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Journey to Atlantis at SeaWorld Orlando

Skip to: Overview | Location | Restrictions | Fear factor | Fun fact | Guest reviews

What is Journey to Atlantis?

Journey to Atlantis is a family-friendly water coaster (though some might call it a high-grade flume ride). This ride will take you through the lost city of Atlantis, exploring watery passageways and secret tunnels. Out of all the attractions at SeaWorld Orlando, Journey to Atlantis boasts some of the most beautiful and varied intricate theming, from dark tunnels with sparkling lights to bright and playful underwater reefs.

Where is Journey to Atlantis located?

In the Sea of Legends at SeaWorld Orlando

Journey to Atlantis – height restrictions and other factors

Height requirement is 42 inches; included in Quick Queue.

Journey to Atlantis – what you wish you knew before you experienced it

Journey to Atlantis is a water-coaster, so prepare to get wet. The main drop is featured prominently to guests even casually walking by, so that shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. What may surprise folks is the second – albeit much smaller – drop, where some even claim to get more wet than on the first.

While we’re all at least vaguely familiar with the concept of the Lost City of Atlantis, it doesn’t hurt to reinforce that idea here. What scholars and historians disagree on is why the city is indeed lost, and this attraction offers its own answer to that age-old question: because it doesn’t want to be found! The main drop in the ride is the city expelling unwanted guests (i.e, you) from its waters.

How scary is Journey to Atlantis?

We rate Journey to Atlantis three out of five water-falls. The ride itself isn’t scary in the least. In fact, most of the attraction hosts some of the most peaceful and tranquil moments you might find at SeaWorld Orlando, but the darker tunnels and two drops are enough to get your heart rate up!

What was Journey to Atlantis’ opening date?

April 17, 1998

Journey to Atlantis – OI fun fact

Journey to Atlantis underwent refurbishment in 2017 to be more family-friendly.

Journey to Atlantis – real guest reviews

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Journey to Atlantis (SeaWorld Orlando)

Journey to Atlantis is a water roller coaster located at SeaWorld Orlando in Orlando, Florida, USA. Opened on April 17, 1998, the ride combines roller coaster elements , such as chain lifts and steep drops, with boat-based attraction elements, such as splashdown landings. [1] The attraction contains elements of a dark ride, such as slow-moving sections and lots of animatronics and theming. It is also notable for being the first Mack Rides Water Coaster . [2]

Journey to Atlantis was announced on March 20, 1997. [3] The ride debuted on April 17, 1998. [4]

In January 2017, the ride closed for a refurbishment that saw elements of the ride changed to be more family-friendly. It reopened in March 2017. [5]

Ride experience

As the boat departs the station , passengers travel through a dark ride portion. A male holding a seahorse will then say "Go, Hermes. Show them the way. Wait. Hermes must guide you." The seahorse turns into a Greek god named Hermes. Magic sparkles around the walls as the boat continues through a coral reef. A mermaid named Allura says "Welcome friends. Do not be afraid. Come closer. All I give you the magic." The boat then enters a scenery that resembles a city. A statue of a female and fountains can be seen in the area. As the boat keeps going, a projector shows Allura turning into Medusa. After navigating the dark ride portion, passengers will hear thunder as strobing lights are seen on a statue. This statue is above the first chain lift hill. During the first chain lift hill, a green light will flash. At the top, the door opens and the boat heads outside. Passengers travel through the exterior of the temple and make a left turn as Beetlejuice music is heard on the speakers. The boat then passes through an archway and climbs the second chain lift hill. As the boat reaches the top, water geysers will be activated and passengers will then hear the announcer on the speaker saying "Please sit upright and hold on tight, then brace yourself for a sudden slope at the bottom of the hill." Passengers make a left turn and go straight into a chamber. After that, passengers drop into the water. The boat makes a right turn passing the scenery. Passengers encounter a conveyor belt lift, which leads into a small drop. Then Allura on speaker says, "I left so soon. I think not." Soon afterwards, the boat climbs the third chain lift hill as the speakers play the same music, along with the announcer. Then, the boat heads back into the building. Once inside, the boat makes a right turn and Allura will say "Now you will escape my sirens! You'll be mine forever!" As a vanishing sound effect is heard, passengers approach an S-curve drop into the water. The boat passes through more scenery until passengers make a right turn. After a conveyor belt lift, the boat returns to the station.

Single car trains. Riders are arranged 2 across in 4 rows for a total of 8 riders per car.

The first switchback section

The Three Sisters mural

The loading area

The entrance sign

The final splashdown

• ↑ "The Theme Park History of Journey To Atlantis (SeaWorld Orlando)" . YouTube . Theme Park History . Retrieved April 19, 2020 .
• ↑ "JOURNEY TO ATLANTIS WILL BE A WILD RIDE FOR SEA WORLD VISITORS" .
• ↑ "VISITORS CAN RETURN TO ATLANTIS AT SEAWORLD ORLANDO" .
• ↑ "Evil mermaids removed from Journey to Atlantis ride at SeaWorld Orlando" .

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Journey to Atlantis - Sea World

500 Sea World Dr, San Diego , California 92109 USA

• Independent
• Credit Cards Accepted
• Not Wheelchair Accessible
• No Public Restrooms
• More in San Diego

Learn more about this business on Yelp .

“A thrilling water ride”

Climb aboard Journey to Atlantis®, a water ride that combines soaking flume fun, thrilling coaster action and amazing special effects as you journey to a lost civilization—a journey that begins with a splashy 60-foot plunge and ends face-to-face with fascinating sea animals.

Reviewed by Britney M.

Bummed that during my recent visit, this ride was closed down. They were doing some construction to upgrade the ride. I was able to go on the Journey to Atlantis last summer at SeaWorld. It's a... Read more

Reviewed by Taura G.

