RL33 Ferris Wheel for Street Machine

24 December 202527 December 2025Romee Popelier

RL33 Ferris Wheel for Street Machine

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Bringing the first 33 m wheel to Chile

The first large-format Ferris wheel in Chile is a true landmark project. RP Rides delivered an RL33 Giant Wheel to Street Machine, a forward-thinking operator bringing mobile attractions to new audiences across the country.

This 33-meter wheel is used in a wide range of settings, from festivals and Christmas markets to standalone promotional events. Its flexible setup and striking appearance make it a centerpiece wherever it goes, ideal for creating high visibility and crowd appeal in urban and event environments.

Agencia SM is setting a new standard for mobile entertainment in Chile, and we’re proud to support them with one of our most popular and adaptable wheel models.

Location: Chile
Client: Street Machine
Product: RL33 Ferris Wheel
Year: 2024

Pictures

RL33 Ferris Wheel for Dreamland Amusements

23 December 202527 December 2025Romee Popelier

RL33 Ferris Wheel for Dreamland Amusements

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The first one

We proudly delivered our first RL33 Ferris Wheel to Dreamland Amusements a leading carnival operator in the United States. As their debut 33-meter wheel, this project marks a new highlight in their lineup of portable rides.

Designed for fast setup and standout presence on the midway, the RL33 offers both reliability and visual impact, key features for any travelling operation. For Dreamland, it’s a perfect fit: iconic in appearance, easy to transport, and engineered for consistent performance across the country.

We’re thrilled to support the Destefano family as they expand their ride offering with one of our most versatile and eye-catching attractions.

Location: United States
Client: Dreamland Amusements
Product: RL33 Ferris Wheel
Year: 2023

Pictures

The real investment behind a water ride

10 September 20251 October 2025Romee Popelier

The real investment behind a good water ride

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When a theme park plans to install a water ride, whether it’s a rapid river, log flume, or splash ride. One of the first questions we get is:

What will it cost?

Spoiler alert: there is no one-size-fits-all answer. But we can give you a good idea of what’s involved in a water ride investment.

The ride system we design and manufacture is only part of the picture. The real investment goes far beyond boats and channels. Let’s break it down:

1. The Ride System

At RP Rides, we provide our clients with the ride system from Hafema Water Rides. This includes boats, pumps, lifts, conveyor systems, chutes, and special elements. We deliver the whole design & engineering scope of the ride system, including the layout design, control system, hydraulic calculations, and mechanical. & electrical engineering. This is the heart of your ride but only the beginning.

2. Civil works

A significant portion of the budget is allocated to on-site construction. This primarily includes the production of concrete channels. Additionally, all necessary buildings, such as a station, a filtration building, and a queue area or pre-show building.

3. Don't forget the magic

Let’s be honest, without theming, even the best-designed water ride looks.. unfinished. To blend the ride into the environment and match it with the concept of your park. We always recommend setting aside a solid budget to theme the ride. This includes additional theming to the boats, special spray concrete, animatronics, lights, audio, and landscaping.

4. Water treatment & filtration

Moving large volumes of water safely requires investing in pumps, filters, and water quality monitoring systems. While the main pumps are part of the ride system’s scope. The client is responsible for arranging their own filtration system and must comply with the local health and safety regulations.

5. Safety

Safety is another key area that requires planning and investment. This included evacuation routes, certification procedures, CCTV surveillance, maintenance walkways, and other systems needed for both guest and operator safety. In most countries, third-party inspections are required before a ride can open to the public.

6. Installation & integration

Once everything is designed and manufactured, the full system must be shipped, installed, and integrated on-site. This includes transporting equipment, assembling the ride on location, and coordinating with cranes, scaffolding, and local contractors. Installation is rarely plug-and-play; it requires a skilled team and detailed planning to make sure all systems are aligned and commissioned correctly within the park’s infrastructure.

7. Staffing & training

Operating a water ride isn’t just about the ride system, it’s about the people who run it. Your team will need trained ride operators, attendants, maintenance crews, and in some cases, even a dedicated rescue team, depending on local regulations. Staffing and proper training are essential to ensuring the attraction runs smoothly and safely every day.

8. Energy Use & long-term maintenance

Water rides are often among the most energy-intensive attractions in a park. Even though our rides are designed with operational efficiency in mind, making optimal use of the pump capacity, there are still long-term maintenance requirements to keep performance and reliability high. Pumps, sensors, and theming elements all require regular inspection and upkeep. This is something we’ll cover in more detail in a separate blog post soon.

