Tandem Skydive 13,000ft from Franz Josef

Looking for an adrenaline rush over one of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes? The Tandem Skydive from Franz Josef at 13,000 feet offers a mind-blowing perspective of soaring mountains, icy glaciers, and rugged coastlines. For about $262, you get roughly three hours of adventure, including transportation, equipment, and a chance to check off a bucket list dream. No experience is necessary — just a sense of adventure and a moderate fitness level.

What we really love about this experience? First, the unmatched views of Franz Josef Glacier and surrounding peaks that you get during the plane ride and freefall. Second, the professional, reassuring approach of the guides — reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and calming the instructors are, making this accessible even for nervous first-timers.

One potential consideration? The activity depends heavily on good weather conditions, so if the skies are cloudy or stormy, your jump might get postponed or canceled. That’s typical for skydiving, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re traveling during less predictable seasons.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who appreciate spectacular scenery and are open to trying skydiving for the first time. If you’re a thrill-seeker wanting a safe, guided experience with breathtaking views, this is likely to be a highlight of your trip to Franz Josef.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Experience panoramic views of glaciers, mountains, and coastlines.
• No experience needed: Tandem jump with a professional instructor makes it accessible for beginners.
• Excellent value: For about $262, you get transportation, gear, and an unforgettable thrill.
• Flexible booking: Cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance if weather cancels your jump.
• Photo options: You can purchase professional photos and videos afterward to relive the moment.
• Weather dependence: The experience is weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible.

An Up-Close Look at the Experience

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to leap from a plane at 13,000 feet, this tour is your chance to find out. The meeting point in Franz Josef Village is straightforward – just head to 63 Cron Street. After a brief safety briefing, you’ll hop into a shared transfer to the local airport, where the real adventure begins.

The plane ride itself is part of the fun—an exhilarating ascent that offers its own scenic views of the glaciers and mountain peaks. Many reviewers mention how “super fun” and “scenic” the ride up is, setting the tone for the jump. Expect to see a sweeping landscape of icy rivers, rainforest, and majestic mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Once at altitude, your instructor will attach you to their harness. No previous experience is necessary, and the guides are praised for their professionalism and ability to keep everyone calm. As you step out of the aircraft, you’ll feel the rush of the freefall—a thrilling descent at approximately 120 miles per hour. Think of it as a fast, exhilarating slide through the sky, with views that seem to stretch forever.

During the freefall, the landscape below is awe-inspiring. You’ll see the Franz Josef Glacier snaking through rugged peaks, forests, and even the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Many guests describe the sensation as “flying” rather than falling, and the scenery makes it well worth every second of the adrenaline rush.

After about 60 seconds, the parachute deploys, and the pace slows. You’ll float gently above the landscape, giving you ample time to take in the extraordinary views. Many reviewers mention how “the team made me feel safe the entire time,” emphasizing the confidence and skill of the guides. During the descent, your instructor might point out specific landmarks or simply let you soak in the scenery.

Photo and video packages are available for purchase afterward. Based on reviews, many find the photos worth the extra cost — with some users receiving over 300 photos and multiple videos within hours. These captures serve as a great way to relive the experience or show friends what they missed.

The Practical Details: What You Should Know

The tour lasts about three hours, including transfers, gear-up, the plane ride, jump, and landing. The cost of $262.17 per person includes all necessary equipment like helmets, goggles, gloves, and jumpsuits, along with the shared transfer from the booking office to the airport.

Keep in mind, the weather is a critical factor. If conditions are unfavorable, your jump might be canceled, but the staff are flexible and offer rescheduling or full refunds. The activity requires moderate physical fitness, mainly for handling the harness and the ascent to altitude.

Participants are encouraged to wear warm, lightweight clothing and lace-up shoes, as it can be chilly at altitude. The maximum group size is 70, but most jumps are more intimate, with a focus on safety and individual experience.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers consistently highlight the professionalism and kindness of the staff. “Danny gave big courage in that experience,” one note reads, illustrating how the guides help nervous first timers feel more confident. Another said, “The team made me feel safe the entire time,” which is reassuring for anyone worried about safety or nerves.

Many mention the value for money, especially considering the stunning scenery and the high-quality photos. One reviewer summed it up: “The video is worth buying,” emphasizing how these keepsakes make the experience even more memorable.

Who Should Consider This?

This skydiving adventure is ideal for adventurous travelers eager for a once-in-a-lifetime view. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a thrilling yet safe way to see some of New Zealand’s best scenery. First-timers will appreciate the guidance and professionalism, while adrenaline junkies will love the speed and altitude.

It’s also a great option for those who want to combine a scenic flight with an unforgettable experience, with the safety net of professional instructors and flexible booking policies. If you’re looking for an activity that offers both adrenaline and stunning natural beauty, this skydive ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

A tandem skydive from Franz Josef at 13,000 feet is more than just a thrill — it’s an opportunity to see one of New Zealand’s most majestic landscapes from a perspective few get to experience. With professional guides, flexible booking, and the chance to purchase amazing photos, it offers good value for an adventure that’s both accessible and deeply memorable.

While weather conditions can influence the timing, the staff’s professionalism and focus on safety ensure that even if you have to postpone, your experience will still be worth the wait. It’s well suited for first-time skydivers who want a safe, guided jump, as well as seasoned thrill-seekers craving a scenic rush.

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying over glaciers, mountains, or coastlines, this tour will deliver. It’s a perfect blend of adrenaline, natural beauty, and expert guidance — a truly unique way to experience New Zealand’s wild side.

FAQ

Do I need any experience to do this skydive?
No, this is a tandem jump, so no prior skydiving experience is necessary. Your instructor will guide you through every step.

How long does the entire experience last?
Expect about three hours from start to finish, including transfers, safety briefing, the plane ride, jump, and landing.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers shared transfers from the booking office to the airport, all skydive equipment (helmet, goggles, jumpsuit, gloves), and the tandem jump itself.

Can I buy photos or videos of my jump?
Yes, you can purchase photography and video options after your jump. Many find this worthwhile, with some guests receiving hundreds of photos and multiple videos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the jump, the activity will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I wear?
Wear warm, lightweight clothing and secure shoes, preferably with laces. It can be chilly at altitude.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The maximum group size is 70, but most jumps are smaller, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

How safe is skydiving at Franz Josef?
The guides are experienced and professional, with safety being their top priority. Many reviews mention feeling extremely safe and well cared for.

Will I see scenic views during the jump?
Absolutely. Expect breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, forests, and even the coast, depending on weather and visibility.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 36 days ahead, but it’s wise to reserve early, especially in high season.

In short, if you’re after an adventure that combines adrenaline with some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand, this tandem skydive from Franz Josef is hard to beat. It’s safe, professional, and offers memories that will last a lifetime.