- Poor organization - No respect for your time - Remarkably rude owner - Will effectively steal your money without delivering paid-for service - Go to Skydive California (just a short drive away) instead We attempted to jump here two weekends in a row and both times had our jumps canceled (after hours of waiting) due to weather. While no one can be blamed for unfortunate weather, the way the business handled these circumstances was very bad and showed no respect for customers. Details below. First, the good: The tandem instructors were very friendly and seemed knowledgable. The atmosphere is laid back and there are friendly dogs walking around. I'm sure this is a pleasant place to jump when the conditions are good. Now, the bad: The management/administration is disorganized and unreasonable, and the owner was literally the most obnoxious management figure I've ever dealt with. The first time we came to jump, we drove out 1.5 hours from Mountain View. It was a sunny day but ended up being too windy to jump. After sitting around waiting for 2 hours or so, they announced that they were canceling all jumps. They said they wouldn't do a refund so we rescheduled for next week, same time. OK fine, whatever. The next weekend, we woke up and checked the weather before leaving. The weather report clearly stated that there was a high probability of clouds and rain. We decided we didn't want to take an entire day trip only to sit around, wait, and leave without jumping again. We called and asked whether we could reschedule for another day, since it looked like there was a high likelihood that our jump would be canceled again. They refused to reschedule us, and we didn't want to just eat a $500 loss, so we drove out. Well surprise surprise, as the weather report had predicted, it was too cloudy to jump. After sitting around waiting for 2 hours *AGAIN*, they announced that we wouldn't be able to jump and they were closing shop. At this point we requested a full refund. The purpose of a deposit is to make sure customers don't flippantly cancel their reservations. We had done nothing of the sort. We had twice fulfilled our obligations to arrive on time, only to be made to wait for hours and sent home without receiving the service we paid for. But the desk guy said it was against policy to issue a refund, and that only the owner had that authority. We asked to talk to the owner, and the desk guy said that he was around somewhere, but didn't know where. Cue 30 minutes of repeated requests and evasive responses from the desk guy. We asked the desk guy to call the owner, and he said he would, but then spent the next 10 minutes chatting up his buddies while we sat there in plain sight. Finally I asked another employee to find the owner, and shortly afterwards the owner came down to see us. I began to explain the situation. He cut me off after about 5 seconds, said something like "You guys know our policy, the deposit is nonrefundable!", waved his hand in my face, and stomped out of the room. A real class act. In contrast, Skydive California (located in nearby Tracy) refunded us no questions asked when we were canceled due to weather. The place is also much more organized and professional. You should probably go there instead... read more

Last year I was one of the main Instructors and Videographers at this place and I was working and living full time at the DropZone. In October 2022, Shaun Fenner (DropZone owner of Bay Area Skydiving) "ordered me" (by Text Message) to leave my working place, empty my living space, threatened me that if I wouldn't do it, he was gonna make "someone do it for me", without EVER officially dismissing me and/or telling me a valid reason. He was too cowardly to admit that he did this because I am a WOMAN and I have ASIAN blood, and that was his way to "Silence Me" after I Stood Up and Spoke Out when I was uncomfortable with Sexist and Racist behaviors that were going on in his business, coming from one of the staff members, Clay Baggett, our Parachute Packer. Unfortunately Shaun Fenner is Sexist and Racist as well, and instead raising awareness that these behaviors are not acceptable in his business, he decided to "pretend that nothing happened" by threatening ME to leave. Shaun Fenner is in desperate need of rehab and professional treatment to contain his anger and temperament. He treats his Staff members like NOBODY in the world deserves, taking advantage of people that truly love the sport and care about new students and passenger safety. There are many places in the area where you can Skydive without the Staff being treated like garbage by the Owner and/or discriminated by their gender or color of their skin. Don't give your money to Shaun, the closest DropZone is half an hour from there and everybody is treated well and with the respect they deserve. Fun jumpers and new tandem jumpers have the ability together to take this PRIVILEGE away from Shaun Fenner. Bay Area Skydiving can return to its former glory and magic the second he is no longer the owner and operator. Please take the short drive to any other DZ. The world doesn't need: SEXISM RACISM SHAUN FENNER Skydiving is all inclusive D39964 read more

