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Do SeaWorld have plans for yet another coaster?

Hey Thrill Seekers,

Whilst doing my weekly investigations I came across something very interesting.. SeaWorld appear to have filed some plans with Orange County for a new project on top of the new coaster Ice Breaker which is set to open this year. The permit is for site work which will always be the first stage in any construction project and although it will usually only mean clearing the land ready for whatever the project may be it leads us to believe a new attraction will be coming to the park and if there is ever any speculation of a new coaster we will of course roll with it!!
thecoasterkings.com put in a public records request and obtained a copy of the demolition site plan which shows the boundaries for the demolition and also a code name for the rumoured attraction ‘SWO – Penguin’

The image below posted by thecoasterkings.com shows an overlay of the site plan. It looks as though the demolition will take place in the area of the path between Bayside Stadium and SeaFire Grill as well as some of the path and roadway on the outside of the park.
Coaster kings have said that ‘the overall project area is roughly 3.6 acres – for comparison, Kraken occupies roughly 4 acres, so there’s definitely ample space here for a fairly large attraction.’

SWO Penguin Plan Overlay
Image from coasterkings.com

These early rumours point towards a possible new coaster. Screamscape have rumoured a possible B&M wing coaster as it is just about the only B&M coaster not yet featured in the vast amount of Florida theme parks. The only thing that throws me off that idea though is the code name being Penguin, now of course penguins cannot fly so a winged coaster would be a little unusual unless they themed it around penguins ‘flying’ through the water I suppose?
On the other hand, a coaster set to open this year at SeaWorld San Diego is a B&M Dive Machine called the Emperor coaster which is easiest explained with the video below..

With the code name being penguin and a new coaster coming to San Diego being based around an Emperor Penguin it could be a good shout for this 2021 project don’t you think?

some facts and figures for Emperor coming to SeaWorld San Diego this year

Either way a coaster added by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is never going to be a bad one is it!!

What would you prefer to see, a winged coaster or a dive coaster?? I’d personally prefer a dive coaster as i’m a hugeeeee fan of Sheikra at Busch Gardens, it’s a coaster that really gets your adrenaline pumping.

Of course, we’ll keep you updated if any of these rumours are confirmed, at the moment it is just speculation.

Smiles included,

Abby

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SeaWorld and Busch Gardens new Coaster names announced!

Hey Thrill Seekers,

So today, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment have announced the names of their 2 latest roller coasters…

Meet Busch Gardens 10th Coaster… Iron Gwazi and SeaWorld Orlando’s 6th Coaster… Ice Breaker.

Lets start with the Gwazi ‘re-vamp’ now named Iron Gwazi.
Iron Gwazi is “going to be the best roller coaster in Florida,” says Jonathan Smith – director of rides and engineering. “We’re building what could be one of the best coasters in the entire world.”

Iron Gwazi will have a tallest point of 206 feet, a 91 degree drop and a top speed of a whopping 76 mph!! Which is faster than Mako may i add! It will be the tallest and fastest coaster in the Sunshine State.

Iron Gwazi is being converted from an old twin-track to a single-track design – by Rocky Mountain Construction who also made Steel Vengeance (which Iron Gwazi will now overtake, by 1 foot, to be the tallest hybrid) are a hugely popular and many fan favourite lists include many Rocky Mountain coasters.

birds eye view of Gwazi

Second up is SeaWorld’s newest coaster.. Ice Breaker which will be a family thrill coaster.

Using linear synchronous motors, the unique coaster will feature a quadruple launch. After leaving the station, the trains will enter a track switch that will move them laterally into the launch section. They will first magnetically launch backwards, then forward, then backward, and finally forward with enough momentum to hit the ride’s top speed of 52 mph and make it out of the launch area. – USA Today

“Passengers will experience airtime (both forward and backward) while they are launching” on SeaWorld Orlando’s new Ice Breaker roller coaster, ride director Jonathan Smith says. “Airtime going backwards is unique.” -SeaWorld Parks

“What’s really cool about the launch experience is that there are camelbacks (airtime-generating hump-shaped hills) integrated into the track,” says SeaWorld’s Smith. “Passengers will experience airtime while they are launching. Airtime going backwards is very unique.”