What's the number at the bottom line?

Building a water ride is a serious investment, not only in money, but in planning, coordination, and long-term operations. It’s also one of the most impactful ways to anchor a themed area, draw in crowds, and create unforgettable guest moments.

At RP Rides, we don’t just sell rides. We help you build experiences, from first sketch to final splashdown. We can support you in every stage of your water ride project.

Curious about your water ride investment?

Contact us

Tell us your water ride ideas!

Wooddesign Amusement Rides partners with RP Rides for international business development

15 July 202515 July 2025Romee Popelier

Wooddesign Amusement Rides partners with RP Rides for international business development

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Vught, Netherlands, 15th of July 2025 – Wooddesign Amusement Rides, the Dutch ride manufacturer specialized in handcrafted carousels and family attractions, is entering a new phase of international growth with the support of RP Rides. As of this summer, RP Rides will represent Wooddesign Amusement Rides as a commercial partner, focusing on international business development and expanding the company’s global visibility.

Wooddesign Amusement Rides is known for its outstanding craftsmanship, custom theming, and durable family attractions. With over 35 years of experience in traditional woodworking for the amusement industry, the family-owned company delivers attractions for theme parks, zoos, and cruise lines worldwide.

A partnership built over time

RP Rides will act as Wooddesign’s international business development partner, supporting their ambition to grow sustainably in new markets. The collaboration builds on a long-standing relationship between Wooddesign’s owner, Johan Vermolen, and Romee from RP Rides, who met at the Euro Attractions Show in Berlin in 2012. During Romee’s time at Attractiepark Toverland, she experienced Wooddesign’s quality firsthand while working with their Wave Swinger.

Authentic craftsmanship

As a family business, we value quality, reliability, and long-term relationships,” Says Robbert Dekkers, CEO of Wooddesign Amusement Rides. Romee knows our work and speaks the language of the industry. With her support, we aim to increase our international visibility and reach new markets.

Adding Family Rides to our portfolio has been a long-standing ambition,” says Romee Popelier, owner of RP Rides. “But we’ve always been selective, we didn’t want to compromise on quality. With Wooddesign, we’ve found a partner who delivers authentic craftsmanship, real value, and a product range that completes our existing ride offering.

This partnership brings together two Dutch companies with shared values and a clear fit in expertise, focusing on delivering high-quality, handcrafted family rides and reliable support to the global leisure industry.

Pictures

More about our new Family Rides

Carousels

Wave Swingers

Family Rides

The largest Ferris wheels in the world and lessons for your own Ferris wheel business

30 June 202530 June 2025Romee Popelier

The largest Ferris wheels in the world and lessons for your own Ferris wheel business

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Icons in the sky

Every week, I receive requests from people with business ideas for a Ferris wheel. Usually, it starts with something like: “We saw the London Eye or the one in Dubai during our holiday, can we do something like that?” That enthusiasm is exactly what I love about working in this business. But I’ve also learned through many conversations and projects. People often focus on the inspiration but miss some key realities when turning the idea into a functioning attraction.

This blog isn’t a blueprint or one-size-fits-all solution. It’s just a set of my personal insights I often share when people ask for my advice. Based on what we can learn from the world’s biggest Ferris wheels, and how those principles apply just as well to more compact wheels.

1. Ain Dubai - Dubai, UAE (250 m)

The world’s tallest Ferris Wheel is located on Bluewater Island in Dubai. It features VIP cabins and event spaces with views of Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

2. High Roller - Las Vegas, USA (167 m)

A Las Vegas attraction known for its events, cabin weddings, private parties, and cocktail experiences above the Strip.

3. Singapore Flyer - Singapore (165 m)

Located in the famous Marina Bay area, offering views of the Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Singapore Street. Guests can enjoy unique experiences, such as champagne tastings, private parties, and dining in the sky.

4. Star of Nanchang - Nanchang, China (160 m)

The Star of Nanchang in Nanchang, China, offers views of the Ganjiang River and the city. It’s part of Nanchang Star Amusement Park.

5. Bailang River Bridge Ferris Wheel - Weifang, Shandong, China (145 m)

The largest spokesless observation wheel in the world. Built on the Bailang River bridge in China.

