A Ray of Flight: Manta Coaster Coming to SeaWorld Orlando in 2009

Back before the park adopted its trendy spelling (when there was a space between "Sea" and "World"), the most thrilling ride--really the only ride--at SeaWorld Orlando was the Sky Tower. The gentle ride is still taking guests high above Shamu and his marine life pals, but since Busch Entertainment took over the Florida park, it's been adding coasters and other thrills to go along with the animal exhibits and shows. In summer 2009, SeaWorld will up the thrill quotient with Manta, a themed flying coaster. What's a flying coaster, you ask? Passengers will be harnessed in a near-prone position under Manta's trains as they soar through the air and skim along the water. Read more about Manta.

• Manta at SeaWorld Orlando Preview Photo Gallery
• Aquatica Water Park at SeaWorld Orlando Overview

Photo: Rendering of Manta coaster coming to SeaWorld Orlando. Busch Entertainment, 2008. Used with permission.