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Join us in Sarasota, FL on November 7-8, 2023 at the WSIA Parasail Operators Symposium, the largest gathering of the parasail industry in the world!


Thanks to our Sponsors:

Schedule

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Schedule Highlights – Tuesday 11/7

9:15
AM

USCG & FWC Presentations

The event kicks off with important updates from federal and state representatives, including information on enforcement changes, policy updates and more.

Brian Knapp, USCG

Capt. Rachel Bryant & Officer Nick Korade, FWC

9:55
AM

Parasail Committee

Everyone is welcome to learn about the latest progress from our Parasail Committee, on matters like:

  • Log book requirements
  • Best practices in marketing a parasail business
  • Parasail Online Training Course
  • New legislation for liveries

Committee Chairs James Vaught and Justin Beard & Subcommittee Chairs

10:45
AM

Trends in International & Domestic Tourism

With over 20 years experience in communications, marketing and strategic planning in the tourism industry, Erin Thomas Duggan brings us an insightful look at what to expect in international and domestic tourism in the years ahead.

Erin Duggan, CDME
President & CEO,
Visit Sarasota

11:25
AM

Weather College for Parasail Operators

We go on a deep dive into the study of forecasting, using pressures, winds and radar to best understand your conditions. Will cover a range of geographic areas and different storm situations. Also includes tips & tricks for the NOAA website and Q&A.

Dan Noah, NOAA

1:00
PM

ASTM Safety Standards & Updates from the F24 Committee

With updates to the Parasailing Safety Standards as recently as August, this session will get you up to speed and will address the next areas the standard will cover.

Katerina Koperna, ASTM International

1:20
PM

A New Approach to Insurance in the Parasail Industry

This brief presentation will introduce a possible new option for business insurance in the industry.

Recreation Risk Retention Group, Inc.

1:30
PM

Waivers & Flight Safety

Our annual recap of parasailing rules and regulations from the FAA, as well as any emerging trends in flight safety or no-fly zones.

Michael Harlow, FAA

1:50
PM

Emergency Situations & Safety Equipment Best Practices

An important review of best practices during emergency situations, and a detailed look at proper use of various different safety equipment available.

Lee Abbott, Custom Chutes

2:30
PM

Demos Begin & Sponsor Booths Open

Head out to the docks or visit with our sponsors at their booths during this open time to network and learn more about these great products and services for the industry.

Schedule Highlights – Wednesday 11/8

10:40
AM

Manufacturer Panel

A discussion and Q&A session with manufacturer reps, covering new innovations, product roadmaps, maintenance and servicing and more.

Representatives from Parasail Industry Manufacturers

11:20
AM

Legal & Risk Management Panel

WSIA Parasail Counsel, Joe Grasso and Leah Mantie return to provide a current overview of the industry from a legal standpoint, as well as updates on waiver enforceability and liability concerns.

Joe Grasso & Leah Mantie, Wiggin & Dana LLP

12:30
PM

Demos Begin & Sponsor Booths Open

Head out to the docks or visit with our sponsors at their booths during this open time to network and learn more about these great products and services for the industry.

3:30
PM

Parasail Operator Olympics

Don’t miss this fun and exciting annual friendly competition between different companies in the industry. Each team of 2 will navigate a ninja course of parasail-inspired challenges, racing for the best time and the gold medal!

Sponsored and Invented by Custom Chutes

Will multi-year winner Downwind Sails return to dominance this year?

About

The WSIA Parasail Operator Symposium brings together over 300 operators, owners, captains and crew with vendors, manufacturers and government agencies to conduct important industry business, discuss best practices and challenges, and have a little fun meeting up with old friends and colleagues.

Registration

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Sponsors

Special thanks to our sponsors. We couldn’t do it without their support!