News SeaWorld Orlando Project 2024/Toboggan: Penguin Trek (Multi-Launch B&M Family Coaster)

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On September 28th, 2023, SeaWorld Orlando officially announced Penguin Trek, a new, prototype, Bolliger & Mabillard-made, multi-launch, indoor/outdoor, family coaster slated to replace the Antartica: Empire of the Penguin darkride in 2024. Official details regarding the stats of this new coaster are in short supply, but we do know that it will feature a darkride segment at the start, two launches during the course, a top speed of 43 miles per hour, and a total track length of 3,020 feet. Per the press release, Penguin Trek will accommodate rider heights between 42 and 77 inches.

Though confirmed layout information is limited, leaked SeaWorld Orlando Project Toboggan site plans from June 2023 have given us a lot of information to work with. An in-depth breakdown of the leaks can be found here.

Official Concept Art​

SWO_Penguin_Trek_1.jpg SWO_Penguin_Trek_2.jpg 383841480_324487100253050_2436261598420530153_n.jpg 750x422-SWO-Rides-Penguin-Trek-Interior-Track-Concept-Art.jpg 750x422-SWO-Rides-Penguin-Trek-Concept-Art.jpg

Press Release​

SeaWorld Orlando Announces the Arrival of The Ultimate Antarctic Adventure: “Penguin Trek” – The New Immersive Family Coaster Coming Spring 2024

· Unique snowmobile styled ride cars transport riders on an unforgettable expedition through the Antarctic wilderness with two launches, a 3,020-foot track that traverses both indoors and outside, and a grand finale arrival at the penguin habitat where riders can experience the enchanting world of these remarkable animals
· Exciting for the whole family, the coaster accommodates rider heights from 42-77 inches
· Become a 2024 Pass Member and be the first to ride before the coaster opens to the public; 2024 passes on sale now

ORLANDO, Fla. (Sept. 28, 2023) – SeaWorld Orlando, already recognized as the Coaster Capital of Orlando with an impressive array of heart-pounding rides, is about to take your breath away once again with its all-new attraction coming in Spring 2024 – “Penguin Trek” – the eagerly awaited eighth coaster to join the park's ever-expanding ride portfolio. Designed as THE ultimate family launch coaster experience, “Penguin Trek” features a unique snowmobile styled ride car where once aboard, riders will embark on an exhilarating journey through the breathtaking vastness of Antarctica as they join a penguin research mission unlike any other.

Featuring two exhilarating launches and a maze of twists and turns, this unforgettable coaster moves at speeds of up to 43 mph across a 3,020-foot track that traverses both indoors and outside. Yet, what sets this experience apart as truly extraordinary is its unparalleled finale: as the coaster comes to a halt, guests find themselves not in a simulated penguin colony, but in the very heart of SeaWorld Orlando’s own penguin habitat. An experience for the whole family, the ride accommodates rider heights from 42-inches to 77-inches. 2024 Annual Pass members can be the first to ride before the public and passes are on sale now.

"We are incredibly excited to unveil our newest addition to SeaWorld Orlando's outstanding coaster lineup in Spring of 2024," said Jon Peterson, President of SeaWorld Orlando. "This family launch coaster embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration, offering an immersive journey through the wonders of Antarctica while further connecting our mission and commitment to our animal care, education and research. We know our guests were ready for a new thrill that the whole family could enjoy, and we’re excited to redefine the family launch coaster experience alongside our longstanding partners at B&M.”

Once aboard, riders will embark on an unforgettable expedition on this one-of-a-kind immersive family launch coaster that catapults them through the Antarctic wilderness at speeds of up to 43 mph across a 3,020-foot track. As they step into the shoes of intrepid researchers, they’ll navigate in a unique snowmobile ride car across the icy expanse, narrowly escaping an ice cave's clutches. This family-friendly adventure intensifies as they burst onto an outdoor coaster track, featuring two exhilarating launches and a maze of twists and turns. With adrenaline pumping, riders navigate this treacherous coaster, emerging from the looming danger of falling ice to finally reach the safety of a penguin colony, a journey that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of adventure and discovery. Yet, what sets this experience apart as truly extraordinary is its unparalleled finale: as the coaster comes to a halt, guests find themselves not in a simulated penguin colony, but in the very heart of SeaWorld Orlando’s own penguin habitat. The exhilaration of the ride seamlessly transitions into a heartwarming encounter with these charming, feathered inhabitants. This unique and immersive blend of family coaster thrills and authentic animal interaction offers an opportunity for the whole family to connect with the enchanting world of these captivating penguins, making it a one-of-a-kind adventure that will forever remain etched in their memories.

This family coaster's engineering prowess and world-class design are credited to Bolliger & Mabillard, the renowned design and manufacturers known for their excellence in roller coaster engineering. With five other remarkable coasters already at SeaWorld Orlando, including the park’s most recent thrill ride, "Pipeline: The Surf Coaster," which opened to rave reviews in May 2023, Penguin Trek is set to tie the park for the record of the most B&M coasters in one location.

