Do you love the idea of surfing but refuse to enter the ocean because Jaws permanently ruined water for you? (Thanks, Spielberg.) Well, you can always try a wave pool—unless you also have a thing against water in general. In that case, take your surfing to the skies with Pipeline: The Surf Coaster at SeaWorld Orlando.
Opened on June 9, 2023, Pipeline isn’t just another coaster; it’s the world’s first and only “surf coaster”, courtesy of Bolliger & Mabillard. What makes it special? Well, unlike a traditional stand-up coaster that locks you in place like a statue, this one lets you “ride the wave” with seats that bounce up and down as you go. That’s right—your seat moves, adding an extra layer of chaos excitement.
The ride launches you at 60 mph (7 km/h), sending you soaring 110 feet into the air before throwing in a gnarly inversion called “the wave curl” (which sounds way cooler than “upside-down panic attack”). And with a track stretching 2,950 feet, it’s basically the most thrilling surfing session you’ll ever have without getting wet.
SeaWorld Orlando may not be known for its beaches, but with Pipeline, it’s proving you don’t need an ocean to wipe out. So slap on some imaginary sunscreen, channel your inner surfer, and get ready to hang ten… or at least, hang on.
Images: SeaWorld Orlando.
