The attraction is based on the ancient city of Pompeii when it was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD . Guests board flat-bottom boats that advance through the attraction along a canal of water as if the volcano is alive once again . Special effects include swinging flickering lights , cracking wooden boards , burning walls and ceilings , and tumbling statues . At the end of the ride guests go through a misty dark room right before they go down the five story drop into the splash pool below
eruption of Mount Vesuvius
Eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79
Escape from Pompeii