MOAB, Utah – BASE jumping looks like it would be a blast, but with it requiring 200 solo skydives to actually get into a BASE course, it seems a bit unfeasible for the average person. I always thought it was far out of reach, as even skydiving can get pretty expensive. But, to my surprise, there are tandem BASE jump options that require zero experience, just like a tandem skydive. Tandem BASE Moab seems like on of the coolest places to do this.
Tandem BASE Moab has five jump options, ranging from $550 to $1500, all in the Moab area. The cheapest and shortest time requirement jumps off Tombstone, requiring a 1-hour hike over some stunning red rock views. The Tombstone jump is expected to take right around 2 hours. The most expensive, with the biggest time commitment, is the Parriott Mesa jump, requiring a 30 minute drive out of town, some previous climbing experience, and a total estimated 6-hour start to finish time. There’s also a custom package option, if you’re looking for something else.
Tandem BASE does not require any experience, though you must be over 18 to participate. Any height is acceptable, though a weight limit is set at 200 pounds. Those over 200 pounds are determined on a case-by-case basis, though 230 pounds is the hard limit. And if you’re worried about safety, Tandem BASE Moab ensures that all of their instructors have an average of 10,000 skydives and plenty of experience.
I think my favorite feature is that, if you get to the top of the cliff and you decide “this isn’t for me”, they won’t charge you for the jump. In their mind, money shouldn’t be a deciding factor as to whether or not you jump. Not going to name names, but I went bungee jumping once, and there were no refunds or anything if you didn’t jump. It was either “jump or lose all of your money”. It just doesn’t seem like much of a fair ultimatum (I jumped with no problem, don’t worry, but a family member wasn’t willing to step off the ledge).
“Tandem BASE Moab takes pride in high-quality customer service. We take a $100 deposit prior to the jump when you book your reservation, it is FULLY REFUNDABLE unless you no call/no show up at the time of your jump. If you hike all the way up to the cliff, decide “no way” and walk back down, we do not charge you for the jump. When you are standing at the edge, money shouldn’t be what’s on your mind.” –Tandem BASE Moab