The Florida Keys are one big playground of watersports, and Key West is no exception. From
snorkeling the colorful coral reefs to gliding over glistening green mangroves in a
kayak or paddleboard, theres no shortage of
things to do on the water, below the water, and even high above the water yes, were talking parasailing!
Parasailing is one of the most exhilarating water sports, but understandably, some are intimidated by it. But dont worry; were here to conquer your fears and fill you in on everything you need to know to try parasailing.
Key West has some of the best parasailing in the world, with trusted operators that will have you flying high above the turquoise waters and safely back to your
vacation villa at the end of the day.
Ready to hit the sky? Heres your ultimate guide to parasailing in Key West.
What to Know About Parasailing
Parasailing is a watersport that involves being raised above the water in a specially designed parachute, known as a parasail, attached to a boat. As the boat speeds up, the parasail catches more wind and rises higher, providing the rider with incredible aerial views of the water and coastline, plus lots of fun thrills.
Parasailing Tours in Key West
Fury Water Adventures
Voted the best watersports company in Key West for over ten years, Fury Water Adventures has the largest parasail fleet in Key West and a large team of expert crew members. Fury offers several parasailing tours daily for tandem or triple riders.
You can also pair your parasailing tour with other activities, like eco-tours and snorkeling. Or, try the
Ultimate Adventure H20 package, which includes a parasail ride, catamaran tour, jet-ski rental, banana boat ride, and a visit to Furys ocean water park.
Sunset Watersports
- Departing From Key West Historic Seaport: 201 Williams Street, Key West
- Departing From Smathers Beach: 2000 S. Roosevelt Blvd, Key West
- Website: sunsetwatersportskeywest.com
- Phone: 305-296-2554
Boasting the longest and highest parasail flight in Key West, Sunset Watersports is all about the thrills. But dont worry, they cater to first-timers too. You can choose from several tour times throughout the day, including their popular
Early Bird Parasail Flight package, at a discounted rate. Sunset Watersports can accommodate tandem and triple riders.
If youre looking for a full day of adventure, try Sunset Watersports Do It All package. This includes a parasail ride, a snorkeling tour, a jet ski ride, a kayak or paddleboard rental, a banana boat ride, an inflatable water park visit, and lunch.
Sebago Watersports
A trusted name in Florida Keys watersports since 1988, Sebago Watersports offers multiple parasailing tours in Key West daily for up to two riders at a time. And if youre feeling extra adventurous, try their
Power Adventure Tour, an extended 3-hour tour offering parasailing, banana boat rides, water trampolines, and more.
Key West Parasailing
- Departing From Key West Historic Seaport: 201 Williams Street, Key West
- Departing From Smathers Beach: 2000 S. Roosevelt Blvd, Key West
- Website: keywestparasailing.net
- Phone: 786-791-7901
As the oldest parasailing company in Key West, Key West Parasailing has been offering incredible adventures for over 35 years. They offer several tours daily, accommodating tandem or triple riders. Key West Parasailing also boasts one of the longest parasailing rides in the business!
What to Know Before You Go
Whether its your first time parasailing or you're a seasoned pro, most parasailing tours in Key West tend to operate the same way.
- Briefing: Youll start with a safety briefing and get fitted with a lifejacket; this is also a good time to chat with your captain or crew about any questions or concerns you might have. After that, youll board the boat and head out on the water.
- Safety: As the boat travels, passengers will take turns parasailing, typically two or three at a time. Youll be strapped into the safety harness when it's your turn and gently lifted into the air.
- What to Expect: Most flights occur for 8 to 12 minutes at a time. If you choose, you can be lowered into the water during your flight to dip your toes.
While parasailing, youll have a birds-eye view of the water and any surrounding coastline (depending on where the boat travels). You may be able to spot dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, and more.
Parasailing Safety
When proper procedures are followed, parasailing is just as safe as other watersports. During the experience, riders are securely fastened into a harness and wearing a lifejacket at all times. Additionally, all Key West parasailing operators have Coast Guard-inspected boats, use top-of-the-line equipment, and have captains and crew trained to handle emergencies.
Knowing how to swim is not required to go parasailing in Key West. All Key West parasailing operators perform dry takeoffs and landings from the boat. You won't be in the water at all during your tour, with the exception of a quick dip of your feet mid-flight (if you choose that option). Youll also be wearing a lifejacket at all times.
Restrictions
Each tour operator may have slightly different rules, but overall, most require children to be at least six years old and have a combined weight of no more than 450 pounds per flight.
Certain health conditions may also prevent people from being good candidates for parasailing. If you have an age, weight, or health-related concern, be sure to inquire with the company before booking.
The Best Time to Parasail in Key West
You can go parasailing in Key West year-round, but daily weather conditions can delay individual tours if the winds are too high or there are storms in the area.
As far as time of day goes, many recommended parasailing in the morning for smoother, clearer water, but this doesn't mean the afternoon tours arent a good time. Your captain will always inform you of any weather-related concerns and wont depart if conditions arent favorable.
What to Pack
Youll want to wear a comfortable bathing suit or rashguard, bring your ID for check-in, and some cash or credit cards for payments or gratuities. Youll also want some sun protection, so either bring or apply sunscreen before boarding the boat. If you plan to wear sunglasses, a safety strap is never a bad idea.
If you want to bring your phone or camera, you can, although its not recommended that you do so during the parasail flight. Most tours offer photo packages, so you can leave your electronics safely on the boat and still get some great shots.
Sea and Sky Adventures in Key West
Ready to explore the sea and sky? Theres no better place to parasail than Key West, with the bluest water and the best tour operators.
Stay close to all the action when you plan your stay with
Vacation Homes of Key West. Enjoy spacious vacation villas with full kitchens, private pools, and much more for the ultimate island retreat.
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