AGS “Lost Dunes” Mini-Golf Course Featured on RCI Icon of the Seas
(Traverse City, MI) — The “Lost Dunes” aboard Icon of the Seas, is a dynamic and engaging 9-hole miniature golf experience within the ship’s Thrill Island entertainment sector on Deck 16. Incorporating the theme of a post-hurricane deserted island landscape, Adventure Golf & Sports (AGS) aimed to capture the imagination of players and create a sense of anticipation for what each hole would bring. “The design and development of this mini-golf course was a joint effort between Royal Caribbean International’s Group and Adventure Golf & Sports,” says Arne Lundmark, CEO & Chief Designer of Adventure Golf & Sports (AGS). “Following their direction, we were able to achieve fantastic results. What sets this course apart are the interactive theme pieces that can be found on every hole. This adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement to the game.”
“The playable-themed elements throughout this course, a life-sized ship stern and bow, a large plane wing, a broken submarine and rock walls, not only add excitement to the guest experience but also encourage players to explore the unique challenges that await them at every turn,” says Russ Ferrill, Senior Construction Manager at AGS.
Through a series of development drawings, coordination meetings, and design renderings, AGS believes the Lost Dunes Mini Golf course truly stands out from the ordinary. The course was constructed using the AGS Custom Modular System which uses interlocking, patented, permeable panels to create a course that exhibits excellent drainage for quick-dry, no mess performance and also permits accessibility to the underlying deck for inspections and maintenance.
To enhance the overall ambiance, “Fiber optic lighting was implemented throughout the course, creating a visually stunning and immersive environment,” says Scott Lundmark, President of Adventure Golf & Sports. “With the highest elevation on a cruise ship that we have ever completed, this course offers a unique experience for golf enthusiasts. We believe this one-of-a-kind mini-golf course is sure to leave a lasting impression.”
According to AGS, the ambition of this project was to create a mini-golf course that is truly revolutionary. “This course incorporates four key fundamentals to provide an unforgettable experience for players,” says Arne Lundmark. “First, the course features impactful Thrill Island theming, immersing players in a unique and exciting atmosphere. Second, playability was taken to the next level, with innovative hole designs and challenges that test the skills of even the most experienced golfer. Third, the topography and barriers of the course were carefully crafted to provide a diverse and engaging playing field. Lastly, dynamic movement was incorporated into the course, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement to each hole. This state-of-the-art mini-golf course aims to redefine the traditional mini-golf experience and offer a one-of-a-kind adventure for players.”
There were several key initiatives that AGS considered during the creation of this course. One aspect to consider was spectator engagement, providing designated areas or viewpoints where family members can watch and cheer on players. Boundaries were carefully determined as they are always essential for safety and to create a sense of organization within the space. Additionally, AGS ensured this course is ADA accessible by considering the contouring and topography that would still allow for easy movement and flow for individuals with disabilities. By addressing these initiatives, “We were able to create what we feel is an unforgettable miniature golf course that accommodates the needs and comfort of everyone aboard the revolutionary Icon of the Seas,” says Arne Lundmark.
Adventure Golf & Sports (AGS) is a global leader in the design and installation of fun, interactive, cost-effective entertainment attractions like Miniature Golf, Pickleball, Shuffleboard, Bocce Ball, Duck Pin Bowling and other recreational courts. AGS has long term experience installing interlocking panel system versions for a variety of indoor and outdoor applications for cruise ship and riverboat decks as well as family entertainment centers, amusement parks, campgrounds, retail centers, hotels and resorts.
For more information about the AGS Custom Modular Mini Golf system, as well as pre-made portable systems that can be used in a variety of situations, email info@agsgolfandsports.com, call (231) 922-8166 or visit www.AGSGolfandSports.com.