River Rafting Ride

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Piraña Efteling in the Netherlands Manufacturer: Intamin

A river rafting ride (also commonly referred to as a "river rapids ride") is an amusement ride that simulates whitewater rafting.

1 History
2 Construction
3 Ride layout
4 Partial list of river rapids rides
- 4.1 Americas
- 4.2 Eurasia
5 External links
- 5.1 Ride manufacturers

[edit] History

The river rapids ride concept was proposed by Bill Crandall (General Manager of AstroWorld in Houston) and developed by Intamin. AstroWorld introduced the world's first rapids ride, "Thunder River", in 1980 and popularized a concept which can now be found at most major amusement parks. Despite being an incredibly popular attraction, AstroWorld's "Thunder River" (being a prototype) was initially plagued by issues that were corrected in the first few seasons of operation. The boat bumpers were re-designed, portions of the wide river channel were narrowed or barricaded to prevent boats from bottle-necking or getting caught in a backflow, and a planned whirlpool-effect was scrapped.

[edit] Construction

Many modern rapids rides feature a much narrower river channel as well as smaller (6-seats as opposed to 12-seats) boats. Some are heavily themed while others may present a natural setting for added realism. Intamin has recently introduced new elements to the rapids ride concept: a vertical lift system, chute-the-chutes style drops, and a unique whirlpool feature.

River rapids rides feature circular rafts comprised of two main components: the fiberglass body in which passengers are seated tnd the rubber ring upon which the body is secured. The rubber ring provides bouyancy as well as shock absorption for when rafts collide with an obstacle during the course of the ride. Most rafts will occupy between six and twelve passengers, seated in groups of two or three depending on the manufacturer of the ride. Riders face toward center of the boat and are usually secured by a lap belt. Some rafts feature a circular metal bar in the middle of the raft; this gives passengers a place to grip or brace their feet. The floor of the raft body is generally above water level to allow drainage.

[edit] Ride layout

After leaving the station, the raft will enter relatively calm waters. After travelling a safe distance (usually 5-15 metres), the raft will enter more turbulent waters. Usually rapids are made by the amusement park having large cyclinder tubes underneath the water. The bigger the tube, the bigger the rapids. Along with the rapids, there are often waterfalls

Finally, there may be pressurised water jets. An automated system will spray gushes of water through a tube, or spray gun at the raft as it passes by.