Cairns Tandem Skydive Review: Is It Worth the Plunge?

Planning a visit to Cairns and wondering if taking the plunge – quite literally – with a tandem skydive is worthwhile? Well, you’re not alone, that’s pretty understandable, so, very many people find themselves asking exactly the same question. That pull to see the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforest from a completely different angle, is that quite strong? Of course, and very often, budget considerations and natural pre-jump jitters weigh heavily, so, too. What to expect? How safe is it? And does the reality match the hype? Let’s talk about it.

Booking and Preparation: Getting Ready for the Jump

Choosing the right operator, like, very often turns out to be as important as the jump itself, in some respects. You see that there are a few outfitters around Cairns offering tandem skydives, so, selecting one means thinking about a couple things, is that right? Price is important, for example, like maybe safety record, location – you probably want to make sure the drop zone has some impressive scenery – and, of course, the overall vibe of the company might be worth checking out. It could be quite clever to read recent reviews on sites such as TripAdvisor and Google Reviews, so, too. Also, are there stories that kind of suggest people felt confident and enjoyed their experience? It makes a big difference.

A bit of planning may well allow you to snag early-bird discounts or maybe group deals if you’re traveling with others. After booking, expect a confirmation email outlining all the important stuff – what time you need to be there, what to bring (generally just comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes), and what not to bring (leave those loose items and bling at your hotel!). In some cases, you’ll get asked to fill out a medical questionnaire online and sign a waiver; this isn’t supposed to be alarming, this is just standard procedure, pretty understandable, you see, is that true? On the morning of the jump, give yourself loads of time, really, no one needs added stress.

You get a briefing covering all the safety essentials and what to expect during your jump, is that what they did for you? Listen up closely and feel totally at ease about asking questions. The instructors usually tend to be highly skilled and experienced pros who want to put your mind at total rest. It will possibly put your mind at ease somewhat, hearing how many jumps they’ve logged. Is that the trick to easing pre-jump tension?

The Ascent: Nerves and Anticipation

That little plane ride to altitude can be pretty nerve-wracking for even pretty adventurous people, right? Strapped in alongside your instructor and other jumpers, there is probably an exciting mix of anticipation and “what am I doing?!” swirling around. Looking out of the window provides pretty great views, giving a great look over Cairns, the Coral Sea, and possibly even glimpses of the Daintree Rainforest in the far distance. In that case, is that it?

Many skydive companies pump adrenaline-pumping music through the plane’s speakers, so, too, which helps build the anticipation. Use this moment to have a last-minute chat with your instructor. Get even more confidence, perhaps? Talking to your instructor very, very openly can seriously help calm nerves – most people really will explain what will take place and check you are completely comfortable with it, actually. Honestly, that human connection helps a fair bit, you will find.

That climb seems to take a long time as you near your jump altitude – maybe 15,000 feet, roughly – you’re strapped super tightly to your instructor, it’s nearly time. Then, maybe there’s a shift in the atmosphere in the aircraft, really. Everyone is calm and quiet, very serious, then the door opens! The views down are quite incredible, if that’s any consolation. That’s when things start to get pretty real.

The Freefall: An Unforgettable Rush

Here we go: freefall. Tumbling out of that small plane is almost beyond description, arguably. The initial seconds might be slightly disorienting – it’s quite difficult to get your bearings as you adjust to the rush of wind. However, this sensation shifts really fast to pure, incredible excitement and a massive feeling of freedom. Apparently, during freefall, speeds can approach 200 km/h (roughly 125 mph). Pretty fast, really! It kind of feels like flying, with nothing separating you from space but the air speeding past.

Did you ever get the opportunity to keep your eyes wide open, maybe even smile for the camera? Many skydive operators give customers photos and videos, so, that seems to be standard. That moment only passes once! Taking pictures and videos may well cost an additional fee. But think about it – is it likely that this isn’t going to be something to replay over and over and over? Your instructor, of course, handles each practical aspect of the jump, and usually you can totally chill and savor the fantastic scene. It’s quite stunning from above, Cairns and the gorgeous coastline.

Think about, approximately 60 seconds or so of freefall go super quickly – then your instructor sets the parachute open. A pretty abrupt deceleration will always follow, of course! Everything switches as abruptly you’re floating calmly instead of hurtling like a meteor. Very calming.

Under the Canopy: Floating Back to Earth

It may well feel quiet after all the rush of freefall, is that possibly the thing? The contrast is possibly immense and surprising, you know. Drifting slowly is quite different. Gliding back to earth beneath the canopy offers a pretty unique opportunity to soak in the landscape below in calm. Is that something people go for?

Depending on your skydive company, your instructor might allow you steer the parachute (only slightly, just a little!) and will certainly be able to explain what’s around you and give information, you realize, is that likely? That trip from quite high in the atmosphere to a soft ground gets etched quite heavily into memories. It passes much, much quicker than anticipated!

Landing and Aftermath: The Post-Adrenaline Glow

Approaching ground, your instructor will make ready you for landing. They do all the stuff, so there is arguably no work needed on your side apart from picking up your legs in advance. This is supposed to make the landing as smooth as it possibly is! Touchdown is normally super gentle, and arguably landing on soft grass is preferable! Expect a massive rush of emotion right after you arrive back, probably.

Back on solid ground, allow yourself sometime, alright, just to bask in what you just did, really, as a matter of fact. Mostly skydive businesses will award you a certificate to show what an awesome experience you had, very, very officially! They might even supply a t-shirt to mark what just happened. Do buy the photo and video package. Sharing that footage on your socials will probably result in tons of comments.

The feeling following a skydive – a kind of mix of happiness, huge joy, and exhilaration – commonly stays for hours, maybe even for days later, anyway. That “I just faced something difficult” surge gives a proper improvement of your feeling of confidence. Did you realize the mental effect might be great?

Is a Cairns Tandem Skydive Worthwhile?

Okay, here’s the bottom line, literally. A tandem skydive around Cairns is maybe a worthwhile investment should you’re looking to check some proper adventurous thrills from the list, seriously. Though, skydiving isn’t always cheap – price, very predictably, is sometimes an important issue – that feel is usually considered totally valuable by most, as a matter of fact.

Consider carefully picking the best respected skydive operator in the area, make sure you watch out for offers and do think on getting your photographic package. If there’s nothing wrong, you’re left just feeling you experienced one truly unforgettable part in the world. Right then!

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