Busch Gardens Williamsburg has launched its new DarKoaster, billed as North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster.
The family-friendly attraction is located in the building the housed the theme park’s former Curse of DarKastle dark ride, which shut after the 2017 season.
The storyline is as follows:
“King Ludwig’s abandoned fortress resurfaces as strange weather patterns have been recorded near the cursed castle grounds.
“Only the bravest souls will embark on snowmobiles in this dark expedition to discover the mysterious phenomenon.
“A supernatural force is imminent as explorers discover that they are evading more than just a raging storm.”
Snowmobile-style ride vehicles
As above, riders travel on snowmobile-style ride vehicles across 2,454 feet of track, including areas of total darkness. As the weather strikes, guests enjoy four accelerating launches.
“As an indoor attraction, DarKoaster complements our collection of thrill rides and offers a new experience to enjoy throughout the year,” said park president Kevin Lembke.
Meanwhile, SeaWorld Orlando’s new surfboard-style coaster opens on 27 May. The theme park’s seventh coaster puts riders in a standing position and offers the sensation of riding on a wave.
“This is the only ride in the world where you can mimic the movement of surfing,” said SeaWorld Orlando’s vice president of park operations Rob McNicholas.
Elsewhere, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi on Yas Island is opening to the public tomorrow (23 May). The company’s first theme park outside of the US is home to eight immersive realms with animal encounters, rides and entertainment.
Images: SeaWorld