Ice Breaker’s riders will navigate a 93-foot spike at 100 degrees, a full 10 degrees beyond vertical. They will also encounter an 80-foot top hat-shaped element that Smith says will be loaded with airtime. The coaster will be an “unusual, crazy, fun and thrilling experience,” he adds.

On top of both of those rides coming to the parks in 2020 SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment have announced a new attraction ‘Riptide Race’ is coming to Aquatica Orlando next year too!

Its going to be an exciting year for Roller Coasters isn’t it!! which one are you looking forward to the most? Me? Iron Gwazi!!

Smiles Included,

Abby

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SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival 2019

Hey Thrill Seekers,

The popular Seven Seas Food Festival is returning to SeaWorld in February! As guests sip and sample their way through the park, they will discover globally-inspired flavors while enjoying local craft beers and beverages from around the world. The fun goes beyond the food with live performances at Bayside Stadium featuring top artists.

The festival will run every weekend between the 9th February and 5th of May. Plus new for 2019 from 15th Feb guests will be able to enjoy the festival on Friday evenings from 4pm – 9pm.

You will be able to try loads of different cuisines and of course local craft beers. Here are some examples of the food you will be able to feast on from the various stalls. The full menu which can be found on SeaWorlds Website:

Buffalo Meatloaf Slider


All American Market – Buffalo meatloaf slider
Topped with Arugula, Smoked Bacon, and Pimento Cheese

Char Siu Bao


Asian Market Char Siu Bao
Steamed Pork Buns with Gingered Grilled Pineapple & Hoisin Sauce

Picanha Steak


Brazilian Market – Brazilian Picanha Steak
Served with Oven Roasted Potatoes and Tomato Chimichurri

Turkey Pretzel Slider

Coca-Cola Market – Turkey Pretzel Slider
Turkey Breast, Aged White Cheddar, and Cranberry Chutney infused with Coca-Cola on a Pretzel Roll

Sea Scallops Provençal

Mediterranean Market – Sea Scallops Provençal
With wild mushroom risotto

Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches

Sweets Market – Donut Ice Cream Sandwich
Cinnamon Dusted Donut Stuffed with Vanilla Ice Cream and Rolled in your Favorite Topping

There’s so many tempting cocktails and non alcoholic beverages on offer too to quench your thirst.

Every Saturday and Sunday during the festival there will be concerts at Bayside Stadium (included with your admission) SeaWorld have only announced the first 6 weeks of performers and we will update you as soon as we know any more!!

Check out the confirmed acts below:
9th Feb – The Fray
10th Feb – Sugar Ray
16th Feb – Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons
17th Feb – Little River Band
23rd Feb – Flo Rida
24th Feb – 98 Degrees
2nd March – Lifehouse
3rd March – Cole Swindell
9th March – Lee Brice with LOCASH
10th March – I Love the 90’s ft En Vogue, Kid n Play, Coolio, Tone Loc, Rob Base and Young MC
16th March – Bret Michaels
17th March – Gente De Zona

Stay tuned for more updated and performance announcements!

Smiles included,

Abby

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52 weeks of events at SeaWorld Orlando in 2019!

Hey Thrill Seekers,

2019 is set to be BIG for SeaWorld parks and entertainment, with Sesame Street due to open at SeaWorld, Tigris to open at Busch Gardens, KareKareKurl to open at Aquatica plus much more and now SeaWorld have revealed 9 events that will cover the whole of 2019! There wont be a week next year that an event won’t be happening in SeaWorld!

Oh yeah and it’s ALL included with admission!! Check it out..

What? Three Kings Day Celebration When? Daily, 1 – 6 January

Families are invited to help commemorate the arrival of the Three Wise Men during SeaWorld’s Three Kings Day celebration. This festive event brings SeaWorld’s Christmas season to an incredible close with speciality cuisine and celebratory experiences that honour the cherished traditions of Latin cultures.

