New Coco Boat Ride Coming to Disney California Adventure in 2026

Hey Disneyland Vacationers! Disney has always been synonymous with bringing dreams to life, and their latest announcement is no exception. During a recent D23 Expo, Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro unveiled plans for an all new Coco boat ride, set to sail into Disney California Adventure. If you’re a fan of the heartwarming movie “Coco,” you’re in for a treat—this ride promises to be nothing short of spectacular!

What We Know So Far

The upcoming “Coco” boat ride is set to begin construction in 2026. While that may seem like a long wait, it’s clear that Disney is committed to making this attraction as magical as possible. This isn’t just any ride; it’s the first-ever “Coco” ride in any Disney park! Disney is pulling out all the stops to ensure it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Josh D’Amaro teased some of the ride’s groundbreaking features, particularly the cutting-edge Audio-Animatronics that will be central to the attraction. These aren’t just any animatronics—Disney could advancing the “activate” and “follow along” technology that is used in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. What does this mean for riders? Let’s break it down:

1. Activate Technology: This tech tracks individual ride vehicles, signaling animatronics when to start their performances. This ensures that every single rider gets the same experience, with perfectly timed dialogue and interactions.
2. Follow Along Technology: This isn’t just about standing still and talking—these animatronics will make eye contact, follow your boat along the ride, and some might even “walk” as they interact with you! It’s like the characters have truly come to life.

D’Amaro shared his excitement, saying, “We’re bringing our skeletal cast of characters to life in a big way through the latest Audio-Animatronics technology. These figures will appear in ways you’ll have to see to believe.”

A Journey Inspired by Disney Classics

If you’ve ever been on the Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean, you know Disney’s knack for creating immersive, storytelling experiences. The new “Coco” boat ride will draw inspiration from these beloved classics, blending familiar magic with innovative technology.

As you journey through the Land of the Dead, you’ll be surrounded by the characters and music that made “Coco” a fan favorite. Expect to see Miguel, Hector, and even the lovable Dante, all set against a backdrop of stunning visuals and the movie’s unforgettable soundtrack.

Where Will It Be?

Now, the big question on everyone’s mind: Where in Disney California Adventure will this new attraction be located? While Disney hasn’t confirmed the exact location, speculation is already swirling. I believe the ride will find its home within the Pixar Pier section of the park.

I could see the area currently occupied by Goofy’s Sky School and Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta be reimagined for this new adventure. Interestingly, the Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta area is also the site of the Dia de los Muertos celebration each fall, which already features a “Coco” show. Could this be a hint at what’s to come? Only time will tell!

Why This Ride Matters

“Coco” has resonated with audiences worldwide, celebrated for its beautiful portrayal of family, culture, and memory. Bringing this story to life in a Disney park is more than just adding another attraction; it’s about honoring a movie that touched millions.

The “Coco” boat ride will allow fans to step into the world of Miguel and experience the vibrant Land of the Dead firsthand. With Disney’s attention to detail and commitment to storytelling, this ride is sure to become a new favorite for visitors of all ages.

Final Thoughts

As we eagerly await the arrival of the new Coco boat ride at Disney California Adventure, one thing is clear: Disney is continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in theme park attractions. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or someone who fell in love with “Coco” from the moment you saw it, this ride is going to be an experience you won’t want to miss.

So, mark your calendars, Disney fans. 2026 might feel far away, but with the promise of cutting-edge technology, beloved characters, and a journey into the Land of the Dead, it will be worth the wait. Get ready to embark on an adventure that only Disney could create!

Stay tuned for more updates as Disney reveals more about the new Coco boat ride. It’s going to be un poco loco—in the best possible way!

20% Off site-wide, plus Free Shipping on all orders of $65+

Over 75+ Designs! Your next park shirt is just a click away

Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?

Save time & money on your vacation

Your Disney vacation should create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re a first-time Disney vacationer or looking to plan your next magical adventure, it isn’t enough just to go on a Disney vacation. We want you to talk about your vacation for years to come and create memories you’ll cherish forever. Vacation is calling! Are you ready to answer?

REQUEST QUOTE

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Jonathan Cotton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I’m no stranger to Disney planning, as a Disneyland magic key holder and DVC member. I’m the person people ask for trip planning advice. But I had never been on a Disney cruise, and had heard great about Nate and decided to reach out. I’m so glad I did because we could not have been happier with our experience. His tips and insights were incredibly helpful, and he was incredibly responsive any time we had a question. Who do the Disney experts turn to when they need help? Nate, that’s who.

We’ll definitely be using him again.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Andria Skornik 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Our experience working with Nate as our Disney vacation planner was exceptional. He was responsive and thorough. He gave us insights that made the trip go much more smoothly. We were able to really relax and focus on quality time as a family and have so much fun doing it! I will definitely reach out for any future trips.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 rpwoodjr 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Could not have wanted or expected more from Nate, our Distrips and More agent as we planned our 2025 Disney World trip. Nate was VERY responsive to emails and texts and more than willing to do whatever he could to guide us and answer our questions.  On several occasions I emailed him over the weekend not expecting a response until Monday but each time he responded before the weekend was over.  He even participated in a Zoom session with our group of five seniors as we planned our trip. He also helped us at the 11th hour when we added a family member to our travel group less than a month before our trip.  Without a doubt, I will reach out to Nate when I'm ready to plan my next trip to Disney World!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Homero Rendon 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We are so thankful we used Nate to plan not only our first Disney trip, but also our second. He made the process so easy for us, especially for us since it was our first time going. There was a lot to consider and many decisions to make, such as where to stay, when to go, and what to experience. Nate really helped us narrow down what we wanted to do overall, but he didn’t stop there. He provided detailed guides to help us navigate the airport and find our transportation to the resort, as well as a guide to explore the resorts and make sure we saw the best Christmas decorations. One of the many amazing things he also did was set up our dinner reservations for us. This saved us so much stress and allowed us to get some of our top choices. From the moment we landed in Orlando to the moment we headed back home, he made sure everything went smoothly. You truly can’t go wrong with going to him for your next trip.
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Lee Mathes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nate was absolutely the best planner I have ever had.  Will most definitely be using him again.   He took care of everything and kept me on track.  Was so very helpful in making all the dining reservations and everything.   Can't thank him enough.   He made our trip completely stress free!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Amanda Moran 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nathan has been an amazing trip planner for me! So helpful and responsive. I am a very type A person -- so someone who is even more on top of their game than me -- is so so appreciated! Nathan has booked 3 trips for me (1 completed 2 pending) and it was perfection. Thanks again!
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 Hyperion Adventures Podcast 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Nate has helped us with our vacation planning for the last couple of years and we couldn't be happier with his service and expertise. We've used other travel agents in the past and none of them have done as phenomenal a job to make sure every detail is taken care of as he has. Switching to Nate was one of the best decisions we've ever made. He's always quick to answer questions and works tirelessly to make sure we get everything we want from our trips. Plus, he's just a genuinely great person who is wonderful to work with. Whether you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a Disney Cruise, or any other vacation, Nate is the guy you want putting it all together! Five stars across the board!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 7 reviews 
 
   
 
 

Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!