St Thomas: Parasail Adventure & Powerboat Ride

Summary

Parasailing above turquoise water with laughter and salt spray

You’ll feel your heart race as you rise above St Thomas on a parasail ride, catch ocean spray during a powerboat dash, and laugh with local guides who make safety feel easy. Expect salty air in your hair and memories that stick long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what your legs look like dangling over the Caribbean? I hadn’t, honestly, until we clipped into the harness at Sapphire Beach Marina in St Thomas. The crew—Marcus and a guy everyone just called “Fish”—were joking around as they checked our straps. There was this faint smell of sunscreen and boat fuel, mixed with that salty breeze you only get on islands. I kept glancing at the parachute as it puffed up behind us, bright against the sky. My heart was thumping way louder than I expected for something that’s supposed to be “relaxing.”

The boat ride out was half the fun—spray hitting my face, sun bouncing off the water, everyone grinning nervously (except Fish, who looked like he’d rather be napping). Our guide ran through the safety talk again, which I appreciated since my brain had turned to mush from excitement. Then suddenly it was our turn. The lift-off is smooth but weirdly quiet; one second you’re on deck, next you’re floating up and everything below turns tiny. You can hear gulls and this distant laughter from the beach—plus your own voice echoing back when you shout “look at that!” even though nobody can hear you.

Eight or ten minutes up there feels longer than it sounds. I tried waving at a catamaran but probably looked ridiculous. At some point, Marcus called up from below—no idea what he said—and we started drifting down. My legs were jelly by then, but in a good way. Back on deck, everyone swapped stories about what they saw (someone swore they spotted a turtle). It’s funny how quickly strangers become friends after something like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Parasail adventure at St Thomas

• Arrive at boat slip N-28
• Complete waivers and safety briefing
• Take powerboat to ocean
• Enjoy 8-10 minute parasail ride
• Return to dock

Top questions

How long does the parasail ride last?

The actual parasail flight lasts about 8-10 minutes per person.

Where does the tour start?

You’ll meet at boat slip N-28 at Sapphire Beach Marina in St Thomas.

Is there a minimum age for parasailing?

Yes, participants must be at least 6 years old to join the parasail experience.

Are guides included during the activity?

Yes, professional guides are included throughout the parasailing tour.

Is the parasailing experience wheelchair accessible?

Yes, this tour is wheelchair accessible according to provided information.

Do I need to arrive early for my scheduled time?

Please arrive 15-20 minutes before your scheduled departure; the boat leaves right on time.

Are infants allowed on board?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the activity.

What’s included

Your day includes all required safety gear for parasailing, guidance from professional local crew members throughout your adventure, plus national park fees covered so you don’t have to worry about extra charges before heading out from Sapphire Beach Marina.