Tigris

Busch Gardens Tampa is known for its world-class roller coasters and attractions that provide a perfect mix of thrills and family entertainment. Among its many offerings, Tigris stands out as one of the park’s most intense and exhilarating experiences. Opened in 2019, Tigris is a premier steel roller coaster that combines speed, height, and thrilling maneuvers to offer riders a unique and unforgettable journey through the sky. With a sleek design and a striking tiger-themed aesthetic, Tigris has quickly become a favorite for adrenaline seekers.

History and Background

Tigris was unveiled to the public on April 19, 2019, as the tallest launch coaster in Florida. It was constructed by Premier Rides, a renowned roller coaster manufacturer known for its innovative coaster models. The ride was built to celebrate Busch Gardens’ ongoing commitment to thrilling new attractions and their dedication to wildlife conservation. Tigris is located in the Stanleyville area of the park, replacing the Tidal Wave attraction, which closed in 2016.

Tigris was named after the tiger and symbolizes the park's focus on wildlife protection. Busch Gardens actively supports the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, contributing to efforts to protect the habitats and species of endangered big cats, such as tigers. Through this theme, the coaster blends an educational aspect with high-octane fun.

Ride Experience

Tigris offers an experience unlike any other at Busch Gardens Tampa. The ride is a Premier Rides "Sky Rocket II" model, which includes a unique triple-launch system, with a total track length of 863 feet and a towering height of 150 feet. What makes Tigris stand out is its innovative launch sequence, which propels riders forward, backward, and then forward again to build up enough speed to take on its towering vertical loop.

• Launches and Maneuvers: The ride begins with a launch that sends riders forward at high speeds, only to roll back in reverse as it prepares for the main launch. This initial back-and-forth motion builds anticipation and momentum. As the ride catches full speed, it rockets up a 150-foot tall loop, twists, and inverts, giving riders the sensation of flying through the air.
• Heartline Roll and Twists: At the top of the ride, riders experience a slow, heart-pounding heartline roll, where the train inverts at a slow pace, giving a breathtaking view of the surrounding park. This moment of weightlessness, combined with the unique sensation of hang-time, makes Tigris a memorable experience.
• Backward Motion and Drops: The backward movements and quick transitions are designed to keep the adrenaline pumping, as the coaster alternates between high-speed launches and sudden drops. Riders experience the thrill of weightlessness and g-forces as they twist and turn through the course.

With a maximum speed of 62 miles per hour, Tigris is not for the faint of heart. Despite its relatively short ride duration of about 30 seconds, the coaster packs in plenty of thrills that leave riders breathless.

Design and Theming

Tigris is beautifully themed around its namesake, the tiger, with a striking orange and black color scheme. The sleek and compact track design, combined with its tiger-inspired logo and entrance, makes it visually appealing and easy to spot from various areas of the park. The queue line includes information about tiger conservation and educational displays, making it not just a ride but an opportunity to learn more about the importance of protecting endangered species.

The ride itself features a unique seating arrangement with two-person rows, allowing for a more intimate and intense ride experience. There are no over-the-shoulder restraints; instead, riders are secured with lap bars, which heightens the feeling of openness and thrill during inversions.

Safety and Accessibility

As with all rides at Busch Gardens Tampa, safety is a top priority for Tigris. Riders must be at least 54 inches tall to experience the attraction. Due to the intense nature of the ride, there are certain restrictions on loose articles, and guests must meet specific physical requirements to ensure a safe experience. The coaster also offers a test seat at the entrance to check for comfort and fit before joining the queue.

Tigris and the Future of Busch Gardens

Tigris is part of Busch Gardens Tampa's ongoing expansion and commitment to thrilling attractions. It complements other high-thrill coasters in the park, such as SheiKra, Montu, and Cheetah Hunt, making Busch Gardens a must-visit destination for coaster enthusiasts. With its addition, the park continues to position itself as Florida’s premier coaster park, blending wildlife education with heart-pounding entertainment.

Tigris is a testament to Busch Gardens Tampa’s dedication to delivering thrilling experiences while staying true to its conservation roots. For those seeking a mix of adrenaline, innovation, and breathtaking visuals, Tigris offers an unparalleled ride experience. Whether you're a seasoned coaster enthusiast or just looking for your next big thrill, Tigris is a must-ride attraction that promises to leave a lasting impression.