6. Sun of Moscow - Moscow, Russia (140 m)

Since 2022, the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe, located at the VDNKh park. The wheel is part of a larger entertainment complex including a shopping mall, restaurants, and other outdoor attractions.

7. The Londen Eye - London, UK (135 m)

Perhaps the most famous Ferris wheel in the world, the London Eye has been a landmark of the UK capital since 2000. It provides views of London’s skyline and is part of Merlin’s attraction cluster.

What can we learn from the tallest Ferris Wheels?

1. Safety first

Ferris wheels are designed and manufactured according to the highest industry standards. However, it is essential to understand and comply with (additional) local regulations thoroughly.

Be aware of your obligations regarding permits, inspections, and ride certifications.
Safety isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of your whole operations and is often required by law.

2. Location is key

Every successful Ferris wheel benefits from a smart, strategic location. It’s not just about being visible.

Select a location with high foot traffic, such as tourist zones, city centers, or waterfronts that are easily accessible.
There must be something to see from the top, such as landmarks, skylines, or nature.
Avoid placing the wheel next to tall buildings that can block views or overshadow the Ferris wheel.

3. Prepare your operations

Although a Ferris wheel is not the most complex ride to operate, it is often underestimated by many prospects. As they focus more on the potential revenue the wheel will generate.

For maximum revenue generation and guest satisfaction, a well-trained operational team is essential.
A skilled maintenance crew for daily inspections, reducing downtimes, and keeping the wheel in top condition.
Know your procedures and involve local authorities, such as the fire department, to understand your business and handle efficiently in case of an emergency.

4. Multiply the product

A Ferris wheel doesn’t have to be a one-dimensional ride. Maximize commercial potential by diversifying the ways people experience it for year-round exploitation.

Offer special experiences like VIP cabins, private dining, or exclusive event options.
Create combo tickets with local attractions or bundle with food & beverage deals.
Organize seasonal events during Christmas, summer, or local occasions.

5. Use the wheel as a marketing tool

Ferris wheels are visual magnets, so use them as a marketing tool.

Light it up with custom colors, sponsor logos, or animated effects and generate sponsor revenue.
Turn the structure into a social media hotspot.
Attract attention even before guests get on.

Let's build your Ferris wheel business

Even a smaller Ferris wheel can create a significant impact if it’s well-placed, well-operated, and effectively marketed.

Want to discuss what it takes to turn your idea into an icon? I’m happy to share more insights, challenges, and experience to help you get it right from the start.

Our most popular Ferris wheels

Ferris Wheel 46 m

Ferris Wheel 33 m Deluxe

Ferris Wheel 33 m

Ferris Wheel 22 m

Thinking about placing a Ferris wheel?

Contact us

Make sure yours is built on more than just a good idea.

A new chapter for SBI Sweden in the Benelux

28 May 20252 January 2026Romee Popelier

A new chapter for SBI in the Benelux

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Jönköping, 28th of May 2025 – We are proud to announce a new strategic partnership between SBI and RP Rides, led by Romee Popelier, who will now represent SBI in the Benelux region.

Romee Popelier is the founder and driving force behind RP Rides, a company that supplies high-quality attractions to theme parks and leisure destinations worldwide. With a strong background in the amusement industry and a clear focus on craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, Romee shares SBI Sweden’s passion for creating unique and reliable ride experiences that consistently delight children and their families.

Romee will take over the role from Wim Ter Beek, who has represented SBI Sweden in the Benelux for the past five years. We are sincerely grateful to Wim for his commitment and contributions during this time. Looking ahead, Wim will continue to represent SBI Sweden in France, where he has also built valuable relationships and a strong presence.

“I’m grateful to Wim for the trust he’s placed in me to continue his work with SBI Sweden. His efforts have laid a solid foundation in the Benelux. For RP Rides, this is a perfect addition; it aligns with our vision to offer not only large-scale attractions but also smaller, accessible rides that bring real value to leisure venues of all sizes. I’m looking forward to working with Markus and the SBI team to further grow the brand and its presence in the Benelux.”

Says Romee Popelier, founder of RP Rides and new SBI sales representative

RP Rides joins our growing global network of trusted representatives, helping SBI Sweden reach new customers and projects around the world. This partnership strengthens our presence in Europe and opens up exciting opportunities to collaborate with theme parks, family entertainment centers, shopping destinations, and more.

“We’re excited to welcome Romee as our partner in the Benelux. Her experience and dedication to customer success make her a great fit, and we’re confident our clients will enjoy working with her. We look forward to growing the market together.”

