Guide · Start here · First timers

What to expect on your first flight

From check-in to back at the dock in up to an hour. Here’s the whole thing, in order, so nothing is a surprise.

  1. When you book 01

    Book, then check your texts

    Reserve your departure online. Your confirmation and a link to the waiver come by text and email straight away.

  2. Before you arrive 02

    Sign the waiver online

    Everyone needs a signed waiver to board — no exceptions. Sign it from the link before check-in; a parent or guardian signs for anyone under 18. If the link gives you trouble, our office staff can help you at check-in.

  3. 15 minutes before 03

    Check in at Rainbow Harbor

    The meeting spot is at Shoreline Village, right in front of Yard House. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow plenty of time for check-in.

  4. Departure 04

    Board together from the dock

    Once everyone on your departure has checked in, the whole group walks down and boards the boat from the dock at the same time.

  5. Your turn 05

    Harness up on the deck

    The crew explains what happens and fits your harness. You take off straight from the back of the boat — no running, no swimming, nothing to steer.

  6. Air time 06

    Up to 800 feet

    The line pays out and you rise above the harbor. You’re in the air for about 8 minutes. Want to dip your toes? Ask the crew and they’ll lower you to touch the water near the end, conditions permitting.

  7. Back aboard 07

    Land on the deck, then head in

    You come down onto the same deck you left. Once everyone has flown, the boat returns to the dock. The whole trip runs up to an hour, depending on how many passengers are aboard.

What it feels like

Quieter than you’re picturing

The lift is gradual, not a jolt. You rise as the line pays out, and because you’re moving with the air there’s very little wind in your face. The boat’s engine fades away below you.

What people talk about afterwards is the view: the harbor and the lighthouse below you, the downtown skyline, the Queen Mary across the water, and the open Pacific out past the breakwater.

Bring

  • A photo ID
  • Sun protection, put on before you board
  • Comfortable clothes for a boat ride
  • A strap for your sunglasses

Leave behind

  • Hats and loose jewelry
  • Anything you’d hate to drop in the harbor
  • Big bags — space on the boat is limited

Good to know

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early
  • Solo flyer: 175 lb minimum
  • Combined weight: 175–500 lb
  • Minimum age: 5 years old
  • Photo package: $40 per booking
  • Questions? Call (562) 358-5985

Quick answers

Questions we hear on the boat

How early should I arrive for parasailing?

At least 15 minutes before your departure, so there’s time to check in at Rainbow Harbor. Sign your waiver online before you arrive to speed things up.

Do I have to sign a waiver?

Yes. Everyone needs a signed waiver to board, no exceptions. The link is texted and emailed to you when you book, so you can sign before check-in. Our office staff can help at check-in if you have trouble.

Can I sign the waiver for my child?

Yes. A parent or guardian signs for anyone under 18.

Do I have to know how to swim to parasail?

No. Takeoff and landing both happen on the boat deck, so you never have to go in the water or climb back aboard.

Is parasailing scary?

Most first-timers are surprised how calm it is. The lift is gradual, not a jolt, there’s very little wind in your face, and it’s quiet once the boat’s engine fades away below you.

What if the weather is bad?

If weather or the captain cancels your flight, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Keep reading

More guides

Done reading? Go fly.

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