1. Is parasailing scary?
Actually, it's quite the opposite. Parasailing is very serene and peaceful. Take-off's and landings are very slow and gentle making you feel as if you are truly "floating on air".
2. Do I need to have any experience to parasail?
Absolutely not! If you can sit, you can fly!
3. Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Minimum age is 6. Participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver. Minimum combined weight is 130 lbs and maximum combined weight about 450 lbs. Weight requirements change daily due to wind conditions and are subject to Captain's approval.
4. 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.
5. 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, you are seated next to your partner(s) on the flight deck and then gently launched and retrieved using a hydraulic winch system.
6. Do I ever touch the water?
It's up to you! Just let the Captain know if you want to stay dry or get your feet wet. We call this a touch-'n-go!
7. What can I expect to see parasailing?
Panoramic views of the Santa Monica Bay including the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and Malibu. On occasion you will see dolphins, whales, fishermen, tour boats, sunburnt tourists, and lots of colorful beach umbrellas!
8. Can we fly higher than your 800-foot ride?
NO! The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) limits parasails to fly no higher than 500 vertical feet from the surface of the earth (CFR 101.13). 500 feet up is about how high you will get on an 800 ft towline.
9. What should I wear?
Bathing suits if you want to get wet, otherwise shorts, T's, and flip-flops. Occasionally, it can be chilly, especially in the morning or 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!
10. Can I go along just to watch?
Yes! We do not take observer reservations. Right before the boat departs, if there is room on the boat we will welcome you on the boat as an observer. The cost for that 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.
11. How long does the excursion take?
The excursion is part parasailing and part boat ride, so you should plan on being out on the pristine Pacific waters for about an hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and half. Each parasail boat holds up to 15 passengers who take turns flying two or three at a time.
12. 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, with 10 years experience and over 30,000 flights. We are also current members of PAPO (Professional Association of Parasail Operators) which require our operation to adhere to strict operating guidelines to protect the safety of our customers.
13. Are reservations required?
Yes, because of parasailing's popularity and the limited space we encourage reservations. There have been times when guests have shown up without a reservation only to have to wait for a couple of hours until there was a space open for them. We take phone reservations. HOWEVER, if there is room on the boat walk-up guests are welcome.
14. How far in advance should I make a reservation?
We recommend at least 5-14 days in advance for weekends. 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 reservation early in the morning before all the boats fill up for the day!
15. What if I want to do something special with my family and friends for a birthday, anniversary, or wedding party with Marina Del Rey Parasailing 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.
16. 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.
17. What is your cancellation policy?
You have 24 hours prior to your reservation to cancel without any penalty. A cancellation after that point or a no-show will be charged $40 per person. Same day reservations that are cancelled will also be charged a $40 per person cancellation fee.