What? NEW – Inside Look  When? Weekends, 12 – 27 January and weekends, 11-19 May

Taking place twice in 2019, guests can go behind the scenes and visit areas never opened to the public during this new event. SeaWorld’s renowned veterinarians and animal experts will offer an intimate look at the day-to-day care they provide for animals large and small. Visitors will also get to meet the SeaWorld Rescue Team and learn more about their life-saving work.

What? NEW – Elmo’s Birthday Weekend When? 2-3 February

SeaWorld is the place to be for Elmo’s Birthday Celebration, featuring an interactive DJ dance party, fun party games and surprise visitors. Don’t miss this weekend-long party for Elmo as we prepare to welcome the brand-new Sesame Street at SeaWorld in spring 2019!

What? Seven Seas Food Festival When? Weekends, 9 February to 5 May

The popular Seven Seas Food Festival is returning to SeaWorld in the spring with more to love. As guests sip and sample their way through the park, they will discover globally-inspired flavors while enjoying local craft beers and beverages from around the world. The fun goes beyond the food with live performances at Bayside Stadium featuring top artists.

What? Electric Ocean When? Select evenings, 24 May – 1 September

As the sun goes down, the park comes alive with the glow of Electric Ocean at SeaWorld, returning next year for another summer of fun. With exciting nighttime shows and electrifying music, guests are immersed in a sea of wonder that ends in “Ignite”, a spectacular finale with fireworks, lasers and fountains.

What? Craft Beer Festival When? Weekends, 7-29 September

The SeaWorld Craft Beer Festival extends to four weekends in 2019, featuring 100+ brews on draft at locations around the park. Guests will enjoy unique food items designed to perfectly pair with the festival’s brew selection.

What? SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular When? Weekends, 21 September to 27 October

New surprises await at Orlando’s biggest family-friendly Halloween event. Guests of all ages can celebrate with the all-new Sesame Street Halloween Parade, featuring fantastic floats, crowd-pleasing performances and everyone’s favourite furry friends. Families will also enjoy a Halloween Dance Party, trick-or-treating around the park and the opportunity to meet whimsical characters inspired by the sea.

What? Praise Wave When? Weekends, 2-17 November

With the return of Praise Wave, guests can enjoy live concerts from the hottest names in Christian music, lighting up the stage at SeaWorld.

What? SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration When? 23 November to 31 December

The joys of the holiday season come to life at SeaWorld. More than 3 million lights blanket the park in holiday cheer as guests immerse themselves in the sight, sounds and tastes of the season. The event features stunning live shows, scrumptious festive treats and opportunities to visit Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration Returns With More Lights Than Ever Before

I think it’s fair to say that no matter what time of year you’re visiting SeaWorld in 2019, you’ll have a blast!!

Smiles Included,

Abby

 

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Christmas at SeaWorld Orlando

Hey Thrill Seekers,

I think it’s fair to say that we are allowed to start being excited about Christmas now, right?

Well anyway, we are and to add to our excitement, SeaWorld have just released information on their Christmas Celebrations and this year there’s going to be more lights than ever before and by more we mean over 3 million!

Running from the 17th November through to the 31st December make sure you don’t miss out on all of the festivities SeaWorld have to offer. Get ready to enjoy scrumptious food, stunning live shows, and joyful entertainment.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration Event Days: 17-25, 30 November, 1-2, 7-9, 14-31 December

  • New for 2018: Dine with Santa at Shamu Stadium – Enjoy a warm-hearted Christmas experience and meet Santa Claus as family memories are made at this all-new dining experience. The buffet-style dinner features a taste-tempting menu of traditional festive favourites and delicious desserts. Guests will also receive reserved seating to Winter Wonderland on Ice.
  • Winter Wonderland on Ice – Christmas comes to life on a stage of ice, jewels, and lights as skaters dazzle and delight in this show-stopping ice-skating extravaganza. A sea of sparkling trees and towering fountains dancing in the background come together to create a don’t-miss experience the entire family will enjoy.

