Parasailing is a breathtaking experience that you will always remember. However, it is only as great of an experience as the weather allows. So, can you parasail in the rain?
You should not parasail in the rain because the water and wind can cause your parachute to stall. This will cause you to drop at an unexpected rate, and this can be dangerous. Also, never parasail in a thunder or lightning storm; you can even receive a fine for it in some locations such as Florida.
It’s not worth the risk to parasail in the rain, especially if you can get a refund and book a session for another day. Follow along as we explore why you shouldn’t parasail in dangerous weather conditions such as rain and heavy winds.
Why Shouldn’t You Parasail In The Rain?
You shouldn’t parasail in the rain because it is dangerous and even illegal in some situations and areas. Rain and other inclement weather conditions, such as strong winds and lighting can make it dangerous to parasail. You will experience poor airflow and the rain will weigh your wings down.
States like Florida even impose penalties if you parasail too close to a lightning storm. Parachute stalls occur when you parasail in the rain, and this will cause you to drop slowly or potentially quickly.
What Happens If It Starts Raining When You Are Parasailing?
You will lose speed if it starts raining when you are parasailing. The wings will become heavy if it rains which makes it hard to maintain a steady speed. Parasailing in the rain can be dangerous because the wings can stall due to the excess weight of the water.
If it starts to rain when you are currently parasailing the guide will reel you in and end your parasailing session as quickly and safely as possible.
Is It Against The Law To Parasail In The Rain?
It isn’t against the law to parasail in the rain in most states. However, it is against the law to parasail during extreme winds and storms in states such as Florida. The parasailing operator is liable in this case, and they can face fees and penalties if they fail to follow the law.
You cannot legally parasail if the sustained wind speeds are more than 20 miles per hour in Florida or if there is a rain or thunderstorm within 7 miles or you may face penalties.
Can You Parasail During a Thunderstorm?
You should not parasail during a thunderstorm because it can be quite dangerous. Thunderstorms are often accompanied by strong winds and lighting which are both hazardous when parasailing. Some parasailing gear may attract lightning, and when winds are 20 mph or gusts are above 25mph things can get dangerious.
This is enough to rattle you while you’re in the air. The boat that tows you while parasailing is also at risk during a thunderstorm, so it’s not worth taking a chance.
Winds that are even higher put the winch boat tow line at risk, meaning if the winch can’t pull you in you will be stuck in the air. This is an extreme danger, and it is very rare, but if proper precautions are skipped it is possible. Keep an eye on the weather nearby!
Can You Parasail in Fog?
No, you should always avoid parasailing in fog. When it comes to air sports, fog is a big no-no. Fog reduces visibility tremendously, which can cause serious complications for parasailing.
First, it is an issue for the boat driving in the water, if a boat driver can’t see they are at risk of a collision.
Secondly, if the instructors can’t see you in the air you are at risk if there is an emergency. If you do have an issue, you can wave for help, but in fog you simply would not be able to communicate in this way.
Lastly, in fog you wouldn’t know how close you are to the water and if you happened to experience poor weather and some emergency, then knowing your height can help you prepare for such situation.
There are many reasons why fog is a bad idea for parasailing. Like all aviation, fog can hold up the runway and it shouldn’t be any different when parasailing. Always avoid parasailing in fog!
What Happens to My Parasail Booking if it is Raining? (Rebooking? Refund? …)
Many parasail operators refund you the cost and let you choose another day to go parasailing. However, it varies between businesses and there are generally stipulations for rescheduling. For example, many parasail operators will let you reschedule free of charge if you book time within a day or two of the initial appointment.
Check their policies before you parasail, especially if there is a chance of rain and strong winds. Unfortunately, your appointment may be nonrefundable so it’s important to check the weather and the business policies.
Check the Weather Radar Before You Go Parasailing!
You can save time and money if you check the weather radar before you go parasailing. It’s not worth it to book an appointment if there is a chance of rain at the time you’re supposed to parasail. You would likely need to reschedule and there is no guarantee that they will refund you.
Ideally, you should book an appointment on a day without rain and strong winds. Choose a nice sunny day for parasailing so you can make the most of the view.
Read Related: How High Do You Go When Parasailing?
Final Thoughts
Don’t parasail in the rain because it is dangerous and even illegal in some states. Check the weather forecast to make sure there won’t be storms or rain within 7 miles of the parasailing sight. Your parasail operator should help you land quickly and safely if it starts raining while you are in the air. Enjoy your parasailing experience!
Nick Durante is a professional writer that primarily focuses on extreme sports. Parasailing, paragliding, skydiving, and skateboarding are his particular areas of expertise. When he isn’t writing about extreme sports, he is catching up on the world of skateboarding and spending time outside.
