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Ride Access Pass and Disabled Access - 2024 Discussion

Bowser said:
FYI @GooseOnTheLoose cancellations are released in real time (i've tested this for AT and Chessington, would assume the others are the same)
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They are released real time (it's just standard capacity controls like any other ticket they offer), but the gotcha is guests cannot directly cancel. They have to submit a ticket to merlin who then lookup the order, and click 3 buttons, as soon as they click that final button it's released.
 
imanautie said:
They are released real time (it's just standard capacity controls like any other ticket they offer), but the gotcha is guests cannot directly cancel. They have to submit a ticket to merlin who then lookup the order, and click 3 buttons, as soon as they click that final button it's released.
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With AT and Thorpe you can't directly cancel but you can amend a booking to a different date which instantly releases the previous booking.
 
100% they need to merge the booking systems together. It adds an element of confusion for guests who might not be aware. Would also remove any form of "we didn't KNOW we had to prebook" angle that many try to blag.

Not sure if a deposit (even if refundable) would be deemed acceptable by disability advocates. Using RAP is more often than not a need rather than an option, compared to refundable deposits for mobility aids offered by the park. It would be off putting to those gaming the system mind.

Beyond that, need to move Towers & Thorpe to the digital system shared by Lego & Chessie. Removes the need for everyone to have to get a wristband in the morning for one. Then beyond that ensure that the rules are followed to the absolute letter. Check photos on the RAP card, ensure that max carer numbers are followed (or limit it to max 1 carer on certain rides), and if anyone found to be abusing the system or staff then kick them out.
 
tayspru said:
The only real solution is more capacity at the parks themselves. Anything else is papering over the cracks
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This is ultimately the issue. Parks with low RAP problem tend to have lower general queues as the amount of rides and attractions are so plentiful relative to the attendance.
This can also end up cat and mouse and restrictions implemented eventually like Disney as I understand
 
It’s a constant theme on FB groups - “the system at Disneyland Paris is so much better” . There’s no time outs there because the capacity is massive compared to the number of access users
 
tayspru said:
It’s a constant theme on FB groups - “the system at Disneyland Paris is so much better” . There’s no time outs there because the capacity is massive compared to the number of access users
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If there aren't any timeouts, doesn't this essentially turn an access pass into (and I really hate to do this) "free fast pass"?

The access pass ensures equality / parity of access with the main queue. If anybody wants to skip the queue they can pay for a fast pass / fastrack. If your needs mean that using the main queue is unsuitable, then the access pass gives you the equivalent queue length timeout (for you to spend in a more suited environment).

Capacity is an independent issue in and of itself, but it should have the same impact on both main / access pass queue wait / timeout times.

My original suggestions were specifically around the acquisition and management of booking RAP slots.
 
DLP also has some flaws. Notably the BTM queue/wait.

Is their Fastpass still free or all paid for now?

I think for most part their equivalent to RAP uses Fastpass queues aside from few accessible routes. Which helps to a degree.

Should be mentioned that most RAP systems don't have a time-out or alternative limitation to use (beyond maybe a honour system 15 mins). But this is where I feel there's a massive cultural difference with our continental friends that these ones aren't abused to hell.
 
I believe the issue is that Merlin had opened the floodgates with eligibility and this has resulted in longer queues for those who need it.

I think the solution is to go back to the drawing board and relook at eligibility so people who genuinely need RAP are not disadvantaged.

I also think other tweaks such as ringfencing RAP allocation for hotel guests and those who need Step Free Access would be helpful as well. The first step would be moving Thorpe and Towers over to the digital system and integrating that with the apps. I also think making the pre-booking system as user friendly as possible would help too.

More capacity is needed although that needs capital investment and will take a while.

The problem is that it's oversubscribed and the eligibility may at one point have been the broadest that any park operators has their RAP requirements. If any other operator has as broad RAP requirements as Merlin, I'd be interested to know.
 
Benzin said:
DLP also has some flaws. Notably the BTM queue/wait.
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What's this? We're due to go in March so any advice is appreciated!

tayspru said:
It’s a constant theme on FB groups - “the system at Disneyland Paris is so much better” . There’s no time outs there because the capacity is massive compared to the number of access users
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This was the case at Efteling and Plopsaland too and in my experience at least it had no meaningful negative impact on the main queues. Again as you say that's likely due to capacity.

I don't know if it's a consideration but one could argue that users of RAP typically have to spend considerably more time doing other things on a day out (longer journey time between attractions, challenging toilet access, sensory timeouts and so on) so a shorter queue time counterbalances that. Of course one could also argue those things can theoretically take place in the allotted timeout.

I'm of the philosophy that RAP users often have a considerably lower quality of life and begrudging them a shorter queue time at a theme park probably says more about the person complaining, though the wider the eligibility net is cast the harder it is to maintain that view.

Benzin said:
But this is where I feel there's a massive cultural difference with our continental friends that these ones aren't abused to hell.
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I have thought this myself at times and there is likely truth to it. But equally it does seem to be a problem unique to Merlin parks in the UK as i'm not aware of any issues at Paultons, Drayton, Blackpool or Flamingo.

