The average novice parasailer understandably doesn’t know what to expect out of the experience. Parasailing is one of the most fun experiences you can have that can create incredible memory. Many first-time parasailers have asked themselves: do you get wet when parasailing?
You only get wet when parasailing if you dip your feet in the water. Parasail operators will ask you in advance if you want to dip in the water or not. Otherwise, you don’t go in or out of the water when parasailing because you land on the back of the boat.
It is fun to dip in the water when parasailing, but that will only happen if you request it. Follow along as we explore what you should expect when parasailing and whether or not you’ll get wet.
Do You Land in the Water When Parasailing?
No, you land back on the boat that you take off form when parasailing. You only land in the water when parasailing if your parachute or towline fails. A failure of equipment is an extremely rare occurrence when parasailing and your parasail operator should prepare you on all safety protocols for it beforehand anyways. Otherwise, you will land on the back of the boat when your parasailing session is over.
Parasail boats feature a winch system that helps you return to the back of the boat. This will keep you out of the water and let you land safely.
Does Water Splash You When You Parasail?
Water does not typically splash you when you parasail. The most common instance that this will happen is if you request to dip into the water before you take off. Otherwise, water can only splash you if your parachute/towline fails or if it starts raining while you are parasailing.
It is very unlikely for it to rain when parasailing as you are not supposed to parasail if rain is nearby, and tour companies are looking on weather radars throughout the day.
Read all you need to know about rain and parasailing in my detailed article: Can You Parasail In The Rain?
Can You Ask to Get Dipped in the Water on Purpose?
You can ask to get dipped in the water on purpose, and your parasail operator may allow you. Some operators will ask if you want to get dipped in the water beforehand. You will get wet in this scenario, but it also adds an extra layer of fun to the experience for many people.
They are less likely to allow you to dip your feet if you are with a big group of people that are waiting for their turn. However, it’s worth it to ask because it can add extra fun to your parasailing experience. It is really up to the captain!
Can You Wear Normal Clothes Parasailing?
You can wear normal clothes when parasailing, and it’s ideal to dress as comfortably as possible. Even still, many seasoned parasailers wear a swimming suit and a comfortable t-shirt. Wear a swimsuit if you plan to get dipped in the water while parasailing so that you aren’t stuck in soggy clothes for the rest of the day.
Read my related article: Is Parasailing Safe for Non-Swimmers?
Can You Take Your Phone Parasailing?
Many parasail operators discourage you from taking your phone parasailing if you have no strap connecting the phone to you. There is always a risk that you will drop the phone into the water. It is against some operators’ policies, and they may not allow you up in the air with your phone.
However, it is typically just a recommendation, and they won’t penalize you if you bring your phone in many cases. Place your phone in a waterproof pouch if you bring it parasailing just in case your parachute fails.
Read our full post “Can You Take Your Phone Parasailing?” here to learn all you need to know.
Will My Hair Get Wet Parasailing?
Your hair shouldn’t get wet when parasailing unless you dip into the water. You would only get wet when you land and take off because that’s when you’re closest to the water. However, that would only happen if the water conditions are rough in most cases because you land on the back of the boat.
It is very unlikely for conditions to be rough because there are very strict rules when it comes to wind and parasailing. Typically you will not parasail above 15 to 20 mile per hour winds. Read all about parasailing and wind speeds in our detailed guide: Can You Parasail When It’s Windy?
Final Thoughts
You will only get wet if you ask to dip in the water or if your parachute/towline fails. Parasailers depart from and land on the back of the boat so you never make contact with the water on a regular trip. However, you can always ask your operator to dip you in the water if you want to get wet, but not all of them will comply.
Dress comfortably and consider wearing a swimsuit when parasailing in case you get wet. Don’t take your phone unless you keep it in a waterproof pouch or bag in case of emergency. Otherwise, you won’t have to worry about water splashing you and getting wet when parasailing.
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.
