How to Parasail
Coordinate with ground assistants and a boat driver to launch a human kite towed behind a boat.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Have ground assistants check the rig and flight harness on the parasailor before takeoff. Then ground assistants take their positions holding open opposite sides of the sail.
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2
Signal the boat driver to go.
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3
Instruct the boat driver to begin slowly accelerating to take up the slack line while ground assistants and the parasailor move forward with the rope. Assistants hold the guidelines to help the sail fill up with air.
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4
The parasailor should take a few long strides with the rope taut, but not aid in the liftoff process by jumping or pulling up his or her feet. The canopy will do this on its own.
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5
Steer the parasail by pulling down on risers on the side of the desired direction. No steering should actually ever be necessary.
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6
Direct the pick-up boat to trail 200 feet behind the parasailor.
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7
Release the safety pin to allow the parasailor to float gently down into the water at either a high or low altitude.
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8
Pick up the parasailor and equipment in the safety boat and return to shore to launch again.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Ground assistants must hold the guidelines evenly or the parasail will take off in a diagonal direction.
Do not parasail in winds stronger than 15 mph.
If the parasail rotates more than 45 degrees in the air, the safety pin should be pulled before the canopy can spill its air and drop the sailor.
The parasailor must wear a life vest, as the harness is too heavy to swim in.
Parasailing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.
