Kraken is one of SeaWorld Orlando’s flagship roller coasters, offering guests an adrenaline-pumping experience through loops, twists, and breathtaking speeds. Themed after the legendary sea creature from Norse mythology, Kraken is an exhilarating journey that simulates the experience of being submerged in an underwater world dominated by the giant mythical beast. Built by the renowned coaster manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, Kraken is a floorless coaster that stands as a testament to SeaWorld’s focus on high-thrill attractions combined with imaginative storytelling.
History and Design
Kraken first opened to the public on June 1, 2000, and quickly became a fan favorite. At the time, it was the tallest, longest, and fastest roller coaster in Orlando, a title that drew thrill-seekers from around the world. The coaster’s name, inspired by the mythical sea monster that terrorized sailors, is reflected in its design elements and theming, with the track’s twists and turns evoking the writhing tentacles of the creature.
The ride was constructed by Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M), a Swiss company known for designing some of the world’s smoothest and most thrilling roller coasters. Kraken’s floorless trains, a relatively new feature at the time, allow riders to experience the sensation of flying above the track with nothing between their feet and the rails below. This unique design creates an enhanced sense of freedom and exposure throughout the ride.
Ride Experience
The journey begins as riders ascend a 149-foot lift hill, which provides a panoramic view of the park and the surrounding area. Once at the top, the train dips slightly before plummeting into a steep, 144-foot drop, reaching speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. This sets the stage for a series of intense inversions, including a vertical loop, a dive loop, a zero-gravity roll, and a cobra roll that twists riders through Kraken’s serpentine layout.
The sensation of being suspended in mid-air is magnified by the coaster’s floorless design, with riders' legs dangling freely as they navigate each element. The ride’s 4,177-foot-long track includes seven inversions, creating a thrilling and disorienting experience that leaves riders breathless. Kraken’s high-G turns and forces make it a standout coaster for enthusiasts seeking intensity.
Key Features and Stats
- Type: Floorless Steel Roller Coaster
- Manufacturer: Bolliger & Mabillard
- Height: 149 feet
- Drop: 144 feet
- Length: 4,177 feet
- Top Speed: 65 mph
- Inversions: 7
- Ride Duration: Approximately 2 minutes and 2 seconds
- Maximum G-Force: 3.9
Theming and Environment
One of Kraken’s defining characteristics is its dedication to thematic immersion. The queue line, adorned with statues of sea monsters and artifacts, sets the tone for the journey. The coaster’s bright green and blue track and support structure are reminiscent of a sea serpent rising from the ocean depths. Additionally, riders dive into trenches and tunnels that simulate underwater caverns, enhancing the feeling of being pulled into the Kraken’s lair.
In 2017, SeaWorld introduced a virtual reality (VR) upgrade to the coaster, rebranding it as Kraken Unleashed. The VR experience offered riders a more interactive storyline, where they would encounter sea monsters and underwater creatures while strapped into their seats. However, this feature was eventually phased out, and Kraken returned to its original format, allowing riders to once again experience the coaster in its purest form.
Kraken remains one of SeaWorld Orlando’s premier attractions, appealing to both coaster enthusiasts and casual park-goers. Its combination of innovative floorless design, intense inversions, and captivating theme solidifies its place in the pantheon of great coasters. As one of the park’s longest-standing thrill rides, Kraken continues to mesmerize guests with its blend of smooth track elements and mythological allure, making it a must-ride for anyone visiting SeaWorld Orlando.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker searching for high-speed excitement or a park visitor intrigued by the lore of sea monsters, Kraken offers an unforgettable experience that will have you coming back for more.