Step into the floating tub for a ride through these cartoon rapids. Our nemesis, Bluto, throws a switch and, sure enough, mayhem ensues as we float down the wrong stream with cartoon cliches hurtling toward us, spewing and gushing water at the raft. The kids playing on the Olive ship playground aim their water cannons at us, too, soaking whomever manages to slip through the rapids undrenched.
The Bilge-Rat Barges opened with Islands of Adventure in 1999 and remain a visitor favorite, as one of the nation's most elaborately themed versions of this staple attraction. But, seriously, unless it's 90+ degrees with the sun remaining high in a clear sky when you visit, you really should have a change of clothes ready. Smart visitors hit Popeye & Bluto's back-to-back with the nearby Dudley Do-Right's flume ride, to get thoroughly soaked before hitting the lockers (or hotel room) for fresh, dry clothes.
Here's a promotional snippet:
Will readers vote Bilge-Rat Barges into the second round? We'll find out when voting begins in the Best Theme Park Attraction Tournament, in March. In the meantime, please share your thoughts about Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges, in the comments.
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Samuele
I've never understood the fun in getting wet in a ride. I live in Orlando, I know how hot and muggy it gets, but if there is something that I hate even more than the summer heat and humidity, it is to get my clothes wet in a ride. Even if I bring a change of clothes. I've tried, I really have. Now I just wait for my friends outside and a good time is had by all.
Very good ride but my goodness, i didnt realise you could get that wet !!
Getting wet is great fun for me since I am a 42 year old kid. If you are on vacation, it’s great fun and excitement. But I can see how it could get old after a while if you are a season ticket holder… Walking around with a wet crotch, Priceless!
I usually save this one for last at IOA, but it's well worth the wait. This ride really provides bang-for-your-buck. Not only does it pack on as many gags as a classic cartoon, it feels about the same length as one. Just as your raft begins losing momentum and tricks you into thinking the ride is over, you're hit with a lift hill and more rapids.
This is the Mecca of raft rides.
Stiff competition for sure if this is lower in the bracket!
This ride is one of the best of it's kind, However, taking absolutely nothing away from this ride's quality and fun factor, I nevertheless cannot see this one winning over so many great coasters and themed rides.
However, I would argue that the Grizzly River Run at DCA is at least a comparable ride, though I give the nod to the Barges for theming.
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