At ZIERER, we believe that family rides should do more than entertain – they should connect. As a leading German manufacturer of amusement rides, our mission has always been to create attractions that bring generations together through shared joy, interaction, and memories. The Drifter, our latest ride concept, embodies this philosophy and redefines what a family ride can be.
The Drifter is a groundbreaking attraction that introduces a completely new motion experience: controlled drifting. Designed for riders of all ages, the Drifter combines intuitive interactivity with dynamic movement, offering a ride that is both exciting and inclusive.
The ride features nine individual gondolas, each rotating around a central decorative element. What sets the Drifter apart is its interactive ride experience. Inside each gondola, riders have access to a lever. When the lever remains in its neutral position, the gondola follows a fixed path. But once the rider engages the lever, the wheels are released, allowing the gondola to drift freely across the surface. This creates a unique sensation of gliding and sliding – a motion that feels playful, surprising, and entirely new in the world of family attractions.
This interactive element transforms the ride from a passive experience into an active adventure. Riders are no longer just passengers – they become participants, influencing the dynamics of their own journey. This level of engagement is rare in family rides and adds a layer of excitement that appeals to both children and adults. The Drifter reaches speeds of up to 21.6 km/h (13.4 mph), offering just the right amount of thrill while remaining safe and accessible for a wide age range.
Beyond its innovative mechanics, the Drifter is also a canvas for creativity. The ride offers flexible theming options, allowing customers to customize both the central decoration and the gondolas to match any park’s storytelling or branding. Whether it’s a racing theme, a fantasy world, or a playful cartoon environment, ZIERER’s design team works closely with clients to bring their vision to life.
What makes the Drifter a strong contender in the Family category of the blooloop Innovation Awards is its ability to deliver a shared experience. It’s not just about the ride itself – it’s about the laughter, the interaction, and the moments families create together. The Drifter encourages repeat rides, as each experience can be slightly different depending on how the lever is used. It invites conversation, competition, and cooperation – all key ingredients for meaningful family fun.
In a market where innovation often focuses on extremes, the Drifter stands out by embracing inclusive excitement. It’s a ride that doesn’t exclude based on age or thrill tolerance. Instead, it invites everyone to take part, to play, and to drift together.
With the Drifter, ZIERER continues to lead the way in family ride innovation – combining technical ingenuity with emotional impact. We’re proud to present this attraction as part of the blooloop Innovation Awards and to showcase how the future of family entertainment can be both interactive and unforgettable.
