The seasonally operated Tortuga Tavern quick-service restaurant at Magic Kingdom has been renamed Tortuga Treasures and is now a temporary gift shop.
With construction work taking place on the main Pirates of the Caribbean Gift shop in the Plaza del Sol Caribe Bazaar, some of the merchandise has now been relocated to Tortuga Treasures.
Last month, Disney filed a construction permit for the Pirates of the Caribbean area, assigned to long-time Disney partner Whiting-Turner Contractor Company, which has previously worked with Disney on numerous major projects across Walt Disney World. The default 12-month permit validity period has been extended until August 31, 2025.
While we don't know for sure what this permit is for, we believe that Disney is making changes to the gift shop to allow for the construction of the previously announced Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge. One theory is that the open area is being enclosed with a new roof to allow more effective use of the space.
When announced in September 2023, Disney said this first-of-its-kind experience will extend the story of Pirates of the Caribbean. While information is scarce so far, Disney did reveal one small detail—the Barker Bird animatronic (pictured in the concept art) will make a welcome return.
The most likely location for the new lounge is the former Pirates League makeover experience space, with some expansion into the gift store area.
We expect to hear more about Magic Kingdom's Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge during August's D23 event in California.
Get Walt Disney World News Delivered to Your Inbox