Complete Guide to Water Rides at Universal 2024

Complete Guide to Water Rides at Universal 2024

Complete Guide to Water Rides at Universal 2024

This article is your complete guide to Universal Water Rides 2024. We’ve tried out all of the water rides in Universal, so we can tell you how thrilling or how wet you’re gonna get. Which, if you’re planning on riding Popeye’s, you’ll want an extra pair of socks. And if you want more tips on all Universal Orlando water rides, keep reading!

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 Have Water Rides 2024?

Yes! While there are only 3 true Universal water rides, there are also several attractions and lands that have unique water features for little ones to splash around or guests to cool down. To start this article, we are going to rank all three Universal Studios water rides, highlight their features, and give you a better picture of what to expect. That includes interactive water playground areas and other attractions that might get you wet!

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

As we mentioned above there are only 3 water rides on our Universal water ride list, so next we will rank them starting with the lowest.

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

Ranking Water Rides at Universal 2024

#3 Universal Water Ride – 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 This is one of the three Islands of Adventure water rides that we feel have a cute, although outdated, storyline to follow as you float along.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.

We still love this Universal Orlando water ride, especially since it can fit the ENTIRE family in one boat and is over 5 minutes long.

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

#2 Water Ride at Universal – Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls

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 Islands of Adventure. 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 – Universal Orlando Water Ride – 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 2024 – Splash Zones & Kid’s Areas

While the classic water rides in Universal Studios are the most popular choices to cool off in the Florida heat, there are other water experiences for guests to enjoy 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 when visiting Universal Orlando with Kids! 

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.

Are there any water rides at Universal Studios Florida?

There are NO water rides at Universal Studios Orlando Florida Park. Up until January 2023, Universal Studios Florida had a splash pad zone in the Woody Woodpecker kid section of the park. So guests who are looking for the best Universal Orlando water rides should plan to spend a significant amount of time at Islands of Adventure park.

Although not rides – 2 areas in Diagon Alley have water elements to them. Both are interactive spells that can be turned on with an interactive wand spell. 

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.

Related post: Complete Guide to Universal Studios for Kids

Tips and Tricks for Universal Orlando Water Rides 2024

Now that we’ve learned all about the best water rides in Universal Studios 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

Q: Is there any water rides at Universal Studios?

A: Yes, there are three different water rides at Universal Studios and a variety of water experiences. Unfortunately, Universal Studios Florida does not have any water rides, and only Islands of Adventure have the three of them.

Q: Does Universal Studios have water rides?

A: 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.

Q: How many water rides are at Universal Studios Orlando?

A: 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.

Q: 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!