After barely a year in operation, the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser is no more. While it will likely return in a new form, the hotel can now be called one of the worst failures ever for Walt Disney World Resort.
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is one of our most creative projects ever and has been praised by our guests and recognized for setting a new bar for innovation and immersive entertainment. This premium, boutique experience gave us the opportunity to try new things on a smaller scale of 100 rooms, and as we prepare for its final voyage, we will take what we’ve learned to create future experiences that can reach more of our guests and fans.
— The Walt Disney Company, Official Statement
It should be no surprise that The Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser is closing. I predicted they would have to do something this past winter. Instead, they hoped to make it through this year. Now, with the announcement that September will be the end, we can all begin to wonder how they will retool the experience. After all, there’s no way this thing is getting River Country’ed.
The announcement about the Starcruiser came as Kathleen Kennedy was entering the theater at Cannes. It seems to have been timed for maximum damage. It’s strange that it came from the company that employs Mrs. Kennedy. Make of it what you will.
There were many who said the Galactic Starcruiser was fine. They said that those disenfranchised from Star Wars were just a disgruntled minority — a bunch of rubes. That can now safely be put to bed. Star Wars is in trouble. The sequel trilogy has damaged the brand immensely. And boutique experiences are no longer manageable for a franchise that has largely sent its most ardent fans packing.
Meanwhile, Nintendo is bringing Mario and Zelda to Orlando (more on the latter soon). We’re about to see what true fan enthusiasm looks like. It wasn’t to be found at the Starcruiser.
For all the latest news that should be fun, keep reading That Park Place. As always, drop a comment down below!