Great ride in the hot Southern California weather. The gift shop next to the ride entrance sell rain panchos for anyone who does not want to get their clothes wet. On the hot day that we went, not... Read more

Reviewed by Mike K.

It's very fun and is great if you are hot. The wait time could be long but it's just because it's such a great ride. Make sure to be in the front or you will only get misted by the ride. Read more

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Journey to Atlantis

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Journey to Atlantis is a ride attraction at SeaWorld Adventure Parks. This water ride enthusiasts are in for a thrill as this mythical paradise reveals its darker side. This exciting flume ride/roller coaster hybrid treats you to more than its share of surprises as you explore dark, watery passageways through the sunken city before being flung from its gates down a thrilling plunge into the waters below.

• 1.1 Vehicle design
• 1.2 Track layout
• 2.1 Track layout
• 3.1 Track layout

SeaWorld Orlando [ ]

The original Journey to Atlantis made its debut on April 17, 1998 at SeaWorld Orlando. It is one of the five roller coasters at the park. Along with Wild Arctic, it was one of the park's only thrill rides until the arrival of Kraken in 2000. The three other roller coasters came after, Super Grover's Box Car Derby in 2006, Manta in 2009, and Mako in 2016.

Journey to Atlantis features a small aquarium exhibit, "Jewels of the Sea", in its gift shop exit area. Inside, guests will find aquaria built into the floor and the ceiling of the exhibit, along with more traditional aquaria.

In March 2017, the ride finished its usual seasonal maintenance but Sea World changed the ride's whole theming, taking out all effects of Allura the evil mermaid and Hermes the fiber-optic seahorse (audio and lighting). The musical score and sound effects that once narrated the emotional arc of the ride disappeared too, and The ride's score was replaced with a continuous loop of soothing, ambient, relaxing music (borrowed from the park's former cirque-style show, A'lure – Call of the Ocean ) with generic celebratory Greek music on any exterior parts.

The original version of the ride received mixed reviews, including with complaints from parents that some of scenes frightened small children and may have been too scary for a family-friendly attraction. The ride was sometimes criticized for its intensity — much like the Magic Kingdom's "Snow White's Adventures," at Walt Disney World.

Vehicle design [ ]

The ride vehicles on Journey to Atlantis are boats with wheels on the bottom and on the sides. Each boat carries eight passengers, arranged into four rows with two passengers each. Two lap bars secure both passengers in the row.

Track layout [ ]

Journey to Atlantis begins as the boat is propelled via friction drives into a water flume meant to resemble an underwater canal. A siren beckons the boat closer until the mythical realm of Atlantis comes into view. The boat enters the city and all appears well, but soon the siren's true form is revealed, and the boat is carried up and out of the temple on a roller coaster chain lift hill. After a left-hand U-turn the boat starts up a second lift hill, entering a dry flume at the top of the hill that carries the boat to the large splash-down drop. The attraction's on-ride camera captures the boat's photograph as it slides down to the water below.

The boat makes a right-hand U-turn leading to a short drop with a large splash and a final lift hill that leads back into the temple for one final encounter with the siren. At the top of this lift hill, the boat is now on a roller-coaster-type track. The boat escapes from the siren into the darkness, down a spiraling drop to the left before swooping up and landing in a final splash-down pool. The boat makes one final U-turn to the right before returning to the station.

SeaWorld San Diego [ ]

The second Atlantis opened in 2004 at SeaWorld San Diego. This version lacks the large interior scenes that the Orlando version includes; but makes up for it with the addition of a much larger roller coaster ride. Also, the boats on this version have individual lap-bars.

Riders advance out of the station slowly onto the chain lift hill that is covered in fog machines, which give the illusion of climbing up water. At the top of the lift hill, riders make a full U-turn on a roller coaster track, which wraps around the elevator tower which stands at a height of 95 feet, while traversing a small hump. This turn offers the riders a view of the main roller coaster portion and parts of the park, in which boats emerge above the U-turn. The boat heads toward the 83 foot tall plunge tower, which bares an arched portico with fountain pouring down directly onto the tracks. The boats slip under, plunging down a 60-foot (18 m) flume channel into a pool of water. During the plunge, photos are taken of riders. The boat then makes a left-handed U-turn in the water pool and meanders through the pond gently. The boat then enters the plunge tower building at the base. The building is dark inside. The boats enter a room which lights up dimly and begins to flood. (Water comes through crevices in the wall to achieve the effect). The boats roll out of the room into the darkness and onto a special track that works like an elevator, carrying two boats simultaneously. The elevator rocks from side to side while traveling up, as though being pushed by an ocean current. The elevator stops to reach the maximum height position on the ride's course. The boats drop down a 70-foot, 270° curved drop and rise element, followed by a small block brake section. The boat then drops again into another banked hill, followed by a banked bunny hop which lands into another pool of water. The boats then meander through the pool and up a small lift hill to the loading area. A sliding switch track enables high-capacity, faster loading and unloading process.

SeaWorld San Antonio [ ]

The newest version of Atlantis opened on May 11, 2007 at SeaWorld San Antonio. First announced in August 2006, this version is based on a different model than its cousins. Although initial plans had called for a more elaborate indoor station and "towers" to enclose the ride's two turntables, SeaWorld opted to reduce the number of drops and turns. Thus, this version more closely resembles a traditional Shoot-the-Chutes boat ride. It is based on the "SuperSplash" devised by Mack Rides.

Upon leaving the station, riders ascend a 100-foot-tall (30 m) lift hill. Once at the top, the boat enters one of two turntables that allows riders a 360° view of the park. After one full rotation, the boat is positioned to pass through its reverse camel back backwards. The second turntable provides riders with an additional 360° view of the park before the boat finally dives through a building and into the water. Additionally, SeaWorld added walkways and a "viewing area" next to the ride's splash zone and queue, enabling guests the option to get soaked. The boat makes a U-turn before climbing back into the station.

