Six Flags Great Adventure has officially unveiled plans for BAKUNAWA, a record-breaking giga coaster set to open in 2027 as the anchor attraction for the park's revitalised Boardwalk section.
Inspired by the mythical sea serpent of Philippine folklore, the new coaster will stand 382 feet (116.4 metres) tall and reach top speeds of 100 mph (161 km/h). Combining extreme heights with free-spinning, floorless vehicles, BAKUNAWA is slated to break six world records upon its debut.
Breaking New Ground in Coaster Engineering
The attraction features 3,163 feet (964 metres) of steel track and utilises two 20-passenger trains equipped with independently rotating seats. Because the cars spin freely based on weight distribution and momentum, every cycle promises a distinct ride experience.
Riders will navigate three linear synchronous motor (LSM) launches throughout the two-minute, 17-second journey:
- First Launch: Accelerates riders from 0 to 60 mph out of the station before ascending above The Boardwalk.
- Second Launch: Features a world-first inverted launch, accelerating riders from 60 to 80 mph whilst completely upside down.
- Third Launch: Propels the train to its maximum speed of 100 mph up the 382-foot tower, followed by a spiral into a 180-degree banked turn.
Claimed World Records
According to Six Flags Great Adventure, BAKUNAWA will claim the following achievements:
- World's tallest spinning coaster (382 feet)
- World's fastest spinning coaster (100 mph)
- World's fastest inversion (80 mph)
- World's first floorless spinning coaster
- World's first upside-down launch
- World's longest stall inversion
To ride BAKUNAWA, guests must meet a minimum height requirement of 48 inches (122 cm).
Part of a Broader Resort Expansion
The addition of BAKUNAWA builds upon recent developments across the Jackson, New Jersey resort. Earlier this season, the park opened Shoreline Pier, introducing five family attractions (Barrels O' Fun, Flying Scooters, Hypno Twister, Super Roundup, and Wave Swinger) alongside new dining options and night-time entertainment.
Park President Mike Fehnel highlighted the long-term vision for the property:
"Over the past year, we've made meaningful investments across our resort that continue to transform the guest experience. From Shoreline Pier and the continued evolution of The Boardwalk to enhancements at Wild Safari, Hurricane Harbor New Jersey and Savannah Sunset Resort, every transformation is part of a long-term vision to strengthen Six Flags Great Adventure as the Northeast's premier destination for thrills, entertainment and family experiences. BAKUNAWA is our next defining milestone."
2027 Season Passes Now Available
Alongside the ride announcement, Six Flags Great Adventure has launched sales for its 2027 Gold Season Pass. Passholders will receive early access opportunities to ride BAKUNAWA when it officially opens in 2027, along with admission to signature seasonal events such as Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park.
