Sunshine Flyer – A Walk With The Mouse

Brand New Transportation Option Available from MCO to Disney World Resorts

Posted on January 16, 2023January 16, 2023 by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Disney Resorts, Uncategorized

When Disney’s Magical Express ended in 2022, there was a gap in coverage between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Walt Disney World Resort hotels. MEARS Connect seemed to be the frontrunner to replace the service (Disney’s Magical Express was owned and operated by MEARS). However, Sunshine Flyer emerged as a clear stand out.

Neither replacement options are free. Both are comparably priced, with MEARS being a tad cheaper ($32 per supersonic round trip as opposed to Sunshine Flyer at $39 per person round trip). It’s the theming that puts Sunshine Flyer over the top. The motor coaches are themed like Golden Age railroad cars, right down to train conductor uniforms for drivers. It’s just…FUN!

Now, though, they’ve begun a brand new offering: private direct transfers. If group transportation isn’t your thing, you can hire private car transport to and from the airport in advance from Sunshine Flyer. The experience is VIP from start to finish making this an excellent way to splurge on your Disney trip and begin the magic the moment you land.

Rather than traipsing through the airport for a specific meeting location, your driver will meet you at baggage claim and assist with your bags at the airport and your Resort. After that, you’re whisked off to your destination in stylish and modern vehicles that up the wow factor on the entire experience. Unlike with group transfers, your resort is guaranteed to be the one and only stop which cuts down on travel time and starts your fun that much quicker.

There’s also no surprise fees or surge pricing like you typically find with rideshare services. By booking in advance, you’ll also have peace of mind knowing that not only is the cost already taken care of (payment is due upon booking), but you’re guaranteed a ride, even if your arrival is during a peak time. With rideshare services, you often run the risk of lengthy wait times if there are no available drivers once you’re ready to go.

The cars aren’t train themed like the buses but kids receive train themed freebies like conductor hats, stickers and games. Safety certified car seats are included at no extra cost which cuts down on the hassle of having to bring your own from home.

Like any VIP experience, pricing is a bit steep:

For reference their website says a sedan will accommodate up to 3 people and 3 suitcases. A luxury SUV will accommodate up to 6 people and 6 suitcases. The Sprinter Van accommodates up to 10 people and 18 suitcases.

The website lists the hotels serviced by private transfer. All Walt Disney World hotels are included, including Fort Wilderness Campground and Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser.

Replacement Signs Spotted for Disney’s Magical Express

Posted on December 30, 2021December 30, 2021 by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

With only a few days left in 2021, Walt Disney World Resort is beginning the signage removal process of the complimentary airport transportation system known as Disney’s Magical Express. Disney previously announced the Magical Express service is coming to an end with the last day of operation is December 31, 2021.

There are currently two forms of transportation to be offered in the new year as Magical Express replacement options, both non-Disney services that come with a fee. Mears Connect and The Sunshine Flyer will be traveling to and from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Walt Disney World Resort hotels for select fees.

Now, the Magical Express signs once found at Disney World Resorts are being replaced with standard “Airport Shuttle Departures” signs.

@followyourdreams_travels took to Instagram with the following photo and note: “They have already begun to install in the Disney Hotels, the new signs to indicate where to wait for the paid buses, replacing those of the Disney’s Magical Express. The Magical Express that operates free to and from the Orlando Airport transporting Guests, stops providing the Service on December 31, 2021. Guests will be able to book a bus to and from the Airport paying for the service.”

Mears Transportation service fees will be $16 (per adult) / $13.50 (per child) for a one-way trip or $32 (per adult) / $27 (per child) for a round trip. For the express car service, Guests can pay $250 for a round trip with up to 4 passengers, with an additional $55 per additional passenger.

The Sunshine Flyer service fees will be $17 (per adult) / $12.50 (per child) for a one-way service. Or, you can purchase round-trip tickets for $34 (per adult) and $25 (per child).

Another Magical Express Alternative Announced

Posted on December 26, 2021December 26, 2021 by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

With Disney’s Magical Express service ending soon on December 31, 2021, guests are looking for alternative ways to get from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World resorts. Mears Connect is one option, and another, The Sunshine Flyer has recently been announced.

Transportation Management Services (TMS) announced the launch of The Sunshine Flyer, a themed motorcoach bus experience that will transport guests from the Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Walt Disney World Resorts. Offering a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation, The Sunshine Flyer will allow guests to start the magic of their Disney vacation from the moment they step off the plane.

The buses are late model, premium motorcoaches with themes that center around old-fashioned passenger cars and train engines. From the bus designs to staff dressed as 1920s rail conductors and engineers, the motorcoaches effectively serve as time machines, offering a glimpse into 1920s rail travel.

“By combining our 25 years of expertise in mass transportation management with a creative, themed experience, we have the unique opportunity to offer an experience that’s both stress-free and engaging,” said Frank Sherman, CEO of TMS. “Turning what used to be a procedural drive into the beginning of an adventure to remember, is incredibly rewarding for our team. Together with our transportation partners Academy Bus, LLC., and Empire Coach, we look forward to giving Disney guests the chance to kickstart their vacation with a fun, unique travel experience from the moment they step off the plane.”

With 25 years of experience as a large events transportation company working with world-class events such as the FIFA World Cup, NBA Finals and various PGA TOUR Tournaments, TMS is primed to offer a streamlined and well-executed service through The Sunshine Flyer. The busses service all Disney resorts and are complete with a bathroom, USB chargers and three-point seatbelts for the comfort and safety of all guests. Ahead of travel, guests will book their tickets online and receive a QR code they will scan once arriving at Orlando International Airport which will ensure smooth timing and departures to the Resorts.

The Sunshine Flyer offers transportation to all Walt Disney World Resort destinations in Orlando, including Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and more.

In celebration of Disney’s 50th anniversary, the Sunshine Flyer will donate 50% of all revenue from the first 50,000 passengers during the first 50 days of business to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida. As a part of the Sunshine Flyer’s commitment to giving back, all Make-A-Wish children and their families will receive complimentary service from the Sunshine Flyer for their Disney wishes indefinitely.

Tickets for The Sunshine Flyer must be booked at least four days ahead of arrival. Tickets are $17.00 per adult, $12.50 per child. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.sunshineflyer.com.