The popular Efteling attraction “The Flying Dutchman” is currently undergoing maintenance work and will reopen to the public on Friday, April 18, featuring a new scene and photo opportunity.
A first sketch of the revamped scene by Efteling designer Karel Willemen. Source: Efteling
Scene Enhancements
According to Karel Willemen, a designer for the attraction, visitors will experience a completely redesigned scene 10. In the updated version, after being “swallowed” by The Flying Dutchman, guests will find themselves momentarily immersed in a burning shipwreck, complete with surrounding smoke, dangling barrels, and drapes. This new environment is designed to represent “the inside of the rotten soul of Willem van der Decken,” before visitors escape by ascending the ramp.
Extended Maintenance Period
“Regular maintenance was extended slightly this year because the runway had to be partially blasted and coated,” explained Willemen. “This extra time gave us the chance to simultaneously improve one of the scenes.”
The decision to redesign scene 10 came after maintenance challenges with the original captain’s head feature, prompting the team to opt for a complete redesign rather than continued difficult maintenance.
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Modern Design Approach
The renovation utilized contemporary design technology, with changes first tested in virtual reality before implementation. “Nowadays we already check the desired changes in 3D in advance,” noted Willemen. “This allows you to use virtual reality glasses to see exactly whether what you have thought up on paper will work out well in practice.”
This approach allowed the team to construct the frame and scenery elements outside the attraction while track work was being completed, streamlining the installation process once the track renovations were finished.
Retail Space Updates
Visitors exiting the attraction will now walk through a renovated souvenir shop that has been redesigned to appear more spacious. The store will offer photo products and themed souvenirs focused on the ghost ship and its captain. The retail space has also been enhanced with a new canopy.
The Flying Dutchman is scheduled to reopen in time for the Easter holiday and has previously been plussed by Efteling. Subscribe to AirMagique for more news and updates.
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