Gallery [ ]

• 2 SeaWorld Adventure Parks Tycoon
• 3 Beluga whales

Guide to the Best Rides at SeaWorld Orlando Florida

W elcome to SeaWorld Orlando, where thrills meet marine wonders! Nestled in the heart of Florida, SeaWorld Orlando is not just a theme park but an aquatic adventure waiting to be explored. With a plethora of rides catering to all ages and tastes, it's a haven for adrenaline junkies and the entire family alike. Join us as we embark on a journey through some of the best rides this aquatic paradise has to offer.

As you step through the gates of SeaWorld Orlando, you are greeted by the sights and sounds of the ocean. The park's vibrant atmosphere is filled with the laughter of families, the splash of water rides, and the calls of marine animals.

  Dive into Adventure: The Best Rides at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is renowned for its spectacular shows featuring majestic marine mammals, such as killer whales, dolphins, and sea lions. These awe-inspiring performances showcase the beauty and intelligence of these magnificent creatures while also educating guests about marine conservation efforts.

In addition to its world-class shows, SeaWorld Orlando boasts an impressive array of rides and attractions that cater to thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts. From pulse-pounding roller coasters to immersive SeaWorld Orlando rides, there's no shortage of excitement to be found at this marine-themed paradise.

But SeaWorld Orlando is more than just a theme park – it's a place of discovery and education. Guests can explore interactive exhibits, learn about marine conservation efforts, and even participate in hands-on animal encounters that create lasting memories.

Whether you're embarking on a wild ride, marveling at the beauty of marine life, or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of the ocean, SeaWorld Orlando offers an unforgettable experience that captures the magic of the sea. So come dive in and discover the wonders that await at SeaWorld Orlando!

Roller coaster lovers flock to the theme park capital of the world Orlando, Florida.   SeaWorld Orlando for several compelling reasons:

Unique Coaster Experiences : SeaWorld Orlando offers a variety of roller coasters with unique experience that can't be found elsewhere. From Mako, one of the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coasters in Orlando, to Kraken Unleashed, a floorless coaster with virtual reality technology, there's something to satisfy every coaster enthusiast's craving for excitement.

Thrilling Coaster Designs : SeaWorld Orlando's roller coasters are known for their innovative designs and thrilling elements. Whether it's the inversions on Kraken Unleashed or the breathtaking drops on Mako, these coasters push the boundaries of what's possible, providing adrenaline-pumping experiences that keep coaster lovers coming back for more.

Immersive Theming : SeaWorld Orlando takes pride in creating immersive themed environments for its attractions, including roller coasters. From the underwater world of Kraken Unleashed to the mythical realm of Journey to Atlantis, every coaster at SeaWorld Orlando offers a fully immersive experience that transports riders to another world.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere : While SeaWorld Orlando caters to coaster enthusiasts, it also offers a family-friendly atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages. With a wide range of attractions, shows, and animal exhibits, SeaWorld Orlando offers something for everyone, making it the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a day of fun and excitement together.

Marine Conservation : SeaWorld Orlando's commitment to marine conservation adds an extra layer of appeal for coaster lovers who are passionate about protecting the environment. By visiting SeaWorld Orlando, coaster enthusiasts can support the park's efforts to rescue and rehabilitate marine animals, as well as contribute to conservation initiatives around the world.

Overall, roller coaster lovers flock to SeaWorld Orlando for its unique coaster experiences, thrilling designs, immersive theming, family-friendly atmosphere, and commitment to marine conservation. With a wide range of coasters to choose from, there's always something new and exciting to discover at SeaWorld Orlando.  The great roller coasters at Sea World Orlando make this a great ride roller coasters for adults only trips too!  Faint of heart beware, these high speeds are no joke! Find information about these roller coasters as well as height restrictions below.

Mako: Prepare to be launched into the world of the apex predator of the ocean with Mako, Orlando's tallest, longest, and fastest roller coaster. Named after one of the ocean's fastest sharks, this Mako shark coaster reaches speeds of up to 73 mph, offering breathtaking drops and twists. Experience weightlessness as you soar over 4,760 feet of track, feeling the rush of the sea breeze against your face. Mako is a must-ride for any thrill-seeker visiting SeaWorld Orlando. Mako: Riders must be at least 54 inches (137 cm) tall.

Kraken Unleashed: Unleash your inner sea monster on Kraken Unleashed, a floorless roller coaster that takes you on a journey through the depths of the ocean. Feel the power of the mythical Kraken as you plunge into seven inversions and reach speeds of 65 mph. With virtual reality technology, riders can now experience an immersive underwater adventure like never before. Brace yourself for a wild ride filled with twists, turns, and encounters with legendary mythical creature of the deep. Kraken Unleashed: Riders must be at least 54 inches (137 cm) tall.

Journey to Atlantis: Embark on a mythical quest with Journey to Atlantis, a unique water coaster that combines elements of a traditional roller coaster with a splashy water ride. Set sail on a mysterious voyage through ancient ruins, encountering watery passageways along the way. Brace yourself for a thrilling plunge into the depths of the sea as you escape the clutches of the legendary sea monster. With stunning special effects and immersive storytelling, Journey to Atlantis offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Journey to Atlantis: Riders must be at least 42 inches (107 cm) tall. Children between 42 and 48 inches (107-122 cm) tall must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Infinity Falls: Get ready to get wet on Infinity Falls, SeaWorld Orlando's newest river rapids ride. Embark on a whitewater adventure through lush rainforests, winding rivers, and swirling rapids. Hold on tight as you navigate through dynamic drops and churning waters, feeling the rush of adrenaline with every twist and turn. The highlight of the ride is the breathtaking 40-foot drop, guaranteed to leave you soaked and smiling from ear to ear. Riders must be at least 42 inches (107 cm) tall. Children between 42 and 48 inches (107-122 cm) tall must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Ice Breaker - Ice Breaker features four airtime filled launches, both backwards and forwards, culminating in a reverse launch into the steepest beyond vertical drop in Florida - a 93 feet tall spike with 100-degree angle.  48" min. height.

