Walt Disney World’s Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser took its final voyage on September 28th, 2023.
We’re keeping this article below simply for nostalgia’s sake, or for those who are merely curious about what they missed.
In the meantime, Disney hasn’t announced what’s coming next to the multi-million dollar interactive space hotel that they built… and if / when anything’s announced, we’ll update you here!
How to plan, book, and prepare for the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser
Here are the vital steps you’ll need to take as you plan, book, and prepare for your voyage:
- Know what to expect: practical reality Q & A
- Assemble your travel party
- Identify your preferred travel dates
- Add a Walt Disney World visit
- Set up your booking and pay your deposit
- Learn the ways of the Force
- Plan your outfit
Know what to expect: practical reality Q & A
How long does the voyage last? | The experience lasts approximately 45 hours. You’ll have a 2-night stay. On your check-in day, you may enter between the hours of 1 PM to 4 PM. Arriving on the earlier side will give you more time to explore your surroundings and meet other participants. On your check-out day, you’re invited to depart anytime between the hours of 6 AM and 10:45 AM.
Do you have to dress in costumes? | Most guests wear clothing that would fit in within a Star Wars story, but there’s no requirement to dress up / cosplay / arrive in character. Disney does have very specific guidelines about what attire is permitted onboard; see below.
How many meals are included? | The experience includes two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners. During your visit to Hollywood Studios (see below), you’re given a complimentary quick service meal voucher to enjoy lunch inside the theme park. During these hours, lunch service is also provided onboard the Galactic Starcruiser; you’re free to eat lunch in both locations. Water, soft drinks, coffee and tea are included with your meals. Specialty drinks, beer, wine and cocktails are an additional charge.
When are the meals served? | Breakfast and lunch are served in a walk-through buffet style. Think small plates. You’re invited to dine when you like; you’ll find breakfast dishes from 7 AM to 11 AM and lunch dishes from 11 AM to 4 PM. Dinners are table service — with servers who visit your table — and guests are divided into two seatings: 5:30 PM and 8 PM. You’ll select your preferred seating time when you book.
What happens on my smartphone? | The Play Disney Parks app — available for iOS and Android — is a vital part of the experience. Through this app, you’ll view your itinerary, receive important updates, view the ship map, and receive personalized messages which are tied into the story. During your experience, your smartphone will be called a datapad.
What do you actually do onboard? | During your experience, you’ll explore the various areas of the Halycon — the name of the starcruiser — as if you’re on a journey aboard a Star Wars spaceship. From the moment you arrive, you’ll interact with characters from the Star Wars universe. You’ll find them everywhere — from the common areas to the dining areas. Some of those characters are original to this experience; others will be familiar to you. They’ll invite you and your fellow passengers into the story via unique, personalized face-to-face interactions, themed activities and games, messages on your smartphone, and messages in your guest room cabin. As the journey unfolds, a compelling story emerges. Although every passenger will have their own individualized experience (and unique relationships within the broader story), everyone will come together for a climactic finale.
“It is equal parts luxury hotel, interactive theater, theme park ride, food as entertainment, digital scavenger hunt and role-playing game.”
– Brooks Barnes, New York Times
Where is the Galactic Starcruiser terminal physically located? | The arrival terminal is on Walt Disney World property, a short distance from Hollywood Studios theme park. The address is 201 South Studio Drive, Bay Lake, Florida 32830.
Where do I leave my car? | Valet parking is included. You may also arrive via taxi or rideshare.
Do Walt Disney World resort buses service the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser? | Yes. Disney is currently running buses to and from the Disney Springs bus terminal.
Are you free to come and go? | Once you’re in, you’re in. However, in the case of emergency Disney’s guest services will gladly assist anyone who needs to depart.
Can non-registered guests visit the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser? | No. Only those who have booked the experience may enter the terminal. There are no areas that are open to visitors or non-registered guests.
Do you ever leave the Galactic Starcruiser during the voyage? | Yes; you’ll take a unique journey to the Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge area of Hollywood Studios theme park on the second day of your voyage. You’re free to separate from the group and explore all of Hollywood Studios from about 8 AM until about 4 PM. Private transports arrive and depart throughout the day. Within the Galactic Starcruiser, events resume around 12:30 PM on the second day of your voyage.
Can you ride all the attractions at Hollywood Studios? | Yes. You’re free to experience all the attractions, dining locations, etc., throughout the whole park.
Are kids welcomed? Is there an age or height requirement? | The experience is designed for guests of all ages. Some specific activities do have age requirements; one popular onboard activity is only for guests 7 years and older. Within Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios, two attractions have height requirements. You must be 38” or taller to experience Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, and you must be 40” or taller to experience Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Can you wear your Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser clothing when you’re within Hollywood Studios? | Yes. Disney is making an exception to its longstanding costumes policy. Galactic Starcruiser voyagers may remain within their clothing, even when they’re not within Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge. See below.
