Hi Tim,
An ECV is a great way to get through Disney World and make a trip so much easier for people with mobility issues. I love how well the theme parks and resorts are equipped to handle ECV with ease. Transportation, navigating queue lines, and getting through the theme park is super easy! Disney has a
great guide for guests with mobility disabilities that I would check out before you arrive so you have a good handle on how ride transfers will also work.
You can
rent directly from Disney World or through their featured provider, ScooterBug. I recommend going with either of these options. If you do not need your ECV when transferring from the park to your resort or while at your resort then renting directly from Disney World is a great option. When renting directly from Disney World, you can not take the ECV out of the theme park and must be able to use transportation unassisted. The benefit is that you don't have to worry about where to store your ECV in the evening at your resort.
If you need an ECV for all transfers and at your resort then I recommend utilizing ScooterBug. The main benefit of their partnership with Disney World is that you do not have to be present when they deliver your scooter to your resort hotel. The resort will sign for it and have it waiting for you when you arrive. You will need to figure out where to park it in the evening and charge it for the next day of adventures. This is the only company that partners directly with Disney to make renting seamless.
Transportation at Disney World is a breeze with an ECV. All of the
buses are equipped with special areas for parking and securing your ECV and the drivers are well-trained on how to get you on board and on your way. There are also ramps available that enable you to drive right onto the
monorail and travel seamlessly to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
Water transportation is one of my favorite ways to get from Disney's Beach Club Resort to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Many of these boats can accommodate ECVs, but not all of them. If a smaller boat without accessible options arrives to pick you up, don't worry, it will just be a short wait for a larger equipped boat to arrive.
Happy Planning,
Jenna