  • Sesame Street’s Elmo’s Christmas Wish – The festive period arrived and everyone’s Sesame Street friends have come to SeaWorld Orlando for a festive and fun musical celebration. Elmo’s Christmas Wish will soon become every child’s favourite show. Join Cookie Monster, Grover, Zoe and Rosita as they work together to help Elmo find his Christmas wish.
  • Shamu Christmas Miracles – Celebrate yuletide alongside majestic orcas as Shamu Stadium is illuminated with dazzling lights and glowing candles while Christmas carols abound.
  • Meet Santa Claus – Guests of all ages can share Christmas wishes and take pictures with Santa Claus during this special adventure, presented by Coca-Cola.
  • Rudolph’s ChristmasTown – Returning for another year of festive fun, guests can immerse themselves into the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Rudolph’s ChristmasTown. As guests stroll past life-size storybook vignettes featuring the classic tale, they’ll have the opportunity to meet their favourite characters: Rudolph, Clarice, Bumble and Yukon Cornelius.
  • O Wondrous Night – Experience a live nativity only SeaWorld can bring to life, complete with more than 30 carols, life-sized puppets, and animals in a spectacular Christmas favourite based on The Christmas Story. Told through the eyes of the animals that were there, O Wondrous Night is a touching, light-hearted, and glorious musical with a host of angels, animals, and the shine of Christmas.
  • The Christmas Market – Nestled along the park’s Bayside Pathway, The Christmas Market features festive entertainment and delicious culinary delights. Complete with playful elves, a charming model train village, and seasonal entertainment, the market is the centrepiece of SeaWorld’s Christmas event. Guests can also relax near the warm glow of the fire pit with a holiday cocktail while experiencing a wonderful view of the vibrant Sea of Trees.

 

Daily Holiday Favourites: Offered 17 November – 31 December

  • Clyde & Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas – A returning classic, Sea Lion & Otter Stadium celebrates the season with a hilarious Christmas comedy show. Clyde and Seamore, along with a few mischievous otters, a comical elf, and even a jolly walrus, invite guests to their fun-filled celebration.
  • Pets Ahoy Christmas – Enjoy a special Christmas version of this side-splitting show with surprise twists and a cast of unlikely characters that will have the whole family laughing from beginning to end.
  • Rudolph’s Movie Experience – Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer comes to life at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration this season like never before in an immersive movie experience.
  • Sea of Trees – Take a stroll through a wintery, watery wonderland and be immersed in a sea of glistening holiday trees that sparkle to music as they light up the water. Dazzling images come to life on over 100 trees, including a giant glistening centrepiece that towers 70-feet above the water.
  • Snow Flurries at Waterfront – Guests can walk along the water’s edge for some holiday shopping at the Shoppes at Waterfront as a magical flurry of snow falls over SeaWorld Orlando while holiday sounds and smells fill the air.

Just Around the Corner

  • New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld Orlando – Park guests can ring in the New Year at SeaWorld Orlando on 31 December as vibrant fireworks fill the night sky at midnight.
  • Returning in 2019: Three Kings Celebration – After experiencing the wonder of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, guests can keep the spirit of the season burning bright at SeaWorld’s Three Kings Celebration from 1-6 January, 2019. Families are invited to help commemorate the arrival of the Three Wise Men with authentic festive cuisine and celebratory experiences held in honour of the cherished tradition of Latin cultures.

Can’t wait for this! Especially Snow Flurries at Waterfront and to meet Rudolph!

Smiles Included,

Abby

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Aquatica Confirms New KareKare Curl Attraction

Hey Thrill Seekers,

SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment are on a bit of a tear at the moment, not only have the officially launch Infinity Falls today but they’ve also announced a new trill ride is heading to Aquatica in 2019.

KareKare Curl is a 2 person raft ride which will have a weightless feel about it.

Here’s what SeaWorld said;

In 2019, Aquatica will become the most thrilling waterpark in Florida with the opening of new thrill slide: KareKare Curl. Holding two passengers per raft, this new slide delivers a high-adrenaline, weightless adventure. The addition of KareKare Curl will make Aquatica Orlando the thrill leader among Florida waterparks, with more high-thrill rides than any other.