Manta - Find out what it's like to spin, glide, skim and fly like a giant manta ray. When you experience the only flying manta roller coaster of its kind in Florida at top speed.  54" min. height.

​New Thrill Rides in 2024:

Penguin Trek - Coming in 2024 Cross the vastness of Antarctica. Escape icy cavern hazards. Discover a real penguin habitat. Prepare for the coolest family coaster mission you'll ever join: Penguin Trek!  42" min. height.

For younger children, there are plenty of smooth ride options that await.  Young kids will love good times while spinning and cruising around Sesame Street Land.  You can read all about Sesame Street Land's and the list of the best rides there in this blog post.

If your family is looking for water rides specifically, be sure to check out Sea World Aquatica Orlando as well.  SeaWorld Aquatica Orlando provides guests with a wide range of water rides and attractions, from thrilling slides and wave pools to relaxing lazy rivers and interactive play areas. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping excitement or laid-back relaxation, Aquatica has something for everyone to enjoy.

Saving Time at Sea World Orlando Rides:

There are several strategies you can employ to minimize your wait times for rides at SeaWorld Orlando:

Arrive Early or Stay Late : Consider arriving at the park before it opens or staying until closing time. Lines tend to be shorter during these times, especially in the early morning or late evening.

Use Single Rider Lines : Some rides offer single rider lines, which are often shorter than the regular queue. While you may not be able to ride with your group, this can significantly reduce your wait time.

Utilize FastPass or Quick Queue : SeaWorld Orlando offers FastPass or Quick Queue options, which allow you to reserve a specific time to ride certain attractions without waiting in the regular line. This can be a convenient way to minimize wait times, especially for popular rides.

Check Ride Wait Times : Use the SeaWorld Orlando app or the wait time boards located throughout the park to monitor wait times for different attractions. Plan your day accordingly to ride attractions with shorter wait times.

Strategically Plan Your Route : Create a plan of which rides you want to prioritize and visit them in a strategic order to minimize walking and wait times. Consider starting with the most popular rides early in the day before lines become longer.

Visit During Off-Peak Times : Try to visit SeaWorld Orlando during off-peak times, such as weekdays outside of holidays and school breaks. Lines are typically shorter during these times compared to weekends and peak vacation seasons.

Take Advantage of Single Rider or Child Swap : If you're visiting with a group and some members don't mind riding alone, consider using the single rider line or child swap option. This allows one adult to wait with the child while the other rides, then swap roles without waiting in line again.

Roller Coaster Enthusiasts - Quick Queue Options

Quick Queue - The cost of skipping the lines to the best roller coaster options for thrill seekers varies from 44.99 to 129.99.

Enjoy reserved seats at live shows and presentations as well as front of the line access to the most popular rides. Prices vary from 49.99 to 129.99

All of the fun and walking around Sea World Orlando will work up an appetite. Check out these best restaurants and dining guide.  Spoiler alert: Sharks Underwater Grill is a great spot.  There are so many great adventures that await: from dolphin adventures, Sesame Street land, and other animal encounters.  Plan your trip to Sea World Orlando with these best tips and tricks! Our family with younger kids enjoyed visiting during the week in December to maximize rides and animal experiences without the wait in long lines.  

SeaWorld Orlando offers an unparalleled blend of aquatic wonders and adrenaline-pumping rides, making it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families with younger riders alike. From the towering heights of Mako to the immersive experience of Journey to Atlantis, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So come dive into adventure at SeaWorld Orlando and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Journey to Atlantis - Sea World

Review Highlights

“ I get scared of the first drop every time I go on it, it's a rush for sure. ” in 4 reviews

“ Ya you will, but not at all soaked like you might worry about. ” in 2 reviews

“ your boat/pod/whatever-the-hell-you-call-it end up in an elevator where you twist and turn around much like a regular coaster.. ” in 5 reviews

Location & Hours

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500 Sea World Dr

San Diego, CA 92109

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Bummed that during my recent visit, this ride was closed down. They were doing some construction to upgrade the ride. I was able to go on the Journey to Atlantis last summer at SeaWorld. It's a lot of fun! Similar to your standard log ride drop- but the drop at Atlantis is big lol It is a lot of fun! I'm looking forward to the changes/ upgrades they make to this ride.

I love this ride

Closed temporarily

Great ride in the hot Southern California weather. The gift shop next to the ride entrance sell rain panchos for anyone who does not want to get their clothes wet. On the hot day that we went, not many people wanted rain panchos. The entrance to the ride is under a roof covered line waiting area but then it turns into an outside waiting line. You are advised to take off your hats while riding this ride, as the twists, turns, and drops causes they air to pull them off. I opted to keep my hat on and held it onto my head during the ride with one hand. Overall, this ride is super fun. The water is refreshing and doesn't smell bad after it hits you. The different turns, climbs, and falls make it a great ride. I would not recommend letting a child under 10 on this ride; it's pretty intense. The ride staff was nice and friendly. We will get on this ride again I ams sure.

See all photos from Taura G. for Journey to Atlantis - Sea World

It's very fun and is great if you are hot. The wait time could be long but it's just because it's such a great ride. Make sure to be in the front or you will only get misted by the ride.

Ride is always fun when it's working. It's always a long wait even if there aren't a lot of people waiting. The wait is brutal when its hot outside.

I absolutely recommend going there especially if you have kids. So much fun! Food is a little overpriced but delicious.

Great and entertaining - little one had a scare but once she was on, she loved it - easy up and down twice (with an elevator between) and not too crazy wet. Big drop first and then a smaller curved one second. They have pay-for-lockers to the side if you don't want to get anything wet. And the line wasn't that bad, actually. Was only about 5 minutes wait for us due to getting a slightly expedited Quick Queue was perfect.

