I'm going to Busch Gardens Tampa next week, (probably Tuesday) and I'm terrified of SheiKra. What do the first drops on dive machines feel like? Ive never done a Drop Tower but I've done a few beyond-vertical drops like Maverick and Mystery Mine. Does it feel like either of those? Thanks in advance

I think they're fun... The time at the top doesn't feel as long when you're up there as it looks like from off-ride... Never ridden SheiKra, but I enjoyed Griffon more than Valravn...

I've been on SheiKra and it's lots of fun! The views from the first dive are astounding, especially at sunset (same goes for Griffon, tbh).

I would say that if you are nervous, that hold on top can feel like forever even if it's only for a few seconds. The first dive holds for a few seconds longer than the second dive. The first dive holds you at the edge, looking straight down. If you are unsure about that, sit in the third row as you will be facing more out, instead of straight down. The second dive is more like a pause...you will get to the edge and as soon as you realize it's another dive, you are moving. 

I hope this helps! I've been to BGT several times and it's a great park! 

For dive coasters, I defiantly prefer SheiKra to Valravn, but that's just my opinion, I feel the restraints are much better, and they allow for more airtime going down the first drop.

I do want to mention one thing. If you haven't been to BGT before, the layout can be a tad confusing. Make sure to get a map. It really will help for this park, especially if you want to see all the animals.