When you think of the Bahamas, you probably think of endless pristine beaches, palm trees, hammocks, and relaxing in the sun. You wouldn’t be wrong, but now the Paradise Island Resort is famous for the Atlantis water slide in the Bahamas within the Aqauventure Waterpark. The exact replica of the Temple of Doom has become a main attraction of the resort and the Bahamas, drawing international crowds to the Indiana Jones-style experience.
What to expect at the Atlantis water slide in the Bahamas
The water slide, officially called the Leap of Faith, is so named because the bottom of the slide is covered in mist and cannot be seen. For those brave enough, the first chute takes them down 18 metres on an almost-vertical drop, through the mist, and into a clear acrylic tunnel. This tunnel then takes visitors through an underwater passage where they zoom through shark-infested waters. Among these sharks are 4 metre long nurse sharks and Caribbean Reef sharks.
The Vice President of Marine Operations, Mark Gsellman explains that the ride is so popular because it gives guests the ultimate experience and an unforgettable adrenaline rush. Many people, of course, are very excited to try the Leap of Faith, but typically grow anxious as they wait for their turn. With such a massive drop ahead of them, it’s certainly understandable. Gsellman says, “the feeling of being dropped at a near perpendicular angle and flying past sharks is something you can’t find anywhere else.”
The water park housing this amazing adventure is one of the largest in the world, also featuring a 40 metre Power Tower, a seven acre snorkelling lagoon, a challenger slide, and many more. However, none of these compare to the Leap of Faith experience in the Mayan Temple, built at full size in order to dominate the skyline on Paradise Island.
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Access to the Aquaventure Waterpark
Access to the Aquaventure Waterpark at Paradise Island is free for guests staying at the resort. Alternatively, passes may be purchased by day visitors, but be sure to book in advance as availability may be limited during periods of high resort occupancy.
When to go
To enjoy the weather and outdoor activities to their fullest in the Bahamas, the winter season between November and April is recommended, as there is guaranteed sunshine, mild temperatures, and low rainfall. Between June and October should be avoided, as this is the peak of the rain and hurricane season.