Freizeitpark Plohn has debuted Dønnervind, a Mack Rides water coaster using magnetic launch technology that has no precedent anywhere in the world.
Freizeitpark Plohn marked its 30th anniversary on 19 June 2026 with the opening of Dønnervind – the world’s first multi-launch water coaster, built by Mack Rides. The Saxon park, located in Lengenfeld, Germany, also confirmed the attraction as the largest single investment in its history, at approximately €13 million.
The ride catapults guests from a standing start across the water along more than 500 metres of track, delivering dynamic curves, drops and rapid changes of direction. What sets it apart from conventional water coasters is the use of Linear Induction Motor (LIM) launch technology. Rather than a traditional lift hill, magnetic launch zones accelerate the boats forward – twice. The result is a sustained momentum that conventional water coasters cannot replicate.
Jan Völkel, junior managing director of Freizeitpark Plohn, explained the decision at a pre-opening press conference: “We were immediately excited by this proposal from Mack Rides. It quickly became clear to us that we had the opportunity to create something unique here — something that fits perfectly with our park and our philosophy.”
The track also features a High Five zone and a Twisted Airtime Hill — elements drawn from coaster design that the multi-launch water coaster format makes possible for the first time. Saxony’s Minister-President Michael Kretschmer attended the opening ceremony alongside the Völkel family.
The park’s owning Völkel family said: “With Dønnervind, we are fulfilling a dream that just a few years ago no one would have believed possible. The fact that a genuine world first is being created here in the Vogtland region, of all places, makes us incredibly proud. At the same time, this investment is a clear commitment to our home region, our guests and the future of Freizeitpark Plohn.”
Image: Freizeitpark Plohn