Says Markus Jonsson, CEO of SBI Sweden

About SBI Sweden

Since the early 1980s, the company is a leading manufacturer of top-quality kiddie rides. SBI Sweden is a global company with sales in over 60 countries. Customers include Amusement Parks like Legoland, Universal, etc., as well as smaller to midsize Theme Parks, Family Entertainment Centers, Zoos, and Farm Parks with attractions.

SBI is a leader in providing fun, safe and interactive experiences for children enabling them to drive the vehicles themselves. SBI is renowed in the industry for its high quality, operational reliability, and superior durability of all its products. All manufacturing is carried out at the company owned factory in Sweden and are sold world wide.

More information about our new Kiddie Rides?

Lamberink Ferris Wheels & Street Machine debut Chile’s first large Ferris Wheel in Viña del Mar

19 December 20242 January 2026Romee Popelier

Lamberink Ferris Wheels & Street Machine debut Chile's first large Ferris Wheel in Viña del Mar

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Lamberink Ferris Wheels, in partnership with Street Machine, has introduced Chile’s first large Ferris wheel to the coastal city of Viña del Mar. La Gran Rueda officially opened on December 12^th. The 33-meter Ferris wheel offers visitors a unique overlook over Viña del Mar and its coastline, including landmarks such as the Presidential Palace of Cerro Castillo and the Wulff Castle.

A perfect match

The collaboration between Lamberink Ferris Wheels and Street Machine was a natural fit. Street Machine’s expertise in managing large-scale events aligns perfectly with Lamberink’s experience operating Ferris wheels at festivals and public events in Europe.

Accessible for the whole family

Designed to be accessible for everyone, the Ferris wheel features a dedicated gondola and special access for people with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users, ensuring a welcoming ride experience for the whole family. The attraction is part of the 150-year celebration of Viña del Mar and will be operational until March before it moves to a different location.

6 million visitors

“We’re very excited with our collaboration with Lamberink”, said Robert Morrison, General Manager at Street Machine. “Their experience as wheel operators is reflected in an easy build-up and very friendly operational system. The new 33-meter wheel was launched in Viña del Mar, on the coast of Santiago city, on the 12^th of December with great media coverage and feedback from the local people. The city expects 6 million people during the summer season, and for sure, this wheel will be an iconic tourist attraction for all families. This new wheel is the beginning of the alliance between Lamberink and Street Machine in Chile and South America, with many ideas and projects in the pipeline”.

A bright future

“We’re proud to see this wheel bringing many happy faces to Chile and excited to continue working with Street Machine on future projects.” Said Romee Popelier, Managing Director at RP Rides, Lamberink’s representative for this project.

Street Machine’s successful opening weekend with La Gran Rueda is the kickoff to a bright future between both companies in South America.

More information about our Ferris Wheels?

Celebrating 10 years RP Rides

25 April 20243 January 2026Romee Popelier

Celebrating 10 years RP Rides

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By our owner Romee Popelier

Meijel, 25th of April 2024 – Time flies when you’re having fun – 10 years RP Rides.

April 25, 2014, the day that I walked into the Chamber of Commerce, armed with just a dream and a lot of determination. My strategy, become a business owner in the attractions industry providing technical design.

I still remember one of the first engineering projects, working on an old Holly Gully. Then in 2016, after a great internship, I got my first roller coaster design project and gained a lot of knowledge for what later became RP Rides sales agency. After the opening of the first coaster in 2018, other ride manufacturers knocked on the door too.

In 2020 during the lockdown, I decided to revamp RP Rides with a fresh business strategy and a new look. By the end of 2021, I launched RP Rides 2.0 as a sales agency focussing on the sales of amusement rides starting with the Ferris wheels from Lamberink.

In 2022, Imagic Concepts became part of the portfolio and I took a leap and went all-in on RP Rides, leaving my part-time job behind. It was scary but one of the best decisions I’ve made.

Then in 2023, the first sold Ferris wheel was opened in the USA. And by the end of 2023, Hafema Water Rides joined our lineup.

It hasn’t all been smooth sailing, honestly far from that. All these major milestones came with a lot of bumps along the way, rejections, bad decisions, and lack of experience. But they brought me to where I am today.

10 years RP Rides wouldn’t be possible without the support of all my partners, clients, industry friends and family.

