Mako, one of the flagship roller coasters at SeaWorld Orlando, is named after the fastest species of shark, setting the stage for an exhilarating ride experience. Debuting in June 2016, this hypercoaster has quickly become a must-visit attraction for coaster enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. With a height of 200 feet, a top speed of 73 miles per hour, and a track length of nearly a mile, Mako delivers a thrilling combination of height, speed, and airtime, making it the tallest and fastest coaster in Orlando.
Design and Features
Mako was designed by Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M), a Swiss manufacturer known for creating smooth and reliable coasters. As a hypercoaster, Mako is focused on providing airtime, characterized by a series of hills and long drops. The ride's layout maximizes the feeling of weightlessness, offering riders 9 separate moments of airtime, where they experience negative G-forces, creating the sensation of floating out of their seats.
The coaster's vibrant teal and purple color scheme stands out against the backdrop of SeaWorld’s marine-themed environment. The train is modeled to resemble a sleek shark, enhancing the theme, and each train holds 28 riders, seated four across in rows. Instead of over-the-shoulder restraints, Mako uses lap bars, allowing for greater freedom of movement and an intensified sense of airtime.
The Ride Experience
Mako starts with a slow ascent up a 200-foot lift hill, offering a brief panoramic view of the surrounding Orlando area. Riders have a moment to catch their breath before plummeting down the first drop at a steep angle. The sensation is intense, and the speed only increases as the train dives into a 73-mph dash through a series of camelbacks and overbanked turns.
Each element of the ride is crafted to give a specific type of thrill, from the floating sensation of airtime hills to the high-speed turns that hug the terrain. The most memorable moments include:
- The First Drop: This steep 200-foot plunge is the highlight of the ride, where riders feel an exhilarating free-fall sensation.
- Hammerhead Turn: A sharp, high-speed turnaround element that keeps the excitement going at full throttle.
- Camelback Hills: A series of hills that deliver repeated bursts of airtime, giving the feeling of floating in the air.
- The Finale: A smooth, curving drop that transitions into a final airtime hill, offering a thrilling conclusion.
Theming and Atmosphere
Mako’s theming is integrated throughout the queue, station, and surrounding area. SeaWorld's dedication to marine conservation is evident in the educational elements placed throughout the attraction. Guests waiting in line can learn about Mako sharks and the threats facing these magnificent creatures in the wild.
The coaster is part of the park's "Shark Wreck Reef" area, which is designed to immerse guests in an underwater world. With the coaster weaving in and out of this themed area, the experience feels like a high-speed hunt through the ocean. Mako’s soundtrack, a blend of adrenaline-pumping beats and atmospheric sound effects, adds to the excitement, making every climb and drop more immersive.
Impact and Reception
Mako has been praised for its smooth ride experience, relentless pacing, and focus on airtime, distinguishing itself from other coasters in Florida. It’s often regarded as one of the best hypercoasters in the United States due to its combination of height, speed, and smooth transitions.
When it first opened, Mako was a major addition for SeaWorld Orlando, helping to position the park as a destination for thrill-seekers. Its success has influenced the park to continue investing in high-adrenaline attractions, balancing SeaWorld's reputation as both an entertainment hub and a place for marine conservation.
Mako at SeaWorld Orlando offers an experience that is not to be missed, whether you're a seasoned coaster enthusiast or just looking for a new thrill. With its combination of towering heights, high speeds, and numerous airtime moments, Mako has earned its place as one of Orlando's top coasters. As the tallest and fastest coaster in the city, Mako truly lives up to its namesake, providing a ride experience that is as swift and powerful as the shark it’s named after.