Katapult, the international guest experience design agency, has collaborated with Wright Tech Media, an experience operator, to reimagine The Tunnels, a World War II experience in Gibraltar.
The Tunnels is a popular attraction that tells stories of the island of Gibraltar’s strategic importance to the British resistance.
Crafting the narrative thread
Katapult launched the project by producing a Market Insights Report, which brings together research and client data to inform the design of the new experience. This identified market and audience opportunities, and operational recommendations to enhance the visitor experience.
In addition, the company hosted a discovery session with the client. A clear strategy for the visitor attraction was produced that emphasised the need for an active experience that captivates audiences using activities and interactivity.
This initial stage informed the concept development. Katapult created a master plan, visitor flow layout, and narrative framework which aligned the story to the project’s strategic aims and brought the iconic history of the tunnels to life for the contemporary visitor. A cohesive thread guides visitors through a series of narratives and exhibits to tell the unique story of the tunnels.
Design packs and schematic packs were developed to define the creative vision and design language to maintain this thread throughout the experience.
Together with the client, Katapult managed the selection process to appoint a range of technical and fabrication vendors, worked with them to estimate ROM costs, and managed vendor relationships during the design phase.
The company also provided creative oversight during the fabrication and installation phase, with on-site art direction and quality control to ensure project delivery met the conceptual vision.
The Tunnels experience re-opened to visitors in 2025, and welcomes local residents, groups of tourists, and corporate bookings. It has become a key feature in Visit Gibraltar’s marketing campaign.
Earlier this year, Katapult revealed research findings that a quarter of theme park guests would consider living permanently in a theme park or resort. The study was carried out as part of the Katapult Leisure and Attractions Trends Report 2030, which examined the impact of visitor behaviour on the industry over the next five years.
