Florida's latest spine-tingling attractions

With the wind in your face as you reach the peak, there is a split-second pause that feels more like a minute as we teeter on the edge before plummeting over a 70-degree drop.

There’s not much time to scream. With my bottom leaving the seat entirely, this feels more like a free-fall bungee jump than any coaster I’ve ridden before. The definition of “hypercoaster” means replacing the familiar inversion concept with “air time” – namely, floating out of your seat. And the results are truly thrilling.

It’s a great concept for those who never enjoyed the feeling of going upside down. After a second time navigating the dips, drops, swoops and – in true shark style – a hammerhead turn, I am hooked – no pun intended. I really can see this ride attracting a new wave of guests to the park and the beginning of a new direction for SeaWorld.

Meanwhile, over at Busch Gardens, in Tampa, a more family-friendly coaster has landed. Cobra’s Curse is a spinning rollercoaster with a few surprises. The cars actually free spin downhill on the coaster tracks, creating a sensation much like the old-school Pirate Ship swing rides of our childhood. But this is Florida, so the park moves it to the next level, taking us on a 70ft vertical lift and into the fangs of the possessed snake before whisking us off course – and backwards – to escape. The ride is tame but doesn’t disappoint on those all-important tummy tickles, and with a height restriction of 42 inches, daredevil kids as young as five may be able to ride.