Franz Josef: 13,000ft, 16,500ft or 18,000ft Skydive

If you’re dreaming of soaring high above New Zealand’s stunning South Island, a tandem skydiving experience in Franz Josef might just be the highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally leapt out of a plane (yet), this tour’s glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a truly unforgettable adrenaline rush paired with some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet.

What draws us in is how accessible and safe this experience appears—especially given the variety of jump heights (13,000, 16,500, or 18,000 feet) and the professional guidance provided. We also love how you get a bird’s-eye view of not just glaciers, but lush rainforests and towering mountains. However, it’s worth mentioning that the entire experience lasts only about three hours, so those with tight schedules should plan accordingly. This tour is ideal for thrill-seekers, first-time skydivers, and anyone eager to combine adventure with breathtaking vistas.

Key Points

• High-altitude jumps from 13,000, 16,500, or 18,000 feet offer flexibility for different thrill levels.
• Spectacular views include glaciers, mountains, and temperate rainforests, making it a visual feast.
• Safety and professionalism are prioritized, with expert instructors and thorough briefings.
• Great value, considering the stunning scenery and adrenaline rush packed into just 3 hours.
• Weather-dependent, so booking your first available day with flexibility is wise.
• Authentic experience, with reviews highlighting friendly staff and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What Makes This Skydiving Tour Special?

Imagine the rush of jumping from a plane, yet knowing you’re in safe hands, with an instructor guiding you every step of the way. That’s what this Franz Josef skydiving tour promises—an adrenaline-filled adventure combined with breathtaking panoramic views of New Zealand’s South Island. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker, the experience is designed to be accessible, safe, and truly awe-inspiring.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the variety of jump heights—allowing you to tailor your thrill—and the stunning scenery that unfolds below. From towering glaciers to lush rainforests, you’ll get a perspective few get to see from the ground. The only potential downside? Since weather conditions are critical, your perfect date might need a little flexibility, but the tour’s flexible booking policy helps mitigate this.

Overall, if you’re looking for a short, high-impact adventure that combines adrenaline with some of the best views New Zealand has to offer, this skydiving excursion is a fantastic choice.

What You Can Expect During Your Franz Josef Skydiving Experience

This tour is structured to maximize your thrill and your comfort, lasting about three hours from start to finish. Here’s what you’ll typically encounter:

Meeting Your Instructor and Safety Briefing

Your adventure begins at the drop zone, where you’ll meet your professional, English-speaking tandem instructor. These guides are experienced and friendly, making it easier to shake off nerves. A comprehensive safety briefing follows, covering everything from equipment to what to expect during your jump. We loved the way reviews highlight the staff’s attentiveness and patience—whether it’s calming first-timers or checking on everyone’s comfort level.

Preparing for the Jump

Next, you’ll gear up with a sturdy harness and parachute, and then board the small plane that will take you up to your chosen altitude. The aircraft ride itself offers a chance to soak in the stunning mountain scenery and glaciers, giving you a preview of what’s to come.

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The Ascent to Jump Altitude

Depending on your chosen option—13,000, 16,500, or 18,000 feet—the ascent provides an even more panoramic view. The higher the jump, the longer the free fall, but all options promise incredible vistas. Expect the climb to last 20-30 minutes, with window views that include shining glaciers, rugged peaks, and dense forests.

The Free Fall and Parachute Ride

Once at altitude, your instructor will give you a thumbs-up, and you’ll take the plunge. Free fall times vary: about 45 seconds at 13,000 feet, 65 seconds at 16,500, and approximately 85 seconds at 18,000—which is enough time to feel the rush and see the landscape rushing past. Reviewers frequently mention how “scary at first, but totally worth it” and highlight the “incredible views above the clouds.”

After the free fall, the parachute opens, and you glide back down at a leisurely pace. During this phase, you can enjoy the panoramic sights and even chat with your instructor, who is often praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Expect to land about 300 feet above sea level, with a gentle touch that leaves you eager to do it again.