I had two disappointing experience with Bryan, Bayarea Skydiving that I feel compelled to share. I paid for two tandem skydives at higher elevations, each costing $350 and $220, but was dropped from the lowest elevation instead, which cost $155. When I raised my concerns, coaches Dan Podwill and Liana Tenney informed me that they do not receive extra pay for higher elevations, which feels like a clear case of false advertising. Instead of addressing my concerns, they offered me "free video" to make up for the difference, which felt more like a tactic to distract from their exploitation rather than a genuine solution. Over the course of three visits, I tried to see if this was an isolated issue, but unfortunately, I found the majority of staff lacking in honesty, with the only exception being the manager. If you're considering skydiving, I strongly recommend looking into companies in Lodi, Davis, or Tracy. These places prioritize their customers' interests and provide a more ethical experience. It's worth noting that the owner of Bryan's mom is the VP at Chase Bank--because of this connection, I've decided to withdraw my support for Chase, as I believe that "the rotten apple doesn't fall far from the tree." I also suggest implementing routine drug and alcohol testing for staff to ensure safety and integrity. If you face anything similar, please don't hesitate to walk away. Protect yourself from businesses that thrive on desperation and take your money under false pretenses. Skydiving should be an exhilarating and honest experience, not one filled with deception read more

Best birthday experience EVER. I took my two sons skydiving for my birthday, and it ended up being one of the best and most unforgettable days of our lives. My youngest had just turned 18, so it was the first time all three of us could do something like this together, which made it extra special. Sean, the owner, was a huge reason we booked with Bay Area Skydiving. He actually personally texted me back the same evening I reached out and handled everything directly with me over the phone. I really appreciated that personal touch instead of having to do everything through an automated website. From start to finish, the entire crew was awesome. Every instructor and camera flyer was friendly, funny, calm, professional, and genuinely seemed like they loved what they do. One of the coolest moments was when the whole crew surprised me by singing happy birthday to me on the plane ride up before our jump. It made the whole experience feel really personal and special. And then somehow it got even better -- Sean himself jumped after me and met up with us during freefall and did these insane spinning moves in the air with us. Absolutely unreal experience. Also: GET THE ULTIMATE VIDEO PACKAGE. Seriously. So worth it. The photos and videos are incredible, and having the extra camera flyer jumping with you makes the experience even more fun. The views are unbelievable too -- you can see from the Sierras to the Bay... just incredible. BONUS: they give you $50 off if you jump again within 30 days. Could not recommend this place more! read more

This was an experience that I was eagerly looking forward to. I made a reservation online for Oct 17th, paid the $30 reservation fee and planned our day around it. When we called to confirm on the day of the dive, we were told that their planes are having some technical problems and there is no way that they can take us skydiving on that day..!! Initially they denied that they even had a reservation for that day but when I gave them the confirmation number they said that they are sorry that they didn't let us know beforehand, but promised that I will get a refund of my deposit in a week's time. I waited two weeks, no refund.. I sent them an email on Nov 4th, still no response, no refund. I called back on 12/12 and now they say that they do not have any record of plane maintenance in October; and it is too late for them to issue a refund through their automated system. When I mentioned that I sent an email in November, I got a response that their policy clearly states that they do not issue a refund and "he would be happy to send me a copy of the policy"; but they would gladly transfer the deposit for a future booking..!! It is not a matter of $30, but that of professionalism and decency. Bay Area Skydiving can keep my deposit but I am def. not going to re-book with them or recommend them to any of my friends. I was hoping for a different kind of experience altogether but it wasn't meant to be.. read more

Seems like a fly by night operation. Rickety equipment. People seem to have no room to pack their parachuates. I took ground school and then they ran out of time to do my first jump (after sitting around ahanger for hours waiting, listen to blow hards talk about how cool they are). They said I'd have to "come back" another day. The instructors were talking bad about other students abilities. I.E. "He was in my class last week.....he's not very confident." Or "Oh, I'm stuck with that guy. I just know he is going to tumble." They also liked to talk about how they can make money from people. "Yeah, that guy pulled up in a BMW.......so I said, yeah, come back tomorrow too. He's going to do some jumps.......he sucks as a skydiver.....but he pulled up in a BMW.....so......haha...." The instructor was a graying arrogant British guy. He made comments like, "if you do that during your skydive, it will piss off the instructors." DUDE......I'm PAYING to learn. Your not volunteering here! And it's not your equipment I'm using! I'm paying handsomely to do this. Big mistake going there. I should have tried Hollister, but maybe that is the same? read more

