Franz Josef Tandem Skydive 13,000ft with Transfers

Skydiving Over Glaciers & Mountains in Franz Josef

Take off from Franz Josef for a tandem skydive over glaciers, rainforests, lakes, and ocean views. Gear up with provided equipment and let your local instructor handle every detail—from airport transfer to safe landing—for an adrenaline rush you’ll keep replaying in your mind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Tandem Skydive Experience

• Tandem skydive over Franz Josef Glacier

The Experience

Honestly, the first thing I remember is the cold air hitting my face as we shuffled toward the little plane at Franz Josef. Our instructor—Pete, I think—cracked a joke about “the world’s best view for losing your stomach.” I could smell damp grass and jet fuel mixed together. The whole group was buzzing, but it was that nervous kind of laughter you get before doing something big.

The climb up felt slow, like time stretching out just to mess with us. Out the window: blue lakes below, the Tasman Sea glinting way off to the left, and those wild white streaks of Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers right there on our right. Pete pointed out Aoraki/Mount Cook in the distance—didn’t expect to see it so clearly from up here. My hands were sweating inside the gloves they gave us (helmet and goggles too; they don’t mess around with safety). Then suddenly: door open, wind roaring, and we’re tumbling out into nothing.

I still think about that first few seconds—just pure noise and color rushing by at 200kph. Then everything slowed down under the parachute. It was quiet except for Pete shouting over his shoulder about braided rivers snaking through rainforest below us. Landing was soft; legs shaky but grinning like an idiot. The shuttle back to town was full of people replaying their jumps on repeat. So yeah—if you’re searching for a real tandem skydive Franz Josef experience with all the gear sorted and transfers included, this is it.

What’s included

Your experience covers use of helmet, gloves, goggles, jumpsuit, and all necessary skydiving equipment. Round-trip shared transfers between town and airport are arranged (except during certain restrictions), so you just need to show up dressed warmly with secure shoes—the rest is handled by your local guide team.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Skydive Franz and Fox

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Top questions

How high do you jump on a Franz Josef tandem skydive?

The standard jump is from 13,000 feet above Franz Josef Glacier, offering views of mountains, glaciers, lakes, and coastline during freefall.

Is transport included for skydiving in Franz Josef?

Yes, round-trip shared transfers between the booking office and airport are included unless there are covid restrictions in place.

What should I wear for a tandem skydive at Franz Josef?

Wear warm lightweight clothes and secure shoes with laces; all other necessary skydiving equipment is provided by the operator.

Can beginners do a tandem skydive in Franz Josef?

Tandem skydiving is designed for beginners; experienced instructors handle everything so you can enjoy the jump safely without prior experience.