From 24.73.197.194 on May 24, 2012 at 12:15 PM
Another nice ride review from TPI.

I've noticed these "canned" videos from SeaWorld are strategically edited to conceal the most exciting themed elements from their newest rides in 2012. So this video shows little to no detail of Manta's launch tunnel, and the video of Verbolten showed little detail of the dark ride portion of that coaster.

Regardless, this was a very nice review. Thanks so much for posting it.

- Brian

From Robert Niles on May 24, 2012 at 2:16 PM
I don't know that it's strategy so much as video of video rarely looks good, so why bother? But yes, the little snip of video you see at the beginning of our clip doesn't come close to doing the Manta video tunnel justice.

From Anon Mouse on May 24, 2012 at 3:34 PM
The opening tunnel sequence should show more. It has a soothing sound that portends a great ride; however, I'm sort of disappointed there wasn't anything in the middle section before the second launch and the ending didn't leave anything for you to see.

From 174.126.226.97 on May 24, 2012 at 3:44 PM
Seems like it's not spectacular compared to Orlando's "flying simulator" rollercoaster.:(
Sorry to say but I would rather go on Orland's roller coaster than San Diego's ride...

-Very Sorry

From Brandon Mendoza on May 24, 2012 at 3:52 PM
I actually like these videos that don't reveal too much. Yes, video rarely does an attraction's videos any sort of justice, but I like surprises. Can't wait!

From Jackie Stupack on May 24, 2012 at 4:16 PM
Thanks for the great review, Robert! It was really awesome meeting you yesterday morning at SeaWorld. (I was your adoring fan!) Manta IS really a fun ride and I think it will help SeaWorld San Diego get a little more of the family tourist business it tends to lose to Disney.

From Tim Chatlos on May 24, 2012 at 5:04 PM
Any word on what the hourly capacity might be for the ride?

From Robert Niles on May 24, 2012 at 6:02 PM
Yes! Thanks, Tim, for the reminder - I'd meant to cite that in the post. Jim said that Manta has a capacity of 1,400 guests per hour, running four trains.

And thanks for saying hello, Jackie. Pleasure to meet you!

From José María Sandoval on May 24, 2012 at 6:30 PM
Excelent review!!

From Manny Barron on May 24, 2012 at 11:23 PM
The ride looks awesome and I can't wait to experience it for myself this summer. Great review as well.

I've always had a question as to why the ride can only be 30 feet above the ground. When other attractions at the park go higher. Sky Tower goes well over 100 feet, but that may get a pass since its a San Diego landmark and its been there forever, but how about Journey to Atlantis? The ride seems to be at least 60 feet and is easily visible from outside the park on I-8.

From N B on May 25, 2012 at 4:36 PM
Two Sea World theme parks with a coaster named Manta and two completely different coasters.... all this time, I actually thought San Diego's version would be a duplicate.

From Robert Niles on May 25, 2012 at 7:09 PM
I believe it has to do with its location relative to the Bay (Atlantis is located farther away), and the fact that a coaster needs multiple supports, as opposed to a single-support observation tower. But I need to check and get a definitive answer for you.