Friday, June 01, 2012

"Dinner and a Coaster" - Special access to Manta, more

Theme Park Review, a coaster enthusiast website, recently moved its headquarters to Orlando. If you've not heard of TPR before, they are well known for arranging tours and trips, often international in scope, that fold in theme parks and "extra ride time" (ERT) on roller coasters -- all arranged because they work directly with the parks in question.

The tours cost money, of course, but they've got something for everyone. Locals in Central Florida might not need the full tour service (logistics, busses, park admission), but the owners have something in mind for them, too. (Disclosure: I worked for years together with Robb Alvey, the site founder, at Disneyland).

And just what is it they have in mind for Orlando locals? Extra Ride Time (and a touch of backstage access, too).



The event Robb has put together offers ERT on Manta for a full hour. That means the coaster will be running just for the few people who are part of this event... it's not open to the public. You don't need a ticket to SeaWorld to attend; you buy TPR's ticket and that covers admission.

It also covers dinner. Beer, wine and soda are included. And you get a behind the scenes tour of Manta, as well as access to the new TurtleTrek (which I still haven't seen myself). The event page even mentions a question and answer session with park management.



The event takes places on Sunday, June 10th, 2012, from 5:00pm - 9:30pm. Tickets cost $35 each, and must be purchased from TPR's website: http://www.themeparkreview.com/store/index.php?productID=178

(note: if buying more than one ticket, just click the link to add a second one to your cart).

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Kevin Yee is the author of numerous independent Disney books, including the popular Walt Disney World Earbook series and Walt Disney World Hidden History.