Hello Jill and thank you for bringing such a great question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
How fun to have an Advanced Dining Reservation for the
Biergarten Restaurant at Epcot, my family just loves eating there because we thoroughly enjoy the entertainment provided by the Oompah Band.
You're so right in thinking that it's quicker, not to mention much foot friendlier to use the
Walt Disney World Water Transportation across World Showcase Lagoon; taking a
FriendShip will save you the 1/2 mile walk!
I suggest boarding a
FriendShip at the dock on the
Mexico side of Showcase Plaza which will take you directly to the dock near Germany; you'll arrive at your destination a little rested and ready for some German hospitality!
If I can help sprinkle any extra pixie dust onto your upcoming vacation to Walt Disney World Resort please pop back to ask me another question.
Have a great Disney day.
~ Jane