In a series of new aerial photos from bioreconstruct, we can see the now-closed Liberty Square Riverboat and the Tom Sawyer Island rafts parked in a service canal toward the back of Magic Kingdom.
Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island Rafts in Magic Kingdom Service Canal
Aerial photographer @bioreconstruct on X recently shared a new series of pictures taken over Magic Kingdom, several of which focus on Frontierland. The area has been in the news relatively often, as both the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island closed earlier this month to make way for the “Cars” expansion.
Liberty Square Riverboat Photos
Since the closure, guests have been unable to see both the Liberty Belle and the rafts that were used to transport guests between Frontierland and Tom Sayer Island. As can be seen in this aerial view, the riverboat and three rafts are now docked in a Magic Kingdom service canal, located next to the construction zone behind Big Thunder Mountain.
The Liberty Belle is next to a small floating dock on the left side of the canal, while the rafts are placed in a line further down. The yellow crane seen in the images is the one we have photographed for the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad refurbishment, and is not related to the riverboat specifically.
In the view, we can see a more detailed look at the equipment visible in Big Thunder Mountain construction updates. Big Thunder Mountain is also currently closed for refurbishment and will reopen in 2026 with “a little bit of new magic.” Bioreconstruct also noted that the bridge that crosses over this canal will be familiar for any guests who have participated in a runDisney event near Magic Kingdom.
We do not know if Disney has plans for the Liberty Square Riverboat and rafts, or if they are docked in the canal for temporary storage before being taken to a new location. As of right now, all of the vessels look mostly unchanged from their last day of operation, though the patriotic bunting is missing from the railings of the Liberty Belle.
The Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island closed permanently on July 7. If you want to see more of these classic attractions, we have compete last look photo tours with some of the many hidden details.
The new Cars area in Magic Kingdom will immerse guests in an off-road adventure through mountainous terrain inspired by the Rocky Mountains, featuring encounters with geysers and mud holes. Each ride vehicle will have its own “unique personality,” complete with distinctive names and numbers, enhancing the immersive experience as guests race through the scenic landscape. Disney has also announced an original character that pays homage to classic Disney cartoons.
Check out the final ride on the Liberty Square Riverboat in our POV below.
What do you think Disney should do with the Liberty Square Riverboat and the Tom Sawyer Island rafts? Share your thought in the comments and on social media.
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