Aquatica was recently voted the top water park in the U.S. via a national poll and with this years introduction of Ray Rush and now the plans for KareKare you can see why!

2019 looks like its going to be a great year to visit Orlando!

Smiles included…

Jamie

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What can we expect from the SeaWorld parks in the next couple of years?

Hey Thrill Seekers,

Lets take a look at all of the confirmed and rumoured attractions coming to the SeaWorld parks (SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens) in the next few years!

What? Infinity Falls Where? SeaWorld When? 2018

This was supposed to open in summer this year however we are still patiently awaiting the chance to be able to ride this awesome raft attraction! It’s going to feature the worlds tallest river rapid drop of 40ft!

What? Tigris Where? Busch Gardens Tampa When? 2019

We cannot wait for this new coaster!  It’s going to be Florida’s tallest launch coaster and will feature a TRIPLE LAUNCH with both forward and backward motions.

What? Sesame Street Land Where? SeaWorld When? 2019

Sesame Street is set to transport  guests into the colourful and creative world of Sesame Street through immersive theming, character interactions and interactive play.

What? new coaster Where? SeaWorld When? 2020 (rumour)

There are lots of rumours flying around that SeaWorld’s next big attraction is going to be a coaster (first once since Mako which opened in 2016) the coaster is rumoured to be similar to Wave Breaker Coaster at San Antonios SeaWorld! If this one is true then i’m all for it!

What? Gwazi revamp Where? Busch Gardens Tampa When? 2020

When Busch Gardens announced Tigris the other day they also let slip a little secret which is that Gwazi is going to be revamped into a ride that will make you want to ‘hold on to your seats’ Yippeeee!

What? water coaster Where? Aquatica When? 2020

Water Country USA Williamsburg is building a brand new water coaster for 2019 called Cutback. Behind The Thrills have said that the slide is said to be making it’s way to Orlando, with a much tighter and quicker footprint. Instead of huge sprawling track, it will double on itself and be located in between the two wave pools. :O

SeaWorld really know how to bounce back don’t they! I hope the rumours are true too!

Smiles Included,

Abby

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Sesame Street Halloween Fun at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens

Hey Thrill Seekers,

Sesame Street is coming to SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa for a Halloween season of not-too-spooky fun for families this autumn.

Guests of all ages can join everyone’s favourite furry friends from Sesame Street as Count von Count, Elmo, Abby Cadabby and others take to the stage in ‘Sesame Street’s Countdown to Halloween’ show, where the Count is feeling lonely and it’s up to the audience and the loveable monsters from Sesame Street to get him into the Halloween spirit. Batty bats and spooky skeletons join the fun in a song-filled stage show that invites families to dance, play and sing along.

Pets Ahoy is getting its own seasonal twist and you will even have the chance to meet a mermaid in the mermaid grotto. It starts on the 22 September and children can dress in Halloween costumes and take part in fun-filled trick-or-treating in the park.

At Busch Gardens, Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends are also returning every weekend in October, including half term. Children are again welcome to dress in Halloween costumes and dance along as Count von Count serves as master of scare-emonies to lead his Sesame Street pals through his favourite tunes in the new stage show.  There will also be autumn-inspired activities at Gwazi Field in Busch Gardens, including a hay maze, pumpkin ring toss and much more.

Dining with Characters 

Families can even opt to dine with Sesame Street characters at both theme parks. At Busch Gardens, the ‘Lunch with Elmo and Friends’ buffet every Saturday and Sunday during the Halloween season will let children enjoy hugs and high fives with sing-a-longs, dance parties, and special photo opportunities.

At SeaWorld, ‘Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast’ features a delicious buffet enjoyed with the furriest characters in town. The breakfast is a fun-filled experience sure to delight kids and parents alike.

Character dining requires an additional reservation.

Smiles Included,

Abby

 

 

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‘Meet your new Neighbours’ more on Sesame Street coming to SeaWorld

Hey Thrill Seekers,

Explore, celebrate and play: SeaWorld Parks & entertainment  have just released some more information on Sesame Street which is coming to SeaWorld in  Spring 2019.

