Dreamworld, has unveiled plans for an exhilarating new ride, “King Claw,” set to take the place of the much-loved attraction, The Claw. The announcement was made during the IAAPA Expo Europe in Amsterdam, where international attractions manufacturer Intamin confirmed its involvement in designing the new thrill ride.
Set to open in late 2025, King Claw will become the largest gyro swing ride in the Southern Hemisphere, marking a significant milestone in Dreamworld’s ongoing efforts to enhance its thrill-ride offerings.
A New Era of Thrills
Dreamworld CEO Greg Yong shared his excitement about the upcoming addition, calling it a step forward in redefining the park’s appeal to thrill-seekers.
“Our vision for King Claw is to elevate the guest experience to heights we’ve never reached before—literally and figuratively,” Yong said. “This new attraction will set a new standard for thrill rides at Dreamworld, offering a heart-pounding adventure that our guests will talk about for years to come.”
King Claw will stand 27 metres tall—over 50% taller than its predecessor, The Claw—and boast speeds that are similarly 50% faster around 98km ph. The ride’s swinging arc will even surpass the highest peak of Steel Taipan, Dreamworld’s iconic rollercoaster, promising a breathtaking experience for those 32 people brave enough to ride.
Farewell to a Classic
The Claw, which has been a central feature of Dreamworld for the past 20 years, will officially close at the end of January 2025. Towering 17 metres high, The Claw has been one of the park’s most celebrated rides, appearing prominently in marketing campaigns and pop culture.
When it debuted, The Claw attracted significant media attention, including a memorable competition hosted by the television program Rove Live. The challenge? Ride The Claw naked—a cheeky stunt that drew widespread interest. The ride also featured in Big Brother promotions from 2005 to 2008, further cementing its place in Australian pop culture.
As Dreamworld prepares to bid farewell to this iconic attraction, Yong expressed gratitude for its legacy, adding, “The Claw has been an iconic and much-loved attraction at Dreamworld for many years, and King Claw is the perfect successor to that legacy.”
A World-Class Collaboration
The new ride is being developed in partnership with Intamin, a global leader in amusement ride manufacturing. Intamin’s Executive Vice President, Sascha Czibulka, was present for the announcement in Amsterdam and praised the project as a groundbreaking venture for the company.
“We are incredibly proud to be working with Australia’s biggest theme park to elevate their thrill ride offering to a whole new level,” Czibulka said. “The King Claw experience is going to be like no other—it truly is a world-class attraction.”
Construction Timeline
Construction on King Claw will begin immediately after The Claw’s closure, with the goal of opening the new ride by late 2025. While The Claw’s retirement marks the end of an era, Dreamworld’s investment in King Claw reflects its commitment to delivering cutting-edge attractions and unforgettable experiences for guests.
Dreamworld is owned by Coast Entertainment Holdings Limited, which continues to invest heavily in the park’s future. With King Claw set to become the largest gyro swing ride in the Southern Hemisphere, it is clear that the park is intent on staying at the forefront of Australia’s entertainment landscape.
The Legacy Lives On
Although fans will undoubtedly miss The Claw, King Claw promises to carry forward its legacy while introducing an entirely new level of excitement. Dreamworld’s ability to innovate and reimagine classic attractions ensures its place as one of the country’s most beloved destinations.
As the countdown to King Claw’s grand opening begins, theme park enthusiasts have much to look forward to. The Southern Hemisphere’s tallest gyro swing ride is destined to make waves—and dreams come true—when it takes its place in Dreamworld’s iconic lineup of attractions.