SeaWorld Orlando's commitment to providing diverse thrills for all family members is evident in "Penguin Trek's" unique indoor/outdoor coaster experience. This latest addition to the coaster family promises to be another crowning jewel in a park already celebrated for its coaster excellence. Joining the ranks of award-winning rides such as "Mako," voted the #1 Best Roller Coaster by the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice poll for five consecutive years, and "Ice Breaker," which secured the #1 New Attraction spot in the same poll, "Penguin Trek" is poised to continue SeaWorld Orlando's legacy of pushing the boundaries of coaster innovation for the whole family.

Be Among the First Family to Ride “Penguin Trek” with a SeaWorld Annual Pass

Guests can experience the best of SeaWorld Orlando with a 2024 annual pass including unlimited visits, unbeatable benefits, and the opportunity to be among the first family to experience “Penguin Trek” before it opens to the public. 2024 annual passes are on sale now and start at $14 per month with no down payment. Membership includes unlimited admission, access to vibrant seasonal events, and exclusive Pass Member benefits like FREE guest tickets, FREE parking and special savings on merchandise, and food and beverage. Plus, Pass Members receive special monthly rewards throughout the year such as exclusive Pass Member merchandise, behind-the-scenes animal experiences, festival-exclusive food & beverage deals, and discounts on admission to SeaWorld’s separately ticketed Howl-O-Scream event. The SeaWorld Orlando Annual Pass program features the bronze, silver, gold, and platinum annual pass, which grants access to all 11 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment locations nationwide including, three SeaWorld parks, two Busch Gardens parks, two Sesame Place parks and several award-winning water parks. Annual Pass Members also get exclusive discounts at Discovery Cove. The program is structured in a guest-friendly way that allows visitors to choose the pass, the benefits, and the parks that are the best fit their needs. Restrictions apply.

For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com. Follow SeaWorld Orlando on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news from SeaWorld.
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Official Website​

Penguin Trek | Roller Coasters | SeaWorld Orlando

Prepare for Penguin Trek, an unforgettable launch coaster adventure through the breathtaking vastness of Antarctica.
seaworld.com seaworld.com

Project Timeline​


Leaked Site Plan​

Site Plan.jpg

Speculative Layout Based on Leaked Plans​

Rough Layout Graphic REDUCED.png

NoLimits Recreation of Speculative Layout​

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Hi friends!

Here is the newest Penguin Trek update as of 3/7/24!

  • The biggest thing to note is that the path that lead from the vacation experience to Pacific Point Preserve has finally RE-OPENED! This allows some truly incredible views of the first launch, final brakes, and aa few other elements of the ride.
  • Track netting seems to be about 80% complete with just a few sections still missing it.
  • They still have have work walls up around much of the construction site including on the reopened path as they are still building danger zone fences. Its nice to see a completed area right behind the vacation experience.
  • They're still rebuilding the ramp that leads from the Sea Lion and Otter Stadium to the reopened path. Much of the retaining wall is in place, now they are just waiting for footers to dry i believe.
  • The ride looks to be 70% landscaped. SeaWorld has added a ton of trees and plans around the new path, Antarctica exit, near the restrooms, and by the far turn around by JTA. They have also laid down "snow" which is the white gravel for much of the outdoor section.
  • Sounds of air compression tanks draining could be heard from inside the show building.
  • Pacific Point Preserve is now fully reopened guests can now walk around the entire exhibit. There are still work walls along the show building leading to the back of house pathway that leads to Kraken.
  • Speaking of that BOH Pathway, its closed off now as there is no longer a need for it.

Feel free to watch the video I left in the post to see more of what the area looks like! Enjoy!

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Hello! It's time for another Penguin Trek Update! All footage was shot on 3/13/24.

  • Grouting has officially begun with multiple supports now being completed.
  • Torque paint has now started to appear on some track segments.
  • Another path has reopened! The left walkway to the Sealion and Otter Stadium has finally reopened and it allows for some awesome up close shots of the ride.
  • Work is continuing with the ADA ramp to the Sealion and Otter Stadium. A good chunk of it has been removed and new footers are starting to be installed. Work has also continued on the retention wall used for guest access to the ramp.
  • Landscaping seems to be wrapping up. Lot of areas around the site have seen the addition of dense bushes, trees, and flowers. When they mature, they will look awesome!
  • Crews were witnessed programing the brakes, on the roof, and inside the show building near the re entry into the building.
Other SeaWorld Orlando Updates
  • Nothing new on the 2025/2026 projects just yet.
  • Coaster Coffee Express has opened.
  • Orca Encounter has reopened with new signage, paint, stage, and theming elements.


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I can't elaborate too much at the moment, but I'm under the impression something may have gone wrong very recently as they attempted to begin testing which may be pushing this one back a little bit. I wouldn't be shocked to see Phoenix Rising open before this, if that wasn't already a given...
 
