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Discover The Story Behind Universal Volcano Bay

March 8, 2017
Check out more photos and videos of our adventure on the new Hard Rock Orlando SoundTracks Digital Guide, along with tips to make the most of your stay at the Hard Rock Hotel and Universal Orlando Resort.

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Whenever we create a new ride or land, an incredible story is always our starting point. And while creating an immersive, one-of-a-kind water theme park seemed like a challenge in itself, we knew amazing storytelling would be at the core of our creation.

Today, I’m sharing with you the inspiration behind this tropical paradise and introducing you to the Waturi, the islanders who call Volcano Bay home.

The Creation Myth

Universal's Volcano Bay

It all began with the fiery god, Krakatau (kra-kuh-TAU). Though his wrath and fury dominated the land, he couldn’t contain the adventurous spirit of his daughter, Tai Nui (tie-NOO-ee). She fell in love with a native youth named Kala (KAH-lah). And when her fiercely protective father learned of the romance, he flew into a rage. He banished Kala forever to the sky, where he became the Moon.

Overcome with grief, Tai Nui’s tears became the Sea. Krakatau then realized he had only succeeded in destroying what mattered most to him: his daughter’s happiness. Determined to reunite the young lovers, he reached into the earth and pulled it to the sky – creating the volcano of Volcano Bay. Krakatau trapped the remains of his anger and jealousy in the form of the fire spirit, Vol, whom he imprisoned deep within the volcano.

This is how the Sky, Sea and Earth united to form the paradise of Volcano Bay.

The Waturi Legend

Universal's Volcano Bay

Before they came to Volcano Bay, the Waturi (wah-TOO-ree) traversed the ocean in outrigger canoes in search of a new home. According to the legend, a mystical fish named Kunuku (koo-NOO-koo) was destined to guide them.

Their voyages took them to the far corners of the South Pacific. And wherever they went, the Waturi embraced the customs, music and art of the many people they encountered. But alas, nowhere did they find Kunuku.

On and on they searched, until they came to the very edge of the world. And it was there that they found Kunuku playing in the waves. Within a day, Kunuku and the winds of fortune lead the travelers to the shores of Volcano Bay. The Waturi knew that, at long last, they had found home.

Your Arrival Story

Universal's Volcano Bay

When you come to Volcano Bay, you’ll be welcomed as one of the Waturi family. The islanders have never forgotten the kindness and generosity their ancestors encountered in their journeys across the Pacific. It is that same spirit of friendship that they extend to every guest who visits Volcano Bay.

Upon your arrival, you will be provided with your own waterproof TapuTapu wearable – designed specifically and exclusively for use in Volcano Bay. With its Virtual Line and TapTu Play capabilities, TapuTapu allows you to live on Waturi time and feel as one with the island’s carefree way of life.

Throughout Volcano Bay, you’ll discover a vibrant blend of Polynesian cultures and architecture from across the South Pacific – all inspired by the travels of the Waturi. You’ll also find surprises throughout the park, including Vol – the ancient fiery spirit trapped inside the Krakatau volcano.

Insider tip: You’ll have the opportunity to speak with Vol inside the volcano. But first, you have to find him…

The Waturi believe in living life to its fullest and creating stories through adventures. I can’t wait for you to create your own stories and embrace your inner Waturi.

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12 Comments

  • Reply Steve March 14, 2017 at 11:21 am

    Will access to Volcano Bay be included with annual pass purchases, or only the upper tiers of passes?

    • Reply Mr. Mike March 31, 2017 at 11:21 am

      Nope. It was announced yesterday that it is an additional fee, but it can be added onto your existing passes.

    • Reply Abaddon March 31, 2017 at 12:46 pm

      Seasonal, Power and Preferred Passholders can upgrade from a 2-Park Pass to a 3-Park Pass for an extra $99*. Premier Passholders can upgrade for an extra $149*.

    • Reply Joan March 31, 2017 at 12:52 pm

      Can we get an answer to this question?

  • Reply Rick March 18, 2017 at 9:41 am

    Great story! I love how it all ties together.

  • Reply Daniel Alderson March 31, 2017 at 11:19 am

    I want to know if my current pass that expires july 7th can be upgraded to include volcano bay, and how much that will cost.

  • Reply Hector March 31, 2017 at 11:49 am

    How much will the tickets be? The only option to buy tickets are with the package option? How about for us UOAP holders?

  • Reply Bradley Whitchurch March 31, 2017 at 12:33 pm

    If I have an annual pass, do I have to buy a separate ticket to Volcano Bay? I only see 3 park tickets for sale on the web. I am an annual pass holder planning a trip in early June, and want to take the family to Volcano Bay.

  • Reply Mel March 31, 2017 at 12:40 pm

    How do I add this on to my current pass? I can’t wait to go with my family – the park looks amazing. We have had so much fun at Universal so far this year!

  • Reply anthony crofts March 31, 2017 at 4:11 pm

    hi will we be able to use our current power pass to gain entry to volcano bay.

  • Reply Darlene Chambers April 1, 2017 at 2:15 am

    WE HAVE BEEN PREFERRED PASSES FOR ABOUT 9 YEARS..WE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF WE HAVE THE OPTION OF ADDING THE NEW PARK ON OUR PASSES. I THINK ITS SAD THAT WE HAVE TO WAIT SO LONG TO FIND OUT. i HAVE CALLED ABOUT 4 TIMES SINCE THE 1ST OF THE YEAR WITH NO ONE SEEMINGLY TO KNOWING THE ANSWER..

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