Do you have to participate in the itinerary / story at all times? | No, you’re free to return to your guest cabin at any point to relax or rest. Within the common areas, you may participate in the adventure or simply observe — it’s your choice.
Are there restrictions on where you can go within the ship? | The Galactic Starcruiser features many large areas which remain open for guest exploration. Similar to a hotel lobby. At all hours, you’re permitted to visit these areas. Other rooms — like the dining areas, bars, lounges, etc. — are only open to guests during dining hours. Some smaller interactive rooms are only open during specific story moments.
Is there fresh air onboard? | There’s an outdoor, walled-in garden with ample greenery and seating areas. It’s open 24 hours.
Can you see out the windows? | All the windows onboard feature animated screens that depict the expanse of space and a variety of plot elements. There are no windows with views of the surrounding area. There are built-in shades to block the view if you’d like some darkness.
How big are the beds, and how many beds are in each cabin?
- Standard cabins include a Queen-sized bed, 2 berths (bunk beds) for one adult each and 1 wall pull-down beds for one adult each.
- Galaxy Class Suites include a Queen-sized bed and 2 wall pull-down beds for one adult each.
- Grand Captain Suites feature 2 queen beds, 2 berths (bunk beds) for one adult each and 2 wall pull-down beds for one adult each.
Inquire about cabin or suite availability ▸
What amenities are included in the guest cabins? | Rooms feature one bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet. There are no bathtubs. Within the bathrooms, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, makeup removal cloths, facial wash, and a hairdryer are included. Within the guest rooms, you’ll find a mini-refrigerator, television, a small table, two chairs, and a refillable water carafe. There are no coffeemakers or kettles in the cabins, but coffee and tea are available in the common areas. Additionally, guest concierges can provide additional beverages upon request. There are ample power outlets within the cabins and complimentary Wi-Fi onboard.
Is there a gym onboard? | There is no gym onboard, and guests do not have access to the gyms at nearby resort hotels.
Is there a pool, sauna or hot tub / jacuzzi onboard? | No, there is no pool, sauna, or hot tub / jacuzzi within the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser.
Do the dining options include plant-based and allergy-friendly items? | Yes, those with special diets have numerous food options at each meal service onboard. A chef can discuss specific food allergies with any guest upon request.
Can you arrive with food / snacks? | Yes, as with all Walt Disney World vacations, you’re free to bring your own food / snacks / beverages and store them within your cabin. Accommodations can also be made for guests with baby formula or medication that requires refrigeration.
Are there accommodations for guests with disabilities? | Yes, please read Disney’s guide for guests with disabilities.
Assemble your travel party
Before you book, you’ll need to know who’s coming along. Why? Because food is included throughout the adventure. The cost goes up with more mouths to feed.
As you consider who’s going to share your cabin, keep a few things in mind:
- There’s only one bathroom (in the standard cabins)
- The maximum occupancy of a standard cabin is 5 adults.
- Although most adults can comfortably fit within the berth beds, very tall guests would probably prefer the Queen bed or the twin-sized fold-down wall bed.
Does everyone need to be a major Star Wars fan to enjoy this? | No. Disney’s said that the experience is built for those who love Star Wars, and those who love the people who love Star Wars. Will familiarity with the Star Wars franchise enhance the experience? Of course. But as long as you’re willing to join in the fun and play along, you’ll enjoy the journey.
Are kids welcomed? | Absolutely. The experience is designed for guests of all ages; many activities are designed with young adventurers in mind. Some specific activities do have age requirements; one popular onboard activity is only for guests 7 years and older. But the majority of the guests onboard will be adults, and a great many will be traveling without kids.
Is there a height requirement? | Within Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios, two attractions have height requirements. You must be 38” or taller to experience Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, and you must be 40”or taller to experience Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Identify your preferred travel dates
When we set up your booking on the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser, Disney asks guests to identify 3 potential departure dates.
Wishful Thinking can enquire on your behalf about availability, including:
- Suite & Cabin Availability | Wishful Thinking can enquire about availability in standard cabins, Galaxy Suites, and Captain Suites, and inform you exactly which dates are available.
- Captain’s Table Availability | Similarily, Wishful Thinking can enquire and identify voyages where you can find a seat at the Captain’s Table.
After you’ve had time to consider the dates and availability — with your Walt Disney World vacation priorities in mind as well — we’ll set up your booking on your behalf.
Add a Walt Disney World visit
You’re traveling all the way to Walt Disney World. Might as well have some more fun while you’re there. Most passengers on board the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser enjoy additional days within Disney’s theme parks. To maximize your perks in the parks, you’ll want to stay within one of Disney’s own resort hotels.
