Ultimate Guide To Parasailing
Parasailing In Cozumel Mexico Ultimate Guide
In this ultimate guide to Parasailing in Cozumel Mexico, you will find answers to all of your questions about parasailing tours. This information applies to parasailing anywhere in the world, though specific weight and age restrictions will vary by operator. Before I start answering your most common questions about parasailing, let me explain why I am an expert on the topic.
I have over 22 years of experience providing parasailing tours in Cozumel, Mexico. My father started the tour service in 1999. I have intimate knowledge of buying, maintaining, and inspecting parasails, safety harnesses, rigging equipment, and boats. I have completed thousands of flights and understand the limitations of the equipment. I am a professional, and I take people’s safety and experience seriously.
Learn everything you need to feel comfortable. And when you are ready, we would love to take you up for the highest-flying adventure at Jet Ski Cozumel. When you are done, share this resource so your family and friends can be prepared, too.
What is Parasailing?
Parasailing is an exhilarating yet peaceful recreational activity where a person (or tandem pair) is towed behind a boat while attached to a specially designed canopy wing, resembling a parachute. The speed of the boat lifts the person hundreds of feet into the air, allowing them to glide effortlessly and silently above the water. Unlike skydiving, the process is controlled, non-strenuous, and low-impact, with participants launching and landing directly from the boat’s flight deck.
Does Cozumel have Parasailing?
Yes, Cozumel is a prime destination for parasailing, offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and the entire island. It is one of the most popular water activities, offering a mix of thrill and peace as you glide above the crystal-clear waters. Our tour is often rated highly for being safe, family-friendly, and perfect for resort stays and cruise ship passengers.
Does Paradise Beach have Parasailing?
Paradise Beach does not operate its own parasailing service. While Paradise Beach offers a fantastic beach club day pass, the actual parasailing operation is provided by specialized tour companies like ours, located just 50 feet away. You can enjoy all the amenities of Paradise Beach but book your 5-star rated parasailing flight conveniently through us. Book a Cozumel Parasailing tour now and cancel ANYTIME get 100% refund.
Is there Parasailing at Mr. Sanchos?
No, Mr. Sanchos Beach Club does not offer parasailing. Like other major beach clubs in Cozumel, Mr. Sanchos focuses on providing extensive dining and relaxation amenities for their day pass guests. However, you can secure your parasailing adventure through the highest-rated tour provider located directly next door, just a very short walk from the Mr. Sanchos entrance.
Is Parasailing Worth It?
Yes, parasailing is overwhelmingly worth the cost for the incredible view and the low-effort thrill it provides. It offers a level of peaceful, panoramic visibility unavailable in other tours, making it an excellent value. In Cozumel, the worth is amplified by our inclusion of free beach club access and our guarantee of the highest flight.
Here are more reasons parasailing is a great investment:
- Unique Views: You get to see the water and coastline from a high vantage point, and may even spot marine life like dolphins.
- Peaceful and Calm: Despite the height, the experience is described as surprisingly peaceful and gentle, not like an extreme sport.
- Accessible for Most: Parasailing is great for beginners. It’s suitable for a wide range of ages and doesn’t require special skills or strength.
- Easy to Participate: All necessary equipment is provided by the operator.
- Low-Risk and Safe: With professional instructors and modern equipment, it’s considered a very low-risk activity.
How Much Does Parasailing Cost in Cozumel?
Parasailing in Cozumel typically costs between $80 USD and $150 USD per person on average, depending on where you book. Cruise ship excursions often charge premium rates for the same flight time, while heavily discounted services may offer less value or shorter experiences. We offer the best parasailing value in Cozumel, Mexico. Our Solo or Tandem flights start at a competitive price and include significant extras like our amenities and FREE Beach Club access.
Who Should Not Do Parasailing?
Individuals who should not parasail generally include anyone not in good health. If you have a history of serious back or neck pain/injury, or if you are pregnant, you should avoid this activity. While you fly high, you can relax knowing that the experience is non-strenuous.
What is the Weight Limit for Parasailing in Cozumel?
The weight limit for parasailing in Cozumel is variable and depends on real-time weather and wind conditions. Generally, there is a minimum individual weight of 70 lbs and a maximum combined weight for all flyers (solo or tandem) of 450 lbs. These limits are strictly enforced, and the captain has the final say for the safety of the flight.
Where Is The Best Parasailing in Cozumel?
The best place to book a parasailing excursion is on the West side of the island, south of the ferry and cruise ship ports. This location is preferred because the waters are calmer and easier to handle. This is the only area where parasailing flights can legally operate.
Can I Have My Phone While Parasailing?
Yes, you are technically allowed to have your phone while parasailing, though we strongly recommend against it. Ultimately, it is your choice to take your phone or camera, but anything that gets dropped while parasailing is gone forever. During the harnessing process, do not allow your phone to hinder the safety steps of your instructor. It is a better idea to let the captain and crew take professional photos for you.
