Blog Post: Tandem Skydiving 101: What to Expect on Your First Jump in SUFFOLK, Virginia

September 26, 2025

If you’ve ever caught yourself staring at the sky, wondering what it feels like to actually fly – tandem skydiving might be calling your name.

At Skydive Suffolk, tandem skydiving is more than just a bucket list item. It’s a breakthrough moment. And whether you’re celebrating something big, crossing off a lifelong goal, or just ready to see the world from 13,500 feet up… this guide will walk you through exactly what to expect.

Let’s make your first jump feel a little less unknown – and a lot more exciting.


First: What is Tandem Skydiving?

Tandem skydiving is the safest and most beginner-friendly way to experience skydiving for the first time. You’ll be securely harnessed to a highly trained, licensed USPA instructor who controls the parachute, guides the freefall, and handles the entire landing.

All you have to do? Show up. Suit up. And soar.

💸 Tandem Jump at Skydive Suffolk: $279
🎥 Video + Photo Packages: Highly recommended (and worth every penny!)


What to Expect on the Day of Your Jump

1. Arrival & Waivers

You’ll check in, fill out the necessary waivers, and meet your tandem instructor. The staff will go over all the safety details and answer any nervous questions you might have. (Don’t worry – they’ve heard it all before.)

“Everyone was friendly, professional, safe, and very informative. Already paid for another jump and can’t wait to go back!”
Mike


2. Gear Up

You’ll be fitted with a special harness that attaches you to your instructor. You’ll also get goggles and a brief orientation on proper body positioning for exit and landing.

“David and Tyler prepared us well for each step of the way. I was so chill it was easy to roll out of the plane knowing we were in good hands.”
Shelly


3. Plane Ride Up

As the plane climbs to altitude (13,500 feet!), you’ll feel a mix of nerves and wonder. Many say the plane ride is the scariest part – but the views? Unforgettable.

“The instructors were all a lot of fun. Instructions were clear and easy to follow. For having no prior experience, it felt surprisingly easy and comfortable.”
Ryan


4. The Jump

When the door opens, your instructor takes the lead. You’ll free-fall for about 60 seconds, reaching speeds up to 120 mph – and then the parachute opens, slowing everything down into a serene glide back to earth.

“I have a fear of heights, and [Josh] was so reassuring and comforting! The jump was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.”
Keyunda


5. The Landing

The instructor steers the parachute gently toward the landing zone. You’ll either land standing or sliding, depending on conditions. Once you touch down, it’s celebration time – heart pumping, eyes wide, grin unstoppable.

“Everything about Skydive Suffolk is awesome! My daughter did her first jump on Saturday… I can’t say thank you enough for making this experience memorable and safe.”
Candy


Why Tandem is Perfect for First-Timers

  • No experience needed
  • You’re in expert hands
  • Focus on the feeling, not the logistics
  • Perfect for birthdays, proposals, milestones, or “just because” adventures
  • Photos and videos you’ll treasure forever!

“Absolutely amazing! Went for my first time today; everyone was so nice, chill, and fun – made for an incredible time. I felt completely safe.”
Rachel


Final Reflection: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone to Be Brave

Tandem skydiving teaches you something powerful – that being brave doesn’t mean doing it all yourself. It means trusting, letting go, and allowing yourself to be guided through something bigger than your fear.

At Skydive Suffolk, you’re not just jumping out of a plane. You’re stepping into a new version of yourself – one who said yes. One who soared. One who trusted enough to fly.

“Thank you, Skydive Suffolk, for the most incredible and memorable experience! Everyone on the staff was welcoming, enthusiastic, and energetic, which helped take all of my nerves away.”
Skyler

So if you’re ready to stop watching from the ground and finally feel the sky?

📍 Book your tandem skydive today »

The sky is waiting. And we’ll be right there with you when you leap.

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