Soaring 500 feet above the ocean, with Ocean City NJ spread out below you and nothing but blue sky above—parasailing delivers one of the most exhilarating and memorable experiences of any beach vacation. Safe, accessible, and utterly thrilling, parasailing is perfect for adventurers of all ages. Here is everything you need to know about parasailing in Ocean City.
The Parasailing Experience
If you have never parasailed before, here is what to expect: You wear a harness attached to a parachute that is towed behind a specially equipped boat. As the boat accelerates, you are gently lifted into the air, rising hundreds of feet while seated comfortably in the harness. Up there, it is peaceful—no engine noise, just wind and incredible views. The ride lasts 10-15 minutes before you are gradually lowered back to the boat.
Most people are surprised by how calm and relaxing it feels once airborne. The takeoff and landing happen right from the boat deck—no running starts or awkward beach launches.
Where to Parasail
Ocean City Area Operators
Several companies offer parasailing from the Ocean City and Somers Point marina areas:
East Coast Parasail: Operating from the marina district, they offer flights for singles, doubles, and triples. Modern equipment and experienced crew.
Paradise Watersports: Full-service water sports operator with parasailing, jet skis, and boat rentals. Located in Somers Point, just across the bay.
Island Watersports: Another solid option in the area with consistent service and good reviews.
Cape May Parasailing
Cape May (30 minutes south) also has parasailing operators. If you are doing a Cape May day trip anyway, consider combining activities.
Flight Details
Altitude Options
- Standard flight: 400-500 feet—high enough for great views, comfortable for most
- High flight: 600-800 feet—for those wanting maximum altitude
- Low flight: 200-300 feet—available for nervous first-timers
Duration
Actual flight time is typically 10-15 minutes. The entire experience, including boat ride out and back, takes about 1-1.5 hours. Plan accordingly.
Pricing
- Single rider: $75-100
- Tandem (two people): $150-180 total ($75-90 per person)
- Triple ride: $200-250 total
Prices vary by operator, season, and flight altitude. Call ahead for current rates.
Who Can Parasail?
Requirements
- Minimum age: Usually 6-8 years old (varies by operator)
- Maximum weight: Typically 450 lbs combined for tandem, 250-300 lbs for single
- Minimum weight: Around 90-100 lbs for single riders (light riders may need to fly tandem)
- No experience needed: Complete beginners welcome
- Mobility: Must be able to sit in harness; accommodations may be possible—call ahead
Health Considerations
Parasailing is generally low-impact and accessible. However, consult a doctor if you have:
- Heart conditions
- Severe back or neck problems
- Pregnancy
- Recent surgeries
Fear of heights is common—parasailing is surprisingly less scary than it sounds because you are securely harnessed and the motion is smooth.
Safety Information
Modern parasailing has an excellent safety record. Operators use:
- Coast Guard-inspected boats
- FAA-approved parachutes
- Multiple safety harness points
- Winch systems for controlled ascent and descent
- Trained, certified crew
You stay dry unless you request a “dip”—where they lower you to touch the water before bringing you back up. Fun on hot days!
Weather Cancellations
Parasailing requires cooperative weather:
- Calm to moderate winds
- No thunderstorms or lightning
- Reasonable visibility
Operators cancel or reschedule for safety. Full refunds are standard for weather cancellations.
What to Wear and Bring
- Comfortable clothes: Swimsuit, shorts, t-shirt
- Secure footwear: Water shoes or go barefoot
- Sunscreen: Applied before boarding
- Sunglasses with strap: Optional but nice up there
- Camera: GoPro or waterproof camera recommended (most operators offer photo packages)
- Leave valuables: Phone, wallet, keys stay on the boat
The View from Above
What makes Ocean City parasailing special? The view. From 500 feet up, you see:
- The entire 8-mile island stretched out below
- The Atlantic Ocean extending to the horizon
- The back bays and marshes behind the island
- The boardwalk and amusement piers
- Boats, dolphins, and sometimes sharks in the clear water
- Cape May to the south, Atlantic City to the north
Photos from up there are stunning. Most operators offer photo packages, or bring your own camera.
Flying Tandem
Tandem flights (two people in one harness) are perfect for:
- Couples wanting a romantic experience
- Parents flying with children
- Nervous first-timers wanting company
- Friends sharing the adventure
You sit side-by-side and can hold hands, talk, and share the experience. Often more fun than flying solo.
Tips for First-Timers
- Relax: The more you relax, the more you enjoy it
- Trust the equipment: Modern gear is incredibly safe
- Look around: Don’t forget to enjoy the view while you’re up there
- Wave to the boat: They’re watching and taking photos
- Request a dip: Touching the water is fun (optional)
- Go higher: If offered, take the extra altitude—you’re already up there!
Booking and Scheduling
When to Book
- Peak season: Book at least a day ahead for weekends
- Walk-ups: Often possible on weekdays
- Multiple flights: Boats typically take 6-12 passengers, rotating through
Best Times
- Morning: Calmer winds, smoother flights
- Late afternoon: Beautiful light for photos
- Avoid midday: Hottest and often windiest
Combine with Other Activities
Parasailing pairs well with a full water sports day:
- Morning parasailing + afternoon jet ski
- Parasailing + dolphin watching cruise
- Parasailing + beach time
- Parasailing + boardwalk evening
Some operators offer package deals combining activities.
Worth the Thrill
Parasailing might be outside your comfort zone, but that is exactly what makes it memorable. The anticipation, the liftoff, the quiet float above it all, and the gentle landing—it adds up to an experience you will talk about for years.
Ocean City looks beautiful from the beach. From 500 feet up, it is absolutely spectacular.
Book a flight, strap in, and soar. You will not regret it.