Parasailing Fort Lauderdale: 400 feet above the Atlantic

Soar 400 feet, spot dolphins and mansions, land on the boat deck

Parasailing in Fort Lauderdale means flying 400 feet above the Atlantic Ocean on a tow from a state-of-the-art CWS Ocean Pro boat, departing from Bahia Mar Resort & Marina. You choose single, tandem or triple flights; the full adventure runs 90 minutes and includes a scenic cruise through the Intracoastal canal system. Ages 5 and up can fly, and observer seats are available for non-flyers. All Coast Guard approved safety gear is provided, and the captains hold US Coast Guard certification with 15+ years of experience and zero incidents on record.

The Experience

The boat leaves Bahia Mar Resort & Marina on Fort Lauderdale Beach, steps from major hotels and with easy parking nearby. Once aboard the state-of-the-art hydraulic parasail boat, you'll complete a safety briefing before the crew harnesses you in and launches you skyward. The tow pulls you to 400 feet—the maximum altitude permitted in Fort Lauderdale—where you'll hang suspended for 8 to 12 minutes with unobstructed views of the Gold Coast skyline, Port Everglades cruise ships, and the Intracoastal mansions lining the waterway below. On clear days, you can spot dolphins and sea turtles in the water beneath you.

The boat deck takeoff and landing happen smoothly using hydraulic equipment; you don't need any parasailing experience to fly. If you want to dip into the ocean during your flight, the crew can arrange that at no extra cost. Families book tandem or triple flights so children (minimum age 5, minimum 100 lbs solo; 450 lbs combined for tandem or triple) can fly alongside a parent or friend. Non-flying guests can sit in observer seats and watch from the boat. The complete experience includes a scenic cruise through the "Venice of America" canal system, so the full outing runs close to 90 minutes from departure to return.

Bring a swimsuit or athletic wear—you may get splashed during the trip. Arrive 30 minutes early at A-Dock to complete your waiver (you'll sign it online before arrival using a link in your confirmation email). The operation runs only in sustained winds under 20 mph per Coast Guard regulations, so weather can cause cancellations; if that happens, you can reschedule or receive a credit. Boats depart on time and cannot hold for late arrivals, so plan to be there early.

What’s included

• USCG licensed captain with over 15 years of parasailing experience.
• all Coast Guard approved safety equipment including life vest and harness.
• 8 to 12 minutes of flight time at 400 feet altitude.
• scenic cruise through the Intracoastal Waterway.
• optional ocean dip during your flight.
• observer seats available for non-flying guests.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Sea Rocket Ocean City (Downtown)

Is this one for you?Fly 400 feet above the Atlantic with unobstructed views of the Gold Coast skyline and mansions—departing from Bahia Mar puts you airborne faster than operators elsewhere, backed by 15+ years without incident and US Coast Guard certified captains.

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Top questions

What do I actually see from 400 feet up during the parasail flight?

From 400 feet, you'll see the Gold Coast skyline, Port Everglades with its cruise ships, the Intracoastal Waterway lined with mansions, and on clear days dolphins and sea turtles in the Atlantic below you.

Can my 7-year-old parasail with me, or do they have to watch from the boat?

Children ages 5 and up can fly in tandem or triple flights with a parent or guardian, as long as the combined weight doesn't exceed 450 lbs. Your child will need a parent or guardian to sign their waiver before arrival.

How long is the actual flight time in the air?

Each person gets 8 to 12 minutes of flight time at 400 feet. The complete adventure, including boat departure, the scenic cruise through the Intracoastal canals, and return, runs up to 90 minutes total.

What happens if the weather is bad on my scheduled day?

Parasailing operates only in sustained winds under 20 mph per US Coast Guard regulations. If weather cancels your flight, you can reschedule for another day or receive a credit toward a future booking.

Do I need any experience, or is this for beginners?

No experience is necessary. The US Coast Guard certified captains handle the boat and equipment, and all safety gear—life vests, harnesses, and parachute—is provided and Coast Guard approved.

Can someone come along if they don't want to parasail?

Yes, observer seats are available on the boat for non-flying guests, so family and friends can watch the flight and enjoy the scenic cruise through the Intracoastal system.