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| © Universal Orlando |
Over the past two days visitors to the
Universal Orlando Resort had their first chance to experience the rides, slides and relaxation of the all-new Volcano Bay water park. The grand opening festivities included an "authentic, South Pacific dedication ceremony
commemorating the opening of Volcano Bay featuring special
performances by an array of authentic Maori entertainment, ranging from
water dancers to "Haka" war dancers." Before the ceremony ended the mighty Krakatau volcano at the center of the park, standing 200 feet tall, erupted for all to see.
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| © Universal Orlando |
Described as a "next-level water theme park," Volcano Bay combines "spectacular storytelling
and incredibly immersive guest experiences with innovative technology
exclusively designed for Universal to give visitors a fun-filled,
hassle-free experience with their friends and family." A top-notch collection of slides and attractions await visitors, along with a plethora of amenities that are offered to make a day at the water theme park the as relaxing as possible.
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| © Universal Orlando |
"Universal's Volcano Bay sets a new standard on every level – from the attractions to how our guests experience them," said
Tom Williams,
Chairman & CEO – Universal Parks & Resorts. "Our new water
theme park is the perfect complement to the rest of our incredible
destination. It provides our guests with spectacular entertainment
experiences and innovative technology that helps them enjoy more of what
matters most – connecting with each other and having an amazing time
together."
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| © Universal Orlando |
Volcano Bay is spread out over 25 acres - with several reserved already for future expansion - offering attractions that range from mild to wild. The focal point of the park is Krakatau, the center volcano on property, which spews both water and fire throughout the day. When darkness falls the volcano's massive waterfalls transform into lava flows through some of Universal's creative magic. The volcano not only towers over the park, but the entire Universal Orlando resort.
One of the park's biggest attractions is the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, featuring four-person canoes that slide upward and downward in and through the volcano, ending with a plunge through a waterfall.
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| © Universal Orlando |
Thrill seekers will surely line up to take on the Ko'okiri Body Plunge slide, which takes place from a platform way up near the top of the Volcano. A trap door start plunges sliders down at 70 degrees over 125 feet onto a long run-out area adjacent to the wave pool. Also starting from the same tower are the Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides, which also start with a trap door fall and then twist through the center of Krakatau to the splash pool below.
Several other water slides, ranging from body slides to multi-person raft experiences, also await visitors.
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| © Universal Orlando |
Those looking for a break from the thrills will want to head over to the Waturi Beach area, a giant sandy beach that sits at the front of the wave lagoon in front of the volcano. The lagoon is capable of creating waves in multiple directions and strengths.
Two river attractions can also be found in Volcano Bay - the Kopiko Wai Winding River is slow moving and features a trip into the Stargazer's Cavern under the volcano, and the TeAwa Fearless River has a much faster pace, featuring churning rapids and choppy waves that mix relaxation with thrills.
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| © Universal Orlando |
Volcano Bay's designers did not forget attractions for kids who visit the park, offering more than two areas just for them. The two largest are Tot Tiki Reef, meant for smaller guests with spraying fountains and tikis. Runamukka Reef was once a coral reef below the ocean, but is now an expansive interactive play area that is sure to keeps kids busy for hours.
All visitors to the park will use TapuTapu, a wrist band smart device, to make ride reservations, activate secret fun inside the park, open lockers, make cash payment and more - the park has fully embraced new technology on this point. Guests can also rent very beautiful cabanas or private lounge areas complete with a lock box, or upgrade to Universal Express to skip the waiting period on several popular attractions.
Congratulations to the resort on the new park, I can't wait to experience it - hopefully sooner than later!
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