On 21 September 2021, the metaphorical ribbon across an expanse of land in Aberdeen was cut, and the long-awaited branch of Ocean Park was opened to the eager citizens of Hong Kong.
Spanning over 60 000 square meters, the Ocean Park Water World is Asia’s first all-season water park. Upon entry, the visitor will enter its primary component, the Splendid Reef. This indoor structure is the heart of the park, from which many other rides are accessed. The park includes four other sections - Torrential River, Hidden Village, Adventure Coast, and Thrill Valley.
Here’s a little manual to the most standout attractions.
Raft rides
Where’s the joy of camaraderie without boarding the same invigorating experience alongside your fellow companions?
Cyclone Spin and Tropical Twist are raft rides for duos - a great way to start the day, a great filler ride between its rip-roaring counterparts.
In Vortex! and Cavern Chase, groups of four board a raft, and are swallowed by an orange tube into its echoing walls of orange.
Skyhigh Falls is perhaps, among a colorful, arresting assortment, the peak of what Ocean Park Water World has to offer, with both a rounding drop and a gravity-defying ascent.
Slides
What is a waterpark without its notorious slides?
Thunder Loop, Daredevil Drop, Bravery Cliffs seem fun from afar, but daunting when you’ve arrived on its doorstep. When you reach the front of the line, best expect an absolutely thrilling journey - downwards!
And if you wonder how they prevent last-minute riders from chickening out and jamming the long lines, you’ll be welcomed by a surprise.
For the kids
What’s a theme park without catering to its most ardent audience? Besides the aforementioned daring rides, many whimsical attractions appeal to the kids.
Rainbow Rush
The Rainbow Rush comprises different colored slides - red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, dark blue, pink, purple. Red lights turn green, and eight visitors simultaneously rush down their respective water slide, pulled by gravity through its twists and turns, racing for the win.
Horizon Cove
This indoor wave pool is situated beneath the glass roof of the main body, simulating the natural variation of waves. This is a great place to slow down and bathe in warm sunglow.
Relax
Despite the many shiny new attractions that you’ll be dying to try out, remember not to overexert yourself. Stop when you need a break - and you will need several throughout the day.
Lazy Cruise encircles the indoor building. Simply find yourself a floaty, clamber onto its slippery surface, and be taken by the languid, oscillating waters through its course.
Food
There are three restaurants in the park, one indoor and two outdoor, selling multinational food like burgers, kebab, Chinese rice, ramen, etc.; rest assured, the selection aligns with its values - that is, environmental friendliness. However, in classic theme park fashion, nourishment will not come cheap!
Travel Notes
In order to relish the full experience of a day at Hong Kong’s newest playground, you must be adequately prepared for it.
Bring towels - ones you are comfortable with walking around in
Phone (ideally with a waterproof bag if you intend on taking photos)
Wear comfortable flip-flops etc. footwear
Notes:
You’ll have a waterproof paper strap, used as a locker key, on your (or the designated member of your group’s) wrist at all times
You won’t be perfectly comfortable at all times, depending on when you visit - the cold air is magnified a hundredfold upon leaving the warm waters Long queues, especially for certain rides
Masks on at all times, except when on a ride
Sources:
Writer: Kristen Wong
Editor: Rin Kimura
Graphics: Jennifer Pun
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