Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat | Disney World

The Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat was an original Walt Disney World attraction, making its debut in October 1971 with the opening of the Magic Kingdom. Along with the Richard F Irvine ship, the Fowler traveled the Rivers of America in Frontierland and Liberty Square from 1971 until 1980. During a planned refurbishment in 1980, the Fowler was damaged in an accident and was unable to be repaired. It was never replaced.

Fun Facts

• The “Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat” was one of the original attractions at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, named after the retired Navy admiral who was instrumental in the construction of Disneyland and Walt Disney World.
• This riverboat was a full-scale replica of a classic American river steamboat, offering guests a scenic tour around the Rivers of America, located in the Frontierland area of the park.
• The riverboat first set sail on October 2, 1971, just one day after the opening of Magic Kingdom, and it was one of two riverboats operating in the park, the other being the “Richard F. Irvine.”
• Unfortunately, the “Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat” was retired in the early 1980s due to an accident during a routine maintenance operation, which severely damaged the hull.
• Although the “Admiral Joe Fowler” is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on in the park’s remaining riverboat, the “Liberty Belle,” which continues to provide guests with a nostalgic river cruise experience.