Do you like roller coasters? If so, you’ll have to ride SeaWorld’s The Manta – “where under water creatures are at your fingertips.” This is one of SeaWorld’s newer rides. It opened May 2009, and it is a great addition to Kraken and Journey to Atlantis. Unlike other roller coasters, Manta will give you the sensation of soaring, like a stingray gliding through the open sea. Don’t just take my word for it; you’re going to have to go on this journey yourself. Believe me, you will not be disappointed.
What the Manta Ride is Like
At first you might think that Manta is like every other roller coaster, but just wait. Once you are strapped into your harness, prepare yourself, because the ride puts you in a horizontal position, looking downward, head-first. When the coaster begins to move, the sensation of becoming one with the coaster overtook me; I felt as if I were a real stingray. I was enthralled. Then, all of a sudden, the ride flips you on your back moving at speeds up to 60 mph. Gliding, swooping and skimming waves, Manta will take you through four inversions on a 3,359 ft. track in a little over 2 minutes. Once Manta has made its round trip back to the loading bay, without a second thought, you’ll be back in line ready to ride again!
As with all rides there comes a height requirement, and this one’s no different. Those who are 54” (137 cm) or taller will be able to cruise on. You’ll also be required to leave your personal belongings in a locker or with a guest who may not be going on the ride. Luckily I remembered my sunglasses just in time and grabbed them off my head. Lockers are conveniently placed around each of the rides at a minimal cost. My glasses did not go with me the second or third time on the Manta!
SeaWorld offers a Fun Card for Florida and Georgia residents and also offers other guests a multi-park ticket to enjoy Aquatica, Discovery Cove and Busch Gardens. You may also get your 2nd visit free with a single-day ticket. With such great bargains and an awesome ride, it’s hard to pass up this Manta experience. Roller coaster lovers everywhere should definitely glide in for this one. I’ll be going again, and again, and again…
Last Updated on July 20, 2016
