The aquatic activity of ascending, also known as parasailing or parascending, is the most similar to skydiving. Surely, you have seen how a boat tows one or more persons linked to a parachute around the beaches of Portugal where you spend your vacations on several occasions. If you're interested in learning more about what it's like to practise this water sport at full speed across the Atlantic, read on to know where and how you can have an incredible parascending adventure.
1. What are the best parascending spots in Portugal?
Parascending is a water sport that can be done anywhere along the Portuguese coast. If possible, go to a coastal area where the wind is strong so as to make the most of the experience. But which part of Portugal satisfies these criteria? The Algarve region in Portugal is ideal for parascending. Faro is the city par excellence within this coastal area where you can have a memorable experience with this water sport. Its waves, winds, and coastline splendour allow you to experience the best speed and natural vistas that the area offers. Close to Faro, you can go parasailing on Albufeira's beaches, especially Fishermen's Beach, the most popular place owing to its golden sand and crystal-clear waves. Thousands of parascending tourists visit Vilamoura, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Algarve, every summer at Praia da Falésia, the largest sandy beach in the central Algarve.
2. What should you know before you try parascending?
As the name implies, parascending will take you to new heights at full speed in a unique style. You must be able to discern between spinnaker and parascending, as both involve using the wind's power to ascend the Atlantic Ocean's seas. Parascending, on the other hand, includes ascending, whereas the spinnaker permits the participant to just balance on the front half of the boat. We should also tell you that throughout the session, you will be able to reach a height of 120 to 150 metres! However, it will take some time to build momentum, so you will have time to take in the scenery. This aquatic adventure is usually enjoyed by two to three persons, but sometimes, up to six people can participate simultaneously. As this is a high altitude activity in which speed is a fundamental element, it is not recommended for those who get dizzy or have vertigo at heights.
3. What do you need to do for a parascending flight?
To participate, at least two people are required, one with a parachute and the other to pilot the boat along the Atlantic beaches. However, this factor may be different if we go to a parascending company which allows you to participate in this adventure as a group without anyone having to pilot the boat, the main element present in the activity, along with the parachute. A cord tethered between the boat and the parachute must be at least 15 or 20 metres long. Last but not least, but just as important, you will need a harness and a life jacket that will keep you safe to enjoy a parascending flight without any worries.
4. Are there any limitations to this activity?
Even though it is a high-altitude activity that may appear risky at first, it is one of the most enjoyable water sports with minimum risk. However, to ensure maximum safety, participants must be at least 8 years old. This ensures that the subsequent criteria of being at least 1 metre tall are met. Otherwise, unless you have a licence to pilot the boat, you will not need a permit, as this is typically an activity that is contracted with a specialised firm, and you will simply need to carry comfortable clothing and waterproofs, as well as enjoy yourself!
5. What is the duration of a parasailing experience?
The parascending activity can take up to an hour from start to completion. The trained instructor will explain how the activity works during this time, providing the essential information to ensure that the experience is safe and enjoyable. We move on to practise using all of the important resources once the theory has been demonstrated. The boat will begin to cross the Atlantic with speed, propelling us to greater heights. Once in the air, it typically flies 3 miles at full speed for 12 minutes. The duration is approximate because it is heavily influenced by wind speed.
When is the most ideal time to take a parascending flight?
There is no set time for parascending, and it is entirely dependent on the type of experience you seek. However, because it is a water activity, it is ideal to partake in a parascending adventure during the summer months. Refresh yourself with a dip in the water and choose a windy day if feasible, as this will add to the excitement of the trip. Are you up for the challenge?
