Key West Parasailing: Tandem & Triple Rides with Ocean Dip

Summary

Soaring over Key West’s water, laughter and salt air on my face

You’ll feel your heart race as you lift off over Key West’s blue water, then settle into awe as you spot dolphins or just drift in silence above the island. Try an optional ocean dip before flying higher again. Tandem or triple rides make it easy to share laughs — and those salty breezes stay with you long after landing.

What’s the experience like?

The harness felt a little awkward at first — I kept tugging at it, not sure if I was doing it right. Our captain, Marcus, just grinned and told me to relax. The boat engine rumbled under my feet while the sun bounced off the water in these weird, almost blinding patches. When we finally lifted off, there was this split second where my stomach dropped (like that feeling before a roller coaster dips) and then suddenly everything was quiet except for the wind in my ears. I could smell the salt so much stronger up there, like it was layered into the air itself.

I flew tandem with my sister — she kept pointing out shapes in the water below (“Is that a dolphin or just seaweed?”) and laughing at how I kept trying to spot our hotel from above. The view of Key West from up high is nothing like what you see walking around; it’s all patchwork colors and tiny boats zigzagging between sandbars. At some point Marcus called up through the radio asking if we wanted to try the ocean dip. We said yes without really thinking — next thing I knew our toes skimmed icy water for a second before we floated back up again, dripping and giggling. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so light after that — maybe it was just being up there with nothing but sky around us.

Back on deck, one of the crew (Li? Lee? I never caught his name right) showed us some photos he’d snapped mid-flight — I looked ridiculous but happy. There were other people waiting their turn, some nervous, others already joking about who would scream first. It felt kind of communal in a way — everyone sharing this weird mix of excitement and nerves. If you’re thinking about a day trip in Key West and want something that’ll stick with you longer than another sunset photo… well, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Parasailing adventure over Key West waters

• Board Fury’s parasailing boat
• Take off and soar above waters
• Enjoy bird’s-eye island views
• Fly tandem or triple
• Optional ocean dip in water
• Spot dolphins and tropical birds
• Land gently back on boat
• Purchase digital photos of trip

Top questions

How long does the parasailing flight last?

The flight time is 8-10 minutes per session.

Can children participate in Key West parasailing?

Yes, children aged 6 and older can fly if accompanied by an adult.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No, pickup is not included; guests check in 30 minutes prior to departure.

Are digital photos included?

No, but digital photos are available for purchase after your flight.

What’s the weight limit for tandem or triple flights?

The total combined weight limit is 450 lbs per flight group.

Can pregnant travelers join this activity?

No, pregnant travelers are not permitted to participate in parasailing.

Is an ocean dip required during the flight?

No, the ocean dip is optional during your parasailing experience.

Do I need to bring ID?

Yes, all guests aged 16 and over must bring one form of ID each.

What’s included

Your day includes 8–10 minutes of flight time above Key West’s waters with gentle dry takeoffs on state-of-the-art boats; tandem or triple rides depending on conditions; an optional ocean dip if you’re up for it; plus digital photos available for purchase after your flight so you don’t have to worry about snapping pics mid-air.