ORLANDO, Fla. – A new ride at SeaWorld Orlando is stirring up a lot of hype this weekend at the theme park.
Hundreds lined up in the heat to check out the newest roller coaster, Penguin Trek, which just opened to the public on Sunday.
But guests will get a little relief from the heat on this ride, which ends with a stop in the penguin exhibit and features both an indoor and outdoor queue.
“As you exit, you get to see all of the penguins – it’s so cold in there, it’s what we need in Florida,” said Jacob Collins.
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Collins was among the first to ride on SeaWorld’s newest coaster.
“It’s a fantastic ride and it’s exactly what SeaWorld needed,” Collins said.
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Despite Central Florida reaching what feels like triple-digit temperatures on Sunday, people were still in line waiting for their turn to check out Penguin Trek.
David De Jesus relies on good company to keep his mind off the raging heat.
“I think just refreshing stories, having great conversations with friends and just waiting in anticipation to go in, I think that’s what keeps everybody alive here,” De Jesus said.
Part of Penguin Trek’s draw is as you exit, you can check out the penguin exhibit, which is kept at a chilly 34 degrees.
“It’s hot here in Florida where from March to November it’s summer,” said SeaWorld’s Vice President of Operations, Rob McNicholas. “Whether they’re fans in shade or here, an immersive experience, an indoor queue line that’s temperature controlled, it couldn’t be better.”
SeaWorld is aware the weather can impact a guest’s visit. Last year, we told you about SeaWorld’s “Weather-or-Not” policy, giving guests the opportunity to return to the park at no extra charge if extreme weather impacts their visit.
McNicholas said they have had people take them up on this offer since it launched.
“If it’s a rainy day here in Florida, the afternoon storms, stop by Guest Services and we’ll be happy to take care of you,” McNicholas said.
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