Spring break season is fast approaching, and Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up for the crowds. One of the biggest changes this month is an adjustment to park hours—for at least the next week, one of the resort’s two theme parks will remain open until 9 p.m. each night.
The extended hours allow guests to spend even more time experiencing their favorite attractions, and just in time for the shift, a long-standing classic is finally making its return.
After a six-week closure for routine refurbishment, Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges will officially reopen at Islands of Adventure on March 15, 2025. The popular whitewater rafting ride, which first opened in 1999, has been closed since February 1, undergoing maintenance to ensure that its churning rapids, spinning rafts, and overhead waterfalls remain fully functional. Now, it’s set to welcome guests back just as temperatures in Florida begin to climb.
For those unfamiliar with Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, the ride is located in the Toon Lagoon section of Islands of Adventure and is based on the classic Popeye cartoons. The attraction puts guests into large circular rafts that spin and crash through turbulent rapids, sending riders careening through waves, waterfalls, and plenty of unexpected splashes.
Unlike some water rides that offer a light misting, Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges goes all-in—soaking guests from head to toe with relentless water effects. There’s no escaping the drenching on this ride, which is precisely why it remains one of the most popular attractions during the hotter months.
The reopening couldn’t have come at a better time. With longer park hours and increasing spring break attendance, guests looking for a way to cool off in the afternoon will likely make a beeline for this attraction. The combination of rapids, unpredictable splashes, and sheer chaos makes it a favorite among families and thrill-seekers alike.
For those planning to ride, it’s worth noting that Universal does offer drying stations nearby for guests who want to avoid walking around in soaked clothes all day. However, many visitors choose to embrace the inevitable and lean into the experience—it is a water ride, after all.
With the return of Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, Islands of Adventure is back to full strength when it comes to water attractions. So whether you’re a longtime fan eager to take another spin or a first-time rider preparing to get completely drenched, March 15 marks the return of one of Universal’s wettest and wildest rides.
