Uh oh. Better get (a ride on) Mako

SeaWorld Orlando’s hypercoaster is fintastic

4.5 (out of 5)

For this month’s “Rode It! Loved It!” review (which is exclusively for paid subscribers; kindly consider becoming one), let’s go to the theme park capital of the world and check out one of coasterdom’s apex predators.

I know, I know. Pipeline: The Surf Coaster is getting all the hype at SeaWorld Orlando now. But I’m going to focus on a different, older ride (which is the raison d’être for “Rode It! Loved It!”). While I haven’t been on the park’s latest thrill machine, I’m willing to bet that Mako is still SeaWorld’s best coaster. In fact, I’d say the shark-themed ride is among the top three coasters in Florida, with Iron Gwazi at sister park, Busch Gardens Tampa, and VelociCoaster at Universal’s Islands of Adventure edging it out.

Also, I have special affection for the beast. I had the honor of being the first person outside of SeaWorld and its ride manufacturer, Bolliger & Mabillard, to experience its swoops, dives, and freaky airtime. Whenever I return to Florida’s theme park nexus, I crave a ride on Mako.

Mako cuts quite the profile. (SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment)