Parasailing, also known as Parascending, is a popular recreational activity which was commercially developed during the 1970s. It involves a person (two people may also ride at the same time) being towed behind a vehicle while attached to a parachute. The most common form of Parasailing is Aquatic Parasailing where the participant is towed behind a speedboat. During flight, the parasailer has little or no control over the parachute.

There are several different places Parasailing can take place, though this activity has been primarily linked with holiday makers and holiday resorts, and should not be confused with the sport of Paragliding.

Land or Terrestrial Parasailing has also been formed as a competition sport in Northern Europe - especially in Finland during the 1990s, and is becoming a very popular activity. In Terrestrial Parasailing, the parasail is towed behind a car or a snowmobile over a predefined course.

In accuracy competitions, the tow-vehicle controls the speed and height, and the person flying the parasail controls the lateral movement of the sail. The competitions consist of two parts: dropping/throwing a streamer to a target and accuracy landing. The first international competitions were held in 2004.

To find out more about Parasailing in the UK, use the Your Leisure Site Quick Search.