Project Anchor

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3. Project Anchor

Project Anchor marked a significant transformation at Chessington World of Adventures, breathing new life into the ageing Pirates Cove area. The ambitious redevelopment reimagined the once underutilised corner of the park, delivering a refreshed coastal theme under the name Shipwreck Coast. With a focus on increased guest interaction and immersive storytelling, the area was carefully crafted to blend family-friendly thrills with a maritime twist.

Central to the transformation were two brand-new attractions from ride manufacturer Zamperla. Barrel Bail Out, a soaking water-based ride, took the place of the former Goal Striker pay-to-play football game. Just across from it, Trawler Trouble, a Rockin’ Tug ride, was relocated to replace a basketball game stand. These new additions not only offered fresh experiences but also made better use of the previously underused space.

Complementing the new attractions, two existing rides—Blue Barnacle and Seastorm—received extensive refurbishments. Both rides were reworked and rethemed to better integrate with the new seaside village aesthetic. The retheming unified the land, delivering a coherent visual and thematic identity that enhances the storytelling throughout the area.

Shipwreck Coast wasn’t just about rides, either. The project also saw the introduction of two new animal enclosures featuring Black Rats and Bagot Goats, adding educational and interactive elements to the land. This inclusion reflects Chessington’s ongoing commitment to blending theme park thrills with animal experiences.

Project Anchor officially set sail on July 15th, 2022, and was met with enthusiasm from guests. The refreshed area has since become a standout family zone within the park. With its thoughtful design, fun attractions, and lively coastal atmosphere, Shipwreck Coast represents a successful revitalisation effort—one that honours the past while steering toward a bold and exciting future.