One of the things I have promised myself to do is to zip line. I would love the feeling of flying through the air, and it always sounds such a peaceful way to see the countryside and its flora and fauna. So I was delighted to find that there is to be a new Zip line experience at Gatorland! Now that really sounds amazing – imagine flying over crocs and alligators! Callled ‘Screamin Gator Zip Line’ this new attraction should be open by June 2011.
It has, apparently, been a long time in the planning, having taken 15 months to finalise this attraction, at a cost of $1. 5 million, but now it is definitely opening. Stringent safety requirements had to be adhered to, and all the proper permits gained. Whilst planning the new zip line, visits were made to a number of other zip lines.
Whilst there are other zip line tours in Florida, such as the one at Forever Florida, and at the Florida Zoo at Sanford, the owners of Gatorland believe that theirs will have a considerable advantage over the others. They believe that their tour is superior because guests will be able to see a wider range and number of animals and birds than other attractions. The main tower will be 75ft high, and guests will begin their tour by first zip lining over the crocodile exhibit, then over the jumping Cuban crocodiles, onwards past the giant Nile Crocodiles, close to the saltwater crocodiles, followed by a 600 ft stretch through pine trees which ends near the gator wrestling area, after which there will be a swinging bridge, and a dual zip line where guests can race to the end.
One of the main aims of this new and exciting attraction is that Gatorland are seeking to attract more teenagers. It has been felt that this group has been the most difficult to attract in the past, but this will certainly add an element of excitement to a trip to Gatorland.
So how much will this attraction be? Well, although a final costing has not yet been decided, it will be around $60-$70, and this will include park admission. At a rough estimate it is expected that around 200 people a day will be able to experience this zip line ride.
It sounds a very exciting prospect, being eco friendly whilst giving access to some beautiful Florida countryside. Add to this the possibility of seeing some amazing wildlife, plus the heightened excitement of flying over alligators and crocodiles, it would seem that Gatorland have a sure winner on their hands.
It has, apparently, been a long time in the planning, having taken 15 months to finalise this attraction, at a cost of $1. 5 million, but now it is definitely opening. Stringent safety requirements had to be adhered to, and all the proper permits gained. Whilst planning the new zip line, visits were made to a number of other zip lines.
Whilst there are other zip line tours in Florida, such as the one at Forever Florida, and at the Florida Zoo at Sanford, the owners of Gatorland believe that theirs will have a considerable advantage over the others. They believe that their tour is superior because guests will be able to see a wider range and number of animals and birds than other attractions. The main tower will be 75ft high, and guests will begin their tour by first zip lining over the crocodile exhibit, then over the jumping Cuban crocodiles, onwards past the giant Nile Crocodiles, close to the saltwater crocodiles, followed by a 600 ft stretch through pine trees which ends near the gator wrestling area, after which there will be a swinging bridge, and a dual zip line where guests can race to the end.
One of the main aims of this new and exciting attraction is that Gatorland are seeking to attract more teenagers. It has been felt that this group has been the most difficult to attract in the past, but this will certainly add an element of excitement to a trip to Gatorland.
So how much will this attraction be? Well, although a final costing has not yet been decided, it will be around $60-$70, and this will include park admission. At a rough estimate it is expected that around 200 people a day will be able to experience this zip line ride.
It sounds a very exciting prospect, being eco friendly whilst giving access to some beautiful Florida countryside. Add to this the possibility of seeing some amazing wildlife, plus the heightened excitement of flying over alligators and crocodiles, it would seem that Gatorland have a sure winner on their hands.