Tandem Skydive 18,000ft from Franz Josef

If you’re dreaming of a heart-racing adventure over the breathtaking scenery of New Zealand’s West Coast, a tandem skydive from 18,000 feet near Franz Josef might just be calling your name. We’ve looked into this popular experience, and while we haven’t jumped ourselves (yet!), the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture. Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or just curious about trying skydiving, this tour promises some incredible views and a solid safety record.

What really caught our eye is how often people rave about the stunning vistas—from snow-capped peaks to glaciers—and how the staff make even nervous first-timers feel comfortable. On the other hand, the price isn’t exactly pocket change, so it’s worth considering whether the price matches the thrill for you. This experience is a fantastic pick for those craving adventure, scenic beauty, and an unforgettable story to tell, but maybe less ideal if weather or cost are major concerns.

Key Points

• All equipment and instruction are included, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Flexible scheduling with multiple daily departures enhances convenience.
• Stunning aerial views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes make it a picture-perfect experience.
• Weather dependent—you may need to reschedule if conditions aren’t suitable.
• The price is around $515, which reflects the exclusivity and high-altitude thrill.
• Group size is limited to about 70 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What a Tandem Skydive from Franz Josef Offers

Imagine soaring high above one of New Zealand’s most striking landscapes—massive glaciers, rugged mountains, mirror lakes, and lush rainforests. That’s exactly what you get with this 18,000ft tandem skydive. It’s the highest skydive in NZ, offering roughly 85 seconds of free fall—think of it as a brief, explosive adrenaline hit, but with enough time to soak in the scenery.

The tour lasts around 3 hours, which includes the transfer from the booking office to the takeoff point, gear-up, the jump itself, and some time to relax afterward with tea or coffee. The shared transfer keeps things simple, and the instruction is included for novices, so you don’t need to worry about feeling lost or unsafe. The tandem instructor handles all the technical stuff, allowing you to focus on the awe-inspiring views and the pure thrill of falling through the sky.

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

Start at the booking point in Franz Josef—located at 63 Cron Street, where you check-in and get briefed. From there, you’ll hop on a shared transfer that takes you to the small airport or takeoff point. The scenery on the way is a scenic preview of what’s to come.

Once at the takeoff site, you’ll be fitted into your jumpsuit, helmet, goggles, gloves, and harness. The staff are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, which is reassuring for first-timers. As one reviewer shared, “They walk you through the whole process and remind you the most important thing: have fun!”

The actual jump involves a plane ride up to 18,000 feet—an experience on its own—before the door opens, and you plunge into the air. 85 seconds of free fall at approximately 200 kph (120 mph) is enough to make your heart race and your stomach flip. You’ll be floating under the parachute for several minutes, enjoying panoramic views of the glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and the Tasman Sea far in the distance.

Post-jump, you’re taken back to the meeting point, where you can unwind with tea or coffee, recounting your adventure with fellow thrill-seekers. For those interested, photos and videos are available to purchase afterward, capturing your epic moment.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Beyond the sheer height and scenery, the professionalism of the staff stands out. Multiple reviews mention the calming presence of instructors—crucial for nervous jumpers. “JT was extremely calming and helped put my partner at ease,” one reviewer noted, highlighting how the team goes the extra mile to make everyone feel safe.

The scenery from the sky is clearly the star here. Critics and fans alike emphasize the remarkable views—glaciers, mountains, lakes—each vantage point offers a different perspective of the wild beauty that makes NZ famous. It’s not just about the adrenaline; it’s about experiencing an aerial perspective of a landscape few get to see from this height.

Pricing and Value

The cost is about $515.16 per person, which isn’t cheap but reflects the premium nature of this experience. Considering all equipment, instruction, and the opportunity to soar over iconic scenery, many find it justifiable. Some reviews point out the value in the safety and professionalism of the staff, ensuring that even first-timers feel secure.

Compare this to other adventure activities in the area—like glacier hikes or helicopter rides—skydiving offers a unique, adrenaline-fueled perspective that’s hard to match. Plus, since this is a shared experience, the group size is limited to about 70 travelers, helping keep things personal and manageable.

Weather and Cancellation

Weather is a big factor here because extremely high-altitude jumps depend on clear skies. If poor weather cancels your jump, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund—something we appreciate for peace of mind. You can cancel for free if you do so at least 24 hours beforehand, which is fair.

Who’s This For?

This tour suits travelers who crave a once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline rush combined with stunning scenery. It’s especially appealing to those who want to tick off a bucket list item, love outdoor adventures, or simply want a story to tell for years. It’s not the best fit for those with mobility issues or severe fear of heights, but the staff’s friendly approach might help some nervous types feel more at ease.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

Pros
– Unmatched aerial views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes
– Safe, professional, and friendly staff who emphasize fun and safety
– All gear and instruction included, suitable for beginners
– Flexible scheduling with multiple departures daily
– The experience is described as “the best feeling you will ever experience” by reviewers

Cons
– Price might be a stretch for budget travelers
– Weather-dependent—may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor conditions
– Limited to 85 seconds of free fall, which may be short for some adrenaline junkies
– The experience lasts around 3 hours, which is longer than some might expect for just a jump

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I participate if I’ve never skydived before?
Absolutely. All instruction is included, and the staff are experienced in guiding first-timers. You’ll be securely harnessed to your instructor, making it a safe introduction.

What is the minimum age or fitness level?
While specific age limits aren’t listed, the tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level. If you’re in good shape and comfortable with heights, you should be fine.

What should I wear for the jump?
Wear warm, lightweight clothes and secure shoes, preferably with laces. The staff provides the necessary gear, including a jumpsuit, helmet, goggles, and gloves.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Your jump can be canceled due to poor weather. If that happens, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long does the whole experience take?
Approximately 3 hours from check-in to return, including transfers, gear-up, and the jump. The actual free fall lasts about 85 seconds.

Is photos and videos available?
Yes, you can purchase photo and video packages after your jump, capturing your big moment from multiple angles.

What’s the group size?
Up to 70 travelers can join the tour on any given day, but the experience feels personalized thanks to professional instructors and a friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring above New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes—glaciers, mountains, and lakes—this 18,000ft tandem skydive near Franz Josef offers everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. The views alone are worth the price, and the reputation of the staff and safety measures make it a trustworthy choice for thrill-seekers.

While the cost might make some pause, the combination of breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and the thrill of free fall does justify the expense for many. It’s best suited for those who want a serious adrenaline rush and don’t mind waiting for a clear day. If you’re after a unique way to see NZ’s wild side, this could be your top pick.

Just remember—weather can change plans, so be flexible. And if you’re nervous, know that the staff’s friendly attitude and thorough instructions are there to help you enjoy every second of your sky-high adventure. With plenty of positive reviews backing it up, this experience seems well worth considering if you’re ready to take the leap.