Journey to Atlantis is in my opinion the best ride here and will remain so until the Electric Eel opens up in a few weeks. It's the huge attraction you see as you walk up from the parking lot. It's a great ride that is a mix of roller coaster and water ride. So expect to get soaked. It pulls and jolts you through in rapid pace. The ride is faster than the line to get in lol. Sometimes you wonder if it's worth it especially during hot summer days. I say yes. Keep in mind when you get soaked, you can dry up for $6 or wait until the sun does it for you but it takes about 1 hour. If you get here early I suggest making this the first attraction you visit to avoid the lines. Plus if you get wet, you'll dry up by the time you have lunch. It's a ride to have to ride at least once.

This is one of my favorite rides at Sea World. This one is a bit different then the Florida one. This one just goes up & down twice. The Florida one does the same but it has a person talking to you and etc. When you go down the first drop they take your picture.

For a ride, it's the best in the park. You don't get too wet, the ride has a good amount of thrills, it's the right amount of everything including wait time and size requirement. - If it's a full boat and you're up front there's a good chance your lap is getting soaked. - When you enter the ride area, take the right side line. It's shorter! - There is a family switchout program for this ride. - You can buy a rain poncho at the park ($10 I think) or look for them at Kohl's or 99 cent city for much cheaper!

No line weekdays (off season)

You see this ride as you walk towards it and you're like wow a water ride and that's a huge drop well you are right you jump on the ride and already you are going down that big drop then you say wow that's it? But no it's not over after the drop you end up in this dark tunnel that then takes you up like an elevator back up to the top where you then are back on the track and it goes around like a roller coaster for a few seconds then you go down another drop of water to many and myself that is a surprise. Overall I really liked this ride. Many people say what kind of ride is this? Most say a half water ride half roller coaster but the actual term is Flume ride.

See all photos from Craig Y. for Journey to Atlantis - Sea World

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Journey to Atlantis

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Journey to Atlantis  is the name shared by three water roller coasters located at SeaWorld theme parks. These attractions, while different from one another, tell a similar story of a trip to the mythical land of Atlantis. Each one combines roller coaster elements, such as chain lift hills and steep drops, with boat-based attraction elements, such as splash-down landings. All three attractions were designed by MACK Rides of Germany.

SeaWorld Orlando [ ]

The original Journey to Atlantis made its debut in 1998 at SeaWorld Orlando . It is one of the five roller coasters at the park. Along with Wild Arctic, it was one of the park's only thrill rides until the arrival of Kraken in 2000. The two other roller coasters came after, Manta in 2009 and Mako in 2016.

Journey to Atlantis features a small aquarium exhibit, "Jewels of the Sea", in its gift shop exit area. Inside, guests will find aquaria built into the floor and the ceiling of the exhibit, along with more traditional aquaria.

In March 2017, the ride finished its usual seasonal maintenance but Sea World changed the ride's whole theming, practically taking out all effects of the evil mermaids (audio & lighting). New theming to go along with Kraken VR is said to be put in.

SeaWorld San Diego [ ]

The second Atlantis opened in 2004 at SeaWorld San Diego . This version lacks the large interior scenes that the Orlando version includes; but makes up for it with the addition of a much larger roller coaster ride. Also, the boats on this version have individual lap-bars.

SeaWorld San Antonio [ ]

The newest version of Atlantis opened in 2007 at SeaWorld San Antonio . First announced in August 2006, this version is based on a different model than its cousins. Although initial plans had called for a more elaborate indoor station and "towers" to enclose the ride's two turntables, SeaWorld opted to reduce the number of drops and turns. Thus, this version more closely resembles a traditional Shoot-the-Chutes boat ride. It is based on the "SuperSplash" devised by MACK Rides.

• 1 SeaWorld Orlando
• 2 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
• 3 Journey to Atlantis

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Journey to Atlantis

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SeaWorld Orlando's Journey to Atlantis is a water coaster, a unique thrill ride, that is part water flume ride and part roller coaster. The attraction begins with the ride vehicles floating in a flume passing by dark ride scenery, special effects, and animatronics. After several scenes the vehicles begin an ascent up two lift hills that leads to the ride's signature six-story drop into the splash down pool far below. It can be wet experience, but in the Florida heat it's usually welcome.

In the second half of the water coaster, the vehicles entering the show building once more to begin a another ascent. This time the ascent ends with the vehicles out of the water and rolling onto a steel roller coaster track. After a quick drop into a diving helix, Journey to Atlantis concludes with a wet finale into another splash pool.

Roller Coaster Stats

• Drop 60 feet
• Train Designer Mack  

Journey to Atlantis Facts & History

Individual car has four rows each, seating two abreast per row.

Height requirement: Riders must be at least 42 inches tall with an adult or 48 inches to ride alone

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Journey to Atlantis

Operating since

Make: Mack Rides GmbH & Co KG Model: Water Coaster / Custom

Aerial Imagery

For thousands of years, explorers, adventurers, and globetrotters have sought remains of an ancient civilization swallowed by the sea; a lost continent abandoned by the gods. The story of Atlantis has endured for centuries and centuries, a mythological marvel as celebrated as the gods of old. And for theme park fans, it seems like the perfect foundation for a dark ride. 

We’ve made it our mission here at Theme Park Tourist to chronicle the in-depth, full stories behind  landmark attractions across the world... including those that taught us what not  to do... And that brings us to our  Declassified Disasters  series, examining failures and flops from  Stitch’s Great Escape to Superstar Limo ; the  Rocket Rods , to Epcot’s Journey into YOUR Imagination  and  many more . And when it comes to “forgotten” rides, there’s perhaps no better example than a would-be E-Ticket languishing away at the unfortunately troubled SeaWorld Orlando.

