Universal Studios Enacts Major Policy Change for Park Guests

Luke DammannOctober 2, 2025

0 2 minutes read

It’s the dawn of a new day at Universal Studios.

An aerial view of Universal Studios' Volcano Bay showcases a vibrant water park with a large volcano structure, winding water slides, and multiple pools. Surrounded by lush greenery and various buildings, it's set against a cityscape under a partly cloudy sky. Enjoy it before the closing bell rings!. — Credit: Universal

Universal Studios has officially confirmed the removal of their TapuTapu system from Volcano Bay, effective October 1, 2025. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the operations of one of their most popular attractions.

The end of the TapuTapu system means that guests will experience a new structure for engaging with the water park. Originally designed to streamline the waiting process for rides and attractions, the removal of this feature raises questions about how guest flow and experience will be managed going forward. Attendees will now need to adjust to a more traditional approach to enjoying swim-up bars, lazy rivers, and thrilling water slides.

For many visitors, the TapuTapu system was a convenient way to reserve ride times and reduce wait periods. This permanent change indicates Universal Studios is opting for a new method of crowd management. With the addition of Epic Universe earlier in 2025, there seems to be a deliberate shift in strategies as Universal re-evaluates how best to engage guests in all its parks.

As the park transitions away from TapuTapu, guests can look forward to a fresh experience at Volcano Bay. With fewer technological interventions, the emphasis may shift back to a spontaneous enjoyment of the water attractions. While some may miss the convenience of virtual lines, they are likely to embrace the nostalgia of enjoying the park’s offerings in a more traditional manner.

The TapuTapu system was first launched when Volcano Bay opened in May 2017. It was marketed as an innovative approach to enhance guest experiences by minimizing wait times and allowing for a more immersive visit.

A green water slide going into the volcano at Universal Volcano Bay — Credit: Universal

Designed to accept reservations for rides and attractions, TapuTapu was worn as a wristband that let guests focus on enjoying the sun and water rather than standing in line. Guests could check wait times and make reservations from their wrist, providing them with the flexibility to explore other areas of the park while still holding a spot for their favorite rides.

Similar to Disney’s MagicBand, which serves as a central hub for guests’ experiences at Disney parks, TapuTapu offered a tech-savvy solution aimed at enhancing the leisure experience at Volcano Bay. However, as both parks evolve, Universal has decided to eliminate the TapuTapu feature altogether, focusing instead on offering more straightforward and immediate enjoyment of attractions.

Alongside the announcement of the TapuTapu removal, Universal Studios has also outlined plans for a significant refurbishment of Volcano Bay that will commence in October 2026. This closure, lasting until March 2027, is aimed at enhancing the park’s overall quality and guest experience.

Author

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"