SeaWorld Orlando has released a teaser video for a new roller coaster for 2020 with the hashtag #BreakTheIce.
No further details are available but it seems that the new coaster will have an icy theme and offer riders “plunging thrills” and “predatory heights”.
SeaWorld recovery and investment
After a difficult period following BlackFish, SeaWorld have gone through a period of restructuring and investment in image modifying advertising and marketing, pricing, new rides and attractions and even free beer.
2018 results saw a turnaround from loss to profit with growth in attendance and revenue.
Among new attractions for 2019 is Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando which opened in March – a highly immersive and interactive walk-through world.
Gus Antorcha, Chief Executive Officer of SeaWorld, who joined the company in February from Carnival Cruise Lines, said that a rolling programme of investment is key to maintaining performance gains: “While we delivered stronger financial results in 2018, we continue to believe there remains significant additional opportunity for improvement. We will continue to focus on improving our pricing strategies and our marketing and communication initiatives, introducing more compelling new rides, attractions and events across our park portfolio each year and reducing unnecessary costs and improving efficiencies across our park portfolio and in the park support center.”
SeaWorld growth overseas
In April, SeaWorld has terminated agreements with property developer and majority shareholder Zhonghong Holdings Group for China-based theme parks and attractions, due to Zhonghing’s debt problems.
However, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, being developed in partnership with Miral is on track to open in 2022.
