As SeaWorld San Diego says farewell to theatrical Orca shows, the theme park is placing its future success in an all-new adrenaline rollercoaster ride.
It announced a first look at the Electric Eel, a new 150-feet ride with multiple loops and twists at a speed of up to 62 mph.
The ride is due to open in 2018.
"This will definitely be the most thrilling ride here at SeaWorld, and we know from consumer research and guest feedback that guests want a thrilling ride here, so Electric Eel is the perfect way to round out our ride experiences," said SeaWorld president Marilyn Hannes.
The design and the ride sensation are inspired by eels, said Brian Morrow, vice president of theme park experience design for SeaWorld Entertainment.
"As you’re moving up the coaster, think of it as a spiral that puts you upside down, like eels that can twist their bodies as they’re moving forward. Once you get to the 150-feet high mark you do the full inversion but there are other movements in the ride where you’re turning," Morrow said.
SeaWorld San Diego currently has two other roller coasters – Journey to Atlantis and Manta.
The park’s final killer whale show takes place at the weekend.
