SeaWorld San Diego is bringing back a fan-favorite with a bold new twist. The iconic Journey to Atlantis water coaster is set to reopen in 2025, reimagined with cutting-edge technology, immersive storytelling, and a refreshed adventure that blends fantasy, science, and thrill.
First debuting in 2004 as San Diego’s first water coaster, Journey to Atlantis quickly became a staple attraction for visitors. It is now undergoing a dramatic transformation that promises to excite both nostalgic fans and first-time riders alike.
The reimagined attraction will take guests on a new expedition into the lost world of Atlantis, incorporating a fresh storyline centered around the S.E.A. Collective, an intrepid team of scientists and explorers dedicated to uncovering the secrets of the deep. Guests will follow the group’s mission through three immersive chapters: Discovery, Descent, and Escape.
An Epic New Chapter in the Atlantis Saga
The journey begins in the queue, where guests enter a high-tech research base buzzing with activity. Expedition maps, audio transmissions, and bold theories will hint at an unfolding mystery beneath the waves. The S.E.A. Collective, already known to SeaWorld fans from attractions at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld Orlando, leads the narrative as they track the mythical Kraken—an ancient sea monster awakened from the depths.
Once aboard the eight-passenger boats, riders plunge into the heart of the story. As they explore the sunken ruins of Atlantis, they’re confronted with breathtaking LED visuals, projection mapping, and powerful water effects that bring the city—and its lurking dangers—to life. The climactic encounter with the Kraken sets the stage for a dramatic vertical lift and a final heart-racing splashdown.
Blending Thrills with Storytelling
The hybrid flume-coaster combines the best of both worlds: the sensation of a roller coaster with the soaking excitement of a water ride. With a minimum height requirement of 42 inches, the attraction is designed to be family-friendly while still delivering plenty of thrills.
Tyler Carter, SeaWorld San Diego Park President, said:
“Journey to Atlantis has always been a guest favorite, and with these revisions and additions, we’ve transformed the experience to be more than a ride—it’s a full-sensory adventure. This ride is great for all ages, and the next-level features and fresh storytelling will provide a thrill to a whole new generation of explorers.”
SeaWorld San Diego says the redesign reflects the park’s commitment to continually evolving the guest experience, with immersive media and rich storytelling designed to captivate a new generation of explorers.