My first skydiving experience with Bay Area Skydiving was AWESOME! From the moment we arrived, the reception team was helpful and welcoming, and everyone made us feel supported. Ryan was the best! He gave me clear instructions throughout and made me feel safe, even as a first-time jumper. Scott took amazing pictures for us, and we had so much fun with him too. The whole experience was exciting, unforgettable, and so much fun. Would I jump again? Absolutely--with this crew! I highly recommend Bay Area Skydiving, especially if it's your first time. read more

My experience at Bay Area Skydiving was epic. It was one of the best times in my life, why wouldn't it be. The guy who I was hooked to was Stoney, we was super cool and fun. He had us doing spins and we exited the plan in a back flip!! Strider was doing my video and stills and he is super fun too, why shouldn't he be he is my son. But besides that fact he made the experience suspenseful and fun and the video was really cool to have and watch over and over. I will definitely come back and jump again this summer! You guys Rock It!! Thanks Peggy read more

From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel comfortable and safe. My instructor was professional, calm, and explained everything clearly. The jump itself was absolutely unforgettable--there's nothing like that rush of freefall followed by the peaceful glide with breathtaking views. It was the perfect mix of adrenaline and awe. If you're thinking about skydiving, this is a great place. DO get the video package so you can relive it again and again. I would 100% go again! read more

Hi, Way back in 2000 I did a tandum jump with "The Bri Guy" Brian was his name. Anyway Had the best time in my life. The camera man was hell of funny. Everyone there made me feel as comfortable as possible! After all these years I have seem to miss place my video. Unfortunatily back then there was only VHS tapes!! Damn do I feel old- I was wondering if anyone knows if theres a chance there is a copy of my jump on file?? Iam willing to pay top dollor for it . thanks read more

Overall, Bay Area Skydiving provided me with a truly unforgettable experience. The staff were all extremely friendly and welcoming. The exhilaration of the jump aside, the instructors were understanding, informative and encouraging. Due to unforseen circumstances, we arrived later than initially anticipated, but BAS smoothly incorporated us in upcoming jumps. The view you get before the jump is uncomparable. I can't wait to go back! read more

EXCELLENT! All of the reviews I read were right on and I am so happy that I can say that I have jumped out of a moving airplane and landed safely! Loved the entire experience, from hanging out with the staff and other first-time customers to talking with experienced sky divers who love the sport. I was scared to pieces but everyone in this place was so supportive and kind. I will be returning to do this again!!! Thanks Vic! read more

Idk who told these GOOFIES they could put there filthy oily hands on my car but they left finger prints/smudges/spam all over my vehicle and garbage all over the target parking lot. These SILLY paper flier ads are LITTERED like GARBAGE all over customers cars/the ground at target....congrats youve earned a ONE star from me. Hopefully ill be there to CATCH you next time one of you touch my property :) read more

I went for my birthday and it was such an incredible experience! I got Aaron for my guide and he completely made the experience, so if you go request him! He was super great about making sure I was comfortable and he was very knowledgeable about skydiving which made me have no fear! It was a million time more incredible than I ever could imagine and Im so glad I went! Bay Area Skydiving ROCKS!!!!! read more

This place rocks. Had the best time of my life. All the staff were very helpful. They helped me to overcome my sense of fear for the first jump. My tandem instructor Marcos was wonderful. He made me real comfortable during the jump. Photographer Stryker was also awesome. Photos came out great. This place is highly recommended. read more

The best place to skydive, See You on the Ground Overall excellent experience, coming from a first-time tandem skydiver. Friendly instructors, laid-back atmosphere, and the overwhelming feeling of your plummet leaves you with an unbelievable grin. Great place, very friendly. read more

Could not have chosen a better place to dive for the first time! The place, the people, the whole atmosphere was incredible!!! Thanks for making my 50th birthday 7/31/16 a day to remember forever! You guys rocked our world that day! XO Kristin, Todd, Brooke, Katie read more

The instructors were incredible and the whole place has a really fun air to it. This was my first skydiving experience. I'm still alive, so they deserve every one of those 5 stars. read more

crazy nate is the best he made my first skydiveing experience a blast i asked for a backflip and he definetly diliverd if you go there for the first time crazy nate is your guy read more