On to the next 10 years..

Some highlights of the past 10 years

Are you part of our next decade?

Contact us

We’re curious to hear your ideas and help you realise your dreams.

Hafema Water Rides and RP Rides join forces for water rides business development

14 November 20233 January 2026Romee Popelier

Hafema Water Rides and RP Rides join forces for water rides business development

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Orlando, 14th of November 2023 – Hafema Water Rides, a manufacturer of water rides in the amusement park industry, is pleased to announce a partnership with RP Rides, a one-stop shop for amusement ride solutions and services. This collaboration marks a significant expansion of RP Rides’ portfolio and promises to enhance the accessibility of Hafema’s water rides to a broader market

Under this partnership, RP Rides will take on the role of assisting Hafema Water Rides with business development for their diverse range of water attractions. This alliance leverages the strengths and expertise of both companies, ensuring that Hafema’s water rides reach an even wider global audience and provide unforgettable experiences in amusement parks worldwide.

Hafema Water Rides

Hafema Water Rides is renowned for its commitment to quality, reliability and safety in the design and manufacturing of water attractions. Their attractions are known for delivering excitement and adventure to visitors of all ages, making them a perfect addition to amusement park lineups. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Hafema has garnered a strong reputation for excellence in water ride technology.

RP Rides

RP Rides, with its long-standing multi-disciplinary experience in the theme park industry and strong network, is poised to expand its current offerings of Ferris wheels, dark rides, and merchandise by introducing Hafema’s water rides to its network. By providing business development and promoting these attractions, RP Rides aims to further enrich the experiences of park guests and contribute to the success of parks and venues around the world.

Ready to create waves in the industry

Mathias Nick, Managing Director of Hafema Water Rides, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “We are delighted to join forces with RP Rides. Their strong network and industry knowledge make them the perfect partner to represent our water rides. Together, we will open doors to new opportunities and bring Hafema’s water attractions to a global audience and new markets.”

Romee Popelier, Owner of RP Rides, shared her sentiments, “This partnership is a significant milestone for RP Rides. We are excited to expand our portfolio with Hafema’s water rides and introduce them to our clients and new markets. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to offer a wide portfolio of high quality amusement rides and top-tier ride experiences.”

The partnership between Hafema Water Rides and RP Rides is set to create waves in the amusement park industry, offering visitors around the world a chance to experience the fun that Hafema Water Rides delivers.

About Hafema Water Rides: Hafema Water Rides is a well known manufacturer of water attractions in the amusement park industry. With a strong commitment to quality, safety, and excitement, Hafema has been creating water rides spread across the world for over 30 years.

About RP Rides: RP Rides is a well-established provider of amusement park solutions, specializing in delivering attractions and experiences. With experience in consultancy, operations, maintenance and ride design and with a portfolio spanning over 10 years, RP Rides continues to shape the future of the amusement park industry bringing people together.

More information about our new Water Rides?

Lamberink RL33 Ferris Wheel for Britta Trading

3 March 202328 December 2025Romee Popelier

New Lamberink RL33 Ferris wheel for Britta Trading

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Another great collaboration between RP Rides and Lamberink Ferris Wheels.

Overschild, 3 March 2023 – With the first RL33 Ferris wheel in production for delivery in spring to Dreamland Amusements in the USA, RP Rides and Lamberink Ferris Wheels announce another successful collaboration. We congratulate Lucia Prajisteanu, owner and director of Britta Trading on the purchase of a brand new RL33 Ferris Wheel with scheduled delivery later this summer.

Britta Trading

Britta Trading is a premier attraction operator for the leisure and entertainment industry in Romania. The new RL33 Ferris wheel will be in operation at several festivals and seasonal-events throughout Romania later this year.

Lamberink Ferris Wheels

Lamberink Ferris Wheels, founded in 2014 is a well-known name in the business of Ferris wheels. They’ve produced many successful Ferris wheels for midways, carnivals, fairs, and events. With years of experience in operating, building, and maintaining Ferris wheels and a bright future, Lamberink is the perfect partner for any Ferris wheel project.

RL33 Ferris wheel

With a height of 33 meters and an hourly capacity of 1150 pp/h the RL33 Ferris Wheel is still Lamberink’s most successful model. The wheel is designed and manufactured according to EN 13814 and is easy to set up in only one day! An automatic control system makes it easy to operate and for clients looking for something special, there are plenty of customisation options!