Water worlds: the waterpark of tomorrow will offer guests high-tech conveniences, family fun and worlds of exploration.(Waterparks)

Today's waterpark bears only a vague likeness to those of the near future. Though these waterparks will still contain the basic amenities and features seen today, they will bear a greater resemblance to those of their cousin, the theme park.

Guest experience and satisfaction will be the No. 1 goal and the driving force for development of new waterparks. To obtain this goal, developers will incorporate ideas from successful theme and amusement parks, as well as planning techniques used by aquatic planning firms.

Beyond the marketing blitz, guests will begin experiencing the park at home. The Internet and home computer will allow guests to purchase admission and print their own "tickets." These tickets, as simple as wrist bands with bar codes or as advanced as downloading data onto microchips inside a guest's waterproof watch, will allow one to pay for parking or acquire goods and services throughout the park simply by deducting purchases from their debit account.

With the advances in ticketing and retail exchanges, guests will be able to enter the park from any number of convenient access points. Like the theme parks, waterparks will come to resemble individual themed areas or worlds, all interconnected by water routes and pathways that guests can use to visit each area. Each area revolves around a central megacomplex that contains core amenities and features, including changing facilities, retail shops, restaurants and entertainment units.

Even in the off-season, this central complex will generate revenue for park owners by offering these amenities year 'round. Guests will be able to access these areas by walkways raised above the park, providing outstanding opportunities for them to view the activity below.

Alternative entertainment complexes, including retail and restaurant areas, are included adjacent to resort hotels campuses at the Ocean Island and Lake City Entertainment Complexes.

Because these waterparks will become destinations in their own right, it will not be surprising to see resort hotels included in the sphere of the waterpark. Resort guests will be able to view and gain access to the park from their rooms. They will also be able to take advantage of specialized, indoor waterparks at the resort year 'round. Everything is included in their room charge.