The thought of parasailing is exciting! However, it can be scary since you are suspended above the water, under a parachute, with only a towline holding you in place. So, what happens if you want to parasail but don’t want to go alone?
Tandem parasailing is when two, three, or four people parasail together on the same parasail rig. This can be done in a side-by-side position or the lesser popular front-to-back position. Depending on the rig, the combined weight limits range from 400 lbs up to 660 lbs, if the limit is passed they will be asked to split their group apart.
I’ll walk you through a bit more on how tandem parasailing works, as it differs from tandem bike riding or skydiving. Let’s get to it!
Can Two People Go Parasailing?
Two people go parasailing together all the time! It is considered the most popular style of parasailing as most people like to go with a friend for a better experience.
There are two ways that a tandem 2 person parasail can be positioned:
- Side-by-side
- Front-to-back
Majority of parasailing companies provide the side-by-side positioning so you have more space to yourself. Front-to-back one person is basically wrapped around the other, this is a better option for parents and children. Ask your tour guides what tandem gear position they provide, you may be able to choose!
What’s a Tandem Parasail Ride?
A tandem parasail ride is when two, three, or four people parasail at the same time. You will be positioned in separate harnesses or sometimes in a seated device like the Sky Rider.
However, keep in mind that the weight of the sail needs to be considered. Therefore, you might not be able to fly with your specified person if you both go over the weight limit provided.
How is a Tandem Parasail Set Up?
The most common way a tandem parasail is set up is with the riders sitting side by side. However, some companies will have you ride front to back or give you the choice between the two. I’ll explain these more in detail below.
Tandem Parasailing Side by Side
As stated above, side-by-side is the most common type of tandem parasailing. This allows you to talk to and interact with your friend or family member while in the parasail. It’s best if you are looking for a shared experience.
You are going to have more room and space, without someone in front of you or wrapped around you from behind.
Tandem Parasailing Front to Back
The front-to-back position is not as common; however, some companies still give you a choice to be positioned in this way.
You will have a rider in front and one in the back. This is perfect for those looking for a shared independent experience; if you don’t want to go alone but want an independent adventure, this is the best choice. Great for children and their parents to make them feel more comfortable.
Also, weight distribution is best from front to back, especially if there are three parasailers.
What is the Tandem Parasailing Weight Limit?
The weight limit when parasailing highly depends on the company that you choose to go with. Below, I’ve put together a chart that reflects some different weight limits in and out of the USA so you can get a better idea:
Parasailing Companies Inside The USA Weight Limits
| Company | Location | Combined Weight Restrictions |
| FLYSOBE Parasail | Miami, FL | 150 – 500 lbs |
| Mackinaw Parasailing | St. Ignace, MI | 125 – 400 lbs* (Captain’s call) |
| Hawaiian Parasail INC | Honolulu, HI | 450 max (Min depends on wind) |
| Pacific Parasail | Tacoma, WA | 160 – 450 lbs, 60 lb per child |
| Marina del Rey Parasailing | Marina del Rey, CA | 160 – 450 lbs |
| Chute ‘Em Up Parasailing | Aransas, TX | 150 – 390/580 lbs* (weather) |
| Parasail Joe’s | Lake George, NY | 200 – 550 lbs* (weather) |
Parasailing Companies Outside The USA
Weight Limits
| Company | Location | Combined Weight Restrictions |
| Parasailing Rocky Point | Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico | 120 – 370 lbs |
| Parasail In Rio | Glória, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | 88 – 242 lbs |
| Bay of Islands Parasail | Paihia Wharf, Paihia, 0247, NZ | Adults less than 350 lbs, children more than 44 lbs. |
| Ogopogo Parasail | Kelowna, BC V1Y 6S4, Canada | 150 to 500 lbs |
| Marine Club Berry | Minato-machi, Naha. Okinawa 900-0001 | 20-120 kg per person. Total tandem weight varies. |
How High Do You Go Up When Tandem Parasailing?
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), if you have an 800-foot towline, the highest you are able to go is 500 feet.
This means that even if you request the captain to allow you to fly higher, they will not be able to, as this is a regulation set by a government agency.
These regulations are set to keep fatalities low and ensure that parasailing stays a safe sport. Going any higher while parasailing could result in sudden wind gusts, and other serious issues that risk the safety of both the rider and the crew.
You can read all about how high you go when parasailing in this detailed article.
Does Tandem Parasailing Cost More?
Tandem parasailing does cost more than a solo trip; the amount you pay depends on several factors, such as:
- The number of people
- How long you are flying
- What season it is (demand)
For example, two people in a tandem parasail are going to cost less than three people. Also, a 500-foot excursion is going to cost significantly less than a 1,000-foot excursion.
The season can also affect the cost of parasailing; the high season will cost more than the low season. Taking all this information into consideration, you can expect to pay about $70 to $200 for a parasailing ride.
Can 3 People Parasail at a Time?
As long as the weight is distributed correctly and does not exceed the maximum weight, three people can parasail together.
However, weather conditions also play a factor in this. Your captain will let you know whether they believe it’s safe to continue your three-person parasail once you are out on the water.
If they believe that the triple sail is too heavy, then you will be asked to fly with one other person. But don’t worry! The individual who is left out of the first flight will also get to fly with the person of their choice for no extra charge.
The total amount of weight that the parasail can handle is about 450 pounds, but this may change depending on the weather and the wind.
Can 4 People Parasail at a Time?
Four people are able to parasail at the same time if under the weight limit and the correct gear is provided. It is very uncommon to see 4 people parasailing but some tours offer it, like the Marine Club Berry in Naha, Japan.
All four riders are often children or lighter weight. Full sized adults are often recommend to go in twos or threes for a safer flight.
Final Thoughts
Tandem parasailing is excellent for those who want to share the experience. Depending on your weight, you can choose between a two-person tandem ride, or the three person ride.
However, keep in mind that the weight limit of the parasail changes with the weather. Therefore, be prepared for any sudden changes from the captain, as safety is their primary concern.
When Heather is not participating in extreme sports you can find her working the events across the country, or writing about these amazing adrenaline rushes. She loves to go skydiving, snowboarding, parasailing, hang gliding, dirt boarding, off-roading and hiking.