Parasailing and jet skiing are two of the most popular beach activities in Phuket, available on most tourist beaches year round. Parasailing is a fun and easy experience for almost anyone. Jet skiing is more controversial due to a well-known rental scam, but both are part of daily beach life in Phuket.
Parasailing in Phuket
Parasailing is easy, casual and not too expensive for a short ride above one of the tourist bays of Phuket. All you have to do is let a crew equip you with a harness right on the beach. A speedboat approaches and throws a cable. A beach boy attaches the cable to your harness and the boat powers up, lifting you into the sky.
The surprising part is when a beach boy suddenly grabs the parachute, climbs above you and hangs on during the whole ride. The setup is basic, and safety is minimal, but parasailing has been going on like this in Phuket for decades.
Parasailing is available all year round, mostly along Patong Beach. You take off and land directly from the sand. The ride is short, but the views are great.
How much does parasailing cost? Parasailing costs 1,200 baht for a child and 1,500 baht for an adult.
Jet Ski in Phuket
Jet skis have been part of the Phuket beach scene for a long time, but they remain controversial. Between occasional accidents, noise and a well-known scam, they are not for everyone. If you do decide to rent one, expect to pay around 1,500 to 2,500 baht for 30 minutes on a jet ski, depending on the operator and how many riders.
The Jet Ski Scam
The jet ski scam has been well known locally for years and has received international news coverage. It is worth knowing about before you decide to rent one.
The scheme is simple. You rent a jet ski quite casually, go for a ride and return to the beach once your time is up. When you come back, the operator points at a scratch or dent on the hull that you did not notice when you left, accusing you of damaging the machine. Since most jet skis are not insured, you are asked to pay for the repair on the spot. If you refuse, more operators may gather around and use pressure to push you into paying, sometimes up to 40,000 baht or more.
How to protect yourself: If you do rent a jet ski, take a video of the machine from every angle before you leave the beach. This is your best protection. Better yet, choose a different activity. Phuket has no shortage of fun things to do on the water, from speedboat tours to snorkelling trips.
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