A colorful, cartoon-themed ship featuring a painted character design is docked in Universal Islands of Adventure's Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges area, surrounded by trees and rocky landscaping, with water glistening in the foreground, fresh from its recent refurbishment.

Scaffolding Up at Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges in Universal Islands of Adventure

Lauren Shahan

Scaffolding is visible at Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges in Toon Lagoon at Universal Islands of Adventure.

Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges Refurbishment

A pirate-themed ship with a large skull and crossbones flag docked on water surrounded by rocky edges and trees under a clear blue sky, reminiscent of Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges at Universal Islands of Adventure after its recent refurbishment.

Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges is temporarily closed through March 15, 2025 for routine maintenance. Near the Islands of Adventure lagoon, scaffolding is around a pole holding a bird’s nest. This is next to Me Ship, The Olive, which is also closed for the refurbishment project.

A colorful, cartoon-themed ship featuring a painted character design is docked in Universal Islands of Adventure's Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges area, surrounded by trees and rocky landscaping, with water glistening in the foreground, fresh from its recent refurbishment.

Crew members were working on the ship’s deck Thursday morning. One was standing on a ladder, working underneath the stairs. Another appeared to be working on the stairs.

Being a water raft ride, it’s normal for Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges and subsequently Me Ship, The Olive to close for a few weeks at the beginning of the year for regular maintenance.

Has this closure affected your plans when visiting Universal Islands of Adventure? Let us know in the comments and on social media.

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