New York thrill seekers won’t have to travel far to experience one of the world’s most extreme roller coasters.
Six Flags Great Adventure just unveiled plans for an all-new record-breaking attraction that’s set to completely transform the New Jersey skyline, and it’s shaping up to be unlike anything ever built.
Opening in 2027, the park’s newest coaster, Bakunawa, will soar 382 feet into the air, reach speeds of 100 mph, and break six world records, including introducing the world’s first upside-down launch. Inspired by a mythical sea serpent from Philippine folklore, the coaster promises a ride that’s equal parts terrifying and unforgettable.
Six world records, one roller coaster
According to Six Flags, Bakunawa is expected to claim six world records when it debuts, including:
- World’s tallest spinning roller coaster (382 feet)
- World’s fastest spinning roller coaster (100 mph)
- World’s first upside-down launch
- World’s first floorless spinning coaster
- World’s fastest coaster inversion
- World’s longest stall inversion
The coaster will travel along a 3,163-foot track featuring three separate launches, while riders sit in floorless, free-spinning trains that rotate throughout the experience—meaning no two rides will feel exactly the same.
Inspired by a mythical sea serpent
The ride takes its name from Bakunawa, a legendary serpent from Philippine folklore believed to rise from the sea and swallow the moon.
True to its namesake, the coaster begins with riders climbing a near-vertical 90-degree ascent to the top of its massive tower before briefly stalling at the summit.
Depending on how your train has rotated, you could find yourself staring straight into the sky, directly toward the ground, or somewhere in between—just moments before plunging back down at highway speeds.
Coming to Six Flags Great Adventure in 2027
Bakunawa will become the centerpiece of a reimagined Boardwalk section at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey, just over an hour from New York City.
Each train will carry 20 riders, the experience will last approximately 2 minutes and 17 seconds, and guests must be at least 48 inches tall to ride.
An exact opening date hasn’t yet been announced, but if the plans are any indication, New Jersey is once-again about to become home to one of the most talked-about roller coasters on the planet.