FlowRider wave machines have changed the game for cruise lines, hotels, and theme parks. The ability to get an authentic surfing experience from the comfort of a resort or water park is luxurious and thrilling. I was on a Royal Caribbean cruise Allure of the Seas and tested one of these machines. I thought it was so cool and wondered how much does a FlowRider wave machine cost?
To buy a FlowRider wave machine the low-end costs start at $500,000 for the machine and an additional $150,000 for on-site work. Larger FlowRider machines can cost up to $5,000,000 to purchase and install on-site. Expect installation to take approximately 35 days to complete.
FlowRiders are a major investment, but they are worth the cost for many theme parks and attractions. Buying for yourself is extremely expensive, but its certainly an option for the ones who can afford it.
How Much Does a FlowRider Single Cost?
A FlowRider Single machine costs around $650,000, this is $500,000 for the machine and the on-site setup fee. FlowRider bases the total cost based on the timeline and location.
A quick job will often cost more based on the resources FlowRider will need to throw at the job. The location impacts cost as some locations require a lot of prep work to make the site work for a machine.
The FlowRider Single is one of their most affordable options because of its smaller size. However, it is still an ordeal to install and that is a big cost factor.
How Much Does a FlowRider Double Cost?
You can expect to spend $1,000,000 for a FlowRider Double, the machine costs $850,000 but the on-site costs can be anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000.
The cost of materials is much higher and the installation is trickier. This all adds up to a much more expensive total cost compared to a FlowRider Single.
Visit FlowRider.com here to request a quote for any FlowRider machine.
Can You Add your Own Logo to Your FlowRider Machine?
Yes, you can add your own logo to a FlowRider wave machine for an additional cost. The process involves sending a transparent PNG file of the logo to FlowRider, who will work with their ride surface supplier to add the logo to the ride surface. The cost for this customization usually ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 USD.
The Royal Caribbean FlowRider machines have their logo from top to bottom so I would guess that customization cost thousands to add on. The amount of times these machines are posted on social media videos and photos definitely makes it worth it for advertisement.
How Much Does a FlowRider Board Cost?
If you purchase a FlowRider machine for yourself or a company, you get their body boards and standup boards included.
FlowRider body boards cost around $170 up to $230. A FlowRider Flowboard costs $430 to $500 each, you can also pick up a bag for an additional $80.
Can You Put a FlowRider in Your Backyard?
While it isn’t common, you can put a FlowRider in your backyard. As of June 2020 there are 6 homeowners in the world that have a FlowRider in their backyard, I would imagine today there are dozens more.
The long installation process and high cost make it difficult for most people to put a FlowRider in their yard, but it is possible. You just need some serious cash to buy one and a love for the sport.
How Are FlowRiders Installed?
The FlowRider installation process is long and difficult. FlowRider has installation technicians all around the world who specialize in installing their products. Both indoor and outdoor FlowRider installation involves ground preparation, and that’s a big part of the process.
It can take up to 30 to 50 days to professionally install a FlowRider. The installation time varies based on which FlowRider you choose as well as your location. Technicians work with electrical components, water pumps, foam, and vinyl.
How Do You Supply Water to a FlowRider Machine?
You can typically supply water to a FlowRider machine with the same source as the pool. The water continuously cycles to keep the machine going, returning it to the pool. Options like the FlowRider Edge make it easy to connect to the same water source as a pool.
Why Are FlowRiders So Expensive?
FlowRiders are so expensive because of how big of an ordeal the process is. You need to decide on the type of machine, prepare the site, have the product created, then delivered, installed, and more.
Your location hugely affects how costly it will be, the more on-site prep required quickly increases hours worked and the total cost of labor.
FlowRider installs its products at waterparks, amusement parks, cruise ships, hotels, and even in backyards. Of course, the crazier the location the more difficult it will be, this adds up costs too.
Can You Rent Out a FlowRider?
You can rent out a FlowRider for private guests at many theme parks. It typically costs around $200 to rent a FlowRider for a private block for your friends and family for a few hours.
However, renting a FlowRider from the company itself can cost up to $44,500 for just 14 days, that was in 2021 so I would imagine it costing more today. This rental is of the cool designed FlowRider Mobile machine here.
How Much Does a FlowRider Session Typically Cost?
Everywhere is different, but many water parks charge $30-$45 for each 30-minute FlowRider session. Some locations charge discounted rates for hourly sessions. For example, water parks that charge $30 per half hour often charge $50 for an hour.
On cruise ships like Royal Caribbean, the FlowRider machines are free to use! I just waited in a small line and was able to test it out. They had 2 machines on my cruise, one was used for body board and the other was used for the standup FlowBoard.
Read our related post “List of All Royal Caribbean Ships that Have FlowRiders” here.
Can You Buy a Used FlowRider Wave Machine?
It’s unlikely you will find a used FlowRider wave machine online as they are usually purchased by lareg companies and maintained regularly to be used. If one does hit the market it likely isn’t sold on your typical marketplace.
Installation is the biggest problem when it comes to buying a used FlowRider wave machine. Since the FlowRider company is the installer they are the experts you need if something goes wrong or you need simple guidance.
FlowRider sends technicians to install the machine for you, but unfortunately, that doesn’t happen if you buy one from a third party that is used.
Final Thoughts
You can expect to spend between $650,000 and $5,000,000 for a FlowRider wave machine installed. Factors such as which model you choose and where you plan to install it affect the cost. It takes up to 35 days to install a FlowRider machine and in some cases longer depending on the model and location.
Luckily, FlowRider wave machines have a great return on investment because you can make a lot of money daily on them!
Jamie is the founder of Action Sporter. He is the chief zipline writer and the lead editor. He has 5 years of zipline experience being a tour guide in Newfoundland. Most of the time you can find Jamie adventure traveling, hiking, skiing, skateboarding, or anything action related!
