FL/USA: Busch Gardens Announces to Open Multi Launch Coaster in 2019

Yesterday, the animal and amusement park Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, located in Florida, announced to open a triple-launch coaster called “Tigris“ next spring. The new rollercoaster will be built in the “Stanleyville” theme area, in the former home of the whitewater ride “Tidal Wave”, which was closed in 2016. According to the park, Tigris will be the tallest launch coaster in Florida. Riders must be at least 137 cm (54 inches) tall. On the almost 550 meter (1,800 feet) long track, guests pass through a series of exciting elements at a top speed of approx. 96 km/h (60 miles per hour).

To reach the total height of approx. 46 meters, the train is first accelerated forwards out of the station, but falls back again to be catapulted backwards through the station. Another forward motion takes place, catapulting riders to reach the maximum height of the track. Looping twists, daring drops and an inverted heartline roll element will follow. Although the operator remains silent about the manufacturer of the ride, apparently (according to reports and judging by the pictures) the rollercoaster is a Sky Rocket II model from US Premier Rides company, which was most recently installed at SeaWorld San Diego (“Electric Eel”, cp. EAP 4/2018) and at Finland’s Särkänniemi Theme Park (“Hype”, cp. EAP 6/2017). Another coaster model of this kind can be found with “Tempesto” at the sister park Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia. Thematically the new attraction in Florida will be dedicated to the world’s largest cat species, the tiger.

In addition, the park, which belongs to the SeaWorld Entertainment group’s portfolio, announced a second new thrill ride for 2020 to be located in the “Gwazi” area. Further details will be announced later. (eap)