Every Water Ride at Universal Orlando Resort

Every Water Ride at Universal Orlando Resort

universal-water-rides

Every Water Ride at Universal Orlando Resort

This article is your complete guide to the water rides at Universal Orlando! At this point in time there are three water rides at Universal Orlando, Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and Jurassic Park River Adventure. Families visiting will also be happy to know that they are all located in Islands of Adventure Park.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Universal Orlando check out our Universal Crowd calendar! 

Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

Does Universal Orlando Have Water Rides?

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Yes, Universal Orlando Resort has three main water rides, all located in Islands of Adventure Park, which are Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, and Jurassic Park River Adventure. Of course, these rides are different from all of the water rides found at Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Park. On top of the three rides mentioned above, there are also several attractions and lands that have unique water features for little ones to splash around or guests to cool down, including a brand new play area in the newly opened Dreamworks Land.

What are the Water Rides at Universal Orlando?

  • Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
  • Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
  • Jurassic Park River Adventure

Related post: What is the Cheapest Way to go to Universal Studios?

Ranking The Water Rides at Universal Orlando

#3  Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges

Location: Islands of Adventure – Toon Lagoon

Height Requirement: Minimum height of 42″

Starting at number three is Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, which is a typical river rapids attraction located in Toon Lagoon. Hop aboard a circular, 12-seater raft boat with Popeye as your guide to chase after that blowhard Bluto. This is one of the three Islands of Adventure water rides that we feel have a cute, although outdated, storyline to follow as you float along. Bluto has kidnapped Olive Oyl, yet again, which sends you on a mission through rushing rapids, twists, turns, and even … a humongous octopus!

While all three of the water rides at Universal Islands of Adventure are entertaining, Popeye’s is at the bottom of our list for a couple of reasons. First and from experience, you will get VERY wet, like beyond wet. If you’re okay spending hours wet and forget to bring a change of clothes, this ride can be very off-putting. When it comes to thrill, the other two water rides at Universal are just slightly more thrilling, and Bilge-Rat Barges is the most family-friendly option available.

Related post: Complete Guide on Celebrating a Universal Studios Orlando Birthday

#2 Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls

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Location: Islands of Adventure – Toon Lagoon

Height Requirement: Minimum height of 44″

Coming in at number 2 is Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, which is a thrilling, water-coaster attraction with flume-type boats. Also located in Toon Lagoon, this water ride in Islands of Adventure celebrates the classic Canadian Mountie, Dudley Do-Right rather high-thrill experience. This story takes you along the rescue of damsel Ness Fenwick, who has been stolen away by Snidely Whiplash, with some impressive drops and a ton of cheeky humor.

As for storyline and overall conception, Dudley Do-Right is probably the weakest of all three of the water rides in Universal Orlando. The only reason this attraction is above Bilge-Rat Barges is that we just find it more thrilling and the perfect amount of water. It is easy to overlook how outdated Dudley Do-Right is with a high-speed 75-foot drop, multiple splash factors and even the chance to get sprayed by spectators on the overlook bridge.

Related post: Complete Guide to Universal Roller Coasters

#1 Jurassic Park River Adventure

Location: Islands of Adventure – Jurassic Park

Height Requirement: Minimum height of 42″

Coming in at number one is the iconic, half tour, half survival journey through the Jurassic Park River Adventure attraction. This water ride at Universal’s Islands of Adventure stands out not just for its thrill but also for its immersive storytelling. Guests boarding the tour boats anticipate a serene journey through Jurassic Park, safely distanced from the dinosaurs in the water. However, the real excitement begins when the boat is unexpectedly knocked off course, leading straight into the facility housing the most ferocious of creatures.

The Jurassic Park River Adventure is a highlight among water rides at Universal Orlando. Its appeal lies in the intricate animatronics and a narrative that resonates with the original films that captivated audiences worldwide. For those seeking pure adrenaline, the ride culminates in an 85-foot drop, plunging directly into the waters surrounding the dinosaur facility. If you’re exploring Universal Studios Orlando water rides, prepare to be drenched most anciently. We wholeheartedly recommend setting aside time for this unparalleled aquatic adventure.

Related post: Complete Guide to the Universal Studios VIP Experience

Other Water Rides at Universal Studios Orlando – Splash Zones & Kid’s Areas

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While the classic water rides mentioned above are the most popular choices to cool off in the Florida heat, guests can enjoy other water experiences while at Universal. Especially since there are no Universal Studios Florida water rides, Universal had to come up with immersive and fun experiences that can also provide relief in Orlando heat in the other parks. So, if you’re looking at how to stay cool in Florida without getting on a water ride in Universal, then check out these other experiences in the parks. It’s also one of the best areas for visiting Universal Orlando with Kids! 

