Universal’s New Roller Coaster Permit Isn’t for What You Think: Why the Lost Continent Rumors are Wrong. Over the last few days, a “Notice of Commencement” filed by Universal Orlando has been circulating on social media, with fans claiming it’s the smoking gun for an Intamin roller coaster or a new Dark Ride finally replacing Poseidon’s Fury in the Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure.
However, after a closer look at the actual documents and the current state of construction, it’s time to set the record straight: The Lost Continent isn’t getting a coaster yet. Here is why that viral permit is actually for the massive project currently taking over Universal Studios Florida.
The Land Doesn’t Lie: It’s the “Connector” Property: The biggest clue is hidden in plain sight at the top of the filing. The “Description of Property” lists specific parcels and lots that don’t belong to the Lost Continent.
The paperwork references land that serves as a connection point between the two parks, specifically, the area behind the scenes between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. This is exactly where the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit site sits, stretching toward the back of the park where the new attraction’s infrastructure is already being laid.
The Intamin Connection: Rip Ride Rockit’s Successor – Speculation has been mounting that Universal is bringing a version of the “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” coaster (currently being built at Universal Studios Hollywood) to Orlando.
This new permit lists Intamin as the equipment manufacturer. While fans wanted this to be for Poseidon’s Fury, the timeline points directly to the Rockit replacement. Consider the evidence from IAAPA 2025:
- Intamin officially showcased the new “drifting” ride vehicle at their booth in Orlando this November.
- While the Hollywood version is already testing, showcasing it in Orlando, Universal’s home turf, is a classic move to build hype for a local announcement.
- Construction at the former Rockit site is moving at lightning speed, with footers and launch tracks already being spotted by aerial photographers.
The Lost Continent Timeline Problem: To put it simply, The Lost Continent isn’t ready. While Poseidon’s Fury is closed, the massive temple structure and the surrounding area remain standing.
The newly filed paperwork shows an end date of early 2025. It is physically impossible to demolish the Lost Continent and to start building an Intamin coaster or a Dark Ride by then. Meanwhile, at Universal Studios Florida, the Rockit has already been leveled, and the site is a hive of active construction.
The Verdict: While we all want to see the Lost Continent brought back to life, the “new coaster” paperwork is firmly rooted in a replacement for Rip Ride Rockit. Expect a “Fast & Furious” style thrill to dominate the Universal Studios Florida skyline very soon.
