New Waterslide Tower at JW Marriott Orlando

(eap) The JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes luxury resort is located in close proximity to SeaWorld Orlando (Florida, USA). An extensive renovation of the resort was completed at the end of 2022, which also included the expansion of the in-house water park. The new main attraction is the new “Headwaters” slide tower, which features three slides from WhiteWater West and is open exclusively to hotel guests.

The design of the slides is based on the Everglades in terms of color as well as name. “The Rapids” is the only tube slide in the new slide tower and can be used with either single or double tubes. The slide offers a varied descent that impresses with a Constrictor element with a changing diameter as well as a Tailspin element. The latter is a plate-shaped slide segment with a jagged edge that is run through tangentially and is intended to convey a special feeling of space. The ride is also visually enhanced by transparent sections and AquaLucent effects in the form of translucent rings.

The remaining slides are body slides, with “The Chute” being by far the fastest ride in the complex. This beige turbo slide starts with an extremely steep and long drop before going through some tight turns. The track layout is quite unusual for a turbo slide with a conventional start – i.e. without a trap door. The second body slide called “The Current” is not quite as fast-paced as its neighbor, but features translucent effects and an open jump as the finale.

The slide tower isn’t the only new addition to the water park: scattered throughout the pool area are several new cabanas that guests can rent for an additional fee, providing a private retreat during their stay. “Knife Burger” is also a new poolside restaurant from award-winning chef John Tesar. Within the hotel itself, new family suites and an expanded lobby lounge with a bar have been created. So, nothing stands in the way of a luxury vacation in Orlando. ■