Result
Adventure swimming pools offer much more than just the opportunity to swim. They combine water fun, relaxation and adventure and are aimed at visitors of all ages. Typical attractions include wave pools and water slides, often complemented by children's areas, whirlpools, catering facilities and sauna and wellness areas. This combination means that one in seven people visit a water park at least once a month. It is striking that almost half of the population would like to use the facilities more often.
Reasons
The discrepancy between desire and reality can initially be explained by the different price expectations of citizens. While a quarter of citizens are prepared to pay up to seven euros for a visit, almost one in two consider a price of up to 15 euros to be reasonable. One in ten would be prepared to pay between 15 and 20 euros, and just as many would be prepared to pay even more. In line with this unequal willingness to pay, expectations also vary. For the operators, this leads to the challenge of either appealing to broad sections of the population and charging low admission prices, or creating an expensive offer and having a small target group in return.
In addition to the entrance fee, the lack of availability or distance is also a reason for the significantly lower utilisation compared to the greater need to go swimming more often.
Forecast
The future of waterparks will be characterised by technological innovations and new experience concepts. Developments such as hydro-magnetic water slides, which use linear motors and magnets to enable not only higher speeds but also new movement effects, are one example of this. Another is the integration of virtual reality or interactive attractions that are equipped with LED lights, sensors and water jets and offer visitors the opportunity to actively shape their bathing experience.
In addition, more and more facilities are focusing on themed adventure worlds - such as tropical islands, medieval castles or futuristic cities - to create a special atmosphere and an immersive ambience that goes far beyond the traditional bathing experience.