Image: Jeremy Thompson,  Flickr  ( license ) 

In the 1990s, an unexpected company took the helm of SeaWorld, determined to grow and expand the park to compete with Disney and Universal down the road. They wanted to transform the animal park into a destination for theme- and thrill-seekers alike. Journey to Atlantis was poised to be the perfect blend, matching Disney note-for-note in thrills, theme, score, special effects, and story. But the ride designed to exemplify a new direction for an ever-changing park is – today – all-but-sunk.

Today, we'll dive deep  into the story of SeaWorld's Journey to Atlantis and dissect the making of, experience of, and 2017 changes to this would-be E-Ticket in an in-depth, full-fledged history. But this intense look at the ride has to start with a simple question...

What is SeaWorld?

SeaWorld.  Given just that word – SeaWorld – what comes to your mind? What images? Thoughts? Sounds? Feelings? What is SeaWorld?

On a grand, philosophical level, some view SeaWorld as an inspiring animal park that provides up-close encounters with living creatures that, otherwise, would feel a world away. If it weren’t for SeaWorld, after all, many Americans might never see a sea lion, dolphin, orca, or shark in person in their entire lives … A competing (and recently vocal) group suggests that SeaWorld is a catastrophe of animal rights violations and moral reprehensibility that should be shut and buried.

But today, we’ll avoid that (important) discussion in favor of a simpler thought… Morality and philosophy aside, what is SeaWorld – as in, literally ?

Image: SeaWorld Parks

Maybe you’d label it a zoo, given its emphasis on animal enclosures and encounters. Folded in here is SeaWorld’s commendable animal rehabilitation and release program (which has rescued well over 25,000 animals in its history) and its AZA-accredited zoological practices (including enrichment, veterinary care, exhibit design, etc.) that, observably, make it a very, very good zoo... and a very, very expensive one, many times costlier than your local zoo.

Maybe you’d call it a theme park. After all, time, money, and care have been spent crafting themed “lands” with notable detail, some well-designed dark rides, and entertainment (both animal and acrobatic) quite unlike anything else in Orlando. SeaWorld stands apart from your local amusement park in so many ways.

But in just as many ways, it doesn't  stand apart. Frankly, isn’t SeaWorld a thrill park, with its anchor attractions all being bare, behemoth steel roller coasters to rival any Six Flags or Cedar Fair park?

Animal park? Theme park? Amusement park? The uncomplicated answer is that SeaWorld is all of those, and more. That’s because – quite unlike Disney or Universal’s parks – SeaWorld has been handed from owner to owner over the course of its nearly 45-year life, bending continuously to the changing whims of changing powers and changing times.

So to tell the story of Journey to Atlantis, we need to start in medias res  – right in the middle of SeaWorld's history… In 1989, the four SeaWorld parks (in San Diego, Cleveland, Orlando, and San Antonio) were acquired outright by a company that may initially seem out of left field...

Epic adventures

At first glance, Anheuser-Busch must seem an odd operator for a chain of parks. Even if the 1980s and '90s had seen a wave of movie studios try to break into the “studio park” business, the international brewing company (producers of Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob, Rolling Rock, Shock Top, and dozens of other recognizable alcoholic beverages) seemed to have no connection to the world of animal parks.

However, the beer behemoth had a résumé perfect for overseeing SeaWorld. That’s because they’d been operating their own theme parks for decades. Anheuser-Busch breweries in Tampa, Florida and Williamsburg, Virginia had long been adjoined by Busch Gardens parks that, in a post-Magic-Kingdom-era, were flourishing.

Sure, each had a roller coaster or two… But the emphasis at the two parks – themed to Africa and Europe, respectively – was on the authentic entertainment, cultural merchants, and homemade food reflecting the vast cultures represented within. (The Williamsburg park, in particular, has hosted two rides that are the subject of their own in-depth features – a Lost Legend: Big Bad Wolf and another Declassified Disaster: Drachen Fire .)

So upon their purchase in 1989 by the brewing company, the four SeaWorld parks were simply folded into (and indeed, became the anchor of) their Busch Entertainment division. In particular, Busch Entertainment took great interest in SeaWorld Orlando . You can imagine why. SeaWorld had been a Central Florida staple since 1973 – opening just two years  after Walt Disney World! And while the park had grown substantially in the 25 years since, Busch's purchase of the park in 1989 coincided with a major change in Orlando (and the whole industry).

That was the year that Orlando became home to the Disney-MGM Studios, followed shortly by Universal Studios Florida; the dawn of the  "Ride the Movies" era that would see competition in Central Florida (and indeed, all of North America) rachet up as amusement parks across the country were gobbled up by movie studios, eager to follow Disney and Universal's new route to accessible and affordable theme parks. By purchasing SeaWorld, Busch had secured a footprint right in the middle of the growing tourism wars of Central Florida.

But to own and operate a park (literally) in between Walt Disey World and Universal Studios, Busch needed to commit to transforming SeaWorld from a mere marine animal zoo into a world class, destination theme park itself. Their way into the war would be to completely redefine what SeaWorld was... initially, by borrowing from Disney's own ambitious innovations...

Wild life, wild rides

In 1987, Disney had broken new ground with the incomprehensibly complex (and expensive) simulator technology that powered Disney's Lost Legends: Body Wars  and the original  STAR TOURS . And now, SeaWorld would get its hands on the technology with 1992’s Mission: Bermuda Triangle. Rather than exploring the blood stream or a galaxy far, far away, the still-groundbreakings simulator technology here would be used to simulate an oceanic adventure .

And unlike the tepid offerings of a zoological park, Mission: Bermuda Triangle took things in a distinctly-dramatic direction, plunging guests into rusted shipwrecks and magnetic anomalies in a thrilling journey through the supposed supernatural occurances of the Bermuda Triangle. The idea opened an untapped world for Busch: SeaWorld could be a theme  park, with rides focused on nautical legends and adventures told in the story of Disney and Universal.

