On May 27, 2015, SeaWorld officially announced that its next major attraction would be a 200-foot-tall hypercoaster – the first true hypercoaster in Florida and the tallest coaster in the Orlando area.
Designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, commonly known as B&M, Mako officially opened on June 10, 2016, thrilling riders with speeds of up to 73 mph, a 200-foot drop and plenty of airtime. While it has no loops, it more than makes up for that with an amazing 70-degree first drop that lifts riders out of their seats, and each time you crest another hill, you experience even more airtime.
Mako by the Numbers
Height: 200 feet
Drop: 200 feet
Top speed: 73 mph
Track: 4,760 feet
Inversions: 0
Minimum height: 54 inches
Manufacturer: Bolliger & Mabillard
Opened: June 10, 2016
When Mako opened, it wasn’t just a roller coaster. It became the centerpiece of a new two-acre shark-themed area, incorporating Shark Encounter, Sharks Underwater Grill, retail and educational elements. The surrounding area was also transformed with a shipwreck-inspired aesthetic that helped tie Mako into SeaWorld’s existing shark attractions.
Whether you choose to ride in the front, which gives you a breathtaking view of the Orlando area – plus an amazing view of the ground as you race down that first drop – or pick the back row, where it feels like you’re going just a little bit faster as the rest of the train pulls you over the hills, the ride is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
If you want to crank the thrill factor up even more, riding Mako at night is a special treat that relatively few guests get the opportunity to experience. Those attending Howl-O-Scream will have the chance to do just that this year.
Ten years later, plenty of new coasters have arrived at SeaWorld Orlando, including Ice Breaker, Pipeline, and Penguin Trek. Yet none of them offer quite the same experience as Mako. With its massive first drop, high speeds and seemingly endless airtime, Mako remains one of the most uniquely thrilling rides at SeaWorld Orlando.
