Soaring high above Orient Bay: My friend's wild Parasailing in Sint Maarten adventure

I’ll be honest—I’m not the biggest fan of dangling from a parachute 300 feet in the air. But when my friend came back from her trip to Sint Maarten, grinning from ear to ear with windblown hair and GoPro footage that made my palms sweat, I knew I had to share her story.

If you’re craving a thrill and a view you’ll never forget, parasailing over Orient Bay might just be your new favorite memory in the making.

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What is parasailing in Sint Maarten really like?

It’s like flying—without having to flap.

My friend described it as “weightless but exciting,” like floating above a postcard. Once the boat picked up speed, she was gently lifted off the beach, soaring into the sky with her legs dangling and her heart racing (in a good way).

From up there? You can see the turquoise Caribbean Sea stretch out in every direction, with green mountains in the distance, white boats dotting the water, and the famous Bikini Beach shrinking beneath your feet.

Is it safe to parasail in Orient Bay?

Yes—especially with the pros of this trip.

She told me the crew was super friendly, calm, and clearly experienced. They gave clear instructions, fitted her with all the right gear, and made her feel confident before lift-off. The boat was steady, the setup looked pro, and even the landing was soft. And bonus: the whole thing takes place just off one of the prettiest beaches on the island.

What if I’m not an adrenaline junkie?

You really don’t need to be. Parasailing in Sint Maarten looks wild in photos, but my friend said the actual experience is peaceful and surprisingly gentle. No screaming, no stomach-flipping—just incredible views and a floaty, freeing sensation that she still gushes about weeks later.

And hey, if you’re still unsure, you can always just go along for the boat ride and cheer someone else on!

Where does this Parasailing Adventure in Sint Maarten take place?

Right off Bikini Beach at Orient Bay.

This is one of the most iconic shorelines on the island—powdery sand, restaurants nearby, and plenty of people-watching. The parasail boat leaves from the shore right in front of Bikini Beach Restaurant, and there are showers and restrooms on-site if you want to freshen up afterward.

Why book the Orient Bay parasailing experience in advance?

Because this one fills up fast.

Parasailing at Orient Bay is one of the most popular activities in Sint Maarten for a reason. It’s fun, it’s photogenic, and it’s surprisingly beginner-friendly. Booking in advance means you skip the wait and lock in your time slot—especially helpful if you're only on the island for a few days.

I’ve linked the tour link right here so you can check availability and secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

Even though I didn’t take to the skies myself (yet), my friend’s parasailing adventure had me hooked—at least from the safety of my beach towel. From the way she described it, this isn’t just a thrill ride. It’s one of those rare, unforgettable travel moments where you’re part of the scenery instead of just looking at it.

If you’re heading to Sint Maarten and want to see the island from a whole new perspective, parasailing over Orient Bay might be the perfect high point of your trip.

FAQ

How long is the parasailing ride in Sint Maarten? The actual flight is about 10–15 minutes, but the full experience, including boat time and prep, takes around 45 minutes.

Do I need to know how to swim? Not really! You’ll be securely harnessed the whole time and don’t actually land in the water.

Can I take photos? You can bring a waterproof camera or phone, but the crew also offers souvenir photos for around $30 if you'd rather just enjoy the ride.