Parasailing in Mumbai

Parasailing

A parasail is a parachute that goes up! It is designed to be towed behind a boat or 4-wheel drive vehicle. The passenger is strapped into the parasail's comfortable harness which is then connected to the canopy, signal is given to the driver of the tow vehicle, a few forwards steps under the canopy and you are in the air! Depending on the length of the tow rope, your parasail can carry you hundreds of feet into the sky.

If you've been to a beach resort destinations abroad or in Goa, you've probably seen parasails lifting riders skyward. PARASAILING is one of the fastest growing sports in the nation, and any one can join in the fun. Although recreational para-sails have been around for more than 30 years, more efficient modern designs has made it simpler than taking a joyride in a roller coaster. If you have never flown, the freedom of flight awaits you.

The ride is breathtaking and thoroughly enjoyable. The parasail is stable so the passenger enjoys the ride without having to steer. The landings are easy, the tow vehicle slows down and the rider is gently lowered to earth. Responsibility for the safety of the sportsman depends to a large extent on the team helping out in this sport.

What setup is used for parasailing?
Either a stationery winch or an SUV is used for towing up the parasail. The take-off and flight areas are clear of obstructions, trees and rocks. Skilled winch or tow operator and a four man ground crew, favorable winds, and you're ready.

What Preflight checks are done?
A preflight inspection of all the gear is mandatory. All take-offs must be into the wind, which should never exceed 15 to 20 mph. If need be test flight is done by team member and then it's time to start having real fun. The flyer should wear a helmet, approved life vest, and foot protection. After stepping into the harness and hooking onto the Para-Sail the flyer is ready. With the help of the launch crew the winch operator starts the vehicle and pulls the rope until the tow line is taut and completely extended. The sail is spread and held up on two sides by the flight crew. When everything is ready, signal is given to power up. The flyer initially resists the pull tp remove the slack in the lines and then steps forwards for takeoff. It normally takes three to five steps before the lift-off.

Once aloft, flyer gets comfortable in the harness by sitting in it rather than hanging from it. Steering right or left is achieved by pulling on the right or left rear risers, located within easy reach. Altitude is controlled by winch operator. Expect a maximum altitude of 300 feet.

How does one land

The tow or winch operator reduces the power gradually to reduce the height. The forward speed too gets reduced. A perfectly executed landing speed and direction will bring the flyer down to the earth with soft touch down just like a bird. The landing crew takes the control of the canopy.

Flying the para-sail is an aerial adventure that the whole family can enjoy.

If you want to enjoy this sport in Mumbai contact: Space Apple based at Virar. Website: www.spaceapple.com, Landline: 0250-2586764, 9822499281. Email: samsondsilva@gmail.com