Skyline Attractions | SeaWorld San Diego
San Diego, California
“‘Tidal Twister’ is the first of its kind, so there is no other coaster experience like it anywhere but SeaWorld San Diego,” says David Koontz, the park’s communications director.
The ride, which is a Skywarp Horizon from Skyline Attractions, rises just 22 feet above the ground and hits a speed of 30 mph, zipping through a figure-eight track of tight turns and a zero-G roll at its center where the track crosses over itself. “Tidal Twister” moves along 320 feet of track. Two connected trains hold 16 passengers each and load at opposite ends of the track, with guests facing both forward and backward. Though both trains must ride the tracks simultaneously, the park can operate the coaster with just one train loaded, should nearby shows pull riders away during performance times.
Koontz says the ride’s theming is accomplished primarily through attraction coloration, landscaping, and signage that continues into the adjacent Aquaria: World of Fishes aquarium. He stresses it is important to SeaWorld to have a balance of animal attractions, educational experiences, exhibits, and rides. “Tidal Twister” allows the park to add a fun ride while providing guests an educational experience focused on animal conservation.
“SeaWorld’s Aquaria: World of Fishes aquarium now is a research support aquarium dedicated to the type of ornamental fish that our partner Rising Tide Conservation is focused on,” he says. “SeaWorld guests can ride ‘Tidal Twister’ and then visit Aquaria to learn about Rising Tide Conservation.”
A height requirement of 48 inches allows families to ride together.
“Initial responses from children and adults who have ridden ‘Tidal Twister’ have been very positive,” Koontz says.