And now, fast forward to today.
Manta - 2018
As you enter the queue for Manta, you'll head underground and pass by these tanks filled with various sea life.
Let's have a look, shall we. Ooh, lots of fishies.
A large White Sturgeon.
And of course, this exhibit wouldn't be complete without the ride's namesake. Well, actually this is a Sting Ray, not a Manta, but close enough.
A multitude of ceramic tiles hangs over the queue, each one created by a SeaWorld park guest.
An elevator for those the park's mobile-challanged guests.
Next, we'll wind our way through these pretty Japanese gardens.
The landscaping sure has improved since our first visit.
A train soars past above the queue.
The boarding station is very nicely themed to fit the oriental feel.
Manta's four trains each feature manta ray shaped fronts. The 5-car trains each seat riders 2 across in 2 rows for a total of 20 riders per train.
The Manta features two launches. Riders reach speeds of up to 43 miles per hour (69 km/h) on the two-minute, 2,800-foot (850 m) long ride.
The ride stands at a height of 30 feet (9.1 m) and features a drop including an underground portion of 54 feet (16 m). The limited height was required due to height restrictions in place by the California Coastal Commission.
Splash down!
A view of Manta from the Sky Tower.
