A helicopter tour with picnic offers a unique blend of aerial adventure and culinary delight. These experiences typically last 2.5 to 4 hours, including flight time and a scenic picnic stop. Passengers enjoy breathtaking views of landscapes like mountains, canyons, or coastlines from above, before landing at exclusive locations for gourmet meals. With options ranging from champagne and charcuterie to full gourmet spreads, these tours combine the thrill of flying with the pleasure of dining in extraordinary settings.
What Does a Typical Helicopter Tour with Picnic Include?
A typical helicopter tour with picnic includes:
- Scenic flight over stunning landscapes
- Landing at an exclusive, picturesque location
- Gourmet picnic with food and beverages
- Time for exploration and photography
- Return flight with different views
Tours often provide:
- Experienced pilot and guide
- Safety briefing and equipment
- Limousine transfers (for some packages)
- Champagne or wine
- Spectacular photo opportunities
How Long Does a Helicopter Tour with Picnic Last?
The duration of helicopter tours with picnics varies:
Tour Type | Duration |
---|---|
Jasper Helicopter Picnic | 2.5 – 3 hours |
Grand Canyon Deluxe Tour | 3 – 4 hours |
Catalina Island Heli-Picnic | 2.5 hours |
Most tours include:
– 30-60 minutes of flight time
– 30-45 minutes for the picnic
– Additional time for transfers and briefings
What Are the Most Popular Scenic Routes for Helicopter Picnic Tours?
Popular scenic routes for helicopter picnic tours include:
- Jasper Rocky Mountains:
- Roche Miette range
- Fiddle River
- Miette Hot Springs
-
Turquoise blue lakes
-
Grand Canyon:
- Lake Mead
- Hoover Dam
- Extinct volcanoes
-
Colorado River
-
Catalina Island:
- Southern California coastline
- Island’s remote interior
- Secluded beaches
Each route offers unique landscapes and photo opportunities.
What Food and Beverages Are Typically Served During a Helicopter Picnic?
Helicopter picnics often feature gourmet offerings:
- Charcuterie boards
- Cheese and crackers
- Fresh fruits
- Champagne or wine
- Non-alcoholic beverages
Some tours allow guests to bring their own food, while others provide pre-arranged meals. Dietary accommodations can usually be made with advance notice.
How Much Does a Helicopter Tour with Picnic Cost?
Costs for helicopter tours with picnics vary:
- Jasper Helicopter Picnic:
-
$1,599 to $1,779 CAD for 1-6 people
-
Grand Canyon Deluxe Tour:
-
Starting at $519 per person
-
Catalina Island Heli-Picnic:
- $1,999 for 2 guests from Avalon
- $249 for each additional guest
Prices often include the flight, picnic, and sometimes transfers.
What Safety Measures Are in Place for Helicopter Picnic Tours?
Safety is paramount in helicopter picnic tours:
- Strict adherence to weight limits
- Comprehensive pre-flight safety briefings
- Weather-dependent operations
- Experienced pilots and well-maintained aircraft
- Proper clothing requirements
- No marijuana products allowed on board
Operators prioritize passenger safety throughout the experience.
How Can I Book a Helicopter Tour with Picnic?
To book a helicopter tour with picnic:
- Research tour operators in your desired location
- Compare packages and prices
- Check availability for your preferred dates
- Book in advance, especially for food-included adventures
- Provide any dietary restrictions or special requests
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure
Some tours can be booked up to an hour in advance, but earlier booking is recommended for the best experience.
What Should I Wear and Bring for a Helicopter Picnic Tour?
For a comfortable and enjoyable helicopter picnic tour, bring:
- Valid photo ID
- Camera or smartphone
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Light jacket or windbreaker
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
Avoid loose items and dress in layers for changing temperatures.
Are Helicopter Picnic Tours Accessible for People with Mobility Issues?
Accessibility for helicopter picnic tours varies:
- Contact tour operators in advance to discuss specific needs
- Some tours may have limitations due to aircraft design
- Landing sites may have uneven terrain
- Assistance may be available for boarding and disembarking
It’s crucial to communicate any mobility concerns when booking.
How Does Weather Affect Helicopter Picnic Tours?
Weather significantly impacts helicopter picnic tours:
- Tours are weather-dependent for safety reasons
- Operators may reschedule or cancel due to poor conditions
- Clear days offer the best visibility and photo opportunities
- Seasonal variations can affect tour availability and scenery
Check with the tour operator for weather updates before your flight.
References:
- https://www.jasperhelitours.com/picnics
- https://grandcanyonhelicoptertour.net/grand-canyon-deluxe-helicopter-tour-with-champagne-picnic/
- https://www.maverickhelicopter.com/cali/heli-picnic-experience.aspx