What Is Tandem Skydiving? A First-Timer's Guide
Your First Step Into the Sky: Introduction to Tandem Jumping
There's a reason skydiving sits near the top of nearly every bucket list on the planet. But if you're asking what tandem skydiving actually is — you're in exactly the right place to find out.
What is a Tandem Jump?
A tandem jump is how almost every skydiver starts their journey. You're securely harnessed to an experienced, internationally certified instructor who handles everything — the exit, the freefall, the parachute deployment, and the landing. You don't need any prior experience whatsoever. You just need to show up ready to fly.
At Skydive Manavgat, that flight begins at 10,000 feet (approximately 3,000 meters) above the stunning Mediterranean coastline of Antalya. From the moment you leave the aircraft to the moment the parachute opens, you'll experience roughly 60 seconds of pure, unfiltered freefall — reaching speeds of around 200 km/h. Words genuinely don't do it justice.
What to Expect on Your First Jump
Step 1: Briefing and Gearing Up
Everything begins with a safety briefing at our facility near Antalya Manavgat. You'll meet your instructor, learn your body position for exit and freefall, and understand exactly what's going to happen at each stage. It's relaxed, clear, and usually around 15-20 minutes. By the end, the nerves transform into excitement.
Step 2: The Equipment
You'll be fitted with a jumpsuit, goggles, and the Sigma Tandem System — widely regarded as the gold standard in tandem skydiving equipment worldwide. Your harness connects you securely to your instructor. Nothing happens by accident.
Step 3: The Climb
The aircraft takes off and for 15-20 minutes you climb over one of the most spectacular landscapes Turkey has to offer — the Manavgat River pouring into the Mediterranean, the ruins of Side, the Taurus Mountains rising to the north. Your camera crew is already filming.
Step 4: The Exit
When the door opens at altitude, every sense you have sharpens instantly. Your instructor guides you to the edge. You take your position. And then you go. The first second of freefall is unlike anything else you will ever experience in your life.
Step 5: Parachute and Landing
After approximately 60 seconds of freefall, your instructor deploys the parachute and the world suddenly goes quiet. You glide for 5-7 minutes over the turquoise Antalya coast before touching down smoothly on the landing zone.
Who Can Do a Tandem Jump?
- Minimum age: 16 (parental consent required under 18)
- Maximum weight: 100 kg
- No serious health conditions
- Absolutely no prior experience needed
If you're ready for skydiving in Antalya Manavgat — Turkey's first private international dropzone — Skydive Manavgat is ready for you. Book your tandem jump and experience the longest 60 seconds of your life.
Book now and experience an unforgettable jump over Antalya Manavgat!