SECTION > 81 ride technologists to take the water experience to a different level. “We believe there is something innate within human beings that cause them to react to water. We believe that the excitement of AQUAVENTURE, coupled with the sophisticated beach experience, makes this unlike anything in the region,” says Alan Leibman, president and managing director, Kerzner International. Sol Kerzner, executive chairman, Kerzner International adds: “It is simply not enough for us to deliver new water rides. Our goal was to redefine the concept of a water park.” The AQUAVENTURE waterscape contains 18 million litres of fresh water used to power seven thrilling waterslides, a 2.3 kilometre river ride with tidal waves and pools, water rapids and white water chargers. Using the latest technology, AQUAVENTURE is capable of using over 750 000 litres per minute to create water surges and waves with swells reaching almost 2 metres high. Guests are propelled through the waterscape, never having to leave their inner tubes as innovative water escalators carry participants up slide towers and down through rapids. The Lost Chambers is a maze of underground tunnels offering underwater views, which were designed to bring the myth of Atlantis to life. The waterscape features two pools: the Royal Pool, a sophisticated serene experience and the Zero Entry Pool, an energetic, engaging experience, ideal for families. There is an inviting 1.4 kilometre white sand beach which hosts a variety of watersports including windsurfing, kayaking, and floating climbing walls. Dolphin Bay is a 4.5 hectare state-of-the-art dolphin education and conservation centre allowing guests the chance to interact with the world’s most charming and lovable sea animals. The Ambassador Lagoon, utilising 11 million litres of water, is a marine habitat and underwater exhibit to several hundred species of marine life. This being the most positive contribution the resort offers from an educational perspective for children. Guests at Atlantis can explore the marine habitat on their own or choose to interact with a ‘Navigator’, who
The Lost Chambers and a Seakeeper interacting with a dolphin in the Dolphin Bay.
shares educational facts and details on the mythical elements of Atlantis (how man and marine life first connected) and the Atlantis family of marine inhabitants. Daily feedings in the lagoons and sanctuaries are supervised by Atlantis ‘Seakeepers’ affording guests the opportunity to interact with the sea life. Raising awareness of the ocean’s ecosystems and promoting ocean conservation is a key dimension to the overall guest experience at the resort.
Sustainability and environmental impact In order to bring the Atlantis to life, the Palm Jumeirah project launched in 2001 in an effort to reclaim land off the shore of Dubai to create a man-made island in the shape of a cultural icon. According to Palm developer formation