Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana details released as rockwork for the attraction takes shape

Work on the upcoming Epcot attraction Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana has begun, and Disney has released new details about this playful, family-friendly experience as it enters its next phase of development.

Inspired by the Walt Disney Pictures movie “Moana,” the attraction is based on the journey of water as it goes through its cycle from the sky to the Earth and back again, with nods toward the movie’s main character, Moana, who has a special bond with the playfulness of water.

Images from the movie, including shapes and characters, are being carved into the attraction’s rockwork and waterways, and Moana herself will hold pride of place as she celebrates the arrival of water in the ocean.

The Disney Imagineers’ process of creating this new addition to the Epcot theme park at Walt Disney World began with models, mock-ups, and maquettes to help them visualize the final product.

As the process advances, paint and additional details are added. As an aid in bringing characters to life, detail, texture, and a focus on their emotional expressions becomes paramount to ensuring the creative vision is fully realized.

Foliage and other scenic treatments are added to complete the artists’ vision and bring the world of Moana to park guests.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is located in the World Nature section of Epcot, which is part of the park’s major transformation.

Reid Eckman, lead concept designer, Walt Disney Imagineering, states in the Disney Parks Blog that the World Nature neighborhood is “dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty, awe, and balance of the natural world.”