Ready, set, launch
Another option to consider during the design stage is the waterslide’s launch system. Start tubs are the most commonly used by many waterparks. This type of launch system is suitable for riders of all ages and begins with the rider at the top of the waterslide, entering the slide flume.
For those who are a little more adventurous, a drop capsule or a water conveyor launch system can be used instead. The drop capsule begins with the rider in a sealed tube with their arms and legs crossed. Once the rider is in position, the floor drops and sends them speeding through the ride. This is a great option for more extreme thrill rides and thrill-seeking riders.
The water conveyor system uses high volume water jets or an actual conveyor belt to launch the rider in a raft through the ride. This type of slide does not require a start tower to create an exciting slide path that is more consistent with today’s amusement rides than traditional water rides.
The next decision, which can sometimes be determined by the waterslide’s launch system, is whether the client wants a body-, raft-, or mat-type slide.
Body slide
A body slide is for individual riders and works well with drop slides and interactive slides. The rider can sit upright or lie down on their back to enjoy the ride down the slide path. Body slides are suitable for riders of all ages.
Raft slide
Raft slides allow for multiple riders at one time. This increases rider turnover and works well for many of the exciting bowl and conveyor slides. Raft slides also allow younger riders to enjoy some larger, thrill rides with parental supervision. Depending on the waterslide, they come in two, four, six, or eight rider options. Riders sit in the raft and enjoy the experience together, which is very popular for families or groups of friends.
Mat slides
Mat slides are an ideal option for multi-flumed rides that allow two or more riders to race each other to the finish line. The riders lie down on the mat and launch down the slide path, usually face first. When multiple lanes are racing to the end, everybody’s competitive juices start flowing.
Waterslide developments
There are many new and exciting features the industry has developed to make waterslides more interactive and multi-purposed. Translucent slide sections and translucent bands have completely changed the rider and viewing experience of today’s new slides.
The translucent sections create the feeling of flying and builds excitement for riders as they wait in line and watch the rider’s experience right in front of them. The translucent bands give riders a completely different experience—especially when the waterslide is pitch black and has coloured translucent bands to allow light through to illuminate certain sections of the slide. Not only is the effect visually stunning, but it also makes the rider feel like they are going faster than they really are.