Just a few years later, SeaWorld caught on to the technology’s adaptability long before Disney would, swapping the queue and ride film to create Wild Arctic. The simulators switched from subs to helicopters, flying guests on a frigid journey to the North Pole. Even more radically, 1995’s Wild Arctic’s simulated flight was only the prelude to an animal encounter, as exiting guests would step not into a gift shop, but into an enormous "arctic research base" simulating freezing conditions, home to the park's Arctic animals.

SeaWorld's quick and cutting-edge adaptation of the still-new Star Tours technology demonstrated a new model for the park. Not only could SeaWorld raise itself to meet the cinematic splendor of Disney and Universal by way of telling nautical fables... it could do what its competitors couldn't: plugging signature animal experiences right into the attractions .

Evolution elsewhere

At the same time that SeaWorld's Orlando  park was arming itself against Disney and Universal, its other three parks – San Diego, San Antonio, and Cleveland – began to experiment with that fundamental question –  what is SeaWorld?  – via their own forays into thrills.

In San Antonio, two steel coasters rose above SeaWorld’s otherwise unassuming skyline, with Great White (1997) and Steel Eel (1999, above) redefining the park for the region. For Texans, SeaWorld was no longer just a marine life zoo; it was an animal park with thrills .

Meanwhile, clones of the Orlando-bred simulator spread, too. Wild Arctic opened in San Diego in 1997, while Mission: Bermuda Triangle debuted at the curious (and now-closed) SeaWorld Ohio in 2000 (below). In fact, that Cleveland-area park is itself a good example of SeaWorld's push in the era since, restricted from building roller coasters due to a county height requirement, SeaWorld actually put in a bid to  purchase  the operating Six Flags Ohio located directly across a lake (but in a different county); famously, Six Flags counter-offered to instead buy  SeaWorld , combining them into the world's largest theme park... before it all predictably crashed and burned .

But it goes to show just how serious Busch was about turning SeaWorld into more than an animal park, ushering in a new era of themed attractions and thrill rides. And that brings us back to SeaWorld Orlando with its unique and daunting proximity to the growing entertainment powers of Disney World and Universal. As such, Busch's plan for the Floridian park had to be exceptionally ambitious, meeting both Disney and Universal in their own turf… A Disney-quality E-Ticket dark ride.

SeaWorld’s largest, costliest addition ever would have to match Disney note-for-note, emulating Imagineering's detail, storytelling, and special effects. And if SeaWorld were determined to evolve into a standalone theme park earning a precious day of tourists' Orlando vacation (and a steep entry fee on top of it), that would require a truly monumental nautical fable...

And when it comes to legends of the sea, one whale of a tale seemed perfectly primed for a SeaWorld adventure. On the next page, we'll descend into the myth of Atlantis... and the race between Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld to open their own voyages to the sunken city first. Read on...

Just your friendly neighborhood fan of tropical hideaways, Victorian boardwalks, mid-century tomorrows, ancient temples, and cursed forests! In between dreaming of Dole Whips, I'm a museum experience developer. I'm also the researcher behind Theme Park Tourist's  Legend Library   – filled with stories of  Lost Legends , Modern Marvels , Declassified Disasters , and more.

A cacophony of independently moving effects are probably better than a too-complex story.

Former fan here (And an employee for SeaWorld Orlando), I loved this ride when I was growing up in spite of its flaws, but after riding it some time ago finding out how the ride didn't worked properly and worst, had all the charms it had that I loved removed, Journey to Atlantis has indeed sunk. It's a shame, as even tho it may not be the Disney killer Busch wanted it to be, it could of actually still been a great dark ride when they finally decided to refubished this gem, but rather than actually making it better, SEAs turned it into a lump coal. Had I been yhe person in charge of this classic attraction I could of revamped the story a bit and made the experience more imersive.

With the glow in the dark area, that could easily be replaced with realistic looking reefs and corals, with some lighting to make it look like you're underwater. As for how we ended up there, the intro could be slightly be changed by having the fisherman explain that Hermes will grant us a overshield to be able to traverse deep below the sea. Not much that can be done about that, but at least it would make sense about us all the sudden being underwater in a boat.

Then, when it comes to the mermaid being revealed to be the villian as we take up on the lift, rather than being outside of the open, the ride can instead be covered to prevent the sunlight being shown, and it would have the modern day projection screens that would show us trying to escape from the Medusa, Hermes in his Sea Horse form also trying to keep out of the antagonist's reach. Eventually the riders would come inside of what would look like a ballroom building, and from there that's when the famous drop comes into play.

Seems like we've escaped, right? Oh no! What about Hermes? Turns out he was captured, and now the Medusa is taking control of his power to bring her prey back to her! In a desperate intempt, the Sea Horse companion uses all his might and strength to sacrifice himself to free us from the predator, and the riders were able to escape at last.

Mind you, this was just a rough draft that I could name off of my head just after I finished reading this post and wanted to comment on what I could of done, but my point is that I was really disappointed about the changes they made, which many would argue is worse than what it originally was. I loved Journey to Atlantis and even the unfitting Beetlejuice song (Which could be changed to a more fitting escaping-like soundtrack) that played everytime I rode it, now it seemed like it was killed off when it came to the time to make improvements. It'd be like if Hulk went through Refubishment, but had all the story, soundtrack, and effects removed from it after reopening in Islands of Adventure, that's exactly what has happened to Atlantis.

Love it or hate it, this ride has become nothing more than a time killer that allows you to get wet. At this point, I'd rather just ride the new addition to the park, Infinity Falls, -Than take a stroll in what I would deem as a cemetery of the ride's former self. Hopefully we can get a reboot of this dark ride, or perhaps it should be replaced by a different attraction in the future. Never will I be able to show my baby sister what made me and my older sister love Journey to Atlantis, the story and the characters being gone means that like Atlantis itself, has now been buried beneath the deep sea.