The Scenery: Why It’s Worth the Price

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the spectacular landscape you get to see from the sky. Reviewers frequently mention the “stunning views,” including the glowing glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks, and lush rainforests that stretch out below. As one reviewer put it, “The views above the clouds were insane,” which perfectly captures the visual drama.

The backdrop of Franz Josef Glacier and nearby Fox Glacier makes this skydive stand out. These are some of the most accessible glaciers in the world, and seeing them from above offers a perspective impossible to obtain from the ground. The floating sensation during the parachute ride adds a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline rush, giving you time to appreciate the vastness and beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness.

Safety, Professionalism, and Customer Experience

Many reviews emphasize the high professionalism and friendly attitude of the staff. The guides are described as “so kind and fun”, and they’ll check on your comfort and answer any questions before the jump. Safety is clearly a priority, with thorough briefings and assessments to ensure everyone is fit to skydive.

The weather dependency is a necessary caveat—since the skydiving is subject to conditions, your scheduled jump might shift to another day. The flexible booking policy, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, helps travelers adapt plans if needed. Reviewers appreciated this flexibility, knowing they wouldn’t lose their investment or excitement just because of a cloudy day.

Cost-Value Analysis

While the media packages and optional extras might seem pricey, many participants feel the experience delivers excellent value for the money—especially considering the unique views and professional service. First-time skydivers often mention feeling well-supported and safe, and the photo and video options are a popular way to remember the moment.

Group Size and Logistics

The tour’s duration is about three hours, which includes briefings, the flight, the jump, and landing. Group sizes are typically small, which helps with personalized attention. The entire process—from gear-up to landing—is designed to be smooth and efficient, respecting your time and energy.

You’ll need to be over 13 years old, with parental consent required for minors. Those over 100 kilograms may face surcharges, so it’s best to check in advance if you fall into that category. The experience is available in English, and the staff’s friendliness makes even nervous first-timers feel comfortable.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This skydiving adventure is perfect for adventure lovers eager for an authentic, heart-pumping experience. It’s especially suited for first-timers, thanks to the safety-first approach and professional guides. Nature enthusiasts will find the views absolutely mesmerizing, making it a must-do for anyone wanting a bird’s-eye perspective of Franz Josef’s glaciers and mountains.

Couples and groups will appreciate the shared thrill, while solo travelers can enjoy meeting friendly staff and fellow thrill-seekers. If you’re pressed for time yet want a memorable highlight, this 3-hour tour packs a punch that many will cherish long after landing.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline rush combined with jaw-dropping scenery, this skydiving experience over Franz Josef offers incredible value and authenticity. The professional guidance, safety measures, and reviews praising the stunning views make it clear this is more than just a thrill—it’s a genuine connection to New Zealand’s wild beauty.

If you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to conquer a fear and see a landscape few will ever experience from above, this tour will satisfy your craving. The flexible booking policy and high safety standards mean you can plan confidently, knowing your experience will be as memorable as it is safe.

This tour isn’t for everyone—those with mobility issues or strict schedules should plan carefully—but for most, it’s an unforgettable way to add a splash of adrenaline and awe to your South Island journey.

FAQ

Is this skydiving tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. Tandem skydiving is designed for first-timers, with detailed safety briefings and friendly, professional instructors guiding you through every step.

What are the jump height options?
You can choose between jumps from 13,000, 16,500, or 18,000 feet, with the free-fall time increasing at each level. All options offer stunning views, but higher jumps mean longer free falls.

How long does the entire experience last?
The whole process, including briefing, ascent, jump, and landing, takes about three hours.

What if the weather is bad on my booked day?
All skydives are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, you can rebook for another day or receive a full refund if rescheduling isn’t possible.

Are there any restrictions on weight or age?
Participants must be at least 13 years old. Those over 100 kilograms may incur surcharges. Children aged 13-16 can only jump at 13,000 feet, while those over 16 can jump from any height with parental consent.

Can I buy photos or videos of my jump?
Yes. Many find the media packages worth it to preserve their memories, though some reviews mention the cost as a consideration.

In essence, if you’re after a combination of adventure, safety, and amazing scenery, this Franz Josef skydiving tour offers an experience that will likely be a highlight of your New Zealand trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby