Despite the fact that flying coasters are not my preference, Manta is the real deal.
Following up that statement leads me into what will be a very positive review concerning the latest and greatest thing to hit central Florida. We were in Orlando this past weekend (I am currently typing up this review from The Marshall House Hotel in Savannah, GA) with our main task being a sub-48:00 minute time in Disney's Race for the Taste 10K. That was accomplished on Sunday morning with a 47:50 in which I was very proud of. On Friday however, our secondary task was completed with two laps on Manta and # 3 ranking in the best new coasters of 2009 poll. It definitely lived up to that ranking.
Like most things in Orlando, Manta is not simply a coaster, it is a total experience. The line weaves in and out of the Manta Ray exhibit and is a 1st class aquarium all by itself. Their is a separate entrance for those only wishing to view the animals, but a large portion of the aquarium itself can be seen through the Manta que line.
I rode the ride once as a walk-on as soon as the park opened, then again at mid-day with about a 20 minute wait. I expect that eventually the lines will get massive as the ride is located very close to the front of the park entrance and has become the new icon at Sea World.
As for the ride itself, it has a number of unique elements despite its flying type. The first drop into the pretzel loop is surpassed only by Tatsu out west. It is much more intense than those inversions located on the various Superman clones. The g-forces provided by this inversion are very strong as you feel like your body is going to be sucked all the way through your seat. Manta also has two zero-g rolls with are taken at just the right speed to feel intense but comfortable.
The most unique feature the ride contains however, is the dip into the water following the mid-course brake run. I recommend the seat on the far ride (the first one as you entering the train) as you can reach down and fell the water as it blasts upward. You do get a little wet but it is a refreshing kind of wet without being drenched. The other seats do not offer this.
In conclusion, Sea World has a definite winner. The coaster is centrally located so it is easy to get pics of. It takes up a large area but walking paths are present directly under numerous parts of the ride. The ride scores somewhere between the Superman clones and Tatsu putting it at a solid 8.5. I will round up to the 9 however, due to the immersive themeing and fun ride experience. It is a can't miss while at Sea World.
Overall rating - 9.
