Disney Announces Closure of Lavish and Immersive Star Wars Hotel Experience

The Walt Disney Co. has revealed its decision to close down the immersive Star Wars-themed luxury hotel in Orlando this September, just under two years since its grand opening. The media conglomerate is currently implementing cost-cutting measures across its entertainment and parks divisions.

Disney announced the closure of the highly anticipated two-night experience, “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser,” without providing a specific reason for the decision. The hotel made a memorable debut at Walt Disney World in March 2022, attracting significant attention from fans.

In February, Disney’s Chief Executive Bob Iger unveiled plans to reduce costs by $5.5 billion as part of the company’s efforts to achieve profitability in its streaming TV business.

Amidst criticism from Star Wars enthusiasts regarding the steep price, it has been revealed that bookings for the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser experience started at $4,800 for a two-guest stay. The package encompassed two days and nights in one of the 100 Starcruiser cabins, themed food and beverages inspired by the galactic universe, as well as an excursion to Batuu, the renowned “Star Wars” planet situated within the Disney World theme park.

Notably, the 100 rooms available at the Starcruiser accounted for less than 0.5% of Disney’s total room inventory in the surrounding area.

Furthermore, Disney announced on Thursday the cancellation of its plans to construct a corporate campus in Florida, an undertaking estimated to cost nearly $1 billion. The decision was influenced, at least in part, by shifting business conditions and an ongoing dispute with Republican Governor Ron DeSantis.

Speaking about the Starcruiser experience, a Disney spokesman said that it was “praised by our guests and recognized for setting a new bar for innovation and immersive entertainment.”

“We will take what we’ve learned to create future experiences that can reach more of our guests and fans,” he said.