SeaWorld Boasts One-of-a-Kind Thrill Rides

SeaWorld Orlando is not only home to Kraken – billed as Orlando’s "tallest, fastest, longest and only floorless roller coaster" – but also features Journey to Atlantis, a unique "watercoaster," and Wild Arctic, a simulated jet helicopter ride that takes you on an amazing adventure to a "multilevel ecosystem." Seeking incredible thrill rides, as well as fascinating live shows and interactive animal habits? Look no farther than SeaWorld Orlando.

Named after a mythological sea monster, Kraken opened at SeaWorld Orlando in 2000. The ride takes about 3 1/2 minutes and reaches speeds up to 65 miles per hour and a height of 151 feet as it loops its way high over Serpent’s Lagoon. Kraken, which features two loops, a corkscrew, zero-G roll and three tunnels, was designed by renowned Swiss roller coaster architects Bolliger and Mabillard. Nestled in the Northeast area of SeaWorld Orlando, Kraken is located behind the Pacific Point Preserve. Note: Kraken has a height restriction of 54 inches. In addition, be sure to read all of the health restrictions posted at the entrance to Kraken.

A one-of-a-kind "watercoaster," Journey to Atlantis takes you on a water flume adventure aboard an eight-passenger boat that features a re-creation of the mythical city of Atlantis and a 60-foot-drop into a splash pool (prepare to get soaked!). Journey to Atlantis is a unique variation on other water-based rides such as Splash Mountain at Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Opened at SeaWorld Orlando in 1998, Journey to Atlantis lies adjacent to Pacific Point Preserve. Note: You must be at least 42 inches tall to ride Journey to Atlantis and health restrictions are also posted at the entrance to the ride.

Wild Arctic features a simulated jet helicopter ride to "Base Station Wild Arctic," a walk-through animal habitat that features polar bears, walruses, beluga whales and harbor seals. Note: Wild Arctic has a height restriction of 42 inches. However, you have the option of bypassing the simulated ride and walking straight to the animal habitat.

Other attractions at SeaWorld Orlando include Shark Encounter, Dolphin Cove, Stingray Lagoon, Pacific Point Preserve, Clyde & Seamore Take Pirate Island, Shamu’s Happy Harbor, Odyssea, Penguin Encounter, Pets Ahoy!, Manatees: The Last Generation?, Sky Tower Ride, Tropical Reef, Key West Dolphin Fest, Clydesdale Hamlet and Turtle Point, among others.

"With world-class thrill rides, live shows, animal habitats and much more, SeaWorld Orlando definitely has something for everyone in the whole family to enjoy," said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing for HotelsCorp.com. "And by planning ahead and purchasing your SeaWorld Orlando tickets before you arrive in Orlando, you and your family will enjoy significant savings on your vacation getaway."