Cue the ominous two-note theme: Universal Studios Florida’s Jaws attraction may have closed in 2012, but it still has its teeth sunk deep into the hearts of fans. This summer marks the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster film, and what better way to celebrate than by diving back into the waters of Amity Island to look at the legacy of one of Universal Orlando’s most infamous rides.
Related: Rip Ride Rockit Demolition Picks Up Speed at Universal Studios Florida
Welcome to Amity Island
When the park opened in 1990, guests could head to the backlot and find themselves in Amity Island’s endless Fourth of July festival. According to the story, a fisherman named Jake Grundy launched Jake’s Boat Tours to show off the spots where Chief Brody and friends defeated the great white shark. Of course, things didn’t stay calm for long — this was Universal, after all.
The queue itself was packed with nods to the film. Guests strolled past bait, barrels, and fishing nets while TVs blared updates from WJWS13, Amity’s local news. Then it was time to board the boat and meet the real star of the show — the skipper. With a grenade launcher tucked safely to the side (because surely no shark would show up again), off you went for your “relaxing” tour.
Skippers, Sharks, and Sinking Ships
The skippers made the attraction legendary. Former Jaws skipper Kevin Bodshaug, now vice president of operations at Epic Universe, recalls the camaraderie between rides. “There was a big, friendly rivalry between us and the other spieling attractions like Earthquake and Kongfrontation. We, of course, thought we were the best.”
The show scenes were pure Spielberg suspense, building tension until — bam — a sinking boat, the iconic dorsal fin slicing the water, and those chilling notes of John Williams’ score. “If you didn’t know about it, it scared the living daylights out of you,” remembered Kerry Tausch, now a senior engineer at Universal Creative, who once worked overnight dives maintaining the shark animatronics.
The Boathouse and the Big Reveal
One of the most memorable scenes came inside the boathouse. The skipper’s flashlight beam cut through the silence, the atmosphere thick with dread. Then came the jump scare — sunlight revealed the massive mechanical shark lunging at the boat. It was a moment that perfectly captured the film’s blend of unseen suspense and full-on fright.
Later, guests watched the shark bite into an electrical cable, frying itself in a finale that left kids like me both horrified and delighted.
Farewell to Amity
In 2011, Universal announced Jaws and the entire Amity Island area would close, making way for new attractions. For many, saying goodbye was like losing a piece of Universal’s soul. Former skippers gathered for final rides, celebrating the culture that had formed over decades. Friendships, inside jokes, and lifelong memories were all forged aboard those boats.
Kevin remembers finishing strong: “After I shot the shark, I’d take my glasses half off and go, ‘oh man, what a day.’ Then I’d say, ‘We’re coming home!’ and the crowd would go nuts. That was my favorite.”
Related: Your Ultimate Epic Universe Planning Guide
Jaws Lives On
Though the ride is gone, Amity’s spirit still haunts Universal Orlando. The shark photo-op lives on along the San Francisco waterfront, still chomping its way into vacation scrapbooks. Hidden Easter eggs nod to Amity throughout the park, from “Amity Island Lobster Co.” signage to a “Quint Trio” record tucked in a storefront window.
Jaws also makes splashy appearances in the new Universal Mega Movie Parade and CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular. And for the 50th anniversary, Universal has rolled out special Jaws food, drinks, and merchandise — the perfect bait for fans hungry for nostalgia.
For skippers and guests alike, Jaws was more than a ride — it was an adventure, a community, and a reminder that sometimes the scariest things in the water also make the best memories.
So next time you see Bruce the shark grinning on the waterfront, give him a nod. He’s not just Universal history — he’s a legend.
Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
Get started Now for your FREE No Obligation Quote.
