Wave Runner

7

 
Paultons Park
Clock Maze
Cobra
Flying Frog
Jumping Bean
Kontiki Ride
Land of the Dinosaurs
Magic Forest
Pirate Ship
Raging River
Rio Grande Train
Romany Experience
Stinger
Tea Cups
Wave Runner
Wind in the Willows

This looks like a pretty standard water slide you get at quite a lot of parks. The only one that initially seems different about this one is the nice job with the decoration of it, and the fact that the friction stop at the end is an upwards slope, instead of being flat. The sort of ride I'd usually have one go on, then move on to something else.

This perception changed when I rode it and found out why there's an upwards slope on the friction stop. The ride uses quite a deep half pipe for the dinghies, which allows them to achieve greater speeds. I think they then get these greater speeds with more intense pumping of water.

 

This is noticeable at two points. One is on the rides bumps where the speed you're going means you do actually get some air time, and it even feels like your dingy has left the track for a second or so. The other noticeable point is the upwards slope, when you hit it you're going at a high speed, and it's noticeable how far up the slope you can actually travel before the ride comes to a stop. It's a great set up than turns what's normally a standard filler into a fun family thrill ride.