International gateway in world showcase open?

I was wondering if the international gateway opens prior to the world showcase section of the park opening? We have an 8am ADR at the Boardwalk and were planning to go to EP right after. I thought the boat ride would be nice, but now I am wondering if this will be a problem.

Yes, the International Gateway opens the same time as the main entrance. It’s a great way to avoid the main gate crowds. Les Halles in France is open for breakfast, and they keep the walkway open from the IG towards Furture World through the UK and Canada. The shops and restaurants in those areas are not open until 11.

The boat ride will be nice if you happen to catch an EP boat with no wait when you leave the restaurant, but walking to the ig will probably be a little quicker.