A new, first of its kind airship adventure has taken flight in Rhyl, North Wales. It’s the latest addition to the attractions offered by Zip World, which operates adventure experiences at five locations in Wales.
The new Skyflyer is the 20th adventure launched by Zip World. The blimp-like airship takes passengers 400 feet in the air to enjoy views over the coast of Wales all the way to Liverpool and the Isle of Man on a clear day. The ascent takes three minutes and is accessible to wheelchair users, people with other disability needs, and people of all ages. Skyflyer is located on Rhyl beach front next to the 1891 restaurant and bar, and 30 miles from Zip World’s own hotel at Tyn-Y-Coed in Capel Curig.
The 32 metre Skyflyer airship was made by Lindstrand Technologies in Oswestry, which has 40 years’ experience creating aerostats, airships and HiFlyers (sightseeing passenger balloons). This experience led to the development of Skyflyer, a unique creation that is designed to function in winds of up to 40 knots. It can take up to 25 passengers for a 15-minute sightseeing flight.
Zip World is already well known for having the world’s fastest zip line. Located at Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda, it reaches speeds of up to 100mph. Other high-adrenaline attractions include Zip World’s ground-breaking four-person zip line quarry tour and Bounce Below cavern playground for all ages at Llechwedd slate quarry near Blaenau Ffestiniog in North Wales; climbing and zip line rides at the former Tower Colliery at Aberdare in South Wales; a giant swing, treetop adventures and forest coaster at Fforest near Betws Y Coed in North Wales; and karting and quarry tours alongside the famous record-breaking zip line at Penrhyn Quarry.
Zip World has played a key role in putting post-industrial Wales on the map and its new airship attraction aims to add to Rhyl’s ever-expanding roster of exciting activities, drawing people from the surrounding area and further afield – and with Zip World’s hotel nearby, it’s easy to build a visit into a break that takes in the other Zip World attractions and the spectacular North Wales landscape.
Zip World owner and president Sean Taylor said:
“It’s an exciting time for Zip World, opening our fourth site in North Wales and bringing a touch more adventure to the ever-growing town of Rhyl. While our other adventures are high-octane, Skyflyer will be a chance for people of all ages and abilities to sit back and enjoy the views from above. Each ride will last around 15 minutes, so plenty of chance to take pictures and soak up the sights as you hover above the coast.”
Jamie Groves, Managing Director of Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, added:
“Following the success of all the company investments in Rhyl, we are thrilled to be working in partnership with such a highly regarded brand as Zip world to deliver this new attraction and hospitality offer next door to Rhyl Pavilion. This is a fantastic new partnership and a great endorsement for the strength of the brands working together. Attracting a brand such as Zip World truly demonstrates Rhyl is the up-and-coming destination, and the place to invest. We cannot wait for visitors to experience Skyflyer, taking off from Rhyl this Summer!”