I absolutely loved this ride and its incorporation of mythology! I was fortunate enough to experience this ride in Orlando in 2001 and it has been something that I have long remembered and cherished. I was quite disappointed when the ride was down in 2010 when I had my children with me (ages 10 and 5). I have always spoken highly of this ride as the first hybrid coaster/flume ride with excellent mythological story elements. It saddens me that that so many have “missed the boat” in recognizing its charm and vision.

I actually first encountered the San Diego version of the ride since I live here, and, while not tremendously ambitious, it is fun and has a nice pace and the elevator life section works with the whole "dolphin-friendly" theme...I was horribly disappointed in how the Orlando ride looked...even with the story working, it seems like the pacing is unforgivably clunky..My home park may be considered the more "minor" Sea World, but having seen the park in Orlando twice now, I much prefer how well the simpler rides work here

I mentioned that the change to Journey to Atlantis mirrors a major downgrade at Cincinnati's Kings Island when TOMB RAIDER: The Ride became the generic The Crypt. What's funny is that Kings Dominion – a sister park in Virginia – got a smaller, outdoor, less ornately themed version of the ride called TOMB RAIDER: Firefall. It, too, became The Crypt when Cedar Fair took over, but it kept all of its light theming and, ultimately, was the better experience! Didn't see that coming...

Same thing now with the Journeys to Atlantis in Orlando and San Diego... The San Diego ride – even if it's "simpler" and "cheaper," it actually successful at what it set out to do / be! Great point!

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Scientists map the lost 'Atlantis' continent that lies off Australia

A new simulation reveals how Australia's first inhabitants migrated across Sahul, before it became modern-day Australia.

One of the most extraordinary stories of human migration unfolded around 70,000 years ago, as humans crossed from Southeast Asia into modern-day Australia, traversing a now-submerged, Atlantis-like landscape, and becoming the first people to call that land home. 

A rich archaeological record provides ample evidence that this happened. But researchers have long been stumped by the details of this migration, such as how quickly that trek occurred and what routes the newcomers took across the vast territory. 

Now, new research published April 23 in the journal Nature Communications sheds light on some possible answers. Intriguingly, it also helps to pinpoint potential undiscovered archaeological sites where researchers could search for new evidence. 

The research looks at the vast supercontinent that was known as Sahul, a landmass that was exposed about 70,000 years ago, during the Pleistocene epoch , when Earth was in the midst of the last ice age. Glaciation caused declining sea levels that exposed areas of submerged continental shelf connecting what is now mainland Australia to Papua New Guinea in the north and Tasmania in the south. 

Related: Lost 'Atlantis' continent off Australia may have been home for half a million humans 70,000 years ago

Sea levels remained low for thousands of years at a time, but other geological and environmental conditions would have evolved over this period. For instance, there would have been changing rainfall patterns, shifting river courses, spreading or shrinking forests and grasslands, and sediment deposition. All of these factors would have influenced the characteristics of the terrain and, therefore, how humans explored it. 

The researchers used this information to develop a landscape evolution model, which simulated Sahul's changing landscape between 75,000 and 35,000 years ago. The simulation also incorporated possible migration routes from two locations in Southeast Asia  — West Papua and the Timor Sea Shelf — as well as archaeological sites spread across the modern-day landscape. 

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Dating those sites helped to pinpoint the periods when people would have been moving through those parts of the continent. Finally, the simulation incorporated estimates from "Lévy walk foraging patterns" — a type of movement that's commonly used by hunter-gatherers to find food in unfamiliar landscapes —  which also helped to estimate the pace of migration. 

"The new landscape evolution model allows for a more realistic description of the terrains and environments inhabited by the first hunter-gatherer communities as they traversed Sahul," Tristan Salles , an associate professor in the School of Geosciences at the University of Sydney and lead author of the study, said in a statement . The researchers ran thousands of simulations that exposed the most likely routes humans would have taken, following landscape features and the availability of food they could forage. 

The researchers discovered that these routes would have taken the newcomers along the coastlines and straight through the continent's interior, following the major rivers and streams that crisscrossed the landscape at the time. The calculations showed that these intrepid humans likely traversed the landscape at a pace of about 0.71 mile (1.15 kilometers) per year, which the researchers say is relatively swift. Interestingly, the simulation showed an overlap with regions where other researchers have suggested humans may first have congregated on Sahul.

— Scientists finally discover 'lost continent' thought to have vanished without a trace

— Zealandia, Earth's hidden continent, was torn from supercontinent Gondwana in flood of fire 100 million years ago

— Lost islands beneath the North Sea survived a mega-tsunami 8,000 years ago  

By showing where Australia's first people most likely moved, the model may even provide archaeologists with some practical insights for their work. 

"There's one particularly interesting outcome from our map that shows the probability of human presence in Sahul," the study authors wrote in an article for The Conversation . "In a cost-effective way (without needing to travel across the entire continent), it could potentially pinpoint areas of archaeological significance." 

The model helps to flesh out the picture of life on Sahul, where previous research has shown that up to half a million people may have once lived on its now-sunken northern shelf. 

"Our study is the first to show the impact of landscape changes on the initial migration on Sahul, providing a new perspective on its archaeology," the researchers wrote. "If we used such an approach in other regions as well, we could improve our understanding of humanity's extraordinary journey out of Africa."

Emma Bryce is a London-based freelance journalist who writes primarily about the environment, conservation and climate change. She has written for The Guardian, Wired Magazine, TED Ed, Anthropocene, China Dialogue, and Yale e360 among others, and has masters degree in science, health, and environmental reporting from New York University. Emma has been awarded reporting grants from the European Journalism Centre, and in 2016 received an International Reporting Project fellowship to attend the COP22 climate conference in Morocco.  

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