Fort Lauderdale: Parasailing on Fort Lauderdale Beach

Thinking about adding a dash of adventure to your Florida vacation? Parasailing off Fort Lauderdale Beach offers an exhilarating way to see the coastline from above, blending adrenaline, stunning vistas, and a bit of local charm. This tour, highly rated at 5 out of 5 from a single review, promises a safe, scenic, and memorable experience — perfect for travelers seeking a gentle thrill and spectacular photo opportunities.

What we particularly like about this experience is how accessible it is: the tour lasts just about 1.5 hours, includes safety gear and a thorough briefing, and accommodates small groups to keep things personal. Plus, the chance to see mansions along the intercoastal and spot dolphins or sea turtles makes it feel more like an adventure than just a ride.

A potential consideration? The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with back problems, and participants must be at least five years old. Also, if you’re hoping for professional photos included in the price, you’ll need to purchase a package separately. Still, for those looking to combine fun, safety, and fantastic views, this parasailing outing hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for families, first-time flyers, or anyone eager for a memorable coast-hopping perspective.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Experience

2 What’s Included and What’s Not

3 Why We Think It’s a Great Choice

4 Who Will Love This Tour?

5 Frequently Asked Questions

6 Final Thoughts

Key Points

Stunning Views: You’ll soar 400 feet above the Atlantic, enjoying panoramic vistas of Fort Lauderdale’s coastline, mansions, and marine life.
Safety First: The vessel is Coast Guard inspected, and safety gear, including life jackets and harnesses, are provided.
Group-Friendly: Fly tandem or triple, making it a fun group activity or a special treat for a loved one.
Brief and Enjoyable: The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, with a 10-minute flight that offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Expert Guidance: The crew is knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring you feel secure while enjoying the ride.
Accessible and Flexible: Suitable for most ages five and up, with morning, afternoon, and evening slots available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Fort Lauderdale.

Starting Point and Group Size

Your adventure begins at the Lauderdale Parasail boat slip, where you’ll meet your crew. The boat hosts a maximum of 12 passengers, ensuring that everyone gets attention and a comfortable experience. This small group size makes the tour feel more personal and less rushed, which we find is a big plus for first-timers or nervous flyers.

The Boarding and Safety Briefing

Once onboard, the captain takes the boat to the best location depending on the weather — a wise move, given Florida’s sometimes unpredictable conditions. You’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing that covers what to expect during takeoff, the flight, and landing. The crew’s professionalism and clear instructions help build confidence, especially if you’re new to parasailing.

The Ascent and Scenic Views

When it’s your turn, you’ll step onto a sturdy platform on the boat, where the team secures your harness and life jacket. As they let out 800 feet of line, you’ll gradually lift off the platform, steadily rising to about 400 feet above the ocean. The sensation is peaceful and smooth, with the quiet of the wind and the gentle tug of the line creating a serene, almost meditative atmosphere.

From this vantage point, your surrounding views are spectacular. You’ll be able to gaze over the coastline, spotting luxury mansions along the intercoastal, dotted with boats and the occasional dolphin splashing below. Many reviews mention the chance to observe sea turtles, stingrays, and even playful dolphins, adding a layer of wildlife excitement to the flight.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Duration and the Experience

The actual flight lasts around 10 minutes — longer than many expect — allowing ample time to absorb the scenery and snap photos if you bring your camera. The entire process, from boarding to landing, takes about 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a morning or afternoon schedule.

Here's some more things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Touchdown and Reflection

As your flight concludes, the crew gently pulls you back towards the boat, where you can briefly touch the water before landing on the platform if you wish. Many reviewers appreciated this opportunity, noting it added a playful and memorable touch to the experience.

Returning to Dock

After everyone in your group has had their turn, the captain heads back to the slip, leaving you with a sense of calm and appreciation for the views. The entire ride is smooth, safe, and well-organized — a key factor behind the high rating.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

A 10-minute parasail flight
Use of life jackets and harnesses
Safety briefing from knowledgeable staff

Not included:

Hotel pickup or drop-off (you’ll need to find your own way to the meeting point)
Photo packages (you can buy these separately if you want a keepsake)

Practical Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for a boat deck.
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat — the Florida sun can be strong.
Arrive about 30 minutes early to check in and prepare.
This activity is suitable for children as young as five, but not ideal for pregnant women or those with back issues.

Why We Think It’s a Great Choice

Parasailing offers a unique blend of thrill and tranquility. The gentle ascent and smooth ride give even nervous travelers a sense of awe without feeling overwhelmed. The ability to see wildlife, mansions, and the coastline from above makes this more than just a fun ride; it’s a perspective on Fort Lauderdale you won’t forget.

The tour’s safety focus and small group size are big selling points, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. The crew’s professionalism and clear instructions help ensure everyone feels secure, regardless of experience level. Plus, the flexible scheduling means you can fit this adventure into your day, whether in the morning, afternoon, or evening.

While $106 per person might seem steep for a 10-minute flight, consider the value of the experience: a safe, scenic, and memorable view of Florida’s coast with the potential to spot marine life. For many, the cost is worth it for the chance to soar above the Atlantic and capture some incredible photos.

Authentic and Informative

Reviews from other travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views as major highlights. One reviewer called the crew “professional and attentive,” making the experience comfortable and fun. Others appreciated the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles from above, turning the flight into a mini wildlife tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This parasailing adventure suits travelers looking for a gentle thrill and a scenic escape. Families with children over five will enjoy it, as will couples seeking a romantic perspective of the coast. It’s also great for anyone who wants a manageable, safe introduction to aerial activities without the fuss of larger, more complicated excursions.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, this tour offers incredible vantage points to capture Fort Lauderdale’s beauty, especially during a clear, sunny day. Those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a relaxed pace will find this trip well worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire activity last?
The entire experience, from check-in to landing, takes about 1.5 hours, with the actual parasailing flight lasting approximately 10 minutes.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a 10-minute flight, life jackets, harnesses, and a safety briefing.

Can I bring my own camera?
The tour doesn’t include photography packages, but you are welcome to bring your own camera or smartphone to capture the views from above.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be at least 5 years old to join the flight.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many visitors.

Do I need to worry about weather?
The captain will choose the best location based on weather conditions to ensure safety and a good experience, but cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.

Are there any restrictions for pregnant women or people with back problems?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back issues, as the activity involves being harnessed and lifted into the air.

Final Thoughts

A paragliding flight over Fort Lauderdale offers a rare combination of gentle adventure, stunning scenery, and marine wildlife sightings. It’s an activity that doesn’t require prior experience, yet delivers a memorable new perspective on this vibrant coastline. The safety measures, small group sizes, and knowledgeable crew make it a reliable choice for most travelers.

While it might not be the cheapest option, the value lies in the breathtaking views and the chance to tick an exciting experience off your Florida list. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to add some adventure to your trip, this parasailing tour is a solid pick.

Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic beauty without too much fuss, this experience leaves many satisfied and looking forward to another flight. If you’re eager to see Fort Lauderdale from a different angle, this is definitely worth considering.