In-Depth Look at SeaWorld San Antonio’s Record-Breaking Catapult Falls Log Flume Attraction
Catapult Falls at SeaWorld San Antonio is a first-of-its-kind log flume attraction. The ride features eleven boats, holding eight riders each. After meandering through calm waters, Catapult Falls launches riders at speeds of 30 feet per second through the first splashdown. Soon enough, the attraction travels up a unique elevator lift and down a 53-degree drop, the steepest of any log flume. Join us for an in-depth look at the ride's queue, along with a POV and on-ride review of Catapult Falls.
A Queue Line Fit for Texas
Catapult Falls features one of SeaWorld San Antonio’s most themed ride queue lines to date. Upon entering the plaza, riders are greeted with signage for adventure. To tie into its aquatic nature, SeaWorld has also created and installed several educational signs, featuring the history, significance and critical stages of the state’s own San Antonio River. The directional signage shown here points out only a few stops on your Catapult Falls Adventure.
Guests are greeted with a bold entrance sign as they head into the ride’s main plaza area.
Riders must be between 42” and 48” to ride with a companion. 48” and up can ride alone, while the maximum rider height is 77”.
Ride lockers are available at Catapult Falls, which can be found at most major attractions around SeaWorld San Antonio.
Catapult Falls carries a national park theme with signage that centers around the significance of the San Antonio River.
The story of the San Antonio River begins at the springs, which supports evidence of indigenous importance spanning over 12,000 years.
The San Antonio River is also a central point for cultural significance with its proximity to landmarks, such as the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
After downtown San Antonio, the river flows into rural areas and plays a significant role in providing water and habitats to species that help control pests and pollinate crops. On top of this, the river provides transportation and climate regulation.
Your first queue structure is base camp one, which features several themed pieces related to fishing and the outdoors.
Heading out of base camp one, riders are greeted with their first view of the attraction’s unique elevator lift.
Base camp two is also home to adventure-related themed elements. Some of these themed pieces may be hiding in plain sight.
Base camp three is your final stop prior to heading to the station. From here, riders get amazing views of Catapult Falls’ layout, along with Steel Eel’s presence along the skyline.
As you complete your Catapult Falls adventure, be on the lookout for the final signs that talk about the San Antonio River.
The San Antonio River eventually makes its way into the Gulf of Mexico. A vital part of the Gulf Coast ecosystem, maintaining the river system keeps the ocean and its many species vibrant and alive.
As you exit the ride’s main plaza, don’t forget to look for signs that pay homage to SeaWorld San Antonio’s original log flume ride.
A First-of-its-Kind Ride Experience
Your unique on-ride journey starts off with a peaceful entry into Catapult Falls. Sights include the Catapult Falls Campground, along with Geyser Gulch. Beware, however, of these geysers as they are known to blow at random times, soaking riders that pass nearby. Soon enough, you’ll encounter a first-of-its-kind launch system that sends your boat into the first splashdown. Shortly after, riders make their way up an elevator lift to journey down the record-breaking 53-degree main drop and into the final splashdown.
Each Catapult Falls ride unit holds up to eight people and features a lapbar restraint system.
Boats travel calmly past the Catapult Falls Campground, which features a tent and other themed elements.
After passing more campsites, riders encounter Geyser Gulch. Your first opportunity to be soaked depends on when you encounter the randomly-erupting geysers along this area.
Catapult Falls features a launch section that propels boats at 30 feet per second over a small hill and into the first splashdown.
Part of the ride’s finale sends riders up an elevator lift and down a record-breaking 53-degree angle drop.
After the 53-degree drop, the boats encounter a second airtime hill.
Riders quickly plunge into a grand splashdown finale.
A Splash Zone at the ride’s exit gives non-riders (and riders) an opportunity to get wet.
Catapult Falls Preview & Opening Schedule
Pass holders can experience the soft opening of Catapult Falls from 11am to 5pm on February 24, 25 and March 1. Please note that the attraction will be in technical rehearsals on these dates. Catapult Falls’ official grand opening takes place on March 2 with a special ceremony taking place at 11:30am.