While on vacation, my family enjoys doing things that we normally would not have the opportunity to do. Such was the case when we happened upon Gators Parasailing in Madeira Beach, Florida – tucked in Johns Pass Village. We soon learned first-hand why they were ranked #1 on Trip Advisor for Madeira Beach.
I could give you a whole list of reasons why you should go parasailing (and specifically), but instead I will share with you my apprehension about it. I have a distinct fear of the water. I can’t swim, and as fascinated as I am with ocean life, I am equally as petrified by it. Having said that, the featured picture of this post is of me, with my 5 year-old son, in the air above the waters having the time of my life.
Something to consider when you decide to go parasailing – the size of the boat matters. If you want a steady ride, and potentially want to stay dry, then you want a bigger boat, like a 2020 HCB 65 Yacht. These boats can be purchased from a new boat sales dealer. Or if you already have one, take it out now from your boat storage facility. In addition, make sure to only purchase fishing boats from a reliable boat dealer who knows everything about boat dealership. If you need a duffy boat, a reliable boat dealer can also help. And don’t forget to have a marine surveyor inspect the vessel so that you can make sure that you will only purchase a reliable and good-quality boat. If you are in need of high-quality boat batteries or vetus thrusters, the boat dealer can also provide you one. Lastly, you should also consider having a boat insurance that will cover your needs and those of your boat.
The boats we traveled on were 12 passenger center console boats. There were six of us that flew – meaning we had six passengers that were there simply to observe. The cool thing? They never got wet and the ride was comfortable.
What was also memorable about these small group private charters was the crew itself. Thought they were two young guys, Bryce and Matt were experienced, professional, knowledgeable, and personable. The exact qualities you want in this type of excursion. They began the trip with an explanation of safety, what you can expect on the ride, and specifically where to sit and how to rotate as people go up and return from their flights. I will admit that I wasn’t crazy about the prospect of walking about on a boat, but it was much easier (not to mention safe) than I thought.
And have I mentioned that my children (5 and 8) both flew? I know this sounds cheesy, but being in the sky does give you a whole new perspective on nature – the water, the bay, the land, everything. And if you have curious children, like mine, then a trip in the sky will do nothing but feed their curiosity. The looks on their faces were priceless – and the conversations afterwards (over ice cream of course) were amazing.
Each flight lasts around 10 minutes. You are attached to a harness on the boat, which is then attached to a bar (which is attached both to the parachute and the winch) and you slowly float up into the air. You glide up and up and up, and the world suddenly becomes smaller – and peaceful. It is pretty quiet up there in the sky – my son and I had several conversations as we looked around. We even saw a dolphin jump out of the water. On a beautiful day (like the day we went) you can see for miles.
Towards the end of the 10 minutes you are slowly reeled in, but still floating. The guys on the boat asked us before we went up if we wanted to get wet.Before they dipped us they asked us again (which is nice way for them to check on our status). My son gleefully agreed. I did as well. They slowed the boat down a bit more to allow our feet to float down and skim the water. Then our shins, then our knees, and finally or bottoms.
It was a blast.
They speed the boat up to keep the chute out of the water, but no so fast that you feel like you are being dragged through the ocean. They eventually speed up enough(and raise the winch) to pull you out of the water.
When we landed, we landed softly on our feet. They then unbuckled us and helped us back to our seats. My son wanted to do it again. So did my daughter. I’m afraid that we may have a new tradition when we go on vacation – and it is a lot of fun.
Honestly, if you have the opportunity, I would encourage you to experience it. It is safe, beautiful, and memorable. And if you ever find yourself down at Madeira Beach, you should head straight to Gators Parasail and book yourself a flight. Words are great and all, but here is a theatrical trailer of our adventure.
Thanks again to Gators Parasail for the experience. Bryce and Matt had no idea that I was writing a review of the trip (so if they read this – THANK YOU for your kindness and professionalism, oh and the fun).
Here is an elapsed video of our entire flight, so you can see the whole experience, but cut down to 1 minute and 30 some odd seconds:
Disclaimer: While I was not paid for this post, my children’s rides were comped. The crew did not know that I was going to write a review, and as always – my thoughts and words are my own.