Ferry Boat Question

[DisAl]

Most people probably could not care less, but I have been curious about something on how the WDW ferryboats operate. They are double-ended and don't turn around, so I am assuming that there are propellers and rudders on each end of the ferry. Do they only run one end at the time or do both ends run all the time? Not running the "forward" end would create drag, but I would think that running it would create some challenges for the pilot. Anybody know how they do it?

 

[Goofyernmost]

Most people probably could not care less, but I have been curious about something on how the WDW ferryboats operate. They are double-ended and don't turn around, so I am assuming that there are propellers and rudders on each end of the ferry. Do they only run one end at the time or do both ends run all the time? Not running the "forward" end would create drag, but I would think that running it would create some challenges for the pilot. Anybody know how they do it?

Very good question, but, I don't know from actual visual experience. However, from my time riding this type of ferry I would have to say that it has a differential that transfers power from Forward to Aft. The props that aren't being used may create a little drag, but, they are not going very far and not very fast, so it probably isn't even a consideration. I have seen them switch from back to front when entering the dock to work somewhat like a brake. If I were a betting man I would go with props at both ends, switched over when departing, depending on the direction and switched again on the way back.

 

[thomas998]

Very good question, but, I don't know from actual visual experience. However, from my time riding this type of ferry I would have to say that it has a differential that transfers power from Forward to Aft. The props that aren't being used may create a little drag, but, they are not going very far and not very fast, so it probably isn't even a consideration. I have seen them switch from back to front when entering the dock to work somewhat like a brake. If I were a betting man I would go with props at both ends, switched over when departing, depending on the direction and switched again on the way back.

It has props on both ends but doesn't use a differential instead it has engines for each direction on both ends of the boat.

 

[Goofyernmost]

It has props on both ends but doesn't use a differential instead it has engines for each direction on both ends of the boat.

That actually would make sense and that way if one engine fails they can still remain mobile with the other. Sort of a functional backup.

 

[danyoung56]

It has props on both ends but doesn't use a differential instead it has engines for each direction on both ends of the boat.

This matches what I know about the boats. As they're approaching a dock, they reduce the drive on the rear prop, and then throttle up the drive at the front of the boat, effectively braking the ferry as it slides into its dock.

If everything works out like I want, I'll have my hands on the throttles in about 6 years!!!

 

[andy773]

http://www.wcdept478.com/MagicKingdom1.htm

 

[thomas998]

http://www.wcdept478.com/MagicKingdom1.htm

If you want even more detail and minutia:

http://www.wcdept478.com/AbouttheFB.htm