Architect: GMCN Architects
Aquatic Designer/Consultant: Waters Edge Aquatic Design
Landscape Architect: SMH Consultants
Builder: Branco Enterprises
General Contractor: American Warrior Construction
Pool/Spa/Waterfeature Contractor: Branco Enterprises
Mechanical Engineer: Hoss & Brown Engineers
Structural Engineer: Dudley Williams & Associates
Making Parrotheads of Us All
This nearly 33,000-square-foot indoor facility packs a lot of action for visitors of the attached hotel, as well as those who come strictly for the waterpark. Owned by a Jimmy Buffet fan, it was destined for the tropical. And it is themed to within an inch of its life. Even columns and park lights are disguised in faux palm bark and fronds. Three-dimensional murals highlight various destinations and provide backdrop for the lazy river. Play features mimic animals, flowers, and tropical plants.
Even the names of the attractions would appeal to a Parrot Head. The 440-foot-long lazy river with open body slides and run-outs is called Pineapple Express & Rum Barrel Runaway; a play structure goes by Castaway Cay; and a floating lily pad walk is called Everglade Lagoon. More thrills can be found on Coral Cliffs, a custom rock climbing wall with waterfalls; Screaming Tsunami, an enclosed raft bowl slide, and raft slide Riptide Rush. Meanwhile, small children no doubt will gravitate toward Lil’ Explorers Reef.
A total of four multi-featured pools fit in the space. This includes the river, which travels the perimeter.
The team had to erect the waterpark in an existing building. This meant designing around support columns — most of which stood in the center of the building. These vertical elements were integrated into features: One might be hidden in a rockwork structure, while another might support a faux palm tree basketball column.
SUPPLIERS
Controller/control system: Chemtrol
Custom rockscape and climbing wall: COST of Wisconsin
Filtration: United Industries Inc.; SwimTime
Heaters: Sentry Valve Company
Interactive waterfeatures: SplashTacular Entertainment; Water Odyssey by Fountain People
Slides: WhiteWater West Industries
Waterplay features: Playtime
Wave machines: Aquatic Development Group
