Parasailing Frequently Asked Questions…
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Do I need to have any experience to go parasailing?
Absolutely not! If you can sit, you can fly. We do all the work – you have all the fun!
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Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Over the years those who have gone parasailing have been as young as 2 and as “young” as 102. Participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver. Minimum combined weight is 130-165 lbs and maximum combined weight about 450-550 lbs. Weight requirements change daily due to wind conditions and are subject to Captain’s approval.
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Can two or three people go at the same time?
Yes! Besides it’s a lot more fun to go up together! Some restrictions apply depending on weight and wind conditions; ultimately it’s the Captain’s decision.
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Do you take-off from or land in the water?
No, you take-off and land directly on the boat! After we fit you with a special parasail harness and life jacket, you are seated next to your partner(s) on the flight deck and then gently launched and retrieved using a hydraulic winch system.
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Do I ever touch the water?
It’s up to you! Just let the Captain or First Mate know if you want to stay dry or get your feet wet. We call this a dip!
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What can I expect to see parasailing?
Panoramic views of the Tampa Bay Beaches from St Pete Beach to Clearwater Beach and beyond including the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Tropicana Field, Fort Desoto and more. Also, keep on the lookout for dolphins, rays, turtles, fishermen, tour boats, sunburnt tourists, lots of colorful beach umbrellas and miles of white sand beach!
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How high do you fly?
In a recent change the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) now limits parasailing to no higher than 400 vertical feet from the surface of the earth (CFR 101.13). Parasailing is done utilizing 800 feet of towline to comply with the 400 foot FAA regulation.
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What should I wear?
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Bathing suits if you want to get wet, otherwise shorts, T’s, and flip-flops. Occasionally, it can be chilly durning winter months so bring a sweatshirt and pants so you can layer accordingly. Honestly, we can fly you in a dress or tuxedo– remember you don’t have to get wet!
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Can I go along just to watch?
Yes! We do take observer bookings. Right before the boat departs, if there is room on the boat we will welcome you on the boat as an observer. The cost is $20. If you change your mind while on the boat and decide to fly, the $20 charge is then applied to the cost of parasailing.
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How long does the excursion take?
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The excursion is part parasailing and part boat ride, so you should plan on being out on the waters of the Gulf of Mexico for about an hour. Each parasail boat holds up to 12 passengers who take turns flying two or three at a time.
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Is your company specially trained, experienced and or licensed?
Yes! Our Captains are US Coast Guard licensed Masters, and both Captain and crew are specifically trained in all aspects of parasailing, boat handling and flight procedures. We are also current members of the WSIA (Watersports Industry Association) which require our operation to adhere to strict operating guidelines to protect the safety of our customers. Our parasailing boats are inspected annually by the US Coast Guard and all crew members are required to be enrolled in a random drug teasting program.
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Are advance bookings recommended?
Yes, because of parasailing’s popularity and the limited space we encourage advance bookings. There have been times when guests have shown up without an advance booking only to have to wait for a couple of hours until there was a space open for them. We take phone bookings. HOWEVER, if there is room on the boat walk-up guests are welcome.
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How far in advance should I make a booking?
We recommend at least 2-5 days in advance depending on season. For large groups of 12 or more, please call 2-3 weeks in advance. If you are unsure of your vacation schedule at least try to make a booking early in the morning before all the boats fill up for the day!
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What if I want to do something special with my family and friends for a birthday, anniversary, or wedding party or just want the boat all to us?
There are some folks who like the idea of a private charter so they can parasail for as long as they want or make their outing more intimate. We aim to please and would love the opportunity to give your group that one-on-one attention. Just contact us for details if you are interested in having our parasail vessel all to yourselves.
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Can you do wedding proposals quietly and discreetly?
Surprises are our specialty! We offer private flights! Many a proposal has been had on our vessels. In addition, we offer a special sunset flight where you have the boat and crew to yourself! All alone! We can even hold a wedding on board or while in flight! If you have an idea, let us know. We will do the best we can to make your moment special. We are here to have fun and make memories.
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What part of our vacation should we plan parasailing for?
We encourage you to plan for parasailing during the first part of your vacation. The weather at times can be unpredictable and some folks have made the mistake of trying to plan for parasailing on the last day of their vacation, only to have Mother Nature rain on their parade.
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What is your cancellation policy?
For those who did not purchase Cancellation Insurance you have 24 hours prior to your booking to cancel without any penalty. A cancellation after that point or a no-show may result in a loss of all booking amounts.
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Do I have to know how to swim?
No. Although it’s a very good idea since you will be participating in a watersport. Everyone who parasails must wear a life vest.
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Will you open if it’s raining?
We can’t fly in the rain. If it clears up we’ll open up. The wind can also shut us down. If it’s excessively windy we must shut down.
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Do you offer jet skis / waverunners or rent boats?
We work closely with the best Jet Ski / Waverunner and Boat Rental companies in the area and can offer you a Combo Package and save you some money on both parasailing your Jet Ski / Boat Rental. Be sure and ask when you call to make your booking.