Parasailing is one of the most popular activities for tourists in Florida. The Sunshine State is known for its wide variety of parasailing locations and providers. As the largest peninsula in the United States, Florida is uniquely poised to offer more parasailing options than any other state. Visitors love taking to the skies on warm days and seeing the gorgeous water and skyline at a different vantage point. The thrill of flying through the air is so enticing that many people wonder if their children can join as well. Here are all of the factors you need to know about children parasailing in Florida.
How old do you have to be to parasail?
There is a popular misconception that parasailing is an unsafe activity. Unfortunately, this leads many people from even considering such a fun experience. In reality, everyone who is six years old and above can go parasailing. It is also important to note that participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian to sign their release. Younger children must also be accompanied by their parents, while the older children are typically allowed to fly alone. This is up to the discretion of the drivers.
What are the parasailing weight requirements?
Parasailing providers set limits and minimums for weight in order to keep passengers and drivers safe. This weight capacity is measured by individual as well as by groups for participants parasailing together. While the weight requirements may differ between provider, participants must typically be at least 125 pounds. This weight requirement is for those who are parasailing in Destin alone. People who are under 125 pounds are allowed to parasail, but they can simply fly tandem with another person to exceed the minimum parasailing weight limit.
It is also important for groups to know the weight maximum for parasailing. While this number will differ from provider to provider, the typical maximum weight limit hovers around 450 to 500 pounds. Any individual or group cannot exceed this weight limit. Groups that exceed this weight limit can easily be divided into separate groups. Too much weight on a parasail can dampen the experience overall and can even cause potential danger.
What role does the wind play?
The wind plays an incredibly important role when determining the weight and age requirements for parasailing. While a parasailing age limit may be somewhat arbitrary, weight is very tangible characteristic that can have a lot of influence on a parasailing experience. Providers will take into account the strength, speed and directions of the winds each day to determine if any changes need to be made. Depending on the wind, some requirements may be slightly different. Perhaps lighter winds will cause a provider to reduce the maximum weight limit. Stronger winds can also cause the minimum weight limit to rise. Providers will make these changes to keep every participant as safe as possible. It is important to measure a safe wind speed for parasailing.
Is parasailing safe enough for children?
Even when a child meets the age and weight requirements, some parents and guardians wonder if parasailing is a safe enough activity. In reality, the chances of having an accident while parasailing is quite low. The accidents that are heard of on the radio or news are practically one-in-a-million. It’s important to understand all of the safety measures involved in this activity. Besides an age and weight limit, there are harnesses, straps, helmets, life jackets and several other safety measures involved. While the ultimate decision is up to a parent or guardian, parasailing is a safe activity for children that meet the age and weight requirements. They are set in place to keep participants safe.