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Looks like there's more work happening in the area-- new addition going onto the penguin building, and the Coke Freestyle stand was demolished and the restaurant is being remodeled:

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The grey patches under the ride could be for some kind of additional theming elements.
 
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Hi friends,

Penguin Trek update as of 4/7/24:

-Most if not all of the trap key gates have been installed. This is the system used to let staff into low zones when the ride has its power cut off.

-landscaping seems to be complete except for the area around the ADA ramp that they are building for the sealion and otter stadium.

-ramp work has progressed over the last few weeks and is coming along quickly!

- work walls are down by Journey to Atlantis!

-new concrete path and gate has been created right next to the men’s restroom. Looks like a possible queue line access area for the haunted house or maybe a trash compactor area.

-95% of the ride has been grouted!

-crews are still working hard on finishing up theming inside the show building. As soon as they are complete testing should begin!

Attached is my latest video showing off everything! Let me know if there’s something in particular you would like to see!

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well, at least this new coaster is better when what was there before (man, I wish we have gotten a Sesame Street themed ride over a dark ride that feels like it rather be a ice age ride (no offense, I love ice age the movie))
 
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harry580 said:
well, at least this new coaster is better when what was there before (man, I wish we have gotten a Sesame Street themed ride over a dark ride that feels like it rather be a ice age ride (no offense, I love ice age the movie))
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I’m gonna have to disagree with you there. Empire of the Penguin was a trackless darkride that arguably had an amazing about of detail for a regional style park. It was no Curse of DarKastle mind you, but was really good nonetheless. I’m just hoping the indoor sections of the ride are as good as the concept art shows.
 
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Coasternerd said:
I’m gonna have to disagree with you there. Empire of the Penguin was a trackless darkride that arguably had an amazing about of detail for a regional style park. It was no Curse of DarKastle mind you, but was really good nonetheless. I’m just hoping the indoor sections of the ride are as good as the concept art shows.
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Maybe I didn't get the right car, but I felt it too heavily relied on screens and overall was just meh. Happy I rode it to get the experience, and happier it was part of a private event so the line was practically non-existent.

As Kevin from Defunctland mentioned about that god awful Wiggles ride, one of the big challenges with the trackless ride systems is to ensure immersion into the theme as they typically require a large amount of floor space to do their thing... And it's practically impossible for that floor to not be all scuffed up after some time operating.

On the plus side though was the penguin exhibit at the end. That was cool (forgive the pun)

Coasterguy95 said:
On the topic of blue sky movies, give me a robots themed ride. And NOT the Genting SkyWorlds thingy
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TIL this wasn't a Pixar/Disney film. Perhaps someone can scoop up the rights for some kind of immersive attraction, though they have to go through Fox to get them.
 
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Coasternerd said:
I’m gonna have to disagree with you there. Empire of the Penguin was a trackless darkride that arguably had an amazing about of detail for a regional style park. It was no Curse of DarKastle mind you, but was really good nonetheless. I’m just hoping the indoor sections of the ride are as good as the concept art shows.
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Just for fun, I’ll disagree with your disagreement. I thought Empire of the Penguin was a mediocre dark ride despite its cool ride system. Not only did it rely too heavily on screens, but the screens were generally too small to create any sense of immersion. It felt almost like riding from room to room to watch a different TV. The ride also had lots of pockets of emptiness where it relied too much on the novelty of the trackless ride system, wasting a large amount of time maneuvering through empty spaces.

I also don’t think that “amazing amount of detail for a regional theme park” is a reasonable standard for a SWO attraction. SWO isn’t a regional theme park. Orlando is the #1 theme park destination on the planet, SWO is one of the world’s most visited theme parks, and the park competes directly with Disney and Universal. Look at Journey to Atlantis, which (at least in its original form) shows how SWO was once capable of creating a dark ride-style attraction with a level of detail and storytelling more on par with the competition. Guests visiting SWO are primed for Disney and Universal quality, so a dark ride that’s good by “regional park standards” doesn’t cut it at SWO.

And that aside, I wouldn’t even say Empire of the Penguin was that good by regional park standards. BGW, Dollywood, SDC, Knott’s, even a handful of Six Flags parks (with the Justice League rides) all have or once had dark rides that I’d argue offer much more theming and immersion.

I’m firmly in the camp that SWO, and SEAS/PRKS overall, is making a grave mistake by focusing on coasters at the expense of any diversity in their lineup. Some other sort of indoor family attraction, or a better dark ride, would’ve been my preferred choice. But I certainly won’t be missing Empire of the Penguin itself.
 
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Hello again friends!

Penguin Track and Rumored 2025 Coaster Update as of 4/12/24:

-Scaffolding from launch on is being removed.
-ADA ramp leading to the Sealion and Otter Stadium is fully framed out.
-Large pieces of landscaping has been installed by the JTA turnaround.
-New concreate pad by the Men's Restroom has a new wall being installed by the haunted house.
-2025 Project is now underway with areas of the hallway now a no trespassing zone and states the construction companies name. Work can also be heard happening behind the old wild artic exit doors.


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