Parasailing in Destin[/caption] What is Parasailing and How did it come about? Parasailing is a popular recreational activity where a person is towed behind a boat while attached to a specially designed canopy wing that reminds one of a parachute, known as a parasail wing. The first ascending / gliding parachutes were developed in 1961 as a training tool for parachutists. The technique allows parachutists to train more efficiently by towing the parachutist to a suitable altitude, then releasing them to practice landings. This training method proved cheaper than and just as effective as an airplane. Mark McCulloh is the original inventor of modern day parasailing equipment, beginning with the world’s first stationary parasailing platform in 1971.
Do you have Parasailing Questions? Here are the Parasailing FAQs
Q. Are reservations required? A. Yes! We have several daily departure times throughout the day to choose from, beginning at 8 AM! All you need to make a reservation is a major credit card. Call (850) 428-3313 for more information. Q. How far in advance should I make a reservation? A. We recommend at least 2 days in advance during peak season (June – August). For large groups of 10 or more please call 3 days in advance. If you are unsure of your vacation schedule we suggest calling first thing in the morning to make a reservation before all the boats fill up for the day! Q. How much does it cost to parasail in Destin? A. The cost varies by season. Our rates are competitive! Call (850) 428-3313 for our current specials. Q. Is your company specially trained, experienced, or licensed? A. 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 a current member of the Professional Association of Parasail Operators (PAPO) which require our operation to adhere to strict operating guidelines to protect the safety of our customers. Our insurance also requires strict guidelines be met. Q. Is there a Parasailing Age Limit? A. The minimum age to parasail is 6 years old. However, the minimum weight to fly with another person is 40 lbs. Participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver. [caption id="attachment_58" align="alignright" width="300"]
You could be here! – Parasailing in Destin![/caption]
Q. Is there a Parasailing Weight Limit?
A. There is a minimum total combined weight of 90 pounds for single parasailing and a maximum total combined weight of 450 pounds. Due to wind conditions, this weight requirement can change daily and is subject to the Captain’s approval since safety comes first.
Q. Where do we go Parasailing?
A. After cruising out of the Destin harbor, your Captain will head South through the Destin Pass and into the Gulf of Mexico. If sea conditions are too rough in the Gulf, your captain will head north into the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay.
Q. How long are the parasailing rides?
A. The entire boating adventure takes around 1.5 hours. Each parasail boat holds 12 passengers who take turns flying two or three at a time.
Q. Where do you leave from?
A. You will board our Parasail boats from the safety and comfort of our own dock, and you will return to the same dock. You will not be driving around loading up on the beach and there are no Shuttle Boat Transfers with Dockside!
Q. Can two or three people experience parasailing at the same time?
A. Yes, that is how most of our customers fly. We call that a tandem flight. Some restrictions apply depending on weight and wind conditions; ultimately it’s the Captain’s decision.
Q. How high do we go parasailing? What is the maximum parasailing height?
A. 800 feet is our maximum parasailing height. FAA limits parasailing heights to no higher than 500 vertical feet from the water and 500 feet up is about 800 feet of tow rope.
Q. Do I need any prior experience to parasail?
A. No, if you can walk onto our parasail boat by yourself, and if you can sit down, you should be able to Parasail.
Q. Do you have any Parasailing Tips?
A. Make an early morning reservation! Temperatures are in the mid 70’s, the Gulf of Mexico is calm, winds are light, and boat traffic is at a minimum. By going early you also avoid any chance of afternoon showers we commonly get in the summer. Call to reserve your early bird flight now (they fill up quickly).
~ Wear Sunscreen – that sun can be HOT!
~ Bring your camera
~ Make your parasailing reservation at the beginning of your trip to allow for bad weather cancellations
~ RELAX! Parasailing is a very peaceful experience and is a fun and safe way to view the beautiful water and beaches of Destin, FL
Q. What should I wear and will I get wet?
A. You can wear anything from bathing suits to an actual suit! It all depends on if you wish to get wet during your flight! Your Captain will ask you if you want to stay dry or get your feet wet.
Q. Do you take off or land in the water?
A. No, you take off and land directly on the boat! After we fit you with a special parasail harness, you are seated next to your partner(s) on the flight deck and then gently launched and retrieved using a hydraulic winch system.
Q. What is the parasailing experience like?
A. Nothing is more important than making you feel safe, secure, comfortable and confident as you take your Destin Parasailing flight with us. Our professional crew will take good care of you through every facet of your sky high journey and make it the most exciting and memorable Florida parasailing vacation ever! It doesn’t get any better than this!
Q. Can I go along just to watch?
A. Yes! When you call to make a reservation for parasailing please let us know the number of people who want to go along to watch. Observers can ride for a fee if we have space available.
If you have any additional parasailing questions, call (850) 428-3313.
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