DarKoaster, Indoor Roller Coaster Coming To Busch Gardens Williamsburg
DarKoaster, the world’s first all-indoor straddle coaster, will open in 2023 at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. The new attraction Manufactured by Intamin Worldwide is the park’s tenth coaster and an unprecedented, family-friendly addition to Busch Gardens’ thrill ride portfolio. The new coaster will be housed in the iconic Curse of DarKastle building, paying homage to the previous ride with subtle theming nods for loyal park fans.
The backstory states that King Ludwig’s abandoned fortress resurfaces as strange weather patterns have been recorded near the cursed castle grounds. Only the bravest souls will embark on snowmobiles in this dark expedition to discover the mysterious phenomenon. A supernatural force is imminent as explorers discover that they are evading more than just a raging storm.
Escape the storm on the ALL-NEW DarKoaster, the world’s first all-indoor straddle coaster. Traveling on snowmobiles across 2,454 feet of track, daring explorers race through total darkness while changing course to avoid the elements. As the weather strikes, riders encounter four accelerating launches and speed through the storm on this family-friendly dark ride experience.
“DarKoaster will be an exciting and unique addition to our world class lineup of coasters,” said Kevin Lembke, Busch Gardens Williamsburg Park President. “As an indoor attraction, DarKoaster complements our collection of thrill rides and offers a new experience to enjoy throughout the year. Plus, with only a 48-inch height requirement, DarKoaster is a ride for the whole family to conquer together.”
Busch Gardens has released the following teaser video.
The ride’s theming will be “very dark, definitely. We want to keep that ominous feel to what’s happening,” said Suzy Cheely, the park’s Vice President of Design and Engineering. “You’re exploring, everyone’s on a snowmobile. You’re kind of exploring the area and a storm starts up, right? So there’ll be effects, lighting, sound, some projection, some hardscape pieces that’ll be shined on as you whip around through the elements.”
During a media tour this morning, a spokesperson for the park said construction on the ride started in back in January of 2022. As you can see below, the track is complete, but there’s lots of construction for the ride still to go.
DarKoaster is scheduled to officially debut in 2023 with exclusive previews held for Busch Gardens Williamsburg membership holders prior to its grand opening. For tickets and more information, visit the official Busch Gardens Williamsburg website by clicking here.
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