SeaWorld’s new triple launch coaster, Electric Eel, has slithered into the park and it packs a sharp bite. The ride is the tallest and fastest roller coaster in San Diego and for its small footprint, is a remarkably fun and thrilling experience. The train travels at up to 60 miles per hour and rockets you nearly 150 feet above San Diego’s Mission Bay. Coaster nerds, you know who you are, will be thrilled with the mix of a seesaw launch, heartline roll, and a twisting loop. But it’s the unexpected stalls during the first launch, roll, and first big drop that will send your heart directly to your stomach.
I gave up looping coasters years ago, I was just going to take some opening day (May 10th) photos and video and write up a little article. But somehow I found myself with microphones and cameras strapped to me and I was standing on the platform of SeaWorld’s newest attraction with a production crew ready to record me falling apart. I had read nothing about the coaster and I was the first ride in the time slot in which I arrived. The coaster looked like a big twisty loop to me. To say I was shocked . . . well . . . I’ll let you watch the video below.
Following the big ride, I spoke to a couple of folks about the new attraction. There’s also footage of the coaster from the ground. It looks massive from below . . . all I could think about while on it was survival. But I imagine that the views were really nice as well . . . if I’d been able to pay attention.
And it was wonderful to chat with Tim Roberts, SeaWorld Production Supervisor, about Electric Eel.
Speaking of safety – NO BREAKDANCING!
If you haven’t visited SeaWorld in a while, the park now has quite a few major attractions. a raft ride, a terrain-hugging family coaster, a sky tower, a water-coaster, sky ride, simulators, plus all the aquariums and exhibits they were previously known for.
Electric Eel is located near the Ocean Explorer area of the park.
A kiddie submarine ride (which doesn’t go anywhere near the water and is much more like a peoplemover) was closed for maintenance.
I never miss a ride on the Sky Tower. It relaxing experience with a remarkable view.
Want to get wet?
Shipwreck Rapids will make sure of it!
A surprisingly fun attraction is Manta. The tracks are very low to the ground for a coaster, but it swoops around with elegantly smooth dips and turns. It’s a treat to ride and not at all scary (except for perhaps the launch). Great option for families with younger daredevils.
Well folks, are you brave or fool enough to tempt the Electric Eel?! I certainly didn’t think I could do it . . . but I did . . . and I ended up loving the experience.
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