicles (like the Schwimmwagen during WWII), and that idea inspired civilian versions in the ensuing decades.

Enter Hans Trippel, a German engineer and former race car driver, who spent years tinkering with amphibious vehicle designs. By 1961, the Amphicar 770 was ready for market. It made its official debut at the New York Auto Show on April Fool’s Day, 1961. The name “770” was a clever nod to its dual nature: about 7 knots in the water (roughly 8 mph) and 70 mph on land.

In total, only 3,878 Amphicars were produced between 1961 and 1968. Today many have been lost to neglect, accidents, or mechanical failure, and today fewer than 400 are known to still exist.

The Disney Springs Amphicar Experience

Fast forward to modern times—and Disney has turned this quirky vehicle into a must-do attraction at Disney Springs, via The BOATHOUSE restaurant and dockside operation.

What It Is & Where You’ll Find It

• The Amphicar launch sits in the Landing area of Disney Springs, next to The BOATHOUSE restaurant.

• It is a 20-minute guided tour on Lake Buena Vista via vintage Amphicar.

• Tours generally operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., weather permitting.

• The current price is about $125 per car (which can seat 3–4 people).

• Disney has re-engineered the fleet (about 8 restored vehicles) to improve safety, reliability, and guest comfort

The Ride Itself

Once you climb aboard, your Amphicar (still a car!) will be driven down a ramp and splash into the water. As it transitions, you’ll glide across the lagoon and circle Disney Springs from a unique vantage.

Your captain doubles as a storyteller, pointing out landmarks, sharing fun facts about the Amphicar’s history, and likely narrating little tidbits about the boats or features you pass along the way.

Because the cars are vintage and require extra care, tours run on a first-come, first-served basis. You can hop in line at the dock podium or inside the BOATHOUSE “Boatique.”

If you dine at The BOATHOUSE (or spend a minimum amount in the Boatique), you may be eligible for a discount (often around $25) toward your Amphicar ride.

One quirk: you might find yourself as part of the show. Many visitors pause to watch as a car floats off or climbs out, so don’t be surprised to be waving at onlookers.

Tips & Things to Know

• Book early on the day of your visit. You can’t reserve in advance—just arrive and book at the dock podium or Boatique.

• Plan to arrive a little ahead. There may be a short wait; guests have reported waiting ~45 minutes while enjoying the waterfront shops or dining.

• Get the dining/Boatique discount. Bring your receipt from The BOATHOUSE (or qualifying Boatique purchase) to reduce your ride cost. The food at the BOATHOUSE is delicious!

• Prepare for sun. The ride is open, so sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses are smart.

• Accept the spotlight. Many guests describe feeling like performers as passersby wave and record your splash entrance.

 Final Thoughts

In a resort filled with immersive rides, spectacular shows, and high-tech thrills, the Amphicar at Disney Springs stands out for its pure charm and delight. You’re not strapping into a roller coaster or sitting in a theater—instead, you’re literally driving into the water in a vintage convertible. It’s a mini-adventure, a photo op, and a memory-maker all rolled into one.

If you’re in Orlando and want a break from roller coasters and castle queues, this is a perfect pick. We always suggest taking 1 day of your Walt Disney World vacation away from the parks and the Amphicar and Disney Springs is a great way to relax and refresh.

To ride along in an Amphicar CLICK HERE to watch our ride.