Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana 17 Months Later

Since its grand opening on October 16, 2023, Journey of Water, inspired by Moana, has become a cherished addition to EPCOT’s World Nature pavilion. This interactive, self-guided outdoor trail invites guests to engage with the wonders of water, drawing inspiration from Disney’s animated film “Moana.”

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Exploring the Attraction

Journey of Water offers a serene environment where visitors can interact with water features, learning about the water cycle in an engaging manner. The trail is adorned with lush landscapes and artistic representations from the film, creating an immersive experience that resonates with both children and adults.

1. Rain As you begin your journey, you’re introduced to the ‘Rain’ section, where water gently cascades from above, simulating rainfall. Guests can feel the droplets and observe how rainwater initiates the water cycle.

2. Stream Moving forward, the ‘Stream’ area features flowing water channels that guests can interact with, guiding the water’s path and observing its movement over various terrains.

3. Wetland In the ‘Wetland’ section, guests encounter marsh-like environments where water filters through vegetation, demonstrating natural purification processes. Interactive elements allow visitors to see how wetlands serve as Earth’s natural filters.

4. Land The ‘Land’ area showcases how water interacts with soil and rock formations. Guests can touch and manipulate water as it travels over different surfaces, learning about erosion and absorption.

5. Lake In the ‘Lake’ section, calm pools of water reflect the surroundings, illustrating water’s role in ecosystems and as a resource for communities. Guests can observe and interact with these serene bodies of water.

6. River The ‘River’ area features stronger currents, allowing guests to see how rivers carve landscapes and transport nutrients. Interactive components let visitors influence the flow and direction of the water.

7. Ocean Finally, the ‘Ocean’ section immerses guests in the vastness of the sea, with interactive waves and water features that respond to movement, highlighting the ocean’s significance in the water cycle.

Reception Over the Past Year

Over a year since its debut, Journey of Water has been lauded for its blend of entertainment and education. Guests appreciate its capacity to accommodate around 150 people at a time, allowing for an intimate experience without extensive wait times.

The attraction’s design encourages repeat visits, as guests often discover new details upon each walkthrough.

Families, in particular, have found the attraction delightful. Children revel in the interactive elements, while parents value the educational aspects seamlessly woven into the experience. One parent noted that their six-year-old son loved the attraction, and they appreciated that it usually didn’t require a long wait time

The attraction also aligns with EPCOT’s original theme of “edutainment,” offering educational content in an entertaining setting. Guests have observed that the attraction teaches about the water cycle, reflecting EPCOT’s commitment to combining education with entertainment.

Conclusion

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, has proven to be a valuable addition to EPCOT, embodying the park’s mission to educate and entertain. Its thoughtful design and interactive features have ensured its popularity among guests, making it a must-visit attraction for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature, art, and learning.

Ed Mazzilli

Hello all! I have been going to WDW since 1976 and can't count the number of trips along with some cruises. I love all things Disney, from the parks to the studios to the history of what made the Walt Disney Company what it is...Walt himself.