Didn’t ride much on Saturday but general impression of the park was ok. Things looked relatively tidy and the monorail station looks better than I expected. Few thoughts:
1 - appreciating the sensitivity of the subject but they need to do something about the Ride access pass. The queue for picking them up was huge and I’m sorry but it’s incredibly clear that people are abusing it which makes me feel angry for those who genuinely need it. That’s before the impact those abusing it have on the rest of the guests.
2 - There is clearly a lack of experienced tech services staff at the park. Enterprise and Rapids not ready for start of season, oblivion on reduced capacity with no apparent reason (plenty of staff in), Wickerman on 2 trains. It’s clear the team who remain cannot get through the work needed on their current numbers.
3 - Dungeons looked ok from outside, was amusing how many people where giving away the complimentary tickets yet no one wanted to take them off their hands. If as rumoured this is a temporary attraction then I have no major problem with it.
4 - operations were a bit ropey, this is to be expected on opening weekend. Will see how things progress through the season.
5 - Duel is in a right state.
6 - lack of support attractions is really starting to bite now guest numbers are getting higher. I doubt Merlin will do anything as they have already stated they are cutting park capex but you really feel like there isn’t much to do other than roller coasters.