The core mission of nearly every theme park is to offer a dynamic blend of rides and attractions that capture the imagination while delivering an experience that feels both immersive and authentic. Legoland has achieved this vision across its ten operating parks and resorts worldwide, with four additional destinations currently in development. At the heart of these experiences lies technology that is robust, precise, and deliberately unobtrusive. Reliability and safety are paramount, enabling guests to embrace the thrill, wonder, and excitement of each attraction while feeling fully secure.

The Legoland Shanghai Resort represents a milestone in this tradition, positioning itself as one of the most technologically advanced Legoland properties to date—particularly in its aquatic environments. Developed by Merlin Entertainments, creatively master-planned by FORREC, and engineered by Cloward H2O, the resort brings together world-class expertise to craft memorable experiences tailored to Legoland’s family audience.

One example of this collaboration is the Water-Town Boat Tour, a signature family-friendly attraction. The ride immerses visitors in a lovingly detailed recreation of a traditional Chinese water town, where Lego storytelling blends seamlessly with cultural motifs. The journey culminates in a striking miniature Lego skyline of modern Shanghai. Each partner played a distinct role in realizing the attraction: FORREC shaped the thematic narrative and guest journey, Merlin designed operations to accommodate large visitor volumes, and Cloward H2O provided the aquatic engineering—integrating propulsion systems and water technologies that make the experience both seamless and safe.

The technical backbone of the Water-Town Boat Tour reflects this integration. Hydraulic pumps maintain consistent water levels and stabilize docking platforms while ensuring full accessibility compliance. Flow within the canal is carefully regulated to eliminate turbulence, and water circulation systems operate continuously to preserve clarity and quality. To achieve this, the ride incorporates eccentric reducing strainers, sand filters, regenerative media filters, up to eight chlorination systems, and UV sterilizers—all working in concert to maintain safety and visual appeal.

Beyond individual attractions, Legoland Shanghai Resort is designed as a fully immersive  experience. Its diverse lands include Lego City, the Legoland Hotel, and Lego Friends. Within the Lego Friends area, highlights such as the Friends’ Water Party combine interactive play with aquatic fun, featuring water races, beach parties, and build-a-boat challenges. Each of these experiences is underpinned by the same principles: precise engineering, guest safety, and seamless operational efficiency.

For example, flow rates across all water features are meticulously calibrated to balance fun and safety. Splash zones are engineered for predictable spray patterns, ensuring guests enjoy refreshing play without becoming uncomfortably drenched. The resort’s waterways are carefully engineered to prevent stagnation, ensuring water remains clear, clean, and safe for guests. Integrated hydraulic systems further enhance efficiency by reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliable performance. In practice, the resort employs everything from two 4-horsepower pumps to larger 30- and 40-horsepower systems where needed. Circulation zones across the park are strategically designed to prevent stagnation, keeping water consistently clear and safe. Integrated hydraulic systems connect lagoons with surrounding waterways, reducing pumping energy requirements and contributing to sustainability. 

These and more achievements were only possible through the close collaboration of FORREC, Merlin Entertainments, and Cloward H2O, whose combined expertise shaped both the creative vision and the technical precision behind the resort’s aquatic design. FORREC defined the spatial and thematic design, Merlin oversaw gameplay mechanics and operational logistics, and Cloward H2O engineered the hydraulic and electrical systems that controlled propulsion and splash timing. 

The result is a resort that stands out for both its creativity and its technical sophistication. The ability to coordinate such a wide range of components into a streamlined, reliable operation is what ensures Legoland Shanghai Resort can deliver joyful, safe, and lasting memories for its guests.

For more information connect with the firms below: 

Cloward H2O

Merlin Entertainments 

FORREC

Read more about theme parks >>>