Parasailing Experience

Do I really want to be dunked into the water? The short answer is, yes. Although most of us prefer to keep our feet on the ground and our bodies free from a 100 metre drop into ice-cold oceanic temperatures, as a wise person once said, “You only regret the chances you didn’t take”.

I’m not exactly the picture of grace and sophistication; do I need experience in this? Even the most awkward, anxious gliders can enjoy this activity. Luckily the staff members are highly-trained and will answer any question you may have, no matter how ridiculous. Now all you have to do is sit back and try to relax!

100 metres is seriously, seriously high. As you and your parasailing partner are winched high into the sky there comes an inevitable moment of panic that crosses your mind. But fear not, it is only brief. Once you begin to look around and enjoy the uninterrupted view of Sydney Harbour your reservations will melt away.

Is this my best angle? Before lift-off, punters are given the option to take a GoPro along for the ride, the idea being that one will leave with some excellent Instagram-ready shots to share with friends. A challenge yet to be undertaken by Australia’s Next Top Model contestants, looking half-decent 100 metres above sea level isn’t easy. But you’ll get some hilarious shots to laugh at later, promise.

I can’t believe my friend/family member/partner is such a chicken. There are times in life when one must put the emotional needs of others above their own. Not everyone can uphold a steely resolve in the face of great heights, so it’s important to be their rock and make a mental note of their facial expression and high-pitched squeals to re-enact for your friends later. 

It’s actually pretty peaceful up here. One you move past the initial shock of the wind whipping your face and ease into the experience, it’s surprisingly relaxing. Get comfortable and enjoy the ride.

This is the first and only time I wish I’d dressed for comfort, not style. Admittedly the idea of a mile-high bikini shot is appealing, but add a harness, the wind in your hair and a drop into cool water and you’ll wish you’d opted for the one-piece.

I wonder how long we would parachute for if the cable snapped... Don’t get me wrong, these guys know what they’re doing. They’ll talk you through the safety procedures and set you up comfortably in the harness, but there’s no stopping that little voice in the back of your head.

Are we being dunked again or making a landing? The whole parasailing flight lasts about 10 minutes in the air, just enough time to be dunked twice and come in for landing. Solid ground, how I missed you.

Nothing builds an appetite quite like adventure. Lucky for you, most parasailing experiences are in the heart of some of Australia's best cities, so you'll be surrounded by an array of shops and restaurants. So make a day of it and take your pick!