The queue area is air-conditioned and covered, and features walk-past tanks containing dozens of species of fish and, of course, rays. Once inside, they are kept both cool and entertained.

Guests enter the queue through a hole in the rockwork that makes up part of Manta’s theming. It’s fortunate, then, that SeaWorld has created one of the best ride queues anywhere in the world for its new headliner. But is the ride itself any good? Queuing areaĪs a major rollercoaster located close to the entrance of SeaWorld, it’s inevitable that Manta will have to deal with hefty lines during peak seasons. Add to this a brand new aquarium featuring rays and hundreds of other sea-dwellers, and Manta represents a major new area that has the potential to soak up a large portion of any guest’s day at SeaWorld. Manta swoops and glides through a stunning artificial oasis, in a mysterious dance that will captivate guests. However, SeaWorld’s ambitions with Manta go beyond simply adding a new thrill ride – the park has created a lavish new centrepiece that draws in visitors as soon as they enter the park. The new rollercoaster is a beast – stretching some 3,359 feet, reaching a top speed of 56mph and featuring a 98-feet-tall first “pretzel” loop. Riders lie on their stomachs (or on their back through the coaster’s many inversions), simulating the feeling of flying, or in this case gliding. To do this, SeaWorld has selected Bolliger & Mabillard’s flying coaster system, which was first used for Air at Alton Towers and has since been replicated around the world. Following our review of the Rockit, we thought it only fair to share our impressions of Orlando’s other major new addition for 2009.Īs with all of SeaWorld's attractions, Manta has an aquatic theme – in this case, the coaster aims to simulate the gentle gliding of Manta rays through sea water. TPT finally got to experience the ride in August, shortly after catching rival Universal’s Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit on its opening day. SeaWorld Orlando opened its latest addition, flying rollercoaster Manta, to huge crowds back in May.

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