Melbourne: City Helicopter Tour with up to 5 Passengers

Traveling through Melbourne offers countless ways to experience the city’s vibrant energy, but there’s something quite special about seeing it from the sky. This 20-minute helicopter tour promises a unique perspective, letting you soar over landmarks and scenic spots that make Melbourne so captivating. It’s a neat way to tick off sightseeing highlights in a compact, private setting, perfect for small groups or couples wanting an intimate experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines a breathtaking aerial view with a relaxed, private atmosphere—no crowded buses or guided crowds, just you and your crew. Also, the knowledgeable guides are often praised for their engaging commentary, making the flight not just scenic but also interesting.

That said, a potential hiccup is the duration—twenty minutes isn’t long, so you’ll want to make sure you’re ready for a quick, but high-impact glimpse of Melbourne from above. And if you’re heavier than 275 lbs (125 kg), this might not be suitable.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who want a special photo opportunity, a romantic outing, or just a different way to see Melbourne’s famous sights. If you’re after a relaxed, no-pressure way to take in the city’s skyline, this could fit the bill.

Key Points

• Private Group Experience: Up to 5 passengers, making it intimate and tailored.
• Iconic Landmarks: View Brighton Beach, Albert Park Lake, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Luna Park.
• Historical Highlights: Fly past the wreck of a J7 Submarine from 1930, adding a unique historical touch.
• Expert Guidance: Enjoy insightful commentary from your pilot.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Ideal for Photo Opportunities: Bring your camera to capture Melbourne from above.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Melbourne Helicopter Tour

Getting a bird’s-eye view of a city as lively as Melbourne is pretty special, and this helicopter tour offers just that. We love how accessible and straightforward the experience is, especially with the private group setting, which ensures you’re not lumped into a large crowd. The entire ride is just 20 minutes, making it a quick yet impactful adventure that doesn’t eat up your day but leaves you with plenty of memories and photos.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

From the moment you lift off at Moorabbin Airport, the experience begins with a sense of excitement. The pilot, who is often praised for their knowledgeable commentary, guides you over the city and surrounding areas, pointing out landmarks and giving snippets of interesting facts. If you’re a history buff or love photography, you’ll appreciate this personalized narration.

Your flight first passes over the scuttled wreck of a J7 Submarine in Port Phillip Bay. This 1930s relic adds a historic flavor to the flight, giving you a sense of Melbourne’s naval past. Many reviews mention how this site looks hauntingly out of place yet fascinating — a true hidden gem from the skies.

Next, the route takes you offshore over the Sandringham Marina, where you’ll get a glimpse of the submarine wreck from above. This stretch over the bay is perfect for snapping photos of the water, boats, and the colorful bathing boxes at Brighton Beach.

As you glide eastward, your pilot will point out some of Melbourne’s most photogenic spots—Luna Park, with its iconic entrance, the St. Kilda Sea Baths, and the lively Brighton Beach. The colorful bathing boxes are particularly photogenic, and some say they look even more charming from the air.

Continuing inland, expect views of Albert Park Lake, which hosts the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix. From above, this area looks peaceful, with a large expanse of water surrounded by greenery, offering a stark contrast to the bustling city center.

Further into the city, you’ll see major sporting venues like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Rod Laver Arena, home to Australian Open tennis. These landmarks are often admired for their size and significance, making for great photo stops.

Your flight then takes you past Melbourne’s exhibition buildings, museum, and markets, giving you a taste of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. As you turn south, you’ll fly along the coast and pass by Half Moon Bay before returning to Moorabbin Airport.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The highlight for many travelers is the ability to combine the thrill of flying with the chance to see Melbourne’s landmarks from an unusual vantage point. The scenery is diverse—from the urban skyline and historic wrecks to beaches and green parks—offering a well-rounded view of Melbourne’s many facets.

Another thing we appreciated was the flexibility in booking. You can reserve now and pay later, which is great if you’re trying to keep plans loose or are undecided. The full refund option if you cancel at least 24 hours ahead adds a layer of security, especially for those with unpredictable schedules.

The private group setup is especially appealing. It means the experience is more personalized, and you’re not part of a large tour group. Many reviews praise their pilot for being friendly and knowledgeable, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

The Price and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest thing you’ll do in Melbourne, it’s important to consider what you’re paying for. Twenty minutes in the air might seem brief, but it’s enough time to get a real sense of the city and take plenty of impressive photos. For those looking for a special, memorable experience that’s not overly long, this feels like good value. The exclusivity of a private group also adds to the perception of quality.

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Practical Tips

Before you fly, remember to wear comfortable shoes—you’ll need to walk from the helicopter to the aircraft—and bring your camera for capturing views. Check the weather forecast, as flights are subject to weather conditions, and be prepared for possibly variable temperatures at altitude with weather-appropriate clothing.

If you’re sensitive to motion sickness, note that helicopter flights can be a little bumpy, but reviews suggest most passengers find the experience smooth enough. Also, if you’re over 275 lbs (125 kg), this tour might not be suitable, so double-check before booking.

Overall impressions

Many travelers seem to leave feeling impressed by the knowledge of the guides and the scenic variety. Some mention that the experience is “perfect for a quick escape from city sightseeing,” and a few note it’s an excellent choice for romantic outings or special occasions.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a unique perspective of Melbourne, enjoy scenic photography, or are looking for a romantic or special treat, this helicopter tour ticks those boxes. The private setting and engaging commentary make it a memorable, personalized adventure. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a quick flight but want a big impact, especially if you’re interested in seeing landmarks like the MCG, Luna Park, or Brighton Beach from above.

However, if you prefer longer, more in-depth tours or are sensitive to flight conditions, you might want to consider other options or double-check the weather forecast before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts about 20 minutes, offering a quick yet comprehensive aerial snapshot of Melbourne and its surrounds.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it’s a helicopter flight, it’s generally best suited for older kids or teenagers comfortable with the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera for photos, and weather-appropriate clothing, as the altitude might be cooler or windier.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, individuals over 275 lbs (125 kg) are not suitable for this flight.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll view Brighton Beach, Albert Park Lake, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Luna Park, and the wreck of the J7 submarine, among others.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne helicopter tour offers a short but memorable way to see the city from above. It balances scenic variety, expert commentary, and private intimacy to create an experience that’s more than just a sightseeing flight. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, want excellent photos, or simply crave a different perspective, this adventure delivers in a compact package.

While it’s not the most extensive tour out there, the quality of the experience and the views make it well worth considering if you’re in Melbourne and looking for a unique highlight. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value personalized service and want a quick, scenic escape from the usual city tour.

If you’re okay with the brief duration and want an experience that’s both fun and photogenic, this helicopter ride could be just the ticket for your Melbourne trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: