Project Anchor Planning
Project Anchor Planning began behind the scenes in February 2022. Chessington World of Adventures planned to breathe new life into its ageing Pirates Cove section. The area, while home to some beloved attractions, had begun to show signs of wear and underutilisation. As part of a wider resort development strategy. The park’s creative team devised a plan to revitalise the land with fresh theming, new attractions, and a cohesive story. Ultimately leading to the creation of Shipwreck Coast.
The planning process was driven by a desire to enhance guest experience and create a more immersive, family-friendly environment. Chessington’s team looked to the UK’s coastal fishing villages for inspiration. Aiming to transform the space into a vibrant, whimsical seaside town beset by a shipwreck and the adventures that followed.
Plans focused on replacing underperforming pay-to-play elements with permanent attractions that would contribute more meaningfully to the park experience. Ride manufacturer Zamperla was selected to supply two new rides: Barrel Bail Out, a water-based attraction ideal for warmer months, and Trawler Trouble, a rehomed Rockin’ Tug ride that would fit perfectly within the new narrative.
The proposal also included the reworking of existing rides like Blue Barnacle and Seastorm, ensuring they aligned with the updated aesthetic. Notably, the inclusion of animal enclosures featuring Bagot Goats and Black Rats added an educational layer to the area, further distinguishing Shipwreck Coast from other theme park lands.
With plans finalised quickly, the project moved rapidly from concept to reality, with construction commencing in March 2022. Thanks to efficient coordination and detailed planning, Shipwreck Coast welcomed its first guests just five months later. Opening officially on July 15th, 2022.
Project Anchor Planning
Barrel Bail Out
Barrel Bail Out was introduced as a fun, interactive water ride to headline Shipwreck Coast. Chosen from Zamperla’s Watermania range, the ride replaced the former Goal Striker football game. The concept had guests helping to bail water from a sinking ship, tying perfectly into the shipwreck theme and bringing an energetic, splash-filled experience to the land.
Planned as an all-ages attraction, Barrel Bail Out helped diversify the area’s offerings. Themed barrels, nautical props, and drenched surroundings were all part of the vision, making the ride a visual centrepiece. Its inclusion added movement, colour, and playful chaos—key elements in bringing the coastal village to life.
Plans
Project Anchor Planning
Trawler Trouble
Trawler Trouble was planned as a key family attraction for Shipwreck Coast, using the existing Rockin’ Tug ride relocated from Thorpe Park. Its rocking boat motion perfectly suited the new nautical theme, simulating a fishing trawler caught a top a rock, caught by a siren's song. The planning team saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the attraction by placing it where a pay-to-play basketball game once stood, making much better use of the space.
The ride’s new setting was designed with themed props like fishing nets, crates, and dockside décor to reinforce the coastal storyline. Planners also refined the queue layout for better flow and visibility, ensuring Trawler Trouble felt like a natural part of the shipwrecked village. Its compact footprint and wide appeal made it an ideal addition to the refreshed family-focused area.
Plans
