If you’re a roller coaster fanatic like me, you’ll understand the sheer thrill of getting up close and personal with one of the world’s best wooden coasters. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in The Voyage Early Bird Tour at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari—a dream opportunity!

The Early Bird Tour offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes adventure. Imagine climbing the 163-foot lift hill of The Voyage, standing at the top, and soaking in breathtaking views. That’s just the beginning! The tour also includes an escorted walk through The Voyage’s inner workings, a peek into the maintenance areas of Thunderbird, a meet-and-greet with roller coaster technicians, and a ride on Thunderbird’s first public launch of the day. 

To top it all off, you get three Quick Access Passes, $15 HoliCash, a souvenir lanyard, and an All-Day Digital Photo Pass. Note that park admission isn’t included, but you’ll find it worth every penny. Tours are available daily through August 4, 2024, but spots are limited to groups of two to eight guests, all at least 52 inches tall.

The Voyage, designed by The Gravity Group, is a legend among wooden coasters. It’s the second longest and sixth tallest, with 6,442 feet of track and a 163-foot height. It features five underground tunnels and holds the world record for the most airtime on any coaster—24.3 seconds!

I was joined on my tour by a father and son from Seattle for this adventure. As we began the climb, I wondered how my legs would hold up. I’m no spring chicken, after all. But step after step, more than 300 in total, I felt an exhilarating rush rather than fatigue. Reaching the peak of the lift hill was an unforgettable moment. The view was nothing short of spectacular, with the new Good Gravy! family boomerang roller coaster adding to the panorama.

At the top, I carefully took out my phone to capture photos and videos of the stunning scenery. The sight alone was worth the climb. But the excitement didn’t stop there. Two roller coaster technicians guided us through the rest of the tour, explaining the daily maintenance routine on The Voyage. We got to see and hold the heavy packs they carry every morning, packed with tools for any necessary repairs. 

Learning about the type of wood used, seeing banked turns up close, and the intricacies of the trim brakes gave me a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship behind The Voyage. This tour wasn’t just an experience; it was a highlight of my theme park adventures. 

For any roller coaster enthusiast, The Voyage Tour is an absolute must. It’s a journey into the heart of one of the greatest wooden coasters ever built—a journey that rejuvenates your spirit and leaves you craving more.

Further reading:

• Why I’m Excited For The Season at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
• My First Taste of Good Gravy at Holiday World