On 20th September members of the media from Bangkok and Cha-Am & Hua Hin Today were invited to a ‘sneak preview’ of Cha-Am’s latest attraction, the Santorini Water Fantasy. Also attending the preview were representatives of the Region’s Resorts so that they can give a personal description of what guests can experience. They were also treated to a concert on the ‘water stage’ by Thia rock bands Modern Dog and Jetset’er.
A VIP guest at the preview was Thailand superstar actress “Mew” Lalita (Panyophat) Sasiprapa. Also in attendance was Ms. Nasvera Tantichirasakul a Managing Director of the developers, Theme Plaza Development Co. Ltd.
Built at a cost of 100 million THB (US$3.25m), Santorini Water Fantasy is on about 4-acres (1.6 hectares). ‘Water Fantasy’ will be officially opened in later in October but is already operating and ready for business. The attraction is part of the Santorini complex, but a separate attraction some 200 metres away. You can visit one or both; it’s up to you.
What Can You Expect?
Rides, Rides, Rides………………. There are eight main water slide rides. They vary in style: some scarier than others, some open, some enclosed in a tube. Some you ride on a mat or inflated float and some as just a ‘body slide’. Some down fierce drops and some whirling you around a vortex then ‘spitting’ you out.
The signature ride would probably be the ‘King Cobra’. Featuring bold red, black and white scales, the ride’s imposing veneer extends along its massive 50 feet (15.24 metres) height and 260 feet (790 metres) length. The slide features fog, sound, lights and a unique configuration that enables two riders to race along a circular path of twists, turns and surprises. Riders reach speeds of up to 32 mph (51 kmh) via water pressure of 3,875 gallons (14,668 litres) per minute through open and closed tubes. The ride ends just after they endure a heart-pounding plunge of nearly 25 feet (8 metres) down a 50 degree slope which ends at speed and sending you up a final slope towards a huge cobra mouth.
There are also more gentle rides on an inflated tube along a flowing stream and other water born ways for children or the less adventurous to enjoy themselves.
A HUGE swimming pool with man made waves and watchful ‘lifesavers’ standing by. Lifejackets and flotation equipment is available.
Food and drink choices to satisfy your needs and with a system of prepaying and being equipped with a water proof wrist device which is ‘swiped’ when you need to make a purchase.
A very cunning ‘Facebook’ photography arrangement unique to Thailand. You are given the option of being guided through a log-on process to your facebook account. When photographs are taken with cameras positioned at strategic positions on the rides, you have the opportunity to download directly to your facebook page.
Lockers so that your valuables stay safe and dry.
Pool-side Cabanas are available to rent. They are enclosed (air-conditioned) with an outdoor ‘terrace’ and their own bathroom. Great if you what some respite or are just watching others getting wet.
Shopping for the latest fashion gear for swimming or pool-side leisure clothing.
Where is Santorini Water Fantasy?
One of the big advantages is that it is easy and convenient to visit especially from Cha-Am. It’s on the main Bangkok – Cha-Am/Hua Hin Highway, about 5 kilometres travelling from Bangkok before reaching Cha-Am on the right hand side. You will see the Santorini Ferris Wheel as a landmark on the Highway with Water Fantasy being less obvious and behind the complex.
Opening Times?
For the month of October open 9.00 am to 9.00 pm; for November open 10.00 am to 6.30 pm. On the weekend open from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm (subject to change).
Santorini Water Fantasy is the second of three water parks that will be one more reason to visit the Region. We already have the Black Mountain Water Park and the Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Jungle is due to open in 2014. However it will be hard for visitors travelling from Bangkok to go past this fantastic opportunity to get wet, be thrilled and just have fun.
Some Other Facts:
- A further 8 acres at the site is earmarked for a three-star resort.
- Perissa Beach in Santorini, Greece also has a Water Park, albeit much more modest than ‘Water Fantasy’. Now you know why there is reference to ‘Perissa of Santorini’ on the promotional brochure!
- It’s not a good idea to quote entrance prices which may be subject to variation. However the stated entrance price of tickets for Thais is less than for tourists. What this really means is Thai residents compared with foreign tourists. If you are a non-Thai resident you will need to provide evidence of your residence status (driving licence?) to qualify for the lower rates.
- If you bring children who are over 1.3 metres in height, they are no longer classified as ‘kids’ and the adult entrance rate apply. Is this fair? On average children reach this height by the time they are turning 9 years of age. This can make a family day out a little ‘pricy’ for many @ almost 3,000 THB entry for two adults and two ‘over height’ children.
For more information: Phone 032 890400, Website:www.santoriniwaterfantasy.com