Where is Sesame Street going? I hear you ask.. well it IS ‘replacing’ Shamu’s Happy Harbour which is in the south end of the park – well more like an overhaul than a replacement to be honest. It was back on May 18th 2018 last year was when Sesame Street was announced and was said to open in 2022! In Feb this year we had info that it was going to be opening in 2020 and now we know its going to open next year.. The proof is on their website! Yippee

Jim Dean – President of SeaWorld Orlando said “We are excited to transport our guests into the colorful and creative world of Sesame Street through immersive theming, character interactions and interactive play”

Also, for the first time ever at SeaWorld there will be a daily parade that is set to feature, yep you guessed it.. Elmo and his friends. As well as the daily parade kids and big kids alike will be able to visit re-created sets from Sesame Street such as Big Birds nest, Mr Hoopers Store and 123 Stoop. There will also be rides and play areas too!

EXPLORE

‘Explore the iconic neighbourhood as you walk through Abby Cadabby’s garden, visit Mr. Hooper’s Store, Stop by Big Bird’s nest, sit on the famous 123 Stoop and meet your favourite friends from Sesame Street including Elmo, Cookie Monster and Big Bird.’

CELEBRATE

‘Elmo and his furry friends, along with parade dancers will invite you and your family to join the party on Sesame Street daily during SeaWorld Orlando’s first ever parade.’

PLAY

‘The immersive area will feature exciting rides, wet and dry play areas and interactive experiences designed to entertain your entire family.’

It is expected that the new rides will be announced in the forthcoming months. Taken from our post back in February this year: It has been speculated that there is going to be a dark ride added to this section of the park, as a few large building have been noticed on some building plans. There has been rumours that SeaWorld have been in talks with The Goddard Group who have worked on projects like Spider-Man and T2 so maybe this could be a hint toward a dark, Sesame Street ride which will be unique for SeaWorld Orlando as there is certainly not a lot of indoor ‘show scene’ rides since the animatronics on Journey to Atlantis stopped.

We’ll keep you updated!

Smiles Included,

Abby

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More Information on the Sesame Street land coming to SeaWorld Orlando

Hey Thrill Seekers,

Back in May we found out that in a few years we could be seeing a realistic version of Sesame Street. The new Sesame Street Land is set to replace Shamu’s Happy Harbour at SeaWorld.

In May SeaWorld said that the new land would be open by 2022 but that was about all we got specifics wise and now it seems as though work could start as early as this year. You will find Sesame Street lands at SeaWorld San Diego, San Antonio and at Busch Gardens but these mainly feature just the characters – the areas aren’t generally themed.

The Sesame Street land looks as though it is going to be a mix of new and existing attractions and structures. Most of the attractions along the outside of the area will remain and the interior of Shamu’s Happy Harbor will be almost completely renewed.

When announcing the new project it was stated that:

“We’d like to build the actual Sesame Street that kids can be on and walk down. We will have hopefully a Sesame parade, rides, show where they can see and meet the Sesame characters.”

It is bellieved that the new land will open in late 2020, with the full area opening roughly two years after that (2022). According to the documents uncovered by Touring Central Florida the majority of the current Shamu’s Happy Harbor flat rides will remain such as the Shamu Express, Flying Fiddler, Jazzy Jellies, Ocean Commotion, Sea Carousel, and the Swishie Fishies. It is highly likely that the rides will get  updated to be more Sesame Street themed.

It has been speculated that there is going to be a dark ride added to this section of the park, as a few large building have been noticed on some building plans. There has been rumours that SeaWorld have been in talks with The Goddard Group who have worked on projects like Spider-Man and T2 so maybe this could be a hint toward a dark, Sesame Street ride which will be unique for SeaWorld Orlando as there is certainly not a lot of indoor ‘show scene’ rides since the animatronics on Journey to Atlantis stopped.

The Sesame Street land will be one of the largest investments in the parks history and continues to move away from live animals, infact, from the plans it doesn’t look as though there is going to be any live animal habitats in the land.

Who’s excited for this?

Smiles Included

Abby (not Abby Cadabby 😉 )