A Tandem jump is a quick and simple way to experience the whole range of thrills available in skydiving, including a long freefall, riding with a highly experienced instructor.
When
We provide tandem jumps on weekends, holidays, and some weekdays by prior arrangement. Reservations are strongly recommended - usually about two weeks in advance.
Due to the possibility of having poor weather, we limit the number of spaces available each day, but if the weather is good, there may be more spaces available first-come, first-serve.
What You Need
proof that you're at least 18 years old
running shoes with decent support
suitable clothing - it's a lot cooler at altitude!
maximum weight 220 pounds - with some flexibility
Training
The training for a tandem jump is not long, since there is not a lot that you, as a tandem passenger, have to do. The half-hour briefing is all you will need to learn everything you need to know.
After the briefing, you and your tandem instructor (also known as tandem master or tandem pilot) put on your equipment. The two of you will share a parachute system, with your harnesses securely connected together. Then it's off to the plane...
The Jump
The ride to your jump altitude of 9,500 to 13,500 feet takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on how many people are in the plane and the weather conditions. You'll have lots of time to appreciate the amazing view - the patchwork quilt of farmland around you, the blue of Lake Simcoe nearby, and in the other direction, the skyline of Toronto not far away - as your adrenaline level slowly builds. Then it's time to go...
"Get ready!...Set!...Go!!" You and your instructor dive out of the plane into freefall - there's nothing holding you up but the air rushing by. You can feel the pressure of the wind as your speed builds to almost 200 km/h. Your instructor activates the drogue parachute, which keeps you from going too fast. You have lots of time to experience the sensation of riding the wind, watching the ground approach ever so slowly closer.
Then it's time to open the main parachute. Your instructor activates it, you feel a firm tug from above, and a few seconds later, the two of you are riding under your beautiful open canopy. The flight back down takes around five minutes, so you have plenty of time to just look around, have fun with the canopy, and talk about the jump with your instructor. At the end of your ride, your instructor expertly flares the canopy for a gentle landing.
Post-Jump
Debrief the jump with your instructor, and if you ordered video and/or digital stills, check them out before you take them home to show off!