How High Do You Go When Parasailing?
Most standard parasailing flights use a towline that allows you to reach a height of 250 ft (76.2 meters). You can legally go up to 500 vertical feet, but this is often a maximum limit rather than a guaranteed height due to wind conditions, air traffic, and local regulations. Higher-end options often use up to 800 feet of towline to achieve the maximum legal vertical height.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Go Parasailing?
No, parasailing is one of the few water sports that does not require you to know how to swim to participate in! This makes it a great choice for nearly everybody. If you are lucky, the captain may allow you to slowly drift down and gently dip your toes into the water while flying.
How Long Do You Stay Up While Parasailing?
The duration of the actual flight time in the air typically ranges from 8 to 15 minutes. While the total tour time (including briefing, boat travel, and harness prep) is longer, the standard time spent airborne is usually around 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the operator and conditions. This brief, thrilling window is usually enough to fully absorb the panoramic views and enjoy the peaceful silence high above the water.
How Many People Can Parasail at One Time?
Most commercial parasailing operations offer flights for either one person (solo) or two people (tandem) at a time. While Tandem is the most popular choice, some modern, specialized systems are equipped for triple flights. Laws in Cozumel, Mexico, limit us exclusively to Tandem Parasailing. The determining factor for the number of participants is always the combined weight of the flyers and the current wind conditions, which operators meticulously monitor for safety.
Is There a Dress Code for Parasailing?
There is no formal dress code for parasailing, but the appropriate attire for is comfortable, quick-drying clothing or swimwear. Since you launch and land directly from the boat deck, shoes are typically removed and stored. Sunglasses are highly recommended, and it is best to leave hats and any non-waterproof items securely stored onshore to prevent loss.
Is Parasailing Hard on the Body?
Parasailing is generally regarded as one of the easiest and least physically demanding watersports available. Because take-off and landing occur directly from a hydraulic winch on the boat deck, there is no running, jumping, or getting wet (unless you request a dip). The harness supports your entire weight, allowing you to simply sit back and enjoy the smooth ascent and descent, making it suitable for children and older adults alike.
Do You Get Wet When You Parasail?
No, customers do not get wet unless the captain intentionally dips you. Modern parasailing operations are designed to keep participants completely dry throughout the experience, as you launch and land directly from the boat’s flight deck. Getting wet is entirely optional; most operators will offer a gentle “dip” in the water during the flight if the participant specifically requests it. If you wish to stay dry, simply inform your crew before take-off.
Best Time of Year to Parasail in Cozumel, Mexico
The best time of year to go parasailing in Cozumel, Mexico, is generally January through October. This period overlaps with the peak tourist season, meaning the island tends to be more crowded, and prices may be higher. While the rainy season (June to November) is less crowded and can offer lower prices, there is a higher risk of inclement weather and possible hurricanes. If you are planning a parasailing trip, check the weather forecast and consider the pros and cons of each season.
Best Time of Day for Parasailing?
The best time of day for parasailing is generally early morning (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM). During these hours, wind conditions are often at their most consistent, and the sun’s glare is less intense, which enhances visibility and photographic opportunities. However, late afternoons also offer beautiful light and slightly cooler temperatures, which can be an excellent choice if you have flexible timing.
Is Cozumel Parasailing Safe?
Parasailing in Cozumel is considered a very safe activity. The most reliable tours prioritize safety by strictly adhering to manufacturer-required weight limits, which includes canceling flights during high wind conditions.
Since our parasailing adventure launches you directly from the boat deck, it is rated as a Low-Easy difficulty level, making it safe for families and children as young as 5 years old. If safety is a big concern, we encourage you to read our article answering the question: Is Cozumel Safe for tourists. Here you will all kinds of things you wish you knew about cozumel
How Rare Are Parasailing Accidents?
Statistically, parasailing is considered extremely safe when regulated and performed by professional, licensed operators. Accidents are rare and are almost universally attributed to either operator error (failing to check weather/equipment) or flying in conditions that exceed wind and weather guidelines.
Cozumel Parasailing Death (2010)
This tragic event, though very old, is still highly searched because people are curious. Fifteen years ago, on the shores of Cozumel, Mexico, there was a tragic death of a Carnival Cruise ship passenger named Joseph Job Sajan. During his single stop on the island, he chose to try a parasailing tour. The U.S. Citizen’s safety harness broke, and he fell into the sea. Mr. Sajan unfortunately did not survive the accident.
Parasailing, tours, excursions, and water sports activity accidents are rare, but they do happen. The tragedy of the 2010 Cozumel parasailing accident years later is still reminding us of the importance of choosing the best parasailing tour in Cozumelprovider, not just the cheapest one.
