Want a Unique Thrill? Go Parasailing
Posted on May 28th, 2011
Screams being heard over the pristine waters of Table Rock Lake are not always those from a panicked novice skier or an excited fisherman seeking aid to land a lunker bass. Rather it just could be another first-time parasailor “on the rise.”
This is a sport that certainly isn’t for the faint of heart, but yet it continues to grow in popularity around Ozark Mountain Country lakes. It’s not an uncommon sight during the warm seasons for Branson visitors to see colorful parasails floating across the skies above Table Rock Lake while being towed by powerful ski boats.
Towed parasailing was supposedly first accomplished in 1961 when a special parachute canopy with its dangling passenger was lifted and pulled along behind a tractor in France. It wasn’t until 1974 that a uniquely designed parasail with a tow yoke harness and special fabric allowed it to be towed safely over water. Mark McCulloh of Miami, Florida, is credited with most of modern day parasailing equipment. His most famous invention, the Winchboat, provides a powerboat with a winch system to launch and retrieve parasailors right from the boat. Equipment is continually being improved to enhance the sport and its safety.
If you’re ready to give it a try on your next visit to Branson, American Para-Sail offers hourly flights from State Park Marina on Table Rock Lake and pre-arranged flights at other locations. Flyers take off and land in a custom parasailing boat that’s equipped with the newest and safest technology. With a highly qualified captain in charge, you don’t even have to get wet. The 8-10 minute rides that can accommodate six flyers per trip cost about $80 per person. Give it a go if you want to add the thrill and adventure of parasailing to your Branson vacation memory bank.
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| Phone: 1-800-768-3892 · Address: 1294 State Hwy 248 Branson, MO. 65616 |
