Dan Koch, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, USA (pictured): We have chosen not to go in this direction. We see the park as the great equalizer, where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy our rides, shows and attractions equally. We work hard to keep lines short, and moving, and we plan to continue in this direction as we grow.
Todd Hougland, Ocean Park, Hong Kong: We are currently evaluating queue management systems options with the intention of implementing one in the very near future. We believe it is a service that many of our guests are looking for. In fact, they have indicated they are willing to pay for this premium service, and therefore it would be an additional revenue stream for the park. A similar “Privilege Ticket” has already proven itself at our popular Halloween Bash event, where tickets sell out quickly each year.
John Hildebrandt, Cedar Point, USA: We are introducing several options. Fast Lane will avoid lines on all of the park’s most popular rides all season long. Fright Lane will offer quick access at all of the haunted houses and the CornStalker fright zone during our HalloWeekends. We were able to gain experience with this concept last season at our sister park Kings Island and it was very popular, especially with guests who have time constraints. These passes will be available for purchase online and in the park, and daily quantities will be limited. We will continue to offer our VIP Tour option for guests who want a personal escort throughout their day at Cedar Point, including the ability to skip ride lines.
Hannes W Mairinger, Heide Park, Germany: In 2011 we introduced an electronic ride reservation system, which we call the “Express Butler” [by Lo-Q] to replace the previous paper pass. The Express Butler is a guest service which allows guests to plan their day, view waiting times, make ride reservations and avoid spending time physically waiting in the queue line. In the meantime, the guest can visit other attractions and proceeds to a separate ride entrance at the reserved time. This new system [€8 per Express Butler device and then €10 per guest] has been very well received and increased guest satisfaction.
