There are 2 versions to the ride. One wild with the height requirement and mild for kids under the height limit. So he will be able to see the penguins. From what I know everyone gets to see them.
We chose the "wild" ride, and it is a 4 or 6 person buggy that twirls you around as you slide on ice. I think the mild version is less spinny
There is no elevation increases or decreases, really, just the twirling around. There are things to see as you go - it puts you in a storyline of a newly hatched penguin chick.