Busch Gardens Williamsburg has announced the world’s first all-indoor straddle coaster, called DarKoaster, opening in 2023.
The new roller coaster will be located in the building that housed the theme park’s former Curse of DarKastle dark ride, which closed after the 2017 season.
“King Ludwig’s abandoned fortress resurfaces as strange weather patterns have been recorded near the cursed castle grounds,” said Busch Gardens.
“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.”
Riders will travel on snowmobiles across 2,454 feet of track, experiencing speeds of up to 36 mph and “total darkness while changing course to avoid the elements”.
“As the weather strikes, riders encounter four accelerating launches on this family-friendly dark ride experience,” added Busch Gardens.
“DarKoaster will be an exciting and unique addition to our world-class lineup of coasters,” said Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s park president Kevin Lembke.
World’s first all-indoor straddle coaster
“As an indoor attraction, DarKoaster complements our collection of thrill rides and offers a new experience to enjoy throughout the year.”
Pantheon, the fastest multi-launch coaster in North America, recently opened at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also opened the world’s fastest and steepest hybrid coaster, Iron Gwazi, in March.
Busch Gardens is owned and operated by SeaWorld. Earlier this year, SeaWorld Orlando confirmed that it had started work on its seventh roller coaster, opening in 2023.
The park’s most recent addition, Ice Breaker, is a multi-launch coaster featuring Florida’s steepest beyond-vertical drop.
Images: SeaWorld
