My boyfriend and I had a fantastic time up in the sky!! It was my Xmas present and it was so much fun! I thought I was going to be scared to death being lifted off the ground at 100 miles an hour and floating into things. That totally did not happen. The balloon slowly lifted up and off we went! The landing was also smooth with no complications, although we were forewarn that it could be bumpy if the wind picked up. It was light and felt like I was on cloud 9 admiring the scenic beauty of our city and desert. Shane was extremely funny and my boyfriend got a kick out of his humor.
I read a few of the negative reviews on here, and I'd just like to say, 8 passengers is not overcrowded at all for the smaller basket. Each pocket can easily fit two people that totaled 600lbs from my speculation. My boyfriend and I totaled 370lbs and had plenty of room to move around. So unless you are super obese, I don't see an issue.
I would highly recommend them for an experience well done! Thanks!!