What is parasailing like?
 

I will be sailing on the Navigator in April with my 13 yo son. At his request, we have signed up for parasailing. For anyone who has done this, can you tell me what I should expect? Is it scary or dangerous? Has anyone been hurt?

I loved parasailing and wouldn't hesitate about letting a 13 year old do it. It is not scary. I suppose it could be considered slightly dangerous, but most activities have a risk factor involved. I think you'll be glad you signed up.

Much easier than it used to be, when you had to run off the beach and also, land back on the beach. Now they just reel you off the back of the boat. Went in Aruba, and could see over the entire island and the blue water on the other side too. You sit on a swing like apparatus, and are harnessed in too, as I recall. He will love it! Go!

My husband and I did it in the Bahamas. The view was beautiful. It was quite breezy the day we did it so it was little exciting, but also a lot of fun. Just follow directions and decide to relax. Some people were tense and I think it lessened their enjoyment. There was one near mishap when an 88 year old woman nearly slid out of the harness when landing. She just didn't have much arm strength - but I had to admire her for doing it.<BR><BR>I should mention that I don't even swim and have some fear of water, but I didn't feel unsafe doing this and would not hesitate to do it again.

April, How was the landing. My husband went parasailing in the Bahamas about 20 years ago and I remember that some people had somewhat rough landings on the platform. I was pregnant at the time so I couldn't participate at the time. But I'd love to try it now. Just want to know what to anticipate. Thanks.

happy2travel,<BR>The landing was as smooth as silk. Again, just relax and follow the instructions.<BR>

I am glad Sharlen asked about parasailing - that's something I also would like to try during my S. Caribbean cruise in April. Is it physically difficult? How expencive is it? We are cruising on Constellation, will visit Catalina Island, Antigua, Barbados, St. Thomas - what is the best place for parasailing and how can I make arrangements?<BR>Thank you.

I am glad Sharlen asked about parasailing - that's something I also would like to try during my S. Caribbean cruise in April. Is it physically difficult? How expensive is it? We are cruising on Constellation, will visit Catalina Island, Antigua, Barbados, St. Thomas - what is the best place for parasailing and how can I make arrangements?<BR>Thank you.

There are different types of parasailing you can take. The two that are most common are the &quot;Gondola&quot; type and the &quot;Harness&quot; type. <BR><BR>I have done both. The harness type is for the indivdual and gives you more of a flying sensation. The gondala type is so you can share the experience with someone else. It is like a small boat type carrier.<BR><BR>As with anything of this type there are risks involved. I think they are minimal if you take one that is associated with a Hotel or Cruise line, since they would not want to align themselves with something that may harm their clients.<BR><BR>Bottom line is: Yes, do it. Have fun on your vacation.

Thanks for the information everyone. I plan to go for it and hope it will be fun.

I have done the harness type of parasailing in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico about 16 years ago and LOVED it...I was a bit apprehensive at first, but once I was up in the air, it is fabulous and great fun..a 13 year old will have a blast...be safe, follow the instructions and you should not have any problems...have fun!!!

I parasailed in Paradise Island years ago using a harness and loved it. I haven't had the opportunity to do it again, but I so want to. It is just so amazing to be up there alone. It was windy, so I got blown about a bit, but it was still great. Landing on the platform was easy.