Dreamworks Land

Guests can now enjoy two new splash areas within the brand-new Dreamworks Land. Guests can now enjoy the Kung Fu Panda Splashpad, which is located directly to the left of the entrance, as well as Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp area, which is both a wet and dry experience in which visitors can help wash and dry pandas with huge buckets and water cannons.

Toon Lagoon

Toon Lagoon is a miniature water park, will all of the elements inside of it having to do with water. This entire area will bring you back to the Sunday funny pages with very fun and cartoon-like buildings and attractions. Other than the attractions we’ve already mentioned, there is also Me Ship, the Olive, which is a multi-level play area with climbing elements, slides, and water cannons.

So, if you haven’t had enough on either of the Toon Lagoon Island of Adventure water rides, make sure to pop over to the interactive play area to truly soak thoroughly.

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish

If you have a really little one with you that you want to introduce to Universal water rides, try One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish. This attraction is an interactive circle ride, very familiar to the iconic Dumbo attraction in Walt Disney World. The only difference is that you get to use your lever to avoid streams of water being sprayed by silly fish.

Related post: Complete Guide to Universal Studios for Kids

Tips and Tricks for Universal Orlando Water Rides

Now that we’ve learned all about the best water rides in Universal Orlando and other water experiences, let’s talk about the best tips and tricks.

  • Dedicate a Day to Water Rides: If you’re keen on experiencing all the Islands of Adventure water rides, consider setting aside a specific morning or afternoon for them. This strategy allows you to tackle all the Universal Orlando water rides in one go and then head back to your hotel to freshen up.
  • Pack a Change of Clothes: Whether you’re bracing for the splash on a Universal water ride or planning to immerse yourself in interactive water play zones, walking around damp can be uncomfortable. Wet shoes can lead to blisters, and there’s nothing worse than squelching around in soggy socks all day.
  • Arm Yourself with a Poncho: Not a fan of getting wet? A poncho is your best friend on any of the water rides at Universal. It’s a simple solution to stay mostly dry while still enjoying the thrill.
  • Opt for Water-Resistant Footwear: Think ahead and pack footwear like crocs or flip-flops. These can be easily slipped on before you embark on a water attraction, ensuring your primary shoes remain dry.
  • Secure Your Electronics with Ziploc Bags: Before hopping onto any Universal Orlando water rides, safeguard your gadgets. Placing them in a Ziploc bag can prevent potential water damage, ensuring your devices stay safe and functional.
  • Do water rides earlier – The hotter it gets in Orlando, the longer the lines get for water rides. We suggest using Early Park Admission to get most of your big rides done before the park even opens, and then heading to those water rides!

Related post: Guide to the Universal Hogwarts Express

Universal Water Rides FAQ

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Are there any water rides at Universal Studios Florida?

There are NO water rides at Universal Studios Orlando Florida Park. However, there are two new splash areas located within the new Dreamworks Land.

Are there water rides at Universal Islands of Adventure?

Yes, there sure are! The three main Universal Orlando water rides included on this list which are Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, and Jurassic Park River Adventure are all included in Islands of Adventure theme park at Universal Orlando. The main one that you are guaranteed to get soaked on is Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls with the other two rides being hit or miss as to just how wet you will get.

Does Universal Studios have water rides?

Yes, there are three different water rides in Islands of Adventure which is located in Universal Studios. There are other water experiences located both in Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure like splash pads and interactive play areas.

How many water rides are at Universal Studios Orlando?

There are technically only three water rides in Universal Studios, all of which are located in Islands of Adventure. Those Universal water rides are Jurassic Park River Adventure, Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, and Dudley-Do Right’s Rip Saw Falls.

Do you get wet on the Jurassic World ride?

Guests who go on Jurassic Park River Adventure will get wet especially if they are seated in the front two rows towards the right side.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!

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Nik Chapman

Nik Chapman is the executive editor and one of the main content creators for The Park Prodigy blog and social media pages. With a lifelong love for Disney and Universal, Nik immersed herself in the Orlando area for three years to fully indulge in the magic of the theme parks. In between going to the parks and creating content for The Park Prodigy, Nik also hosted a Disney themed podcast with her two best friends and helps run multiple Disney-themed social media accounts which help over one million people per year. Drawing from their experience as a local Florida resident, Nik brings a unique perspective to the world of theme parks.