Parasailing above the emerald waters of Destin is one of the most unforgettable experiences on the Gulf Coast — but your safety should always come first. Before booking your flight, make sure your operator checks all the right boxes. Here are seven questions to ask to ensure you’re flying with a licensed, experienced, and safety-focused crew.
1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Compliant with Florida & Federal Laws?
Reputable Destin parasailing operators follow both Florida’s White-Miskell Act and federal Coast Guard/FAA standards. These require insurance, detailed weather logs, and annual equipment checks.
✅ Ask: “Are you fully insured and compliant with the White-Miskell Act?”
2. How Often Do You Inspect or Replace Your Gear?
Safety starts with the equipment. A trustworthy operator inspects harnesses, winch lines, and parachutes daily and replaces them regularly.
✅ Ask: “When was your last full equipment inspection?”
3. What Are the Weight, Age, and Health Restrictions?
Each operator sets limits to keep flights balanced and safe — usually around 6 years old minimum and 450–500 lbs combined weight.
✅ Ask: “Do you have posted weight and health requirements?”
4. What’s Your Weather Policy?
Weather can change quickly on the Gulf. Responsible crews monitor wind and sea state and will postpone or refund flights if conditions are unsafe.
✅ Ask: “What’s your maximum wind speed for flights, and how do you handle cancellations?”
5. Who Are Your Captain & Crew, and What Training Do They Have?
The best parasailing companies in Destin have U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains and trained deckhands with CPR and parasailing-specific certifications.
✅ Ask: “How many years of experience does your captain have on the Gulf?”
6. How Do Takeoffs and Landings Work?
Smooth takeoffs and landings are essential. Pelican Adventures uses a dedicated parasailing winch boat, allowing guests to lift off and land gently on the deck — not in the water.
✅ Ask: “Do you launch and land from a winch boat deck or from shore?”
7. Can I Read Reviews or See Recent Flight Photos?
Transparency says a lot about an operator’s confidence. Look for recent reviews mentioning safety, friendly crew, and well-maintained gear.
✅ Ask: “Where can I see recent customer feedback or photos from your flights?”
🪂 Choose Pelican Adventures for a Safe and Unforgettable Flight
At Pelican Adventures in Destin, safety isn’t a checkbox — it’s the foundation of every flight. Our crew performs daily equipment inspections, tracks real-time weather, and holds decades of combined experience on the Gulf of Mexico.
Whether you’re parasailing solo, tandem, or with your family, you’ll enjoy breathtaking Emerald Coast views knowing you’re flying with a team that puts safety first.
👉 Book your Destin parasailing adventure today and discover why visitors call Pelican Adventures the safest parasailing experience in Florida.
🧠 FAQ
Is parasailing safe for kids or non-swimmers?
Yes — all passengers wear life jackets, and takeoffs/landings happen directly on the boat. We welcome families and children (typically ages 6 and up).
What should I wear for parasailing?
Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothes, and secure any loose items. Sunglasses with straps are fine, and don’t forget sunscreen!
What happens if the weather turns bad?
If wind or waves rise, we reschedule or refund flights. Your safety always comes before the schedule.
How high will I fly?
Most Pelican Adventures flights reach between 300–400 feet above the water, depending on conditions — the perfect height for incredible views and photos.