Main Entrance | SeaWorld
The main entrance at Sea World in Orlando is not only where guests enter the park, but it is home to some exciting attractions as well. The theme of the area is inspired by the natural beauty of Florida and features lush tropical landscaping. The centerpiece of the area is a large man-made, freshwater marina with a Shamu-themed lighthouse. The lighthouse is instantly recognizable as an icon of SeaWorld. Immediately adjacent to the main entrance is the Key West area of Sea World, which also pays homage to the natural beauty of Florida through its architecture and landscaping. Aside from the marina and lighthouse, the main entrance is also home to the Manta roller coaster attraction and aquarium exhibit. Before boarding the manta-shaped coaster cars, called “trains,” that take guests high above the park in a breathtaking series of twists and turns, riders have the opportunity to see several species of rays and other sea life in a queue that is designed to evoke a seaside village.
The Manta coaster is meant to simulate the feeling of flying, but with a twist. It’s designed to mimic how manta rays seem to actually fly through the water when they move. When the ride is ready to start, rider’s spines become parallel with the track. They are secured in their seats via a lap bar and harness, with flaps to hold their feet in place. Riders get so close to the water below, they feel like the wings of the train may actually touch the surface. Indeed, the ride is designed to release jets of water when this happens to give riders the feeling that they have actually touched the water. Even the styling and colors of the ride, which are purple, cobalt blue, and ultramarine, evoke the image of a ray gliding through the water.
