Sea World gives Gold Coast an eye

Sea World is busy underway in preparation for the opening of a 60m Giant Wheel that will give up to 250 riders at a time unparalleled views of the Gold Coast theme park and its surrounds.

Sea World is a theme park blessed with a location that is hard to beat. Situated on the shore-front it is surrounded in all directions by sand and sea. The only thing that could possibly improve the spectacular location of the park is giving guests the chance to take in these surrounds from an unparalleled vantage point.

When an Australian company purchased The Birmingham Eye with plans to ship it to Australia, Sea World jumped at the opportunity to lease a Ferris Wheel that is on the forefront of technology for this style of attraction.

With 42 gondolas, each offering air-conditioned comfort for up to six people, riders will be given an unparalleled view of the Gold Coast and the iconic theme park.

The attraction is designed and built by Ronald Bussink Professional Rides, responsible for some of the world's largest Ferris Wheels. An identical attraction commissioned by Chance-Morgan lives permanently atop Niagara Falls (pictured) giving riders one of the most spectacular ride views in the world.

Each air-conditioned gondola features wide glass windows and an audio presentation that points out some of the sights along the 15 minute journey. There is also a single 'VIP' gondola available for hire where riders are treated to luxury with a plasma screen and the option for champagne.

With the new attraction Sea World is introducing a Sea World at Sunset package for the summer holidays where guests can visit Sea World after park hours for a glimpse of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean from the Sea World Eye, a moonlit tour of Sea World's expansive dolphin pools and a seafood smorgasbord at Sea World's Broadwater Restaurant to top off the night. Pricing for this package is not yet known.

The attraction is on schedule for an early December opening and is expected to be in operation at the park for around six months. It is unknown at this stage whether Warner Village Theme Parks, operators of Sea World, plan to eventually make the attraction permanent, or replace it with a similar Wheel.

"We are thrilled to offer Australia's first giant observation wheel for the exclusive enjoyment of guests visiting Sea World over the Christmas holiday season. It will prove a fantastic and unique experience to complement the many other wonderful attractions, exhibits and events for all ages to explore and enjoy," said John Menzies, CEO of WVTP.