However, because these bookings are handled separately, keep these things in mind:
Disney can transfer your luggage on your behalf. | If you’re within an official Disney Resort hotel just before or after your journey, Disney’s own bell staff will pick up your bags on your checkout day and deliver them to the Bell Desk at your destination resort. The same policy applies when any Disney resort guest transfers between two of their hotels.
It’s much easier to visit a Disney theme park on the final day of your Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser voyage. | On your arrival day, you’ll need to check-in between 1 and 4 PM. But on your departure day, you can head out anytime between 6:45 and 10:45 AM. You can probably make it to the turnstiles of a park by 8:00-ish, especially if you let Disney handle your bags.
There are four Walt Disney World theme parks, and you’ll only briefly visit one of them. | Your Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser itinerary won’t give you enough time to experience all of Hollywood Studios’ major attractions. Beyond a revisit there, add fun-filled days in EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Magic Kingdom. A 4-Day Park Hopper theme park ticket (or higher) would be wise.
Disney’s resort hotels book up very far in advance. | Disney owns and operates more than 35 resort hotels within Walt Disney World with a vast spectrum of amenities, convenience, and price points.
GUIDE | Where to Stay at Walt Disney World ▸
Set up your booking and submit payment
If dates become available and you’re ready to book, we’ll set up your booking.
For your Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser booking:
- Because we are now within 90 days of arrival for all remaining voyages, the full amount is due at booking
- This experience is non-refundable. If you’re delayed during travel and you miss your voyage, Disney cannot accommodate you at a future date.
- We strongly recommend travel insurance for all new bookings aboard the Galactic Starcruiser
For your additional days within the Walt Disney World Resort:
- $200 per room deposit for a Walt Disney Travel Package | What’s a package?
- Balance due 30 days before your check-in date
- If you book your package within 30 days of your check-in date, the full amount is due at booking
Notify me when a Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser voyage becomes available ▸
Learn the ways of the Force
Now you’ve got a justifiable reason to sit on the sofa.
To fully appreciate the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser storyline, consider a deep dive into the Star Wars canon. Traveling with young Jedi warriors? Even better! Family time is a lot more fun with lightsabers.
To watch on Disney+:
- All nine Star Wars films | Focus on the final three.
- The Mandalorian
- Rogue One
- Star Wars: The Clone Wars
To read:
- Star Wars: The Halcyon Legacy | This new MARVEL comic book series features a storyline that takes place on board the Halcyon. Learn rich backstory of the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser.
- The Art of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge | A fantastic behind-the-scenes look at the art direction, architecture, and design strategy of Batuu.
- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: The Official Black Spire Outpost Cookbook | Space up your meals before & after your trip.
Plan your outfit
Here’s the part you’ve been dreaming about. Imagine inserting yourself into your favorite Star Wars story. Who would you wanna be?
Costume Restrictions | Disney’s got a number of restrictions on clothing & attire on board. They’re a bit subject to judgment — costumes that “distract from the experience of other Guests” are not permitted — so arriving as Jabba the Hutt probably isn’t the best idea. But Lekku — also known as head-tails — are allowed!
Here are the costume policies for while you are onboard the Galactic Starcruiser:
- Costumes that may distract from the experience of other Guests are not permitted.
- All Guests may dress as their favorite character, but they may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other Guests.
- Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
- Costumes may not contain any props or accessories that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
- Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another Guest.
- Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening.
- Acceptable accessories include transparent wings, plastic lightsabers, toy swords and tutus.
- Costume headwear may be worn as long as it does not cover the face.
- Guests ages 13 and under may wear some costume masks; masks may not cover the entire face and must provide unobstructed peripheral vision at all times with openings that allow the eyes to be fully seen.
- Costume masks of any kind may not be worn by Guests ages 14 and older.
Additional restrictions apply in Hollywood Studios:
- Costumes, like full-length robes, may not reach or drag on the ground.
- Capes may be worn if the length does not go below the waist.
Where to buy costumes for the Galactic Starcruiser?
Looking for ideas and inspiration? Check out Facebook group for Disneybounding for the Black Spire Outpost. Ashley Eckstein, who voiced Ahsoka Tano on Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, has her own Star Wars-inspired clothing store, Her Universe. You might love the sci-fi coolness of SunVoss sunglasses. And if you’re ready to dress as a Twi’lek, P & S Costume Creations creates customized silicone Lekku. (Due to an influx of recent orders, they may take months to arrive, so plan ahead.)
And finally, Disney’s got their own shop of attire that is exclusively available for those who have booked a Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser voyage; you’ll need to enter your confirmation number to complete the purchase. In addition to apparel and accessories, you’ll find Togruta and Twi’lek headpieces for adults and kids. Get creative and let the Force guide you!
Photographs by David Roark, Caitlyn McCabe & Matt Stroshane
