Everything You Need To Know About Anna Maria Island Parasailing

If you are looking for a great place to try parasailing, Anna Maria Island allows you to enjoy stunning views of the island and the sparkling turquoise ocean from a bird’s-eye-view. We’ve compiled a detailed guide to help you learn everything about Anna Maria Island parasailing.

Keep reading to learn what parasailing is, the best time to parasail, what you should bring, and how to book the best rental for you with Florida Dreams, including Anna Maria Island vacation rentals with pools.

What Is Parasailing?

Parasailing is a thrilling activity that entails gliding in the air with an open parachute towed by a vehicle, in this case, a motor boat. The guide will then accelerate, and the wind carries you into the air. Typically, most parasailing-related activities happen in a large body of water, such as a lake or ocean, providing you with a stunning view of the surroundings. You can parasail with up to three people at once, though double excursions are more popular.

Parasailing has a rich history dating back to the 60s when a French engineer tried to simplify the method that the military was using to train their parachutists. He advanced the sport, leading to its popularity in commercial uses. After a few years, people realized that parasailing was an exciting and fun activity that deserved more attention.

Later in the 70s, Mark McCullor made another change to parasailing by using parachutes over the sea. Mark is credited for being the pioneer of using a recovery boat and launch, a popular arrangement in the sport.

Brian Gaskin also played a crucial role in designing waterproof fabrics that are still in use. Parasailing comes in multiple forms, including strapping the participants on a boat using a winch and a cable. The sport also has other names like parakiting and parascending.

Like other water sports, parasailing mainly depends on weather patterns. The perfect parasailing flight will happen when the winds are around 20 miles per hour. It’s extremely dangerous to parasail when there are strong winds or waves. That’s why reputable companies only operate with ideal weather.

Unlike sports that require skills and practice, you don’t need any expertise to excel in this activity, though you should be comfortable with heights. You only need the right equipment and weather to become an expert.

Parasailing can be categorized into different types, including solo parasailing and high-altitude parasailing.

Other notable types of parasailing are winch and tandem parasailing. Consider high-altitude parasailing if you want to raise your adrenaline rush and solo parasailing if you are doing it alone. Wakeboarding parasailing, on the other hand, is ideal for experienced enthusiasts as it combines two thrilling activities.  

parasailing in the ocean
Photo from Shutterstock

The Best Time To Parasail

The best time to go parasailing is when the skies are clear and there aren’t strong winds. Other things that determine the perfect time to parasail are location and your personal preferences. Never go parasailing if the weather isn’t calm and stable. With this, you will be guaranteed a safe and enjoyable parasailing session.

With regards to location, the best time to go parasailing mainly depends on where you are and what you want to see. For people in tropical locations, the best time for parasailing is during the dry season, specifically when the weather is hot.

In terms of personal preference, you will have an unforgettable experience if you parasail in the morning when the atmosphere is cool and the wind is down. The best time to parasail for night owls is when the skies are clear, as this will ensure you have a vibrant experience.

What To Bring

To have a perfect parasailing session, you need to carry a few things, including swimsuits and clothes. Depending on where you will be parasailing, you may need shorts and sandals, but ensure they are light enough.

Consider carrying a pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting wet as you will be parasailing in water. For instance, it’s recommended to carry flat-soled athletic shoes and sandals, enabling you to take them on and off with great ease. In case you are parasailing in a cooler season, you should take measures like bringing a jacket. 

You will be wearing your jacket over the swimsuit, and it may act as a windbreaker when the wind becomes strong when parasailing.

For safety purposes, you should always avoid wearing high-heeled shoes, including mules and pumps. In addition, wear pants or a similar garment because most agencies don’t accept skirts. The ease of movement and fit should be the first consideration when parasailing.

Besides basic clothes, it’s advisable to carry a long-sleeved T-shirt, allowing you to adapt easily to the climates. Prepare adequately and have winter clothes ready if you will be parasailing during cooler months.

Parasailing Excursions

With a variety of parasailing organizations around Anna Maria Island, there are plenty for you to consider on your vacation. Here are a few of our favorites.

AMI Adventure Rentals

AMI Adventure Rentals is your number-one shop if you’re searching for a quality rental while parasailing in Anna Maria Island. Whether you are looking for a reliable mode of transport or want modern parasailing equipment, they have all you need. They offer different services, such as guided tours, transportation rentals, and banana boat rides on Anna Maria Island!

Bradenton Beach Parasailing

Bradenton Beach Parasailing will help you have the best experiences in Anna Maria Island and Lido Key. You can book this agency and fly with a team of up to three at a time. Their captains boast over 35 years of experience, ensuring all their customers have a safe and secure parasailing venture.

YOLO Adventures

It’s time to book your lifetime thrilling parasailing adventure with YOLO Adventures. The agency provides its clients with dedicated trips on crystal clear waters and breathtaking views as they parasail. They guarantee that your experience will be a unique and memorable part of your trip.

AMI Parasail

Anna Maria Island Parasail provides year-round parasailing services from 8 a.m., each lasting 90 minutes. Look no more if you are looking for a family-friendly parasailing adventure.

Sea Rocket Adventure

For a beautiful landscape and professional crew during your parasailing session, consider Sea Rocket Adventure. It only takes around ten minutes to get to the parasailing grounds, located north of Anna Maria Island.

Plan Your Visit

Contact the team at Florida Dreams to bring your dream vacation to life! Browse our full property catalog and book your next island retreat today.

Book Your Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals With Florida Dreams

Planning your dream vacation to Anna Maria Island? Florida Dreams has well-designed and maintained vacation rentals, from 2 bedroom Anna Maria Island rentals, and condos for small groups, to spacious homes with private pools, we can help you create a long-lasting memory for your family. Our friendly staff is always available to give you advice on things to do in Anna Maria Island, as well as make your stay as memorable as possible. Don’t hesitate to book your stay with Florida Dreams today!