Instead of chlorine, Disney uses a chemical called bromine in the water, and that scent permeates the air in and around the ride. It smells like pirates up in here. It's a damp and musty odor, and it just fits the attraction so well! We'll never get tired of it.

Disney parks utilize a proprietary technology known as the "Smellitzer" to enhance guest immersion through scent. This patented air-distribution system uses a series of vents and high-pressure fans to pump specific aromas into specific areas, often timed to match the visuals of an attraction or the theme of a land. Famous examples include the scent of freshly baked cookies on Main Street, U.S.A., burning timber in the "Fall of Rome" scene of Spaceship Earth, and citrus groves in the Soarin' attractions. These scents are carefully curated to trigger powerful emotional responses and "scent memories" that stick with guests long after their vacation ends. In 2026, Disney continues to refine this tech, using it not just in rides but also in resort lobbies and retail spaces to create a multi-sensory environment that is uniquely "Disney."