The Dutch theme park will invest €50 million in its first suspended launch coaster, combining a new ride system with immersive storytelling inspired by nineteenth-century scientific exploration.
Efteling has announced Missie Luminar, a €50 million suspended launch coaster scheduled to open in 2029. The attraction will become the Dutch theme park’s first ride of its kind and one of the largest investments in its recent history. The project continues Efteling’s long-term strategy of expanding its attractions while maintaining its emphasis on themed storytelling.
Located within Het Eiland van de Vijf Zintuigen, close to the park’s main entrance, Missie Luminar will place guests in the role of ‘missionauts’ embarking on an ambitious scientific expedition. The experience begins inside a nineteenth-century research institute before a high-speed launch sends riders on a mission to break the speed of light. The journey lasts more than two minutes and combines rapid acceleration, sweeping turns and several moments of weightlessness.
The suspended launch coaster features vehicles that hang beneath the track rather than sitting above it. Efteling says the ride will reach a top speed of 80km/h, although the close interaction between the track and surrounding scenery is intended to make the experience feel even faster. Around the attraction, guests will encounter a themed environment inspired by natural phenomena, scientific experiments and nineteenth-century voyages of discovery.
Fons Jurgens, chief executive of Efteling, said: ‘This type of coaster is completely new for Efteling. It will be unique and special, also because of its location. Missie Luminar is an addition to the themed area Het Eiland van de Vijf Zintuigen. Visitors will see the vehicles racing past as soon as they enter the park to begin their day.’
The attraction will occupy a prominent position alongside the park’s entrance complex, Efteling Grand Hotel, Efteling Theatre and Aquanura. By introducing a major thrill attraction at the gateway to the resort, the park is creating a new visual landmark while encouraging guests to explore the entrance district throughout the day.
Efteling has not announced the ride manufacturer. However, the project has attracted significant industry attention because it represents one of the first major installations of the emerging suspended launch coaster concept. Further technical details are expected as construction progresses towards the planned 2029 opening.
Image: Efteling
