18,000ft Tandem Skydive over Abel Tasman

Looking for an adrenaline rush combined with some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery? This 18,000ft tandem skydive over Abel Tasman offers just that — a chance to soar above mountains, coastlines, and national parks, capturing views that will stay with you long after your feet are on the ground. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this is a top-tier experience for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

What sets this skydiving experience apart? We love the spectacular panoramic views of Abel Tasman and Mount Arthur, the professional and friendly staff, and the opportunity to purchase unforgettable photographs of your jump. The only caveat? The high-altitude free fall can be chilly, and a helmet might be a good idea for warmth — a detail some reviewers noted.

This activity is ideal for those craving a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, especially if you’re comfortable with heights and eager to see New Zealand from a perspective few get to experience. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate professional guidance paired with breathtaking scenery.

Key Points

• Unmatched Views: You’ll glimpse both Abel Tasman National Park and South Island’s rugged peaks from the sky.
• Professional Staff: Friendly, safety-conscious instructors make this a confident choice.
• Photography Options: Capture your jump with a dedicated photo package.
• Convenient Location: Starting point in Nelson with limited hotel pickup available.
• Timing & Booking: Usually booked about a month in advance, with flexible dates from 8AM to 5PM.
• Weather Dependent: Good weather is essential; cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from Your Skydive

Jumping out of a plane from 18,000 feet isn’t something you do every day — in fact, it’s a bucket-list moment for many. The experience kicks off in Nelson, a central hub for adventure activities in the South Island. You’ll meet your jump team, who are known for their friendliness and professionalism. From there, you’ll board a plane that takes you over some of New Zealand’s most iconic scenery.

The flight is roughly 15 minutes of anticipation and awe. As you ascend, you’ll see the lush landscape unfold beneath you — rugged coastlines, pristine beaches of Abel Tasman, and mountain ranges like Mount Arthur. The views are so impressive that many reviews highlight the “outstanding location,” with some stating it’s the best scenery you can get during a skydive in New Zealand.

When it’s time to jump, you’ll be secured to your instructor for a tandem freefall that lasts about 80 seconds. Here, you’ll experience the thrill of a lifetime — a rush of wind, the feeling of weightlessness, and an unrivaled sense of freedom. One reviewer mentioned that the freefall wasn’t as comfortable in terms of warmth, so bringing a helmet or warm gear might help if you’re sensitive to the cold.

After the freefall, your instructor will open the parachute, and you’ll float down gracefully, taking in panoramic views of the coast and mountains. It’s a quiet, almost meditative moment that feels like flying. Some jumpers opt for the photography package, which is highly recommended to preserve the memory of this extraordinary experience.

The Details: What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour includes a limited hotel pickup and drop-off service from select hotels, making logistics easier for travelers. The overall duration is approximately 15 minutes of freefall and parachuting, but plan for extra time for preparation and safety briefings.

The cost is $487.26 per person, which is competitive considering the unique views, professional instructors, and safety standards. You won’t just be paying for the thrill but also for the chance to witness some of the most scenic landscapes in New Zealand from a perspective few will ever see. The price seems justified, especially when factoring in the quality of the experience and the inclusion of optional photography.

It’s important to note that you need to advise your weight at booking (maximum 220 lbs or 100 kg). The activity is accessible to most travelers, with a maximum group size of 8, allowing for a more personalized and attentive experience.

The Experience Providers & Safety

Skydive Abel Tasman is the company behind this adventure, and reviews attest to their professionalism. The staff is described as “friendly and helpful,” with jump masters who are “professional yet friendly and informative.” This combination of expertise and warmth helps even the most nervous jumpers feel safe and confident.

Safety protocols are a priority, with clear instructions and thorough briefings before the jump. The reviews highlight that participants always felt looked after, with one reviewer emphasizing how well the team managed the entire process. The activity is available from 8AM to 5PM daily, ensuring flexibility for various schedules during the season.

Why This Skydive Is Worth Considering

This experience is especially suitable for travelers seeking a high-adrenaline adventure but also want to enjoy what New Zealand does best — stunning landscapes. It’s a fantastic way to see Abel Tasman and the surrounding mountains from an entirely new vantage point.

For those who appreciate professional guidance and safety, the overwhelmingly positive reviews confirm that you will be in good hands. The option to purchase photographs provides a tangible keepsake of what many describe as a “wonderful” or “great” experience.

The 15-minute duration packs a punch — it’s a short window, but one packed with incredible views, an adrenaline rush, and unforgettable memories. It’s ideal for thrill-seekers, adventure lovers, and those who simply want to tick off a major item on their bucket list while exploring New Zealand’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with heart-pumping action, this 18,000ft tandem skydive over Abel Tasman should be high on your list. The experience promises a perfect blend of professionalism, safety, and awe-inspiring views, making it suitable even for first-time jumpers willing to brave heights.

The opportunity to see both islands from above, with expert instructors guiding you every step of the way, makes this a value-packed experience. The added option to purchase photos ensures you can relive this moment for years to come.

While it’s a bit of a splurge, the memories and views you’ll gain are priceless. It’s best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those craving a story that will wow friends for years. Do remember to book well in advance, keep an eye on weather conditions, and prepare for a truly extraordinary experience.

FAQ

What is the maximum weight allowed for this skydive?
The maximum passenger weight is 220 lbs (100 kg). You’ll need to advise your weight at the time of booking.

How long does the entire experience last?
The jump itself lasts about 15 minutes, including the freefall and parachute descent, but you should allow extra time for safety briefings and preparation.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, limited pickup and drop-off from selected hotels are included, making logistics easier.

What is the best time of day to jump?
The activity runs daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with optimal conditions typically earlier in the day when weather is clearest.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled jump. Cancellations due to weather are fully refunded or can be rescheduled.

Will I be able to purchase photos of the jump?
Yes, you can buy a photography package to capture your experience. Reviewers highly recommend this to preserve memories.

How safe is this activity?
The staff is known for their professionalism and focus on safety. Participants always feel taken care of, and safety is a top priority.

What should I wear for the jump?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, with warm layers if it’s chilly. A helmet might be advisable to stay warm during freefall, as one reviewer noted the cold can be painful.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tandem jump setup makes it accessible even for first-timers.

What’s included in the price?
Your jump, instructor, safety briefing, and limited hotel pickup. Photography is optional and available at an extra cost.

In summary, this skydive offers a rare chance to combine high-altitude adrenaline with stunning scenic vistas. Whether for the thrill or the views, it’s an adventure that’s difficult to match in New Zealand or anywhere else.