Parasailing in Maui

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Parasailing

Parasailing is an easy, exhilarating way to earn your wings: just strap on a harness attached to a parachute, and a powerboat pulls you up and over the ocean from a launching dock or a boat's platform. Keep in mind, parasailing is limited to West Maui, and "thrill craft" -- including parasails -- are prohibited in Maui waters during humpback whale-calving season, December 15 to April 15.

Lessons

West Maui Parasail. Launch 400 feet above the ocean for a bird's-eye view of Lahaina, or be daring at 800 feet for smoother rides and better views. The captain will be glad to let you experience a "toe dip" or "freefall" if you request it. For safety reasons, passengers weighing less than 100 pounds must be strapped together in tandem. Hour-long trips departing from Lahaina Harbor, Slip #15, include 8- to 10-minute flights and run from $60 for the 400-foot ride to $68 for the 800-foot ride. Observers must pay $30 each. 808/661-4060. www.westmauiparasail.com.

UFO Parasail. UFO is the only parasail company allowed to take off from Kaanapali Beach. They offer the standard 7-minute ride at 400 feet ($60), or 10-minute ride at 800 feet ($70). Observers are welcome aboard. Be prepared for lots of jokes about alien abduction. 808/661-7836. www.ufoparasailing.com.