Parasailing certainly is fun for all ages! This was proven to me as I arrived at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour at 10.30 am and saw a family of six, ranging from two young children through to two grandparents stepping off the boat after having experienced their sky high adventure. I was feeling a bit nervous about what was to come, but after seeing the two children with big grins on their faces, I knew I would be able to do it and have a great time!
After registering with the operator, we stepped onto the boat with the four other participants in the group. We started to make our way out of the harbour as our operator explained some of the safety precautions and correct ways of harnessing ourselves in. The rule on the boat was that those who are lightest, so all the girls, would be first to experience their parasail followed by the boys. Of course, that meant that I was the lucky or perhaps unlucky one, who was chosen to go first.
Once we had cruised out of the harbour for about ten minutes, it was time to step up to the deck at the back of the boat and strap myself in. I was told to clip my harness on to the parachute, bend my knees, and wait until the operator gave the all clear for the assistant to let go of the rope which was keeping me on deck. With a ‘thumbs-up’ from the operator, I was released and soaring up and up within a few short seconds. The take off was certainly an adrenalin rush!
The parachute billowed behind me as I was carried up by the strong winds. The highest point I got to was about 80 metres above the water below. Once I overcame my fear of heights, I glanced down at the water and the boat. What an indescribable feeling it was to see for miles! I could see the different shades in the water and reef below, Perth city in the distance and even a sight of Rottnest Island! A seagull was even flying next to me halfway through the parasail which was quite surreal.
As the boat slowed, the parachute dipped lower and closer to the water. I was too scared to go underwater so I curled my legs up. The operator seemed to be joking around with the others on the boat but was kind enough not to drench me! He picked up speed again sending me soaring back high up into the air. It was so peaceful parasailing over the Indian Ocean, I thought it would be very windy and cold but it was surprisingly really pleasant.
After spending about ten to twelve minutes in the air, it was time to be winched back in to the boat deck. I could see all the others on the boat watching in anticipation to see how easy it would be to land. I was quite anxious that I would either miss the deck or land in the cold water! Luckily, I was carried in to land right on the deck, surprisingly easier than I thought as the assistant was there to hold me upright and grab hold of the parachute before it landed in the water. Although my heart was pounding, I felt truly exhilarated after what I had just experienced! I felt safe the entire time up in the air and the tour operators were fantastic. Those who are looking for a new adventure are sure to have a great time! Just remember to take a towel and a change of clothes if you are thinking about grabbing a bite to eat at the Harbour afterwards.
DESCRIPTION: Experience the panoramic views of the Fremantle coastline and ocean floor from 400 feet in sunny skies!
Parasailing fun is for all ages, whether you are 8 or 108!
Take off and land on the deck of our specially designed winch boat for a 100% safe ride!
VENUE: Fishing Boat Harbour, Fremantle, Western Australia.
DURATION: Approximately 15 minutes.
VALID FOR: 1 person.
RESTRICTIONS: Minimum age limit is 8 years of age.
It is not recommended that women who are pregnant participate in this activity.
Parasailing is suitable for people with a normal level of health.
Maximum weight is 150kgs.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Season open from October to May.
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