Parasailing is one of the most visually spectacular ways to experience Mauritius — a 10–15 minute flight 100 metres above the lagoon, towed by speedboat, looking down on the turquoise water, the reef line, and the coastline from an angle unavailable from the ground.

The parasailing operations at Grand Baie on the north coast and Flic en Flac on the west coast are the most established. From Grand Baie, the view south takes in the mountain backdrop above Pamplemousses and the north coast lagoon in both directions. From Flic en Flac, the view west over the open Indian Ocean on a clear day shows nothing but water to the horizon — the sensation of height and exposure is more extreme than anywhere else on the island.

The process is straightforward: you are harnessed into a paraglider attached to the boat's tow line, and the speedboat accelerates until the paraglider lifts you off the boat's platform. The ascent is gentle; there is no freefall or jumping required. The landing is equally smooth — the pilot slows the boat and you descend back to the platform. The whole experience takes 25–30 minutes including preparation, 10–15 minutes of which is airborne.

Tandem flights (two people sharing a harness) are available and are the most popular booking, allowing couples or parent-child combinations to share the experience. Maximum total weight for tandem is typically 180–200kg depending on the operator. No previous experience required. Grand Baie operators run from the public beach; Flic en Flac operators are based at the hotel beach centres along the coastal road.