“This will be a leap into our new (separate) lives”, the ex-husband said.
Well what a damn huge leap that was. Literally.
It was supposed to be a surprise wedding anniversary gift. Instead, it turned out to be an event to officially mark our separation.
Not to worry, I won’t bore you with the emo crap. I just went there to suggest that skydiving is a great gift idea for celebrating milestones. Sure it ain’t the most affordable, but it certainly will be the most memorable.
Has skydiving always been on your bucket list?
If you happen to be around barefoot town Byron Bay, Australia or are planning a trip to Australia, I say it’s about time to tick that off! Skydive Australia has been around for over two decades (started as a small operation in Wollongong) with about seventeen premium drop zones Australia wide and is staffed by instructors who are highly experienced in their field.
The Nitty-Gritty
PRICE
“Will it cost me an arm and a leg?”, you ask. Maybe just an arm. At the time of writing, it’s AU$319 rate every day of the week (price on their website) for a jump in Byron Bay. Discounted rates are available for groups, so best to call the office and inquire what offers are available before booking.
Where to find better deals: Check online travel operators and group buying sites as some of them offer discounted packages too that may even include transfers.
Video and photo packages are sold separately. Prices start from AU$119. You get to choose between video footage from a camera attached to your instructor’s wrist or from a camera held by dedicated jumper who’ll shoot from a distance just to immortalise your skydiving.
Gift vouchers are available. Not redeemable for cash, non-refundable, transferable.
AGE LIMIT / MAXIMUM WEIGHT LIMIT
In Australia, by law, the minimum age to tandem skydive is 12 years old. And if under 18 years old, a parent or guardian must be present.
Instructors may take persons up to 115kg (253lbs), but subject to safety officer approval.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY (Or, Expect The Unexpected)
Your booking schedule is not your actual skydive time. It’s when you check in and register. After which there will be a safety briefing (although only about 10 minutes, will take time cause done in groups), and then the gear-up (you will be assisted by your assigned instructor).
The entire activity, from registration to accomplishing the jump can take 3-5 hours. Because safety is Skydive Australia’s primary concern, several factors (rain, cloud, wind, air traffic to name a few) affect the time of completion. I’ve read a number of reviews from frustrated jumpers regarding wait time, so my tip is to free up your entire day just for this activity.
You might spend some time waiting for your photo/video package after the jump as well.
What to wear? Comfy, casual clothing. Important: Fully enclosed, light shoes like trainers. No boots.
Grabbing a bite may be the last thing in your mind but just in case you’re told to wait longer — say, for another hour or two (yes it could happen) — there is (or was) one food store on site. I recommend bringing light snacks and drinks.
Speaking of drinks, no alcohol is to be taken at least 8 hours prior arrival. So if you’re thinking of shooting tequila to calm your nerves, forget it. Save the shots for celebrating after.
CHANGING / CANCELING A BOOKING
Booking payments are non-refundable but can be rescheduled (also transferable). Skydive Australia requires 48 hours notice or will incur a $110 rebooking fee. No-show on scheduled booking is full cancellation fee.
Also, no refunds for those who suddenly decide not to jump (So don’t chicken out!).
If your skydive is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances (like, unfavorable weather), you can rebook at the reception.
Visit their website and read the fine print to avoid disappointment.
Skydiving is an adventure of a lifetime. I’d say, the most formidable hurdle between you and that leap is gathering enough guts to finally book the jump. Just. Bloody. Do. It!
