The 7 best water slides around the world

Cool off this summer by making a splash on one of these pulse-raising super slides. Warning - these are not for the fainthearted pool goer

Prosecutors claim Verruckt violated 'almost all' ride safety regulations (Schlitterbahn Kansas City )

You've spent a week sunbathing by the pool, now it's time to get the adrenalin pumping. If you're holidaying somewhere scorching hot, then why not seek out the local water park? And if you happen to be in Brazil, the Bahamas. Dubai or the US, there are souped-up slides on hand for the daringly inclined. It's time to take the plunge!

Verrückt, Schlitterbahn Kansas City US

This is the world’s tallest water slide standing at a little over 168 feet. Thrill-seekers are strapped in three at a time to a raft before being blasted down a steep fall. The ride is so popular that visitors are advised to reserve a ticket to make sure they get a ride.

Insano, Brazil

The name should give you a clue as to what you’re in for. This slippery slope is about the height of a fourteen story building, and somehow I don’t see you racing to fling yourself off of one of them. Once you get yourself past the push, you’ll reach speeds of 65mph. But don’t worry, it’s all over after 5 seconds.

Leap of Faith, Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas

This slide is modelled on a Mayan pyramid temple. As well as being shot through clear tunnel, visitors will also travel through a pool infested with sharks. Yes, real sharks. Actual sharks (though you're still inside the chute).

L2 Worgler Wassermetten, Austria

L2 is the first double looping water slide in the world. This isn’t your back garden tarpaulin and hose set-up. You are shut into a hatch, where a trapdoor beneath you will open and you’ll be plunged – standing up, no less – down a twisting and turning flume of hell.

Ihu’s Breakaway Falls, Orlando, US

This is the steepest slide that you’ll find in Orlando. There is not one, but four slides featured in this ride and three of those feature a floor that gives way as you travel through.

Poseidon’s Revenge, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

With this ride, the floor will drop beneath you and you’ll fall down through the shoot. Eventually you’ll be flipped upside down before landing softly in a watery bed of safety.

Boeing 747, Evergreen Wings & Waterpark, Oregon US

While the idea of falling out of an aeroplane may not be to everyone’s tastes, you’re ensured a soft landing with this ride. This slide makes use of a 747 jet, with visitors pushing off from the plane doors before shooting through the flume.