The flying inflatable doughnut ride – or as we locals call it, “the flying banana’s chubby cousin” – has become one of Boracay’s most Instagram-worthy activities. After watching countless tourists get launched into the air while I sip my morning coffee at Station 2, I can tell you this ride delivers exactly what it promises: pure, unadulterated chaos wrapped in neon-colored inflatable joy.
What Exactly Is This Flying Madness?
The ride involves a large, donut-shaped inflatable tube that gets tethered to a speedboat and launched skyward like a colorful UFO. You’ll be strapped into the center hole (hence the “donut”) while the boat operator – usually a guy named Jun or Boboy who’s been doing this for years – yanks you up to heights that would make a coconut tree jealous.
The experience lasts about 10-15 minutes, during which you’ll oscillate between pure terror and uncontrollable laughter. Think of it as parasailing’s rebellious younger sibling who dropped out of flight school but somehow still got their pilot’s license.
The Real Experience: Beyond the Social Media Hype
Having talked to hundreds of riders over the years, here’s what actually happens up there:
- The Launch: You’ll feel like a human cannonball as the boat accelerates and your donut lifts off
- The Flight: Once airborne, you’ll get spectacular views of White Beach and the surrounding islands
- The Wobble: The donut spins and tilts unpredictably – this is where the real fun (or terror) begins
- The Landing: Usually involves a gentle descent, though sometimes you’ll get dunked in the water
Insider Tips Only Locals Know
After decades of watching this spectacle, here are secrets the operators won’t tell you:
Best Times to Ride
| Time | Conditions | Crowd Level | Local’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00-9:00 AM | Calm winds, glassy water | Low | ★★★★★ |
| 10:00 AM-12:00 PM | Moderate winds, choppy | Medium | ★★★★☆ |
| 1:00-3:00 PM | Strong winds, rough seas | High | ★★☆☆☆ |
| 4:00-6:00 PM | Calming winds, golden hour | Very High | ★★★★☆ |
Secret Negotiation Tactics
The posted prices are always negotiable, especially during off-peak hours. I’ve seen savvy travelers get 30% discounts by simply asking, “Ano pwedeng tawad?” (What discount can you give?). The operators respect directness more than elaborate bargaining dances.
The Operator Makes All the Difference
Ask for Kuya Rodel at Station 2 – he’s been doing this for over a decade and knows exactly how to balance thrills with safety. He’ll also let you choose between a “gentle grandma ride” or what he calls “the washing machine experience.”
What Could Go Wrong (And How to Avoid It)
Not every flight ends with a perfect landing and a Hollywood smile. Here are the common challenges:
- Motion Sickness: The spinning motion can be intense. Skip the heavy breakfast and bring motion sickness tablets
- Equipment Issues: Some operators use patched-up donuts that look like they’ve survived several typhoons. Always inspect your ride first
- Weather Delays: Strong winds can ground flights instantly. Have backup plans
- Unexpected Dunking: Sometimes you’ll get dropped in the water – it’s actually part of the fun, but warn your phone accordingly
The Perfect Rider Profile
This isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. The ideal flying donut enthusiast:
- Enjoys mild adventure without extreme sports commitment
- Wants amazing photos with minimal effort
- Doesn’t mind getting wet (it happens more often than advertised)
- Can handle 10 minutes of controlled chaos
- Appreciates the absurdity of floating through the sky on an inflatable pastry
Alternatives for the Donut-Hesitant
If the flying donut seems too intense, Boracay offers gentler alternatives:
- Traditional Parasailing: More stable, less bouncy, equally scenic
- Banana Boat: Stays on water surface, still plenty of laughs
- Stand-up Paddleboarding: You control the chaos level
- Island Hopping: Scenic without the aerial acrobatics
Cost Breakdown and Budgeting
| Service | Tourist Price | Local’s Price | Best Deal Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo Flight | ₱2,500-3,000 | ₱1,800-2,200 | Early morning/late afternoon |
| Tandem Flight | ₱4,000-5,000 | ₱3,200-4,000 | Weekdays |
| Photo Package | ₱800-1,200 | ₱500-800 | Bundle with ride |
| GoPro Rental | ₱500-800 | ₱300-500 | Bring your own |
Safety Reality Check
The flying donut is generally safe when operated properly, but accidents have happened. Choose operators who:
- Check equipment before each flight
- Provide proper safety briefings
- Have insurance coverage
- Stop operations during rough weather
- Use quality, recently inspected gear
Making the Most of Your Flight
To maximize your flying donut experience:
- Secure all loose items (the ocean floor is littered with lost sunglasses)
- Wear comfortable, quick-dry clothing
- Bring a waterproof phone case
- Tell the operator your preferred intensity level
- Relax and enjoy the ride – fighting the motion makes it less fun
Common Questions
Can I control the donut while flying?
Absolutely not – you’re completely at the mercy of wind, waves, and physics. The lack of control is actually part of the appeal, like a roller coaster in the sky.
What happens if the rope breaks?
The donut is designed to glide down safely if the tether snaps. However, reputable operators use backup safety lines specifically to prevent this scenario.
Do I need to know how to swim?
While not mandatory, basic swimming skills are highly recommended. You’ll wear a life jacket, but water landings are common and sometimes intentional.
Can pregnant women or elderly people ride?
Most operators have age and health restrictions. Pregnant women should definitely avoid this ride, and elderly riders should consult operators about gentler flight options.
What’s the weight limit?
Most donuts can handle up to 150kg total weight. Tandem flights might be restricted based on combined weight and wind conditions.
The Verdict: Worth the Hype?
After watching thousands of flights and talking to countless riders, the flying donut delivers exactly what it promises: a brief, exhilarating escape from gravity that’s equal parts terrifying and hilarious. It’s not life-changing, but it’s definitely life-enhancing – like finding the perfect balance between adventure and absurdity.
The real magic happens in those moments when you’re suspended between sky and sea, spinning gently while Boracay spreads out below like a postcard come to life. For a few precious minutes, you’re not just another tourist taking photos – you’re part of the island’s playful spirit, embracing the kind of joyful silliness that makes vacation memories stick.
So yes, the flying inflatable donut ride is exactly as fun as it sounds, with the added bonus of being slightly more ridiculous than you imagined. In a world that often takes itself too seriously, sometimes the best thing you can do is strap yourself to an inflatable pastry and let the wind decide your fate.
