Germany’s first Diving Coaster from Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) has opened at Heide Park near Hamburg.
Krake (Octopus) debuted on April 16, and is more spectacular than Oblivion at Alton Towers in England (a sister Merlin Entertainments property), though not quite on the scale of the Sheikra rides at Busch Gardens in the States or Chimelong Paradise’s Dive Coaster in China.
Merlin has invested around E12 million ($17.8m) in the new attraction, which features a near-vertical first drop from 41-metres. During the 60 second-ride, passengers experience a half-loop, Immelmann turn, camelback hills and an unforgettable diving experience towards a lake, complete with water braking. The floorless B&M ride vehicles are unique in Europe, featuring three rows of grandstand-style seating, with 18 seats per car.
The park’s 2011 season continues until November 6.
