Also known as parascending, is a recreational activity where a person is towed behind a vehicle (usually a boat) while attached to a parachute. The vehicle then drives off and the parasailer has ascends in the air. The parasailer has very little or no control over the parachute.

Parasailing can also be land based, where the parasailer is towed by a car/jeep. The speed of the vehicle is responsible for controlling the height and landing of the parasailer, which is always controlled by a professional.