The Netherlands: Efteling Uses VR Technology to Offer Disabled Visitors a Virtual Ride on “Droomvlucht“

Efteling’s “Droomvlucht” (Engl. “Dream Flight”) dark ride attraction, which was built in 1993, is one of the few attractions at the Dutch theme park that cannot be used by disabled visitors due to safety issues. In order to make this ride experience virtually accessible for handicapped guests, former Efteling intern Frank Teunen had developed a Virtual Reality-based concept for a VR station directly installed adjacent to the attraction.

This VR station, which comprises two rooms, opened at the park last week. Equipped with a VR headset, guests can experience the “dream flight” with 360-degree views. Wind and scent effects in the rooms complement the immersive experience. In addition, the guests in the VR station are connected with earphones and a microphone to their friends or family in the dark ride attraction in order to create a shared experience. “While Virtual Reality is often an individual experience, we offer a shared experience for groups. This is a fit with Efteling and unique in the leisure industry,” said Fons Jurgens, CEO and Chairman of Efteling.

For an impression of Efteling’s new Virtual Reality experience, please click here to watch a video on YouTube. (eap)