If the parks didn't regularly have queues for multiple rides well exceeding the 60 minute mark you likely would have far fewer people taking advantage of the generosity of the system.

owenstreet7 said:
I believe the issue is that Merlin had opened the floodgates with eligibility and this has resulted in longer queues for those who need it.
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Merlin don't determine eligibility anymore, Nimbus do. I believe all 4 parks mentioned above accept the same system, as do many European parks including Disney, Efteling and Plopsa.
 
Bowser said:
What's this? We're due to go in March so any advice is appreciated!
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Nothing much just always seems to have a massive queue (it goes up the exit so you walk past it) even on my last visit 7 years ago.

To be expected given its one of the main attractions with a low height requirement. But can imagine it's a bit of an awkward one for some to deal with.
 
Benzin said:
Nothing much just always seems to have a massive queue (it goes up the exit so you walk past it) even on my last visit 7 years ago.

To be expected given its one of the main attractions with a low height requirement. But can imagine it's a bit of an awkward one for some to deal with.
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Seems like it has ambulant and non ambulant queues (former using fast track) from what I can see…
 
Just received this email regarding some RAP changes for Scarefest and Fireworks;

Dear Guest,

We are excited to share some important updates to our Ride Access Pass process for Scarefest and Fireworks designed to enhance your experience at Alton Towers Resort. Check out these key changes:

1. Timesheet Collection: If you’ve pre-booked a Ride Access Pass, you can now pick up your timesheets at these convenient spots:

• Guest Services at Admissions (before the turnstiles)
• Towers Street Guest Services
• Forbidden Valley Guest Services Hub
• Hotel & Accommodation Guests: Grab them at your hotel reception (Alton Towers Hotel, Splash Landings Hotel, or CBeebies Land Hotel)

2. RAP Cancellation: Cancelling your RAP reservation is now easier than ever with our new cancellation inbox. Just visit Ride Access Pass Cancellation form to release your tickets back online for other RAP users to book.

3. RAP Returns Box: Leaving early? Post your RAP timesheet through the post-box at Guest Services to allow us to re-allocate your booking to guests on our waitlist.

4. Waiting List: On busy days, we now offer an online waiting list for RAP Reservations. You can join up to 2 days before your visit—no need for last-minute calls or worries! Submit a request – Alton Towers Resort | UK's Best Short Break Resort

5. No Scare Lanyards: Our No Scare Lanyards can be hired from Guest Services (No1 Towers Street/Forbidden Valley) for a £5 deposit that will be refunded when the lanyard is returned. We do kindly advise that these lanyards are on a first-come, first-serve basis via card payment only and cannot be secured ahead of your visit..

6. Mobility Scooters and Wheelchairs: Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are also available for booking to ensure easy movement and comfort throughout the event. There is a limited amount available each day and we advise to pre-book ahead of your visit. Theme Park Accessibility | Alton Towers Resort

7. Fireworks Event: Please note, there won’t be a waiting list for our fantastic fireworks event, so make sure to check back online for any cancellations.

8. Wheelchair Users Fireworks Platform: & Sensory 'Quieter Space': For guests who prefer a more sensory-friendly environment, we have created a "quieter space." Please note that this area also requires a booking, as capacity is limited. We offer a dedicated platform for wheelchair users to enjoy the fireworks. Spaces are limited and can be reserved directly through our website. What disabled facilities are available for the Ultimate Fireworks? – Alton Towers Resort | UK's Best Short Break Resort

We hope these updates make your visit even more thrillful! If you’ve got any questions or need help, feel free to reach out.

We can’t wait to see you soon for more jaw-dropping fun!

Alton Towers Resort
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Benzin said:
Oh good I was wondering how Saturday would go if we had to go to Towers Street rather than the more sensible hotel location.

Little steps.
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You could already collect them from the FV guest services hub mind, but yes adding the hotels again is a good step. Hopefully they'll keep that for all next season as well.
 
Didn't use RAP for my Thorpe Park visit yesterday but i did like how all the rollercoasters have the merge point prior to batching so RAP users get equal seat choice allocation and the option to queue for front row where available.

Also this is completely anecdotal and i realise borderline conspiracy theory but for my 2 hours mooching around Hyperia i don't believe i saw a single RAP user, whereas once the Merlin employee evening began the queue was heaving which seemed a little odd.
 
Bowser said:
Didn't use RAP for my Thorpe Park visit yesterday but i did like how all the rollercoasters have the merge point prior to batching so RAP users get equal seat choice allocation and the option to queue for front row where available.

Also this is completely anecdotal and i realise borderline conspiracy theory but for my 2 hours mooching around Hyperia i don't believe i saw a single RAP user, whereas once the Merlin employee evening began the queue was heaving which seemed a little odd.
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Merlin in general but espically Thorpe have a hell of a lot for neuro divergent staff, seemingly almost all of ents for example
 
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